Coming in at #11 on the American Film Institute’s “Top 100 Films of All Time”, It’s a Wonderful Life (1946) is an all-time classic film. It’s a Wonderful Life not only teaches a great lesson, it is a wonderful movie to watch around the holiday season. This movie, made in 1946, initially was a flop at the box office only making 3.3 million dollars, barely breaking even. However, it has grown to be a cultural phenomenon, bringing inspiration to all those who watch it. George Bailey, the protagonist played by James Stewart, becomes depressed and suicidal, yet because of the prayers of others and an angel named Clarence, George is saved.

Throughout their encounters, Clarence sees how good-hearted George Bailey really is. The event that drives Bailey to turn to suicide happens on Christmas Eve when his Uncle Billy loses all of his business’ money when trying to deposit it in the bank. However, the antagonist,the Scrooge-like Mr. Potter, who has been trying to take over the town finds the money but does not return it, in hopes of his own selfish success. Bailey realizes that without this money, he will go to jail and his company will go bankrupt. Bailey sees suicide as his only option because his family would receive his life insurance policy. Clarence, his Guardian Angel, sees George about to jump, and once he talks him out of it, George tells him he wishes he was dead. As a result, Clarence shows George Bailey an alternative timeline with George never having lived. The ending of this film is one to not be forgotten.

It’s a Wonderful Life demonstrates the power of the human spirit, and how all life is meaningful, no matter what happens. In addition, another theme of this movie is how, if you do good things for others, when you are in a bind, they will help you. Thus, It’s a Wonderful Life is an essential part to any Christmas season as it continues to transcend generations.