The best movie ever made, everything movie making should be.

Rating: Null/10 (5 February 2000)

This is the standard for movie making. If you are on your deathbed and had to watch a movie, this is the movie you would want to watch. No other film has ever had such a perfect blend of all the elements that make movies great. From acting to wardrobe, from directing to script. Drama, comedy, charm, this movie has it all. The pacing is superb and you root for George Bailey from beginning to end. But best of all, it has one of the most basic and beautiful morals of any film ever made: No man's life is unimportant. It's a Wonderful Life, said by director Frank Capra to be his best work, plays to all ages and stands the test of time even with repeated viewings. This in spite of its campy 'Capra-corn' moments. A stunning dramatic performance by Jimmy Stewart, considered by many to be his best, and that is saying a lot. The scene in the bar where Stewart reaches the end of his rope and cries out in utter desperation, "Dear Father in heaven, I'm not a praying man, but if you're up there and you can hear meÂ… show me the way" is gut wrenchingly vivid to anyone who has ever faced trials and tribulation. Stellar supporting performances, too, including the incomparable Lionel Barrymore as Henry Potter and H.B. Warner as Mr. Gower. This is in the top 10 of most every respectable 'best movies' list ever made. Watching this film will change your life, it is that good.