Going to Congress (1924)

Going to Congress Poster

Will Rogers plays a lazy man who is chosen by a group of men to run for Congress.

Introduction
"Going to Congress" or "Riding On Air" is an American quiet black-and-white funny movie from 1924 directed by Joseph Henabery. The movie includes Charlie Murray, Charles Stevenson, and Alice Davenport in lead roles. The movie's plot is focused around a man who is chosen to run for the United States Congress from his district. As a quiet movie, much of its humor is derived from visual gags and by exaggerating the peculiarities and conflicts of its central characters.

Plot Summary
Charlie Murray plays the function of Jimmy Jump, a simple handyman who resides in a village. The townsfolk, dissatisfied with their present congressman, decide to choose Jimmy as their new representative prospect for the upcoming Polls. They think Jimmy's plain and truthful nature is exactly what's needed in congress to represent their community. Nevertheless, all this sudden attention shocks Jimmy, particularly given that he's rather unambitious and unprepared for this duty.

Jimmy's Struggle
Much of the comedy in the film is originated from the circumstances dealt with by Jimmy and his struggles to browse the world of politics. Jimmy appears frazzled, attempting to discover and comprehend the intricate guidelines and jargon of political negotiations. The scene where he stands in the well of Congress delivering a speech is particularly amusing, as he stumbles over big words and discovers himself overwhelmed by treatments.

Political Manipulations
The movie likewise satirizes the world of politics. Today congressman, fearing a loss, tries to control the election by spreading out reports about Jimmy and weaving a story to malign him. The comic subplot includes fake investigators, inspectors, and confounded townsfolk spun in the web of this political manipulation. Regardless of all the obstacles positioned by the congressman, Jimmy remains identified to preserve his truthful position.

The Final Election
The climax of the movie develops to the last congressional election. Regardless of the controversies and tension, Jimmy ends up offering an impassionate speech, which resounds with the townsfolk. Even though he stumbles over words and provides specific punchlines accidentally, the townsfolk translucent his honesty and relatability. An unexpected turn of occasions happens when the initial rumors slandering Jimmy are debunked, inadvertently by Jimmy himself, that makes the entire town burst into laughter.

Conclusion
Versus all odds, the townsfolk stand by Jimmy and he is elected to Congress, promising to remain real to himself and individuals. "Going to Congress" ends on a high note, with Jimmy getting rid of individual and social hurdles to win the election, making his townsfolk proud. The film is an amusing take on politics, demonstrating that sincerity and honesty might beat manipulation and savvy politics any day.

Significance
"Going to Congress" is an unique film from the silent age that utilizes funny to satire politics and political figures. In spite of being nearly a century old, the film stays relevant by precisely representing the battles, disputes, and adjustments often connected with politics. The story of a regular man increasing against developed political leaders resonates with audiences even today. It likewise affirms to Charlie Murray's skill as a comic and his capability to amuse using subtle expressions and physical comedy before the age of noise in cinema.

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