Friday, December 20, 1996

50 years ago: It’s a Wonderful Life, the perennial Christmas classic, released

It’s a Wonderful Life


Released: December 20, 1946


Studio: RKO


Genre: Christmas fantasy/drama/romance


Box Office (numbers in millions):

Domestic: 3.30 Worldwide: ?


Adjusted for Inflation:

Domestic: 147.30 Worldwide: ?

Directing: Frank Capra


Screenwriting: Frances Goodrich, Albert Hackett, Frank Capra


Starring: James Stewart, Donna Reed, Lionel Barrymore, Henry Travers



Review:

“An uplifting magical film, worth all of the praise it’s received.” VD “Only Capra and this cast could pull it off so well; this film seems to improve with age. ” LM The film – initially a flop – owes its current status as a “beloved holiday classic” MSN to a clerical error at the copyright office. The film was mistakenly moved into the public domain in 1974 which meant local TV stations could play the movie without paying royalties. MSN

The film was based on “The Greatest Gift,” a short story by Philip an Doren Stern which was originally written as a Christmas card. LM It “contains at least one true celluloid miracle: James Stewart’s engrossing performance as George Bailey, one of Hollywood’s most honorable, memorable and troubled American dreamers.” TV He plays “an average man in an average town who feels his life is worthless and decides to jump off a bridge.” VD “His crusty-but-lovable guardian angel Clarence (Travers), who is desperately trying to earn his wings, shows up to give him a tour of his town without his presence.” FS George learns “just how important he is to all the people around him” VD and “that wealth is measured in love and friendship.” FS

“Moral courage, small-town American life, civic cooperation, and family love are glorified while corporate greed and selfishness are condemned.” FS “It’s a film designed to grab your cockles and warm them till they smoulder,” T95 climaxing in “an idyllic Christmas card finale.” FS


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Dave’s Movie Database Lists:


Dave’s Movie Database Genre Lists:


Awards:


Oscars:

Wins: 0

Nominations: 5: Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor (Stewart), Best Film Editing, Best Sound


Other Lists/Honors:


Critics’ Picks:


First posted 8/20/2019; last updated 6/3/2023.