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It's A Wonderful Life (1946)

Frank Capra enjoyed a string of phenomenal success during the 1930's up until the early 1940's with his wonderful, idealistic morality plays. But when war broke out, Capra was called upon to serve his country. All though the war, he made a number of films for the American government to keep the public informed. George Stevens, William Wyler, John Ford and John Huston were other Hollywood directors who made films for the war effort.
When Capra returned after the war, he formed Liberty Films with Stevens and Wyler. IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE proved to be the only Liberty production. The wartime experience had sobered Capra and he wanted to make his most ambitious and deepest film. He lavished a great deal of time and money on his cherished project.
James Stewart plays George Bailey, a man with many dreams, but who always sacrifices opportunities to help his family and his community. He takes over his father's Building and loan company when he dies. When his uncle Billy (Thomas Mitchell) loses a large cash payment, the Building and Loan faces disaster. George Bailey wishes he had never been born. He then sees what would have happened had he not lived.
Post war audiences liked IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE and it is the favourite film of both Capra and Stewart. While successful on original release, Capra had spent so much time and money on the project, it didn't turn a profit. But time has been kind to Capra's beloved film. It is generally considered to be Capra's best work and has become a fixture on American public re-sees IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE each year as they take stock of their friendships, successes, failures and find encouragement in Capra's timeless classic.

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Classification:

Starring:

James Stewart, Donna Reed, Lionel Barrymore, Thomas Mitchell, Henry Travers, Beulah Bondi, Ward Bond, Gloria Grahame

Director:

Frank Capra

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Members Reviews

	Reviewed by: KK
The Christmas Classic Corny but wonderful - a great performance by James Stewart.

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Genres:

Drama
Romance

Run Time:
129 Minutes

Subtitles:

English

Countries:

USA

BFI Classification:
Universal - suitable for all ages

Release Date:
04/11/2002

Production Year:
1946

Aspect Ratio:
Full Frame 4:3

Colour:
B & W