Review of It's a Wonderful Life (1946) by Dan C — 02 Dec 2014

It's a Wonderful Life is the classic Christmas story that shows the best of humanity and hope.

If you haven't seen it, you might be in the minority here as it's one of the most-viewed Christmas films of all time. It centers on the life of George Bailey, the manager of the Bailey Building and Loan.

The story starts out with an angel, Clarence Odbody, attempting to earn his wings. Clarence has one last shot at saving the life of George Bailey, who has fallen on hard times and is questioning his own life choices.

We then get a view of George's life and all the people he has influenced. This includes his brother Harry whose life is saved by George after Harry falls into an icy pond. George is constantly putting others before himself and his own dreams of world travel.

Clarence meets George on a bridge as George contemplates jumping in. But to save George's life, Clarence actually jumps in the water and then tells George that he's an angel sent to save him. Bailey then says Bedford Falls would be better off without him.

The next scenes show Bedford Falls, or should I say Potterville, without the presence of George Bailey. George questions his sanity as no one recognizes him and his entire life is meaningless.

He then begs Clarence to bring him "back to life." Then he appreciates everything in his life. But more importantly, the town of Bedford Falls is really who saves George.

This movie is just a great tale of self worth. When times are tough and you think no one cares, it just goes to show that people influence other people in ways they can't comprehend.

This movie could be told at any time of year, and the theme of Christmas barely enters the picture. It could have been made during the summer and the message would have been just as clear. But it remains a classic and one that embodies the human spirit.