It's a Wonderful film...not just at Christmas.

Rating: 8/10 (16 December 2018)

I seem to be one of only a small number of people who haven't seen this film, which for many has become a staple Christmas movie.
I watched a decent colorized version of a film that was originally released in black and white back in 1946.
The colorization technology on recent restoration of old films is very good and I couldn't tell I was watching an old black and white film.
I digress. Why has the film gained cult like status?
It stars James Stewart in the star role as a character George Bailey who has done good deeds throughout his life but now doubts his contribution to the world around him, making him contemplate suicide on Christmas Eve.
A trainee angel, Clarence literally saves him and in a parallel time line makes George realise what life would have been like without his interventions.
George part owns a loan company which faces financial problems and the possible imprisonment of George unless $8000 can be found to pay off the shortfall.
George saves his brother's life for example in 1919. His brother as an adult is awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor for his bravery in the Second World War.
We see the actions of a greedy man Mr. Potter throughout the film. The opposite to George in helping the local towns population in owning their own homes. He comes across as an evil banker. Charging high rents for poor properties.
In the angel Clarence's parallel timeline the local town Bedford Hills is renamed Pottersville.
There is also a second story in the film. The angel Clarence is 'second class' and as yet has no wings. Saving George just may earn him his wings and elevate him to a 'normal' angel level.
In the end George's fate is saved as the townfolk raise the cash and Potter, who attempts to have George jailed sees his warrant ripped up.
A feel good film with some excellent performances.
Stewart revelled in this kind of role throughout his film career.
The history of the film reveals copyright issues. Colorization issues as discussed and a top Christmas film that could really be watched at other times of the year.