George Bailey has spent his entire life giving to the people of Bedford Falls. All that prevents rich skinflint Mr. Potter from taking over the entire town is George's modest building and loan company. But on Christmas Eve the business's $8,000 is lost and George's troubles begin.
small town angel suicide attempt holiday bank great depression family business black and white nervous breakdown old house newlywed magic realism told in flashback alternative reality guardian angel high school dance christmas candid what if christmas eve adoring amused
Nat reviewed It's a Wonderful Life (1946)
"The great end of life is not knowledge but action"
This film was released shortly after the great depression - it wasn't a massive success (compared to Capra's other films) as viewers thought it was too miserable and too much like real life. Whilst It's become Capra's most well-known film. The film is often overly romanticised and the title is perceived emblematic of the plot -while recognising a deeply depressing narrative there is a happy ending of marriage and children. However, the title is satirical and the film is a Sylvia Plath esque narrative the entrapment of marriage, children & family oppressing the desire for fun & to be yourself, the ending is far from happy. George was always really in love with the whore, not his wife. Even the angel has to work at it to get his promotion in heaven. A brilliant examination of modern day myths.
A must for re-watching for anyone who likes arty social dramas & for any woman as James Stewart is absolutely gorgeous in it.
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