The end always gets me not because how everyone shows up to help George but because of how happy and excited they are to do it - George spent his whole life helping others without asking anything in return and when he really needs the help back, the whole town is excited to get to return the favor. It’s not just kind, it’s love, and it’s Christmas, and I’m def not crying! 😭♥️
In 1982, I was on the verge of doing something very stupid. Before I had the chance though, this movie came on the TV. It was the first time I had seen it and it changed my life. This movie is the main reason I am here today to even write this. I watch it ever year and cry and thank God that he placed this movie before me to show me how wrong I was. I hope you get as much from this movie as I did and do each and every time I watch it. I am going to grab some Kleenex now and watch your reaction.
I am currently in that dark place that y'all are speaking about, and I really miss those feelings of hope that y'all portray. That being said, all I can really think about is how this movie is only just a work of fiction and that people like the townsfolk of Bedford Falls don't really exist, especially in today's modern age. It's unfortunate, but real.
@@philphilips1020 I am truly sorry to hear you in that low place, and although things may seem as low as it can get, please remember there are people out there that care. I will be adding you to my prayers, please stay strong, you are worth it.
This is an important film to my Aunt. My Aunt was in a bad place in her life and was preparing to take her own life when she saw this movie on TV. She changed her mind. Thankfully she got the help she needed and is still around and my favorite Aunt. Thank you Frank Capra and others for making this movie.
That's wonderful! I have heard similar comments from people who said that this movie made them appreciate their lives more because they realized how many people they'd helped. I'm certain that more than a few people have been deterred from suicide because of this film. Amazing for a movie that was something of a failure when it was released - it only became a "classic" in the 1970's when it started to be shown on TV regularly.
Jimmy Stewart's first film after serving in ww2. He enlisted and wasn't drafted because he wanted to serve and when they wanted him to entertain the troops he knew men were dying so he wanted to serve. He flew bombers and saw a lot of death and had PTSD (they called it shell shock back then) and this was his first film after the war. The emotion you see from him in this movie is real and raw, he was working through his pain of what he experienced in the war and you see it play out in this film. As an American, this film is a treasure and a reminder as to why they call them "The Greatest Generation". I am grateful to have known them as my grandparents generation and walked the earth with them at the same time even if it was short. This is perhaps one of the greatest films ever made.
What's sad is that none of our boys here in the West needed to go to war. What happened between Poland and Germany was a private affair and shouldve remained as such
This film is a treasure - not very well received upon release, it took time for people to realize how meaningful it truly was - even more meaningful than its creators knew. It's cliche, but it is truly timeless.
I heard that it did fall into the public domain for awhile, and that's when it started being shown on TV endlessly. People saw it and started getting into it. Maybe one of the earliest "sleeper" type movies :)
@@RReneeS 1974-1993 was when it was in the public domain, due to a clerical error. The rights were reestablished after an unrelated Supreme Court decision.
Part of the reason it didn’t take off immediately is that it was accused of being 'communist' - Baileys customers were regarded a a socialist fable, where their investment in other peoples homes raised them up, rather than continuing to pay rent to a nasty capitalist landlord
@@RReneeS It was a box office flop when it came out , just as Citizen Kane ... same issue that movies with a message have today , those flop at box office .
You mentioned the bar scene where Jimmy Stewart actually broke down and cried. Jimmy Stewart was one of the first actors to sign up for WW2, and struggled to get an actual combat position instead of just filming war films and doing USO stuff. He was already a pilot, and ended up flying a B-24 Liberator over Germany. He flew 20 missions, received two Distinguished Flying Crosses, four Air Medals, a Presidential Unit Citation and the French Croix de Guerre, lost quite a few of his men, and suffered PTSD as a result. He didn't even want to go back to making movies afterwards, but Capra convinced him to. So the trauma, grief and anger you see in the movie was all real.
@@voodoochile333 wow Merry Christmas to you for bringing up a entirely useless and unnecessary fact I suppose you know no one that that a problem with drugs and straighten out their life!
"No man or woman is a failure who has friends." It's a Wonderful Life is my all time favorite Christmas film. It's the best feel-good movie that everyone needs to watch because it shows how everyone is important. No one is bigger than anyone else. We all matter because we as individuals can make a difference, no matter the situation that comes towards us. Also, Fun Fact: James Stewart was nervous about the phone kiss scene because it was his first onscreen kiss since his return to Hollywood after the war. Under director Frank Capra's watchful eye, James Stewart filmed the scene in only one unrehearsed take and it worked so well that part of the embrace was cut because it was too passionate to pass the censors.
He also wasn't supposed to cry while he was praying in the bar, but due to PTSD having recently returned from WW2 he became overwhelmed during the scene.
"Every man on that transport died. Harry wasn't there to save them, because you didn't save him." That part always gets me: it makes you really feel the weight of your being in relation to the other life you touch, for good and for bad.
The scene where George kicks over his architecture corner is what gets me first. The stunned look of shock, fear, and, worry and concern on the faces of his wife and kids... his shame and embarrassment and desire to take it back, just tears me up.
I LOVE Cary Grant. I think they should also react to You Can't Take It With You, just to compare and contrast Stewart and Barrymore in another Capra film. Plus, it's a good movie. There's also Mr. Smith Goes to Washington, starring Jimmy and directed by Capra, and is a good movie, as well.
For me, this is not only a Christmas movie, it's the absolute best Christmas film ever. Hands down. I've watched it countless times, the final message gets me through each year. Did you notice it NEVER snows in Pottersville ? Yes you can see it on the ground but look when George is begging to Clarence that he wants to live again - the moment it starts to snow is when you know he's back in good old Bedford Falls. As for the "crow", it's actually a Raven. As Matthew said, he starred in 1000+ films and was quite the star, insured for the equivalent of thousands of dollars today. Capra found a part for him in every film he made after 1938. Oh and the squirrels name was Snoopy ! Speaking of Uncle Billy, in the scene where he leaves the frame and there's a crash, some say 'Uncle Billy' improvised the cry that he was alright "live", others say it was dubbed on in post. But the crash is indeed genuine and unscripted. The footage of WW2 is genuine. It's taken from a Navy film about the USS Yorktown called 'The Fighting Lady'. After the war she was used as one of the recovery ships for the Apollo Space programme and has a replica capsule on her lower deck in Charlestown NC where she is a museum ship. Matthew mentioned the kiss from Jimmy Stewart to Ms Davis but did you notice who played her ? It's an uncredited young Ellen Corby who went on to play Grandma Walton in her latter years. So glad new generations are still enjoying this classic - and in black and white as it should be !
This movie was my dad's favorite. I watched it with him every single Christmas since I was a baby in 1976. When he passed in Feb 2003, I swore I would never watch it again. Then Christmas time came around. And my 9 year old stepson, who'd known my dad all his life, came to the computer room one day and he said to come into the living room right now. When I got there, he looked at me and he said "come on, it's about to start". On the table there was a bowl of chips, a bowl of pop corn, Coca-Cola with ice, some gummy bears etc... Like there had been every year my entire life. That's when I heard the music. My heart broke and I opened my mouth to thank this boy for his nice gesture but I wasn't going to be able to watch it this year. Before I could say anything he sat on the couch and said "I think it's time I watched it, even though it looks boring. Don't make me watch it alone." And the first time he heard a bell ring after he saw that movie, he smiled the biggest smile and told me "grandpa got his wings". This boy is 28 years old now. And every year he comes over with chips, pop corn, gummy bears and cokes. And we watch it together.
My favorite scene is at the train station when George learns of Harry's job. A mediocre director or writer would add dialog to the scene to convey the emotions that George is feeling, but I love how we just see it in his eyes and brilliant acting with no words
The "lost" alternate ending to this absolute classic was found in 1987 and digitally restored! Here is the link! ENJOY! ua-cam.com/video/vw89o0afb2A/v-deo.html
Hands down my favourite Christmas movie. The ending always has me crying in happiness. The love, care and help you give to others is returned when needed
I lost my job a month before Christmas and then I found out who my real friends are. Some people no longer associate with me, even telling me to not talk to them anymore. So now i focus on what matters and this film always is a reminder of that. Classic.
I hope now, nearly a year later, you have found that job loss was a blessing on disguise and true friends have helped your path forwards. Sometimes it takes a bit to realize it, but some of our hardest years and worst life events can be the catalysts to auch happier fuller future. Bright Blessings this 2023 holiday season. S
A timeless film, with a message that resonates with anyone going through tough times or who feels they've failed to meet aspirations. Love you guys, keep it up!
11:02 The moment where Uncle Billy stumbles into trash cans offscreen was entirely unscripted. During that take, one of the crew accidentally dropped a box of props, and the actor playing Uncle Billy immediately improvised the "I'm all right, I'm all right." Jimmy Stewart's look of concern followed by his smile were both genuine reactions. The director ended up tipping that crew member $10 (equivalent to $150 today) for enhancing the scene.
That’s my favorite story of the behind the scenes of this movie. You can see that Jimmy’s reaction is so natural but he just kept going with it. Loved it.
Hey Matthew and Emily. Merry Xmas to you both. This is a special film to me. My aunt and uncle were dancers in the movies in the 40's. My aunt was in this film during the school dance along with hundreds of others. She was not paid much but had the opportunity to earn stunt pay for being one of the dancers who went into the pool. The funny thing is that my aunt never learned to swim so she nearly drowned to earn extra money. Thank goodness she did not. Just a fun fact I wanted to share. Much love to you both.
The movie's publicity has always made a point of saying the Bedford Falls set was "one of the largest built for a film" which implies it was built for this film. It was actually built on the RKO Encino lot for a film called Cimmaron. They redressed it and added the oak trees. Sadly, that lot is now a subdivision. Great reaction, as usual. Thanks!
Arguably I would say Holiday Inn takes that title. It's A Wonderful Life has such a prominent place mainly because the mistakenly lapsed copyright allowed TV studios and movie theaters to replay this film ad infinitum without giving royalties to the studio.
I always loved the small detail that it stops snowing when George hasn't been born, and only starts again once he's "back" Merry Christmas to you both!
The anecdote you described about the filmhand dropping some equipment offscreen - you're correct about that being an accident, but you left out a key part. After the crash Capra (the director) was about to yell "Cut!" but the actor playing Uncle Billy ad libbed the "I'm all right, I'm all right." line, Stewart smiled and stayed in character, and they kept the scene going.
HARD TO BELIEVE ,the film was not a hit on its release , its my favourie xmas movie and the line "to my big brother George the richest guy in town" always brings tears to the eyes .
You'll love this : in real life, Lionel Barrymore was nothing like Mr. Potter. When he was moving into his new house, they heard meowing coming from inside the walls. They broke it open, and found two kittens. No sign of the mother. He adopted them both on the spot. Whenever I feel like strangling Mr. Potter, I just think of the "kitten in the wall" story. Hear that, Pippin? 😉 🐈 🐈⬛ 😺😽
A reason many consider this a Christmas movie is because for years it was in the public domain so TV stations could play it on an endless loop without having to pay royalties, so it was always on around Christmas.
The reason it's considered a Christmas movie is because it IS a Christmas movie. It takes place on Christmas eve, all the other stuff are flashbacks of George's life.
Such a classic, glad you enjoyed it! Since you mentioned it, I'd like to enthusiastically upvote Arsenic and Old Lace. One of my favorite comedies of the era, and in general. An unusual but amazing role for Cary Grant!
I've seen this movie a couple hundred times and never noticed Donna Reed touching her stomach there. This movie is genius and y'all are, too noticing that.
I hadn't realized until someone pointed it out, that this film actually VIOLATES the Hays code - since it requires that "crime does not pay" and bad guys either have to be caught & punished or repent & atone. But Potter gets away with it! ....at least until that legendary SNL sketch. 😏
Perhaps the story just ends before we find out what becomes of Potter? Maybe he confesses or gets caught, we don't have any idea. I think Clarence goes over and takes him out before leaving.
Jimmy Stewart movies were very special, because many of them were all about the "every man" struggling against the challenges of life. His movies also had a certain "heart" to them. If you like Jimmy Stewart in this, you should definitely check out Mr Smith Goes to Washington!! A great movie!
The Capra movie you mentioned "Arsenic and Old Lace" is a wonderful farce (CHARGE!). I highly recommend it. Another of this time period staring Jimmy Stewart is "Harvey". Stewart said it was his favorite movie and character. Others of the time period, "The Bishops Wife", "It happened One Night", slightly newer flick that is fun is "Heaven Knows, Mr. Allison" (1957 Pacific war). For 40-50s musicals try "White Christmas", "Holiday Inn", "Going My Way" and "Bells of St, Mary's" All of the musicals can be applicable from Thanksgiving through Christmas, and all are excellent. Any Hitchcock movie is a jewel.
Oooooo White Christmas was one that my mom has always loved and that we watched year after year as I was growing up. I finally bought it for her on VHS as a teen so we could watch it at our convivences and without commercials.
"He's making violent love to me, Mother!" Just love that line in a classic family Christmas movie. But serves Mother right, she needs to mind her own business.
Merry Christmas Matthew and Emily. I first saw this in 1992 as all the kids in my middle school were forced to watch it for a class when I was in 8th grade. Wonderful film.
The woman who asks for $17.50 is Ellen Corby. People of my generation know her as Grandma from the "Waltons" tv series. She has a sweet supporting role as one of the sisters in "I Remember Mama", which is a lovely movie.
You mentioned the Hays Code: The one huge code violation that made it past the censors was that Potter was not arrested for his crime of stealing Billy’s deposit. The code required that all criminals must pay for their crimes.
That is a misconception. The code specifically stated that crime did not have to be punish provided it was made clear to the audience that it was wrong. Audiences, however, were very angry at Capra for not punishing Potter. My own feeling is that Potter became irrelevant when the town came to George's aid. Evil is always with us but we can overcome evil with good.
Another wonderful film that also came out in 1947, and is most definitely a Christmas movie is The Bishop’s Wife. It is also heartwarming. And 2 kids from “It’s a Wonderful Life” are in the cast of Bishop’s Wife.
I’m always crying by this point anyway, but if for some reason I’m not, when Harry gives the toast to “the richest man in town,” my fave contorts in strange ways and I grab for the Kleenex.
2 more fun facts. The boy who opens up the pool floor is Carl Switzer "Alfalfa" from the Our Gang movies. Also. When George is praying at Martinis. The raven haired singer is Adriana Caselotti. The voice of Disney's Snow White.
The movie is Sentimental, especially towards the end, but that is all balanced out with real characters and real life. As much as I could during the Hayes Code, they talked about drinking alcohol, and sex, and jealousy. It wasn't included in this video, but the part of the walk home where Mary is naked in the bushes and George is jokingly contemplating what he should do was a surprising topic for 1946. And many movies of the period people were just too good to be true.
Great movie! Fun reaction! Personally, I would love to see some of the classics. Casablanca is a great story with surprisingly funny dialogue. Should you guys ever get to that one, I'll be front and center. And I feel like "Paper Moon" would be highly entertaining also. Happy New Year, y'all! Thanks for the fun times. ✌️
What I love about this movie is the fact that most of the movie is following George through most of his life. This allows the audience to really see the character development, fall in love with the characters, and draw more from the timeline where George does not exist. We saw the significant events that happened, but we do not see the regular events in between. We even forget through the movie some of the events that took place, or can’t draw conclusions from what may have happened to the characters that is not shown. The alternate timeline not only shows the impact of the significant acts like Harry, Mr. Gower, Mr. Martini, Uncle Billy and Mary. But, it also show others that were indirectly affected like Bert, Ernie, Ma Bailey, Violet, and the rest of the town. We could all learn a lot from this movie. I bet many times we see things through George’s eyes where we only see the negative right in front of us at the time. One of the quotes that hits me now is “Strange isn’t it? Each man’s life touches so many other lives. When he isn’t around, he leaves an awful hole doesn’t he?” Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!
Its a Wonderful Life is not only the greatest Christmas movie, its possibly the greatest Christian movie this side of The Passion. This movie shows how wonderful a society built on true Christian values could be. Mary and George Bailey is one of the greatest love stories ever put on film. It is alongside the likes of Rhett and Scarlett, Rick and Ilsa, Jack and Rose. And Mary Bailey is the most wonderful wife and mother in film history.
"Well, it's that day again...time to watch it again. Because that's just what you do. And by the way...the basketball court/pool? That's the Swim Gym at Beverly Hills High School where I went. It's still there and still in use. And Merry Christmas!
13:13 The bird is Jimmy the raven, who apparently appeared in over 1,000 movies between 1938 and 1954. His debut was in another excellent Frank Capra movie, a 1938 film called You Can't Take It With You. After that, Jimmy was the raven that landed on the scarecrow in The Wizard of Oz. Fun fact about ravens - in the wild, they generally live for about 10-15 years; however, they can live over 50 years in captivity, and the longest-lived raven is believed to have lived for over 70 years.
One of the things people don't like about this movie is that Potter gets away with everything he did with no repercussions, but imagine how he felt when he woke up to find that George didn't go to jail, and the Bailey Building and Loan is still in business. Funny enough, everything that Potter recommended to George, is what eventually was done to save George and his business.
A young George tells his father that he wants to go out and design buildings and plan cities. The beauty of it, is that is exactly what George is doing in Bedford Falls, just on a smaller scale and for people he knows and loves. He and Mary are both selfless and giving.
Another fun fact you may not have known about this movie: Remember the scene where Mr. Martini and his family and their animals are moving to their new house? The Martini Family bring their goat with them in their car to their new house. The director of It's a Wonderful Life is Frank Capra. Frank Capra is Italian. In Italian, "capra" means "goat".
To be clear (and depending which modern sources of information are deemed credible because they have conflicting dates on this issue) IAWL was completed in "late" 1946 and rushed into print so Capra/Liberty Films could get it shown at the Globe theater in New York city on Friday, December 20, 1946 making it eligible for the 1947 Oscar's (Academy Awards). Its "official" release date according to Liberty Films was Saturday December 21st, 1946 BUT was not distributed to any theaters until its apparent actual premier and red carpet event at Graumans Chinese Theater in Los Angeles on (as previously stated) Tuesday, January 7th, 1947. After which it was released nationwide and presumably internationally? So the issue is, as with so many things in the information age in which we live is which source do we trust. Just doing a quick search will not do! Sadly, at least to modern audiences it did not do well at the time. Most people considered it to be rather sappy or corny for thier tastes. Perhaps less than 2 years after WWII people were still a bit too shaken to allow emotional responses that we all take nearly obligatory today? Just a thought.
* Jimmy the Crow was Frank Capra's personal good luck charm. He was in several of Capra's movies. * The boy that Mary is talking to at the party (her date) was the person who played Alfalfa in the Our Gang/Little Rascals films.
I'm gonna name you a few from this era you can go with. The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance, The Quiet Man, It Happens Every Spring, North By Northwest, The Champ, Mr. Smith Goes to Washington, McLintock!, Donavan's Reef and Chisum. These are some of my favorites.
The actress who played Ruth Bailey (Mrs. Harry Bailey), Virginia Patton, died in August of this year. She was 97 and the last surviving adult cast member. The boy who played the young version of Sam Wainwright and the actors who played 3 of the Bailey children (Peter, Janie and Zuzu [Suzanne]) are all still with is. The man who played Nick the bartender was Sheldon Leonard. He went on to produce The Andy Griffith Show, Gomer Pyle USMC, I Spy and others.
YAY! Wonderful reaction! And I can't wait for Arsenic & Old Lace! For another classic w/ Jimmy Stewart watch "Harvey". (wrote this before you guys did the trivia wrap-up)
I love this reaction and I love this movie! Such a special joy to see people experience this for the first time. So glad you enjoyed! Jimmy Stewart is my all-time favorite actor, and the movie that sent me over the moon for him was “The Philadelphia Story” starring him, Katharine Hepburn, and Cary Grant (just typing those actors names makes me a little swoony. 🤣Fantastic cast!). If you’re looking for some more Jimmy Stewart, I highly recommend checking out that film. Jimmy has a scene where he is drunk….and not only does he play a believable drunk, it’s also charming and hilarious. I could honestly go on for days listing great performances of his, but I’ll leave it there. Thank you for this sweet video to watch in between presents and Christmas dinner. I hope your holidays are blessed and wonderful!
great comments on J Stewart and that era was full of classic films especially 1939, I will always believe that HE deserved BEST actor for MR SMith Goes to washington ( another Capra film) and Hollwood rewarded him in 1940 with Philaldelphia story, and Henry Fonda is the actual one who shouild have won best actor in 1940
@@michaelceraso1977 good call! Mr. Smith absolutely should’ve been his win over Philadelphia Story! Both are fantastic performances, but you’re right. Mr Smith was the best!
If you saw Lionel Barrymore in other roles you most likely wouldn't be able to recognize him. He brought a unique look to every character. Sometime in the late 30s he broke his hip and the resulting arthritic pain essentially put him into a wheelchair. Mayer (of Metro Goldwyn and Mayer) made sure to either have roles accommodated or written for him to appear.
Merry Christmas! This was a beautiful reaction, a great way to end the year! Absolutely would love it if you continued to hit the classics from time to time. There are so many that still hold up, "It's A Wonderful Life" being a perfect example.
This was one of the best movies of the era. A couple of things of note: #1) Donna Reed was an underrated babe #2) Today It’s a Wonderful Life is a staple of Christmas but it originally came out in (I think) July #3) @11:03 the sound of banging cans was not in the script and wasn’t supposed to happen. Someone who’s job it was to transport film reels (almost serendipitously), dropped them right at that moment, and instead of doing another take, the director decided to keep it and thank God he did because it made the scene perfect.
The most important message was without even realizing it, George Bailey singlehandedly kept Potter in check....preventing the town from descending into squalor ultimately saving the citizens of Bedford falls
Lady, I love your laugh! Sir, yes, this movie gets me every time too. It starts when drunk, grieving Mr Gower boxes George’s sore ear bloody and George begs him not to hit him again then saves Mr Gower’s whole life (as we later see). I also get choked up when George hits rock bottom then goes home and loses it in front of his family. And of course the finale with the townsfolk pitching in, Harry returning and toasting his brother, and ZuZu announcing when Clarence gets his wings. Mary is a real keeper. Violet has always had a thing for George too but Mary keeps getting in the way. She thought she had him them George suggests running barefoot in the grass. Her, “Huuuh?”, is perfect.
For more good movies from this era, I have to suggest “The Shop Around the Corner’, (1940) another favorite at Christmas also starring Jimmy Stewart in addition to an exceptional cast. It’s a really cute movie and worthy follow-up to ‘Its a Wonderful Life’.
Of course it's a Christmas movie. It starts on Christmas....and ends on Christmas. The entire film takes place on Christmas. Granted there is a ton of back story and explaining for Clarence's benefit (and ours) but it's all on Christmas.
The guy who opens the pool floor so they would fall in was Alfalfa from the Little Rascals. Drew Barrymore's great Uncle, Lionel Barrymore played Potter. The Barrymore's, Lionel, John and Ethel are Broadway royalty with a theater named after them. They also did soundless movies. It's disputed that Burt and Ernie from Sesame Street were named after the cop and the cabby. The producer saying that about Bert and Ernie also said Hansen had a faulty memory so it is possible he heard the names from the movie and forgot he heard them there. And the press releases for Sesame Street do say the names came from this movie so it's still up for debate. Weirdly, no one actually asked Hansen himself while he was still alive.
Capra later regretted portraying Mary becoming a librarian as the most horrible fate possible, especially compared to the truly nasty things that happened to everyone else.
Not only a librarian but an "old maid". Which really made no sense given that Sam Wainwright and a bunch of other guys were after her. A small flaw but not an important one.
I think in some way, it is for the best that Mary's life isn't reliant on George beyond him being her soul mate. She didn't have a more terrible fate because she didn't need saving. George isn't just seeing Mary as a librarian but he is seeing a world where his children don't exist.
@@jamesscanlan6240 I feel that Mary only loved or had eyes for George. She never finds her soulmate, so she opts not to marry. (the first shot of young Mary is so stunning)
The end always gets me not because how everyone shows up to help George but because of how happy and excited they are to do it - George spent his whole life helping others without asking anything in return and when he really needs the help back, the whole town is excited to get to return the favor. It’s not just kind, it’s love, and it’s Christmas, and I’m def not crying! 😭♥️
I’m not crying! You’re crying!
And it's love the movie allows us to take with us. People just bask in the happiness of this film for a good while after watching it. ❤️
Best line in the whole movie: "Good idea Ernie, a toast - to my big brother George - the richest man in town!." and not financially!
Best Ending Ever,love it classic
In 1982, I was on the verge of doing something very stupid. Before I had the chance though, this movie came on the TV. It was the first time I had seen it and it changed my life. This movie is the main reason I am here today to even write this. I watch it ever year and cry and thank God that he placed this movie before me to show me how wrong I was. I hope you get as much from this movie as I did and do each and every time I watch it. I am going to grab some Kleenex now and watch your reaction.
I have been in that dark place too, and am much better now. I'm glad you're still here!
I am currently in that dark place that y'all are speaking about, and I really miss those feelings of hope that y'all portray. That being said, all I can really think about is how this movie is only just a work of fiction and that people like the townsfolk of Bedford Falls don't really exist, especially in today's modern age. It's unfortunate, but real.
@@philphilips1020 I am truly sorry to hear you in that low place, and although things may seem as low as it can get, please remember there are people out there that care. I will be adding you to my prayers, please stay strong, you are worth it.
@@mjkjelland13 Thanks, friend.
I have been watching reacts because I don't feel mentally well atm. This film stops me doing stupid stuff
This is an important film to my Aunt. My Aunt was in a bad place in her life and was preparing to take her own life when she saw this movie on TV. She changed her mind. Thankfully she got the help she needed and is still around and my favorite Aunt. Thank you Frank Capra and others for making this movie.
That's wonderful! I have heard similar comments from people who said that this movie made them appreciate their lives more because they realized how many people they'd helped. I'm certain that more than a few people have been deterred from suicide because of this film. Amazing for a movie that was something of a failure when it was released - it only became a "classic" in the 1970's when it started to be shown on TV regularly.
Glad you are still here. Seasons greetings to you!
Jimmy Stewart's first film after serving in ww2. He enlisted and wasn't drafted because he wanted to serve and when they wanted him to entertain the troops he knew men were dying so he wanted to serve. He flew bombers and saw a lot of death and had PTSD (they called it shell shock back then) and this was his first film after the war. The emotion you see from him in this movie is real and raw, he was working through his pain of what he experienced in the war and you see it play out in this film. As an American, this film is a treasure and a reminder as to why they call them "The Greatest Generation". I am grateful to have known them as my grandparents generation and walked the earth with them at the same time even if it was short. This is perhaps one of the greatest films ever made.
The greatest generation gave birth to the worst😂😂😂
What's sad is that none of our boys here in the West needed to go to war. What happened between Poland and Germany was a private affair and shouldve remained as such
This film is a treasure - not very well received upon release, it took time for people to realize how meaningful it truly was - even more meaningful than its creators knew. It's cliche, but it is truly timeless.
I heard that it did fall into the public domain for awhile, and that's when it started being shown on TV endlessly. People saw it and started getting into it. Maybe one of the earliest "sleeper" type movies :)
@@RReneeS 1974-1993 was when it was in the public domain, due to a clerical error. The rights were reestablished after an unrelated Supreme Court decision.
Part of the reason it didn’t take off immediately is that it was accused of being 'communist' - Baileys customers were regarded a a socialist fable, where their investment in other peoples homes raised them up, rather than continuing to pay rent to a nasty capitalist landlord
@@RReneeS It was a box office flop when it came out , just as Citizen Kane ... same issue that movies with a message have today , those flop at box office .
You mentioned the bar scene where Jimmy Stewart actually broke down and cried. Jimmy Stewart was one of the first actors to sign up for WW2, and struggled to get an actual combat position instead of just filming war films and doing USO stuff. He was already a pilot, and ended up flying a B-24 Liberator over Germany. He flew 20 missions, received two Distinguished Flying Crosses, four Air Medals, a Presidential Unit Citation and the French Croix de Guerre, lost quite a few of his men, and suffered PTSD as a result.
He didn't even want to go back to making movies afterwards, but Capra convinced him to. So the trauma, grief and anger you see in the movie was all real.
This is one of the few old-time films that makes me cry every time I watch it. Such a timeless classic.
Every time, indeed.
Don't forget, the actor who played Mr. Potter is Lionel Barrymore, great-uncle of Drew Barrymore. Huge, deep roots to that acting family.
@@voodoochile333 wow Merry Christmas to you for bringing up a entirely useless and unnecessary fact I suppose you know no one that that a problem with drugs and straighten out their life!
"No man or woman is a failure who has friends."
It's a Wonderful Life is my all time favorite Christmas film. It's the best feel-good movie that everyone needs to watch because it shows how everyone is important. No one is bigger than anyone else. We all matter because we as individuals can make a difference, no matter the situation that comes towards us.
Also, Fun Fact: James Stewart was nervous about the phone kiss scene because it was his first onscreen kiss since his return to Hollywood after the war. Under director Frank Capra's watchful eye, James Stewart filmed the scene in only one unrehearsed take and it worked so well that part of the embrace was cut because it was too passionate to pass the censors.
Man use to be short form for HuMAN.
He also wasn't supposed to cry while he was praying in the bar, but due to PTSD having recently returned from WW2 he became overwhelmed during the scene.
"Every man on that transport died. Harry wasn't there to save them, because you didn't save him."
That part always gets me: it makes you really feel the weight of your being in relation to the other life you touch, for good and for bad.
That isn't the quote.
Yeah screw dem Jap pilots! Let 'em rot in the ocean.
/s
Apparently the only people who are important to survive are people from Bedford Falls.
@@ny8956 is your name Potter?
The scene where George kicks over his architecture corner is what gets me first. The stunned look of shock, fear, and, worry and concern on the faces of his wife and kids... his shame and embarrassment and desire to take it back, just tears me up.
I love "Arsenic and Old Lace". Great to hear someone is going to react to that classic.
One of the best, I agree.
@@Peejay1966 CHARGE!!!!!!!!
I LOVE Cary Grant. I think they should also react to You Can't Take It With You, just to compare and contrast Stewart and Barrymore in another Capra film. Plus, it's a good movie.
There's also Mr. Smith Goes to Washington, starring Jimmy and directed by Capra, and is a good movie, as well.
I love that movie too. And I think "Harvey" would be a good one to react to as well.
Let’s be real! They could do an entire month devoted to films of either Frank Capra or Jimmy Stewart, and not run dry.
For me, this is not only a Christmas movie, it's the absolute best Christmas film ever. Hands down. I've watched it countless times, the final message gets me through each year. Did you notice it NEVER snows in Pottersville ? Yes you can see it on the ground but look when George is begging to Clarence that he wants to live again - the moment it starts to snow is when you know he's back in good old Bedford Falls.
As for the "crow", it's actually a Raven. As Matthew said, he starred in 1000+ films and was quite the star, insured for the equivalent of thousands of dollars today. Capra found a part for him in every film he made after 1938. Oh and the squirrels name was Snoopy ! Speaking of Uncle Billy, in the scene where he leaves the frame and there's a crash, some say 'Uncle Billy' improvised the cry that he was alright "live", others say it was dubbed on in post. But the crash is indeed genuine and unscripted.
The footage of WW2 is genuine. It's taken from a Navy film about the USS Yorktown called 'The Fighting Lady'. After the war she was used as one of the recovery ships for the Apollo Space programme and has a replica capsule on her lower deck in Charlestown NC where she is a museum ship.
Matthew mentioned the kiss from Jimmy Stewart to Ms Davis but did you notice who played her ? It's an uncredited young Ellen Corby who went on to play Grandma Walton in her latter years.
So glad new generations are still enjoying this classic - and in black and white as it should be !
“This is not what I thought this was going to be!” Emily then turns this off and changes to everyone’s favourite Christmas classic, Die Hard.
This movie was my dad's favorite. I watched it with him every single Christmas since I was a baby in 1976. When he passed in Feb 2003, I swore I would never watch it again. Then Christmas time came around. And my 9 year old stepson, who'd known my dad all his life, came to the computer room one day and he said to come into the living room right now. When I got there, he looked at me and he said "come on, it's about to start". On the table there was a bowl of chips, a bowl of pop corn, Coca-Cola with ice, some gummy bears etc... Like there had been every year my entire life. That's when I heard the music. My heart broke and I opened my mouth to thank this boy for his nice gesture but I wasn't going to be able to watch it this year.
Before I could say anything he sat on the couch and said "I think it's time I watched it, even though it looks boring. Don't make me watch it alone."
And the first time he heard a bell ring after he saw that movie, he smiled the biggest smile and told me "grandpa got his wings".
This boy is 28 years old now. And every year he comes over with chips, pop corn, gummy bears and cokes. And we watch it together.
My favorite scene is at the train station when George learns of Harry's job. A mediocre director or writer would add dialog to the scene to convey the emotions that George is feeling, but I love how we just see it in his eyes and brilliant acting with no words
The "lost" alternate ending to this absolute classic was found in 1987 and digitally restored! Here is the link! ENJOY! ua-cam.com/video/vw89o0afb2A/v-deo.html
Miss. Davis 13:47 "Could I have $17.50?", Ellen Corby. She would go on to play Esther "Grandma" Walton on the tv show the Waltons 1972-1980.
Hands down my favourite Christmas movie. The ending always has me crying in happiness. The love, care and help you give to others is returned when needed
The crow is Frank Capa’s crow and he like having it in his movies.
I lost my job a month before Christmas and then I found out who my real friends are. Some people no longer associate with me, even telling me to not talk to them anymore. So now i focus on what matters and this film always is a reminder of that. Classic.
wow, that's crazy! Those people never were friends.
I hope now, nearly a year later, you have found that job loss was a blessing on disguise and true friends have helped your path forwards.
Sometimes it takes a bit to realize it, but some of our hardest years and worst life events can be the catalysts to auch happier fuller future.
Bright Blessings this 2023 holiday season.
S
A timeless film, with a message that resonates with anyone going through tough times or who feels they've failed to meet aspirations. Love you guys, keep it up!
11:02 The moment where Uncle Billy stumbles into trash cans offscreen was entirely unscripted. During that take, one of the crew accidentally dropped a box of props, and the actor playing Uncle Billy immediately improvised the "I'm all right, I'm all right." Jimmy Stewart's look of concern followed by his smile were both genuine reactions. The director ended up tipping that crew member $10 (equivalent to $150 today) for enhancing the scene.
That’s my favorite story of the behind the scenes of this movie. You can see that Jimmy’s reaction is so natural but he just kept going with it. Loved it.
Still a better love story than The Star Wars Holiday Special.
@WVR Spence (WestVirginiaRebel) Happy Life Day!
blasphemy!!
Hey Matthew and Emily. Merry Xmas to you both. This is a special film to me. My aunt and uncle were dancers in the movies in the 40's. My aunt was in this film during the school dance along with hundreds of others. She was not paid much but had the opportunity to earn stunt pay for being one of the dancers who went into the pool. The funny thing is that my aunt never learned to swim so she nearly drowned to earn extra money. Thank goodness she did not. Just a fun fact I wanted to share. Much love to you both.
Frank Capra + Jimmy Stewart = magic. Check out "Mr. Smith Goes to Washington" too
The movie's publicity has always made a point of saying the Bedford Falls set was "one of the largest built for a film" which implies it was built for this film. It was actually built on the RKO Encino lot for a film called Cimmaron. They redressed it and added the oak trees. Sadly, that lot is now a subdivision.
Great reaction, as usual. Thanks!
James Stewart displays the full range of life… joy.. frustration… anger… desperation. The story allows the viewer to really understand his character.
This is the grandparent of all holiday movies. I’ve seen it no less that 18 times and I still love it like it was the first time.
It's Not Christmas Until I See This Movie
Arguably I would say Holiday Inn takes that title.
It's A Wonderful Life has such a prominent place mainly because the mistakenly lapsed copyright allowed TV studios and movie theaters to replay this film ad infinitum without giving royalties to the studio.
I always loved the small detail that it stops snowing when George hasn't been born, and only starts again once he's "back" Merry Christmas to you both!
Easily one of my top 10 favorite films of all time. Beautiful reaction, guys! Loved it!
The anecdote you described about the filmhand dropping some equipment offscreen - you're correct about that being an accident, but you left out a key part. After the crash Capra (the director) was about to yell "Cut!" but the actor playing Uncle Billy ad libbed the "I'm all right, I'm all right." line, Stewart smiled and stayed in character, and they kept the scene going.
$8000 is worth $122,137.85 today. Also check out the snl sketch It's a Wonderful Life: The Lost Ending with William Shatner. It's very satisfying.
Great film, great reaction, Emily. My favorite line: “George Bailey, I’ll love you ‘til the day I die”. Sniff 😢
HARD TO BELIEVE ,the film was not a hit on its release , its my favourie xmas movie and the line "to my big brother George the richest guy in town" always brings tears to the eyes .
You'll love this : in real life, Lionel Barrymore was nothing like Mr. Potter. When he was moving into his new house, they heard meowing coming from inside the walls. They broke it open, and found two kittens. No sign of the mother. He adopted them both on the spot. Whenever I feel like strangling Mr. Potter, I just think of the "kitten in the wall" story.
Hear that, Pippin?
😉 🐈 🐈⬛ 😺😽
A reason many consider this a Christmas movie is because for years it was in the public domain so TV stations could play it on an endless loop without having to pay royalties, so it was always on around Christmas.
The reason it's considered a Christmas movie is because it IS a Christmas movie. It takes place on Christmas eve, all the other stuff are flashbacks of George's life.
It was even released right after Christmas.
It’s pretty close to a perfect movie. And so happy to hear that “Arsenic and Old Lace” is on your list! It’s hilarious.
Such a classic, glad you enjoyed it! Since you mentioned it, I'd like to enthusiastically upvote Arsenic and Old Lace. One of my favorite comedies of the era, and in general. An unusual but amazing role for Cary Grant!
I have to agree that this movie is good to watch all year ‘round. It always makes me tear up.
I've seen this movie a couple hundred times and never noticed Donna Reed touching her stomach there. This movie is genius and y'all are, too noticing that.
I hadn't realized until someone pointed it out, that this film actually VIOLATES the Hays code - since it requires that "crime does not pay" and bad guys either have to be caught & punished or repent & atone. But Potter gets away with it!
....at least until that legendary SNL sketch. 😏
Potter deserved WORSE than that!
Perhaps the story just ends before we find out what becomes of Potter? Maybe he confesses or gets caught, we don't have any idea. I think Clarence goes over and takes him out before leaving.
Jimmy Stewart movies were very special, because many of them were all about the "every man" struggling against the challenges of life. His movies also had a certain "heart" to them. If you like Jimmy Stewart in this, you should definitely check out Mr Smith Goes to Washington!! A great movie!
The Capra movie you mentioned "Arsenic and Old Lace" is a wonderful farce (CHARGE!). I highly recommend it. Another of this time period staring Jimmy Stewart is "Harvey". Stewart said it was his favorite movie and character. Others of the time period, "The Bishops Wife", "It happened One Night", slightly newer flick that is fun is "Heaven Knows, Mr. Allison" (1957 Pacific war). For 40-50s musicals try "White Christmas", "Holiday Inn", "Going My Way" and "Bells of St, Mary's" All of the musicals can be applicable from Thanksgiving through Christmas, and all are excellent. Any Hitchcock movie is a jewel.
Definitely do "Harvey"
The best Jimmy Stewart movie for me was Rear Window
@@DaleKingProfile It was excellent. I just have a soft spot for "Harvey".
Oooooo White Christmas was one that my mom has always loved and that we watched year after year as I was growing up. I finally bought it for her on VHS as a teen so we could watch it at our convivences and without commercials.
In Harvey, Josephine Hull, who plays Elwood's sister, steals the movie. She walks a fine life between belief and disbelief and does it to perfection!
It's a 10 out of 10 for me, too. Everyone is brilliant in this movie. The hat tip with water is also one of my favourite moments in the film.
5 Oscar Winners and 3 Oscar Nominees in the cast! Not Too Shabby!
@@jamesalexander5623 spot on.
A lot of people have never seen this and that is a shame, this is one of my favorite Christmas movies
"He's making violent love to me, Mother!"
Just love that line in a classic family Christmas movie.
But serves Mother right, she needs to mind her own business.
Though you skipped over my other favorite line.
George: What is it, a boy or a girl?
Mary: Mmm-hmm
Yup, a boy or a girl. One of those.
Merry Christmas Matthew and Emily. I first saw this in 1992 as all the kids in my middle school were forced to watch it for a class when I was in 8th grade. Wonderful film.
The woman who asks for $17.50 is Ellen Corby. People of my generation know her as Grandma from the "Waltons" tv series. She has a sweet supporting role as one of the sisters in "I Remember Mama", which is a lovely movie.
You mentioned the Hays Code: The one huge code violation that made it past the censors was that Potter was not arrested for his crime of stealing Billy’s deposit. The code required that all criminals must pay for their crimes.
That is a misconception. The code specifically stated that crime did not have to be punish provided it was made clear to the audience that it was wrong. Audiences, however, were very angry at Capra for not punishing Potter. My own feeling is that Potter became irrelevant when the town came to George's aid. Evil is always with us but we can overcome evil with good.
Merry Christmas Everyone
Fun fact, the kid that opens the pool under George & Mary is none other than Alfalfa from The Little Rascals!
Another wonderful film that also came out in 1947, and is most definitely a Christmas movie is The Bishop’s Wife. It is also heartwarming. And 2 kids from “It’s a Wonderful Life” are in the cast of Bishop’s Wife.
I’m always crying by this point anyway, but if for some reason I’m not, when Harry gives the toast to “the richest man in town,” my fave contorts in strange ways and I grab for the Kleenex.
2 more fun facts. The boy who opens up the pool floor is Carl Switzer "Alfalfa" from the Our Gang movies. Also. When George is praying at Martinis. The raven haired singer is Adriana Caselotti. The voice of Disney's Snow White.
I cry at the end no matter how many times I've seen this
The movie is Sentimental, especially towards the end, but that is all balanced out with real characters and real life. As much as I could during the Hayes Code, they talked about drinking alcohol, and sex, and jealousy. It wasn't included in this video, but the part of the walk home where Mary is naked in the bushes and George is jokingly contemplating what he should do was a surprising topic for 1946. And many movies of the period people were just too good to be true.
Great movie! Fun reaction! Personally, I would love to see some of the classics. Casablanca is a great story with surprisingly funny dialogue. Should you guys ever get to that one, I'll be front and center.
And I feel like "Paper Moon" would be highly entertaining also.
Happy New Year, y'all! Thanks for the fun times. ✌️
I've said it several times and I'll say it again; Every time I watch this movie, I fall in love with Donna Reed/Mary Hatch all over again.
The line after Clarence asks if George is sick is one of the best lines of the movie.
"No, worse. He's discouraged." 💜
What I love about this movie is the fact that most of the movie is following George through most of his life. This allows the audience to really see the character development, fall in love with the characters, and draw more from the timeline where George does not exist. We saw the significant events that happened, but we do not see the regular events in between. We even forget through the movie some of the events that took place, or can’t draw conclusions from what may have happened to the characters that is not shown. The alternate timeline not only shows the impact of the significant acts like Harry, Mr. Gower, Mr. Martini, Uncle Billy and Mary. But, it also show others that were indirectly affected like Bert, Ernie, Ma Bailey, Violet, and the rest of the town.
We could all learn a lot from this movie. I bet many times we see things through George’s eyes where we only see the negative right in front of us at the time. One of the quotes that hits me now is “Strange isn’t it? Each man’s life touches so many other lives. When he isn’t around, he leaves an awful hole doesn’t he?”
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!
Its a Wonderful Life is not only the greatest Christmas movie, its possibly the greatest Christian movie this side of The Passion. This movie shows how wonderful a society built on true Christian values could be.
Mary and George Bailey is one of the greatest love stories ever put on film. It is alongside the likes of Rhett and Scarlett, Rick and Ilsa, Jack and Rose. And Mary Bailey is the most wonderful wife and mother in film history.
"Well, it's that day again...time to watch it again. Because that's just what you do. And by the way...the basketball court/pool? That's the Swim Gym at Beverly Hills High School where I went. It's still there and still in use. And Merry Christmas!
Jimmy Stewart was my Dad's favourite actor. They both served in the 445th Bomb Group ( B-24's ) based at Tibbenham, England during WW II.
13:13 The bird is Jimmy the raven, who apparently appeared in over 1,000 movies between 1938 and 1954. His debut was in another excellent Frank Capra movie, a 1938 film called You Can't Take It With You. After that, Jimmy was the raven that landed on the scarecrow in The Wizard of Oz.
Fun fact about ravens - in the wild, they generally live for about 10-15 years; however, they can live over 50 years in captivity, and the longest-lived raven is believed to have lived for over 70 years.
One of the things people don't like about this movie is that Potter gets away with everything he did with no repercussions, but imagine how he felt when he woke up to find that George didn't go to jail, and the Bailey Building and Loan is still in business. Funny enough, everything that Potter recommended to George, is what eventually was done to save George and his business.
Gotta Do it .... Potter = Trump!
Petition to have Mr. Smith Goes to Washington added to the list. What an excellent and rousing film.
My favorite line in the whole move. “I bet it’s a warrant for my arrest. Isn’t it wonderful I’m going to jail”
A young George tells his father that he wants to go out and design buildings and plan cities. The beauty of it, is that is exactly what George is doing in Bedford Falls, just on a smaller scale and for people he knows and loves. He and Mary are both selfless and giving.
Another fun fact you may not have known about this movie:
Remember the scene where Mr. Martini and his family and their animals are moving to their new house? The Martini Family bring their goat with them in their car to their new house. The director of It's a Wonderful Life is Frank Capra. Frank Capra is Italian. In Italian, "capra" means "goat".
One of my favorites, Jimmy Stewart and his iconic voice
Just a pedantic point of order, but it's actually a 1946 film (premiered December 20th).
It is a 1946 film (as recognized by the MPAA) which had a release date/premiere of January 7th, 1947.
To be clear (and depending which modern sources of information are deemed credible because they have conflicting dates on this issue) IAWL was completed in "late" 1946 and rushed into print so Capra/Liberty Films could get it shown at the Globe theater in New York city on Friday, December 20, 1946 making it eligible for the 1947 Oscar's (Academy Awards). Its "official" release date according to Liberty Films was Saturday December 21st, 1946 BUT was not distributed to any theaters until its apparent actual premier and red carpet event at Graumans Chinese Theater in Los Angeles on (as previously stated) Tuesday, January 7th, 1947. After which it was released nationwide and presumably internationally? So the issue is, as with so many things in the information age in which we live is which source do we trust. Just doing a quick search will not do! Sadly, at least to modern audiences it did not do well at the time. Most people considered it to be rather sappy or corny for thier tastes. Perhaps less than 2 years after WWII people were still a bit too shaken to allow emotional responses that we all take nearly obligatory today? Just a thought.
George Bailey's life is the epitome of John Lennon's lyric from Beautiful Boy (Darling Boy): Life is what happens when you're busy making other plans.
What gets me every time is Harry Bailey's toast:
"To my big brother, George. The richest man in town!"
If you love Frank Capra and Jimmy Stewart, try "Mr. Smith Goes to Washington."
No wonder why this movie were parodied uncountable times, this flick is a treasure! >XD
* Jimmy the Crow was Frank Capra's personal good luck charm. He was in several of Capra's movies.
* The boy that Mary is talking to at the party (her date) was the person who played Alfalfa in the Our Gang/Little Rascals films.
I'm gonna name you a few from this era you can go with. The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance, The Quiet Man, It Happens Every Spring, North By Northwest, The Champ, Mr. Smith Goes to Washington, McLintock!, Donavan's Reef and Chisum. These are some of my favorites.
I love them all but particularly, A Quiet man.
The actress who played Ruth Bailey (Mrs. Harry Bailey), Virginia Patton, died in August of this year. She was 97 and the last surviving adult cast member. The boy who played the young version of Sam Wainwright and the actors who played 3 of the Bailey children (Peter, Janie and Zuzu [Suzanne]) are all still with is.
The man who played Nick the bartender was Sheldon Leonard. He went on to produce The Andy Griffith Show, Gomer Pyle USMC, I Spy and others.
YAY! Wonderful reaction! And I can't wait for Arsenic & Old Lace! For another classic w/ Jimmy Stewart watch "Harvey". (wrote this before you guys did the trivia wrap-up)
"Anatomy of a Murder" (1959) is also a great Stewart film
I love this reaction and I love this movie! Such a special joy to see people experience this for the first time. So glad you enjoyed!
Jimmy Stewart is my all-time favorite actor, and the movie that sent me over the moon for him was “The Philadelphia Story” starring him, Katharine Hepburn, and Cary Grant (just typing those actors names makes me a little swoony. 🤣Fantastic cast!). If you’re looking for some more Jimmy Stewart, I highly recommend checking out that film. Jimmy has a scene where he is drunk….and not only does he play a believable drunk, it’s also charming and hilarious. I could honestly go on for days listing great performances of his, but I’ll leave it there.
Thank you for this sweet video to watch in between presents and Christmas dinner. I hope your holidays are blessed and wonderful!
great comments on J Stewart and that era was full of classic films especially 1939, I will always believe that HE deserved BEST actor for MR SMith Goes to washington ( another Capra film) and Hollwood rewarded him in 1940 with Philaldelphia story, and Henry Fonda is the actual one who shouild have won best actor in 1940
@@michaelceraso1977 good call! Mr. Smith absolutely should’ve been his win over Philadelphia Story! Both are fantastic performances, but you’re right. Mr Smith was the best!
If you saw Lionel Barrymore in other roles you most likely wouldn't be able to recognize him. He brought a unique look to every character. Sometime in the late 30s he broke his hip and the resulting arthritic pain essentially put him into a wheelchair. Mayer (of Metro Goldwyn and Mayer) made sure to either have roles accommodated or written for him to appear.
Merry Christmas! This was a beautiful reaction, a great way to end the year! Absolutely would love it if you continued to hit the classics from time to time. There are so many that still hold up, "It's A Wonderful Life" being a perfect example.
When George runs past the movie theater the marque shows The Bells of St. Mary's playing. Henry Travers (Clarence) is in that movie too.
This was one of the best movies of the era. A couple of things of note:
#1) Donna Reed was an underrated babe
#2) Today It’s a Wonderful Life is a staple of Christmas but it originally came out in (I think) July
#3) @11:03 the sound of banging cans was not in the script and wasn’t supposed to happen. Someone who’s job it was to transport film reels (almost serendipitously), dropped them right at that moment, and instead of doing another take, the director decided to keep it and thank God he did because it made the scene perfect.
The most important message was without even realizing it, George Bailey singlehandedly kept Potter in check....preventing the town from descending into squalor ultimately saving the citizens of Bedford falls
Jimmy Stewart's reaction to losing the money was excellent.
Back in the 80s, Saturday Night Live did a sketch called "The Lost Ending to 'It's a Wonderful Life'" where Potter gets what was coming to him.
Lady, I love your laugh! Sir, yes, this movie gets me every time too. It starts when drunk, grieving Mr Gower boxes George’s sore ear bloody and George begs him not to hit him again then saves Mr Gower’s whole life (as we later see). I also get choked up when George hits rock bottom then goes home and loses it in front of his family. And of course the finale with the townsfolk pitching in, Harry returning and toasting his brother, and ZuZu announcing when Clarence gets his wings. Mary is a real keeper. Violet has always had a thing for George too but Mary keeps getting in the way. She thought she had him them George suggests running barefoot in the grass. Her, “Huuuh?”, is perfect.
Merry Christmas Emily, Matthew and Pippin!
This has to be one of the best post-reaction commentary and analysis ever.
Love the D-20 lamp hanging behind you.
For more good movies from this era, I have to suggest “The Shop Around the Corner’, (1940) another favorite at Christmas also starring Jimmy Stewart in addition to an exceptional cast. It’s a really cute movie and worthy follow-up to ‘Its a Wonderful Life’.
I'm glad Emily loves this movie and I can't wait for her to see ARSENIC AND OLD LACE !
Of course it's a Christmas movie. It starts on Christmas....and ends on Christmas. The entire film takes place on Christmas. Granted there is a ton of back story and explaining for Clarence's benefit (and ours) but it's all on Christmas.
Jimmy Stewart and Frank Capra - “Mr. Smith Goes To Washington”
The guy who opens the pool floor so they would fall in was Alfalfa from the Little Rascals. Drew Barrymore's great Uncle, Lionel Barrymore played Potter. The Barrymore's, Lionel, John and Ethel are Broadway royalty with a theater named after them. They also did soundless movies. It's disputed that Burt and Ernie from Sesame Street were named after the cop and the cabby. The producer saying that about Bert and Ernie also said Hansen had a faulty memory so it is possible he heard the names from the movie and forgot he heard them there. And the press releases for Sesame Street do say the names came from this movie so it's still up for debate. Weirdly, no one actually asked Hansen himself while he was still alive.
Always such a good movie ) You mentioned Arsenic and Old Lace and Harvey... I can't wait. Two more favorites of all times for me.
A true example of laughter through the tears.
This is my favorite Christmas movie of all time!❤
Capra later regretted portraying Mary becoming a librarian as the most horrible fate possible, especially compared to the truly nasty things that happened to everyone else.
Not only a librarian but an "old maid". Which really made no sense given that Sam Wainwright and a bunch of other guys were after her. A small flaw but not an important one.
I think in some way, it is for the best that Mary's life isn't reliant on George beyond him being her soul mate. She didn't have a more terrible fate because she didn't need saving. George isn't just seeing Mary as a librarian but he is seeing a world where his children don't exist.
@@jamesscanlan6240 I feel that Mary only loved or had eyes for George. She never finds her soulmate, so she opts not to marry. (the first shot of young Mary is so stunning)
Look at this warrior trying to keep it together while George runs through Bedford Falls. Kings weep, brother.