All the King's Men (1949 movie)

1949 film by Robert Rossen

All the King's Men is a 1949 political drama movie.

Politician Willie Stark goes from a rural county seat to the governor's mansion. He loses a race for county treasurer. Stark teaches himself law. As a lawyer, he continues fighting the local establishment. He eventually rises to become a candidate for governor. He loses the first time. On his second try, he wins.

Along the way, Stark loses his innocence. He becomes dishonest like the politicians against whom he fought. His son becomes paralyzed in a drunk driving accident that kills a female passenger.

Character actor Paul Ford has an uncredited role as the Leader of the Senate Opposition

Awards

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All the King's Men won three Academy Awards: Best Picture, Best Actor and Best Supporting Actress.