State of the Union 1948
"How's the State of the Union? It's GREAT!"
Dive into the sharp, witty world of *State of the Union (1948)*, a Frank Capra classic blending comedy and drama as it explores the messy intersection of politics, power, and personal relationships.
Director: Frank Capra
Cast
Spencer Tracy
Grant Matthews
Katharine Hepburn
Mary Matthews
Van Johnson
Spike McManus
Angela Lansbury
Kay Thorndyke
Adolphe Menjou
Jim Conover
Lewis Stone
Sam Thorndyke
Margaret Hamilton
Norah
Charles Dingle
Bill Nolard Hardy
Charles Lane
Blink Moran
Howard Smith
Sam I. Parrish
Frequently Asked Questions
What is State of the Union (1948) about?
*State of the Union (1948)* follows a businessman (Spencer Tracy) who's convinced to run for president, a decision that strains his marriage and forces him to make tough compromises. As he navigates political expectations and personal loyalty, the film blends sharp humor with a critical look at power and integrity. Katharine Hepburn co-stars as his determined wife, adding depth to the story's emotional core.
Who directed State of the Union?
Frank Capra, the legendary director behind classics like *It's a Wonderful Life* and *Mr. Smith Goes to Washington*, helmed *State of the Union* with his signature blend of idealism and social critique.
Who stars in State of the Union?
The film stars Spencer Tracy and Katharine Hepburn as the married couple at its center, alongside Van Johnson, Angela Lansbury, and Adolphe Menjou, whose performances bring sharp wit and drama to the political stage.
Is State of the Union (1948) worth watching?
*State of the Union (1948)* is a must-watch for fans of classic Hollywood political dramas, thanks to Capra's sharp direction and the electric chemistry between Tracy and Hepburn. While it's not as widely remembered as some of his other films, its themes of power, compromise, and personal integrity remain compelling. It's a smart, engaging film that rewards viewers with its wit and emotional depth.
How long is State of the Union?
The runtime of *State of the Union (1948)* is 124 minutes, or just over 2 hours, making it a perfect length for a classic film night.
🎥 Trailer
About State of the Union (1948) — Frank Capra's Political Comedy with Spencer Tracy & Katharine Hepburn
Dive into the sharp, witty world of *State of the Union (1948)*, a Frank Capra classic blending comedy and drama as it explores the messy intersection of politics, power, and personal relationships. Spencer Tracy stars as a reluctant industrialist being pushed into a presidential run, a journey that forces him to confront uncomfortable choices—both in the public eye and within his marriage. Katharine Hepburn plays his sharp-witted wife, whose own ambitions clash with her loyalties. With a razor-sharp script and Capra's signature blend of idealism and cynicism, the film delivers a biting yet heartfelt take on compromise, ambition, and the cost of public service. The atmosphere crackles with tension as corporate interests and family bonds collide in a high-stakes political drama that feels just as relevant today.
Elevated by Tracy and Hepburn's electric chemistry, *State of the Union (1948)* is a masterclass in balancing humor with hard-hitting social commentary. The film's themes of integrity versus expediency resonate through its sharp dialogue and memorable performances, making it a standout in Capra's filmography. While rooted in the political climate of its time, its questions about leadership and moral compromise feel timeless.
