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James Stewart, Donna Reed, Lionel Barrymore, Thomas Mitchell, Henry Travers ... see more see more... , Beulah Bondi , Ward Bond , Carol Coomes , William Edmunds , Gloria Grahame , Sarah Edwards , Argentina Brunetti , Frank Faylen , Jean Gale , Karolyn Grimes , Frank S. Hagney , Jim Hawkins , Samuel S. Hinds , Todd Karns , Sheldon Leonard , Virginia Patton , Ronnie Ralph , Lillian Randolph , Larry Simms , Mary Treen , H.B. Warner , Charles Williams , Carl "Alfalfa" Switzer , Frank Albertson , Stanley Andrews , Al Bridge , Marian Carr , Lane Chandler , Harry V. Cheshire , Ellen Corby , Dick Elliott , Tom Fadden , Eddie Fetherstone , Charles Halton , Harry Holman , Edward Keane , Harold Landon , John Farrell MacDonald , Bert Moorhouse , Danny Mummert , George Nokes , Garry Owen , Almira Sessions , Ray Walker , Charles Lane , Robert Peyton , Bob Scott , Bob Anderson

This is director Frank Capra's classic bittersweet comedy/drama about George Bailey (James Stewart), the eternally-in-debt guiding force of a bank in the typical American small town of Bedford Falls. ... read more read more...As the film opens, it's Christmas Eve, 1946, and George, who has long considered himself a failure, faces financial ruin and arrest and is seriously contemplating suicide. High above Bedford Falls, two celestial voices discuss Bailey's dilemma and decide to send down eternally bumbling angel Clarence Oddbody (Henry Travers), who after 200 years has yet to earn his wings, to help George out. But first, Clarence is given a crash course on George's life, and the multitude of selfless acts he has performed: rescuing his younger brother from drowning, losing the hearing in his left ear in the process; enduring a beating rather than allow a grieving druggist (H.B. Warner) to deliver poison by mistake to an ailing child; foregoing college and a long-planned trip to Europe to keep the Bailey Building and Loan from letting its Depression-era customers down; and, most important, preventing town despot Potter (Lionel Barrymore) from taking over Bedford Mills and reducing its inhabitants to penury. Along the way, George has married his childhood sweetheart Mary (Donna Reed), who has stuck by him through thick and thin. But even the love of Mary and his children are insufficient when George, faced with an $8000 shortage in his books, becomes a likely candidate for prison thanks to the vengeful Potter. Bitterly, George declares that he wishes that he had never been born, and Clarence, hoping to teach George a lesson, shows him how different life would have been had he in fact never been born. After a nightmarish odyssey through a George Bailey-less Bedford Falls (now a glorified slum called Potterville), wherein none of his friends or family recognize him, George is made to realize how many lives he has touched, and helped, through his existence; and, just as Clarence had planned, George awakens to the fact that, despite all its deprivations, he has truly had a wonderful life. Capra's first production through his newly-formed Liberty Films, It's a Wonderful Life lost money in its original run, when it was percieved as a fairly downbeat view of small-town life. Only after it lapsed into the public domain in 1973 and became a Christmastime TV perennial did it don the mantle of a holiday classic. ~ Hal Erickson, Rovi

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G, 2 hr. 5 min.

Directed by: Frank Capra

Release Date: December 25, 1946

Keywords: family, holiday

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DVD Release Date: September 19, 1995

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Stats: 15,895 reviews

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Flixster Reviews (15,895)

  • fb1710827246
    February 10, 2012
    fb1710827246
    Great. Definitely a film to watch each and every Christmas holiday. Rather wholesome and simple message gets across to anybody and everybody.
  • coollala0910
    January 16, 2012
    coollala0910
    George Bailey is a man with many hopes and dreams. However, his sacrifices, economic woes, and the achievements of his brother, Harrry, get in the way. On Christmas Eve, a frustrated Geroge Bailey is visited by a guardian angel named Clarence who gives him a new, and not so pleas... read moreant, look on his life.

    It's A Wonderful Life is a film that should not be missed. I found it to be a perfect movie with fantastic performances, an original plot, and awesome build up. If you haven't sat down to watch it this Christmas season, you're making a big mistake, my friend.

    The film features an array of top notch performances. The highlight of the film is James Stewart in his Oscar nominated role as George Bailey. Despite his behavior in the film's third act, he is a very likable character and we learn to feel for him during his tribulations. His performance is excellent. He will have you at the edge of your seat in some moments. That is a sign of a great actor. Donna Reed, who plays George's gourgeous wife, Mary, is great as well. My favorite of the entertaining supporting cast was Lionel Barrymore as Mr. Potter. One of the greatest jerks to ever grace the silver screen. You're going to fall in love with Henry Travers by the end of the film. Believe me when I say that. The cast is marvelous.

    Where do I begin with the script? It's practically flawless because the film features a simple story and the entire film builds up to the final act. Frank Capra's script features classic dialogue that is both heartfelt and funny. One of ym favorite dialogue sequences involves George telling Mary that he'll lasso the moon for her. How romantic. I'm probably gonna use that line when I hit on girls. Frank Capra's direction is perfect as well. I want to explore this guy's filmography.

    When I finished watching this, I came to realize why this has becomes a staple of Christmas. The film shows how wonderful your life can be and I think Christmas is probably the most perfect time of year to reflect on it. We learn from George Bailey and how he values his life. When the powerful moral hits us, we learn how we can imporve upon our lives. I like to reflect on what I did over the year around Chrsitmas time and this is the movie that accommodates that. Plus, it's at the very end of the year so it works perfectly. It's A Wonderful Life is a perfect movie with fantastic performacnes, build up, a nice score, and an amazing moral. Inspirational and enjoyable. Watching this movie is something I plan to make a Christmas tradition. A truly wonderful and beautiful movie. Go watch it now! And have a box of Kleenex in hand when you do.

    Merry Christmas, RT Community!

    "That's why all children should be girls."
  • aliceinpunderland
    December 30, 2011
    aliceinpunderland
    They just don't make 'em like this anymore. Jimmy Stewart: the epitome of weakness and strength, goofy likability and romantic sweeper of feets.
  • blkbomb
    December 24, 2011
    blkbomb
    Clarence: You've been given a great gift, George: A chance to see what the world would be like without you. 

    "They're making memories tonight!"

    How to even start to describe It's A Wonderful Life. I guess I should start with the biggest and most obvious detail; it is a complete... read more masterpiece and probably the only Christmas masterpiece ever made. It is in a world all by itself when it comes to not only holiday films, but films in general. I'll make this bold statement here; while It's A Wonderful Life isn't my number one favorite film(definitely top 10), I still believe it to be THE best movie ever made. There is absolutely no doubt in my mind. Yeah The Godfather is great, sure 2001 is magnificent, but nothing touches this film. 

    When it comes to storytelling, this is unmatched in its brilliance. Every time I watch this, which is every Christmas Eve, plus one or two more times during the year; I am astonished at how engrossed I am with every detail of the story. From the beginning where Joseph is showing Clarence George's life from when he was a kid to the final heartwarming scene, every detail is pure magic. Frank Capra and James Stewart are both not only on the top of their game with this one, but are out of this world. 

    I'm sure you know the story as this is the most famous holiday film of all-time, but I'll touch on it slightly just in case. George Bailey takes on his father's business at a crummy little loan business. This isn't what George wanted for himself; he wanted to travel the world and build skyscrapers. Instead, he is carrying out his father's work, which is helping the people who would otherwise be taken advantage of by Potter. Things go very bad in George's life on Christmas Eve and he wishes he were never born. From there it is film history.

    Never have I watched a movie where my emotions were on as hilly a ride as this. At one moment, you'll be laughing, then you'll just be enjoying the great character of George, the you'll be saddened, and ultimately you'll feel extreme joy. I can't think of a better shot to some up the Christmas season then the ending of this film, where George holds his youngest daughter Zuzu in his arm, with his wife by his side and the Christmas tree in the background while they all sing. If the ending of this movie doesn't make you feel good then there is something seriously wrong with you.

    If for some reason you haven't seen this movie for any reason watch it as soon as possible. It doesn't matter if it is the Christmas season or not; just watch it. Definitely on the list must see movies.

    Zuzu Bailey: Look, Daddy. Teacher says, every time a bell rings an angel gets his wings. 
  • CloudStrife84
    December 23, 2011
    CloudStrife84
    Joyous, timeless classic! I can't say I've seen many movies from the 1940's, let alone any Christmas ones, but this was a very pleasant viewing experience, in several senses of the word. James Stewart is fantastic and brings a lot of vigor to his performance, but above all it's g... read moreot a story that can be applied still today. It isn't confined to the values of the era, as it's broadly and universally human in its message. Basic themes like love, loss, greed and empathy, provides it with a wide spectrum of emotions that we can all relate to in some way (which is pretty amazing, considering it's over half a century old). A riveting, jolly and beautifully narrated holiday tale, that will add some extra lustre to your Christmas.
  • garyX
    December 23, 2011
    garyX
    Small town boy George Bailey dreams of making it big and travelling the world but finds himself trapped by a sense of duty to family and community. In his darkest hour, his mind turns to suicide which leads to the appearance of his guardian angel Clarence who gives him the opport... read moreunity to see how the world would be if he had never been born. It's A Wonderful Life is the very definition of the word "classic". James Stewart gives an appropriately wonderful performance as George, someone so selfless and devoted to his fellow man that you can't help but love him. He's not some one-dimensional do-gooder however, and it is sometimes easy to forget about the dark edge to the story; after all George often feels as if he's being held in Bedford Falls against his will. It's still typical Capra, in that it's a modern fable that shows a genuine belief in the innate goodness of man, and it does so with such infectious, innocent charm that even the most hard-bitten cynic cannot help but be swept away by it. It is the kind of engaging fantasy that just cannot be made without sincerity, and every year Hollywood attempts to milk its sentiment to fill its coffers and always fails for that very reason. One of those films I never tire of seeing, and is rightly considered to be one of the best films ever made.
  • cosmo313
    December 18, 2011
    cosmo313
    Alright, so basically everyone raves about this one. While it's not flawless (no film ever truly is), it somehow holds up after all these years. Nevermind the specific details of the plot and time periods in relation to what year one views it in (in terms of datedness), what is o... read moren display is the type of thing where the message counts, not the little things.

    I've seen this several times, but I watched it again recently and I began to feel odd about it. I began to root for Potter. That sounds very cynical, but I couldn't help it. It made me realize that this film is really, really sentimental, ALMOST to a fault. It takes the high road and happy ending, and the message is important, but still- Capra is the master of being almost too sugary.

    I'm not docking this film any points though, because sometimes we need to have films like this. Plus, this is really well made, and it's hard not to find something enjoyable. The acting is quite nice, there's lots of humor, and the look and camera work are both great. The message is a good one, albeit maybe too easy and simple. I don't completely buy the unrealistic idea that as long as someone has friends they are not a failure.

    Once again, that's my cynicism coming out. Perhaps George should have died. It would have been more realistic, but also it would have been perhaps too cruel. I do like that two of the characters are named Bert and Ernie though, that's pretty funny.
  • shawnewing92
    December 8, 2011
    shawnewing92
    One of the greatest holiday films ever made.
  • fb1664868775
    November 13, 2011
    fb1664868775
    Probably the most fully realized vision of what all Capra's films have running through them. This film will fill anybody with holiday spirit.
  • shauna1354
    August 28, 2011
    shauna1354
    As near to perfection as film-making can get. It is blissful storytelling at its finest. The film confirms Jimmy Stewart as one of the greatest actors ever to have lived, he gives arguably the most memorable performance of his career as the reluctantly selfless hero George Bailey... read more. The film has a powerfully beautiful screenplay, tender humour, fantastic performances and Capra's unforgettable direction. A special movie, comfortably in my top ten of all time.

View All It's a Wonderful Life Reviews

Critic Reviews

December 5, 2008
TIME Magazine

It's a Wonderful Life is a pretty wonderful movie. Full Review

Dave Kehr
June 26, 2007
Dave Kehr, Chicago Reader

The epiphany of movie sentiment and a transcendent experience. Full Review

Bert Briller
June 26, 2007
Bert Briller, Variety

The April-air wholesomeness and humanism of this natural bring back vividly the reminder that, essentially, the screen best offers unselfconscious, forthright entertainment. Full Review

Bosley Crowther
May 20, 2003
Bosley Crowther, New York Times

As the hero, Mr. Stewart does a warmly appealing job, indicating that he has grown in spiritual stature as well as in talent during the years he was in the war. And Donna Reed is remarkably poised and...

James Berardinelli
January 1, 2000
James Berardinelli, ReelViews

Combine the characters, the story, the message, and the acting, and it's easy to see why It's a Wonderful Life isn't just a holiday favorite, but a great movie by almost any standards. Full Review

Roger Ebert
January 1, 2000
Roger Ebert, Chicago Sun-Times

What is remarkable about It's a Wonderful Life is how well it holds up over the years; it's one of those ageless movies, like Casablanca or The Third Man, that improves with age. Full Review

Randy White
January 2, 2011
Randy White, Common Sense Media

This classic delivers warmth all year long. Full Review

Josh Larsen
November 28, 2010
Josh Larsen, LarsenOnFilm

Is the movie corny? Often. Is it moving in the most basic, moral way? Every year we watch it. Full Review

Gabe Leibowitz
March 17, 2010
Gabe Leibowitz, Film and Felt

One could use It's a Wonderful Life to teach their children values: compassion, selflessness, loyalty, and self-respect. Full Review

John J. Puccio
November 5, 2009
John J. Puccio, Movie Metropolis

Raise your hand if you think 'It's A Wonderful Life' is mushy, sentimental, over-praised hokum. Now, go to your room. Both of you. Full Review

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Facts

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    • George Bailey: Merry Christmas, you wonderful old Building and Loan!
    • George Bailey: Hey! Merry Christmas, Mr. Potter!
    • Mr. Potter: A happy new year to you... in jail!
    • George Bailey: [to Mary] You look older without your clothes on.
    • Mary Hatch Bailey: Is this the ear you can't hear on?
    • Mary Hatch Bailey: [whispering in his bad ear] George Bailey, I'll love you 'til the day I die.
    • Mary Hatch Bailey: [embracing George] Remember the night we broke the windows in this old house? This is what I wished for.
    • George Bailey: [softly] You're wonderful... wonderful.
    • Mrs. Hatch: Who is down there with you, Mary?
    • Mary Hatch Bailey: It's George Bailey, mother.
    • Mrs. Hatch: George Bailey? What does he want?
    • Mary Hatch Bailey: I don't know!
    • Mary Hatch Bailey: [to George] What do you want?
    • George Bailey: Me? Nothing! I just came in to get warm, is all.
    • Mary Hatch Bailey: [pause] He's making violent love to me, mother!
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It's a Wonderful Life Trivia

  • Which movie has the line "Every time a bell rings an angel gets its wings"?  Answer »
  • "Teacher says, 'Everytime a bell rings an angel gets its wings" is a line from what Donna Reed movie?  Answer »
  • This Christmas classic was labelled as "subversive" by the F.B.I. unpon its release. They accused one of the characters as being "a common trick used by communists".  Answer »
  • What movie has the following lines? "You've been given a great gift... A chance to see what the world would be like without you." "No man is a failure who has friends"  Answer »
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