As I watched "Rovin' Tumbleweeds", I couldn't help but think that the plot owes a lot to "Mr. Smith Goes to Washington". However, after doing a bit of looking, it's not clear that the film was inspired by "Mr. Smith". Sure, "Mr. Smith Goes to Washington" did come out first...but only a month before this Gene Autry film. And, while I know that these B-westerns were churned out quickly...I cannot be sure if the similarity is intentional or just a coincidence.
When the film begins, Gene and Smiley are out trying to help folks in the middle of a flood. When the lady announcer is talking about this on the radio, Gene grabs the microphone and blames their congressman for the flood, as the guy voted against a flood control bill. That, combined with him singing on the radio, suddenly make Gene a local hero...and folks are clamoring for him to run for congress. Soon, he's elected...and learns exactly how Washington works...or doesn't work! Again and again, the powers that be block Gene from trying to make a positive difference.
The songs in this film are exceptional....with him singing his classic "Back in the Saddle Again" (one of his most familiar songs). And, Smiley sings a cute ditty with his froggy voice.
As for the story, it's pretty good and enjoyable except for one thing...the cliched lady radio host. Too often older films feature ladies who are grouches and hate the leading man for no apparent reason....and this one is no exception. She's annoying an unrealistic...and according to the cliche, she eventually becomes Gene's love interest! This isn't a spoiler...as it's obvious this will happen the second you see and hear her! Fortunately, having the usually slimy and evil Douglass Dumbrille playing the baddie in this one is a major plus.
Overall, this is a most unusual B-western because it's also a very progressive film....sort of like a singing cowboy film combined with Depression-era issues and politics. Well worth seeing and one of Autry's better films, as it has a depth you usually would not expect in such a movie.
