'Wonderful Life' a timeless holiday classic
- Matt Palmer
- Dec 21, 2022
- 2 min read
‘It’s A Wonderful Life’ is one of the most beloved holiday films ever. In fact, it’s said to be one of the best films ever — period. And, it’s hard to believe that this 1947 classic was considered a box office disappointment when it was initially released.
Over the years, this Frank Capra classic has garnered a lot of love and appreciation. And, today, you can see this beloved classic on the big screen!
If you need a little refresher on the plot: George Bailey has so many problems he’s thinking about ending it all — and it’s Christmas! As the angels discuss George, we see his life in flashback.
As George is about to jump from a bridge, he ends up rescuing his guardian angel, Clarence — who then shows George what his town would have looked like if it hadn’t been for all his good deeds over the years.
There are several holiday classics that everyone watches every holiday season. And, ‘It’s A Wonderful Life’ is one that has to be watched every season. Believe it or not, this was the first time I have seen this film in its entirety. This is a timeless and sentimental classic that is a must watch — even if you have seen it dozens of times.
James Stewart did a superb job as the film’s main character, George Bailey. Bailey is a very relatable character who is always there for other people and the community. And, he eventually goes through a rough spot.
His performance in the film is simply amazing and can cause you to shed a tear or two. This entire film will easily make you feel moved, especially when the film is near its conclusion. When Clarence shows George how the town would change if he ended up getting his wish of never being born, it can be quite empowering.
The ending of the film is simply the best part. Seeing a small community help out George Bailey is truly amazing. There are so many moments of the film that will really move you. The scene where George is praying in the bar when things got really bad is probably one of the most emotional scenes in the film. And, in between all the dramatic moments, there are indeed a few that will really make you chuckle.
Don’t forget, when a bell rings, an angel gets his wings!
Some of the amazing cast includes: James Stewart as George Bailey; Donna Reed as Mary Hotch; Thomas Mitchell as Uncle Billy; Beulah Bondi as Mrs. Bailey; H.B. Warner as Mr. Gower; Gloria Grahame as Violet Beck; Henry Travers as Clarence and Lionel Barrymore as Mr. Potter, among many others.
‘It’s A Wonderful Life’ is written, produced and directed by renowned filmmaker Frank Capra.
You can see this beloved classic for free today, Wednesday, Dec. 21, at the Dietrich Theater at 2 p.m., 7 p.m. and 8 p.m.
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