Review – It’s a Wonderful Life

Frank Capra and Christmas were made for each other. They both require an uncritical audience willing to accept a certain amount of maudlin sentimentality. But if you’re in the mood for either, this is one of the best examples of both. Jimmy Stewart is likewise at his best as George Bailey, backed by an excellent supporting cast. Unlike other Capra efforts such as Mr. Deeds and Mr. Smith, this one isn’t about a rube triumphing over slick city folk. Instead it’s about the importance of simple goodness and how the world would miss it if it wasn’t there anymore. Under normal circumstances I’m far too cynical to fall victim to grade-A Capra corn like this, but around the holidays I sometimes find myself more receptive to the notion that there might be some hope for the human race after all. Worth seeing