Seldom do Christmas movies have a profound effect on the viewer. Usually, they are somewhat forgettable, with a story that is only remembered because of its Christmas theme. It's a Wonderful Life is an exception. Released in 1946, this film is both a Christmas classic and a nostalgic story about life and love.
The film follows the life of George Bailey (James Stuart), the ambitious and adventurous young man whose desire to see the world is hindered by his father's sudden death. While his younger brother Harry (Todd Karns) is able to go to college and get married, George remains in Bedford Falls to take over his father's loan business after his death. This is just the surface of the film. George's story, until approximately halfway through the movie, is told through a series of flashbacks. This is because of a guardian angel — Clarence (Henry Travers), a dedicated angel who hasn't yet earned his wings — is to be sent down on the Christmas Eve when George decides he doesn't want to live anymore.
Clarence, played by Henry Travers, a guardian angel in search of his wings.
Clarence, in order to teach George a lesson of all the good things he has done for Bedford Falls and how his death would affect a vast range of people, decides to show George how Bedford Falls would be different if he had never lived. George's life has touched so many that there are many specific and noticeable changes to the town and to the people living in it. This prompts George to run home to his family, therefore saving his life and giving Clarence his wings.
The Bailey family locked in a tight embrace after George returns home from his talks and adventures with Clarence.
The narrative of this film is unique to all other Christmas movies. It is poignant in a way that is unexpected and thrilling. The film also does not feel dated; the acting is still moving, the cinematography compelling, and the plot relevant. Often movies from so long ago will appear poor in quality, merely the evidence of a distance between ages, but It's a Wonderful Life does not have this. Sure, the characters speak and act a little differently, but the narrative is still interesting and the people within it are very fleshed out. James Stuart as George Bailey and Donna Reed as his wife Mary are incredible and genuine. Their love story, starting from a very young age, is sweet and romantic.
George Bailey, played by James Stuart, and Mary Bailey, played by Donna Reed.
This Christmas classic is not one you want to miss this holiday season. It is the perfect family film that does not fall into the isolating category of many children's Christmas movies. There is life to this movie that can be lovingly enjoyed by adults and children alike.
4.5 out of 5 stars
