As a man who was facing suicide in 2018, this film has such special meaning for me. I was in the midst of a divorce and the pain threatened to take my life. I remember that I was shown in a very unique spiritual experience (in which my Mom saved my life) what would happen to my children if I were to leave. It would have a ripple effect that would not only affect them but others who I was meant to meet. I am so grateful I stayed. I can attest to the fact that no man (or woman for that matter) is a failure who has friends. My life is incredibly rich and full because I chose to stay. ❤
...ok..who cut the onions??? I used to watch this wonderful film every year around Christmas with my Dad..one of my most treasured memories..love & miss you, Dad..say "Hi" to Clarence for me..
7:53 the timing of when the camera cuts to the crowd after George's emotional moment with his family as they're singing Auld Lang Syne in the background is just brilliant. For a film made in 1946 that is superb filmmaking and editing.
To me the greatness of this movie and how it just moves just about everyone to tears is how it was made and how the actors made it seem so real . We have George’s life and despair going down and down . We see how the towns people because of the depression go down . We see how the town goes down without George . Yes there are some bright spots but most of the time we are feeling bad especially for George. Even seeing and hearing Mr Potter makes us feel sad and down. Then in the last 9 minutes the movie takes you on an emotional explosion like a Saturn 5 rocket. We cry because we feel very happy for the town , it’s people . Clarence the angel , George’s family and especially George.
Obviously all of the amazing lines get me, but the moment I start inconsolably crying is when he passes by his wrecked car and just lets out such a genuine cheer. He doesn't even care what's going to happen to him, he's just so grateful to be alive.
My favorite film of all time. Money means nothing to George Bailey. It’s his good heart that he thinks of everyone else first. Makes me teary every time 💕🎥
I'm not a movie buff, but the ending to this movie is perfect. Possibly the best ending to a movie in cinematic history. Breaking news: It makes me cry every time.
One detail I particularly like is that the snow doesn’t start up again until George switches from asking Clarence to get him back to asking God to let him live again. My all-time favorite movie, Christmas or otherwise
Im 16 years old, living and 2023, obsessed with old fims, and I can truly say that this is the oldest film ive watched that's ever made me cry. A true classic. Beautiful ending.
I'm an English teacher of high school sophomores around your age. I'm showing this film to them next week. I hope it resonates with them and some of them have a similar reaction. I'm heartened that it resonated with you!
I'm 70 years old in 2023 n I love old, black n white films...esp that move me to tears...have you watched a 'A Tale of Two Cities' with Ronald Coleman 1935...? It's worth it as well ☺️
Sam "Hee Haw" Wainright wiring to say that he is willing to give George $25,000 ruined the ending of the movie. The community of Bedford Falls all came together to give George whatever little they had to help George and here is arrogant, obnoxious, "steal your girl" Sam saying he will advance George what Sam would pay for a nice weekend's entertainment. It was chump change to him. Bedford Falls gave their all to George. He didn't need crummy Sam's crumbs.
I think the point of that line is to confirm to the audience that George is in the clear. Even with the community coming together, its not clear if it would add up to $8000.
One moment in this that stuck out to me only recently was George's reaction to seeing Harry. With Clarence, he was shown his brother's grave, which is what would've happened if George actually was never born. The realization and relief in George's face, and even the fact that he says Harry's name twice, it's almost as if George has to wrap his mind around his brother still being alive. It's one of my favorite subtle acting moments. It hits everytime.
I saw this last Christmas for the first time in the cinema, seen it a number of times on tv. Maybe it comes with age, but this is certainly one the great films of Hollywood's golden period.
Allways wondered what became of the wicked banker, who kept, or stole the bank money. There never was justice for him during his life time. But the judgment of God waits for every man.
I felt like Potter’s punishment was more implicit than explicit. George got the help he needed and was hailed as the hero of the town by everyone, and Potter is left with nobody but his butler who is only there because he’s being paid to be there.
Without a doubt in my mind this is the greatest movie of all time, so good it makes me cry tears of joy every time I watch it. Goodbye, Farewell, and Amen. Merry Christmas and God Bless you all!
This film saved my life. I was at the lowest point of my life and didn't want to live anymore. So many problems, losses, personal issues all pushed me to the brink. It's a wonderful life.
I can't think a more iconic, emotional, and powerful ending to any movie than this ever made. Schindler's List is probably about the only other one that has had such an impact on me.
I haven't seen this movie for like 6 month, and when I see it today... Oh boy, I just forget how strong and wonderful this movie are. crazy to think that I still get a good cry just watching the ending, that's how powerful a storytelling can get you. just rent free in my head for years.
