The Film Is Wonderful At Least!

Rating: 10/10 (11 October 2013)

Frank Capra's perennial holiday favorite stars Jimmy Stewart as George Bailey, a good man who has lived for others his whole life who has a crisis occur on Christmas Eve when Uncle Billy(played by Thomas Mitchell) misplaces the $8.000 he was supposed to deposit in the bank, which could destroy his Savings & Loan company(especially with the bank examiner visiting) Despondent,George considers suicide, but is rescued by his guardian angel Clarence(played by Henry Travers) who proceeds to show George what his hometown of Bedford Falls would be if he had never been born. Having been briefed about George before his arrival, Clarence reveals that hated tycoon Mr. Potter(played by Lionel Barrymore) would rule the town, which is now a sin-filled haven of uncaring people. Even worse, his beloved Mary(played by Donna Reed) would end up an old maid, and of course the children he loves wouldn't exist either...
Life is not always wonderful, it's true, but only a real-life Mr. Potter could hate this joyous film, filled with uproarious comedy and poignant drama, showing how one ordinary man can make a huge and positive difference. Unforgettable characters and a genuinely heartfelt ending that will move you to tears make this an all-time classic to be enjoyed any time of the year.