Classics Review: It’s A Wonderful Life

It’s that time of the month fellow movie goers from across the world. Today’s review is a timeless classic starring Jimmy Stewart (The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance, Rear Window, Vertigo) as a businessman who realizes what happens if the people he encountered, have never been effected by his actions. The plot I’m referring to is from “It’s A Wonderful Life.”

It’s A Wonderful Life was released in 1946, five days before Christmas. The film earned critical acclaim from critics and movie goers alike. Despite becoming a big hit, it failed to recoup half of its budget at the box office. It’s A Wonderful Life earned Oscar nominations at The 19th Academy Awards including “Best Actor,” (Jimmy Stewart) “Best Director” (Frank Capra) & “Best Picture.” Unfortunately none of them won.

Over the years, It’s A Wonderful Life remains a timeless Christmas classic airing every Christmas Eve before families wake up to open their presents the next morning. American Film Institute (AFI for short) ranked it Number 1 of their “100 Cheers List.” The film is currently ranked Number 20 from AFI’s “100 Movies List” 2007 edition.

If you’re a youngster, this review is a non-spoiler article. Feel free to read it, if you’ve never got a chance to see one of the best Christmas films of all time. Keep in mind, this is a short review. It’s not a grand scale epic. Just a simplistic article.

Nice & Naughty Elements

Nice: Jimmy Stewart did an excellent job for his performance as George Bailey.

Besides Jimmy, Other Cast Members including Donna Reed, Lionel Barrymore (great uncle of Drew Barrymore) & the rest of the cast all did a great job for their performances.

Frank Capra did an amazing job for directing the film.

Cinematography felt perfectly balanced without any technical errors.

Set Decorators bring the town of Bedford Falls (the main setting) to life.

Opening Scene initiates the events of the film.

The narrative is told through flashbacks going back to George’s childhood to adulthood.

George’s introduction establishes his trait for who he truly is, playing a pivotal role throughout the whole story.

Mr. Potter’s initials, “H.P.” might’ve possibly inspired J.K. Rowling to come with Harry Potter’s initials.

According to The Simpsons/Futurama creator, Matt Groening, Mr. Burns is based on Potter & his high school teacher.

Character Development involving George. As the film progresses, his character arc grows based on an Everyman most of us can we relate to.

Clarence’s main motive is to regain his wings. He’s doing it for a noble cause.

Primary Themes for the film are Faith, Greed, Capitalism & Hope.

George’s internal conflict is about him struggling to make his hopes and dreams come true.

A plot element explores an alternate timeline effecting every single character’s life.

Whenever George encounters a specific person, they factor in as important people serving a purpose. Make sure you pay attention to each character.

Two cops are named, Bert & Ernie. Their names predate the beloved iconic duo from “Sesame Street.”

Without giving try too give anything away, The Ending was worth a story to tell from beginning, middle & end. I will give it a truckload of Points.

To be honest, I didn’t get easily bored without lookin’ at my phone. I’ll give this movie an Extra Point for keeping me entertained.

Naughty: Product Placement featuring brands such as Coca-Cola & Western Union. I will give this con a pass, because no other brands weren’t spotted.

The Final Verdict: A, FOR APEX!

It’s A Wonderful Life is arguably one of the best Christmas movies of all time. Every positive aspect of the movie, still holds up as a timeless masterpiece. If you want to introduce your kids, nieces, nephews or grandchildren a classic, I strongly recommend it for the whole family as a watch party during Christmas Eve.