First of all, thank you for writing. And I’m glad you enjoyed the article.

Now, James Stewart. I’ve liked him twice: “Harvey” and “Anatomy of a Murder.” In both films he was cast against type, and I found him effective — though that’s most likely because I saw (creepy) elements in his performances that most people didn’t see. (Certainly, the creepiness could have been in my own imagination — but it worked!)

As for Frank Capra, I’ve never found him naive, even if his movies come across that way. My problem with Capra’s touch is that to me it often felt calculated, ungenuine.

I’d suggest a look at Joseph McBride’s Frank Capra biography, which I’m currently reading. The man described in that book is quite unlike the kind-hearted, naive heroes played by Gary Coooper or James Stewart.

Thanks again for writing, and my apologies for taking so long to respond.

Jean Arthur’s greatest strength as an actress was her adorable voice. Her wheedling and pleading at Shane and her husband when they are fighting over who gets to be killed by Wilson (Jack Palance) was utterly real, just how one would expect a farm wife to sound under the circumstances.

Good people bring good into the world. You may bridle at Mr. Capra’s naivte’, but I loved the world he created. He made us want to be better people. Any director can show the world as it is. It takes a special person like Frank Capra to show things and people at their best. This inspires and encourages us to improve ourselves and the world around us.

Jean Arthur
King Arthur
An actress
By God.

Jean Arthur
King Arthur
I’ve seen her
at her best.

Jean Arthur
King Arthur
She remains Queen
Even at rest.

By Howard Partch