M Husain –
It’s a Wonderful Life is a 1946 American Christmas fantasy drama film produced and directed by Frank Capra. It is based on the short story and booklet “The Greatest Gift”, self-published by Philip Van Doren Stern.
This endearing story delves into the life of George Bailey, a man caught between self-discovery and misery. The Bedford Falls, New York, setting of the film takes us through George’s struggles and victories as it emphasizes the value of family, community, and the immense influence one person can have on the lives of others.
The film begins on Christmas Eve, with George in terrible shape and on the verge of taking his own life because he feels as though his life has no purpose and that all of his aspirations have been dashed. An angel named Clarence is dispatched from heaven to help George in his hour of need and to demonstrate the importance of his existence. In a stark and depressing description of the world without George, Clarence reveals to him what it might have been like.
The movie not only emphasizes George’s influence on others but also illustrates the strength of the human spirit and resiliency. George endures many hardships and makes many sacrifices, yet he never loses his moral character or desires to improve the world. He is a living example of the idea that everyone can make a difference, even in the face of hardship.
The movie instills in us a sense of appreciation for life’s little pleasures and sorrows as well as its interconnectivity. It serves as a reminder that there is always hope and the potential for redemption, even in the depths of our despair.
James Stewart plays building and loan banker George Bailey in the movie, who is kind and always thinks about people before his problems. He has sacrificed better career opportunities, comfort, and luxury for his father’s legacy and the people of Bedford Falls. Because of his honesty, effort, patriotism, and caring nature, he is famous among people. For similar reasons, his company Building and Loan is also reputed among people. He has a loving wife, Marry Hatch Bailey (played by Donna Reed), who always supports him no matter what the condition is. She has no greed for money, luxury, or fame. She loves George Bailey for who he is.
Lionel Barrymore plays Mr. Potter in the movie, who is in the same business as George Bailey and cannot exploit people or make much profit because of the goodwill of George, his competitor. He is dissatisfied with George’s progress and development. He always tries to remove George from this business by causing various problems. One time he steals money from George, which almost causes the shutdown of his company. George is in despair and felt helpless. But he recovers from his crisis and continues his business with the company.
James Stewart gives his absolute best to play the role of George Baily. Uncle Billy’s (played by Thomas Mitchell) performance as a confused, disappointed and a man in despair acted as a turning point in the movie. He deserves significant credit. A good film cannot be made without a great villain. Lionel Barrymore has proved it. His acting is genuine enough to create hatred and anger among the audience for the character Mr. Potter. Donna Reed has a significant presence as Mary. The romance of George and Mary and the supportive nature of Mary acts as a powerful plot in this movie. Last but not least, Henry Traverse, who appears in the later part of the movie, delivers an awesome performance as an angel trying to get promoted to acquire his wings.
The movie was made in 1946. It does not follow the same humor as we see and enjoy in recent movies. Yet, it is a relaxing and comedy film. Dialogues are subtle, simple, and easy to understand. It is a movie that you can watch on Christmas with your family. Children will be able to understand it and get the message that Frank Capra was trying to give to people.
It’s a Wonderful Life has captivated audiences for many years, thanks to its ageless ideas and moving storytelling. It still strikes a chord with viewers today, serving as a reminder of the value of appreciation, compassion, and faith in the fundamental goodness of people. We are motivated to think about our own lives and how we may affect change, no matter how tiny, as we follow George Bailey’s journey.
Besides Entertainment, a message is conveyed by this movie which plays an important part in every person’s life. That is the contribution of every person in society and the impact on surrounding people. Clarence as guardian angel shows George what would happen to Bedford Falls if he was not born. Visiting that alternate universe, George feels love and gratefulness for his life, which he was about to give away by committing suicide. He understands that though there are ups and downs and crises in life still it is the greatest gift given by God.
The movie progresses at a slow pace. In the first part of the movie George Bailey’s lifestyle, his family, people in Bedford Falls, the establishment of building and loans, the love story with Mary, and a slice of his childhood are shown so that the audience get used to the style and story of the movie. In the second part, George’s downfall and struggle, Clarence’s appearance, and a twist, at last, show how he becomes the richest man in town. George’s early life is shown as a series of plays to Clarence by God.
This movie is a masterpiece because of the creativity of Frank Capra and the marvelous shots in the snow. And the acting of James Stewart, Lionel Barrymore, and Donna Reed added extra spice.
We are used to watching works of highly developed cameras, awesome graphics work, and VFX. But in 1946 these things were beyond imagination. Stunningly shot on a vintage 16 mm camera using monochrome Kodak stock was used for making it. The entire movie is in black and white print. Still, it is fun to watch because of the amazing script, powerful actors, and smooth progress.
The costume used by the actor and actress matches the trends, tastes, and culture of that time. Elegant Western touch could be observed in interior design, food, clothes, and the structure of buildings and roads.
Soundtracks of genres like Indie rock slowcore, art rock chamber pop, and dream pop are used in this movie. This creates a soothing environment and sometimes restless chaotic environment which suits scenes.
Frank Capra was able to produce a masterpiece because of his idea, creativity, production process, and desire. Lack of technology, resource, or any other things could not hold him back.
The production cost of the movie was 3.13 million US dollars and it collected 3.3 million US dollars from the US Box office. Hence it was not commercially successful on its initial release. When the film’s copyright lapsed in 1974, American television channels started showing it on repeat. These repeated airings pushed the film into a new category — holiday favorite. With the advent of home video and later digital streaming platforms, It’s a Wonderful Life gained even more exposure and reached a wider audience.
This movie has been named 1 of the 100 greatest American movies ever made by the American Film Institute and received five Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture. It ranked no. 1 on the American Film Institute’s all-time list of the most motivational American movies. It’s a Wonderful Life was listed in the Library of Congress’s National Film Registry after being deemed to be “culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant”.
Decades after its premiere, It’s a Wonderful Life continues to have an impact on audiences and has a permanent place in popular culture. Its timeless message continues to serve as a reminder to value the links and connections in our lives, to find delight in giving to others, and to acknowledge the significant impact we may have on the world around us.
