It's a Wonderful Life

1946

"Every life holds a story worth telling."

Also known as: 🇬🇧 EN: Frank Capra's It's a Wonderful Life^? 🇪🇸 ES: Qué Bello es Vivir^? 🇫🇷 FR: La vie est belle^? 🇵🇹 PT: A Felicidade Não se Compra^? 🇰🇷 KO: 멋진 인생^?

Drama Fantasy Family 131 min 8.6/10

Awards & Recognition

0 Wins

2 Nominations

2 Total

Oscars

2 nom.

• Nominations 2

Year	Festival	Category	Winner
1947	Oscars	Best Director	Frank Capra
1947	Oscars	Best Actor	James Stewart

Synopsis

It's a Wonderful Life is a movie released in 1946.

In this timeless classic, we journey into the heart of Bedford Falls, where the unassuming George Bailey has devoted his life to uplifting his community through his modest building and loan company. As Christmas Eve unfolds, George finds himself in a dire situation when $8,000 goes missing, threatening to unravel everything he has built and putting him at the mercy of the greedy Mr. Potter, who seeks to take control of the town. As despair grips him, George contemplates the unthinkable, unaware that a guardian angel is poised to show him the profound impact of his existence. Rich in themes of love, sacrifice, and the intrinsic value of each individual’s life, this enchanting tale weaves together elements of drama, fantasy, and humor, creating an unforgettable cinematic experience. With its iconic performances and a poignant narrative that reminds us that every life has meaning, this film invites viewers to reflect on the importance of community and the ripple effect of kindness. Prepare to be inspired, uplifted, and reminded that, indeed, it’s a wonderful life.

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Parental Guide — Suitable for 13+

13+

Content guidance for parents

Category	Level	Indicator
Violence	1/5
Sexual Content	1/5
Language	1/5
Drugs / Alcohol	1/5
Frightening Elements	2/5

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Detailed explanations

Violence

There are some mild scenes of distress, including a character contemplating suicide, but no graphic violence.

Sexual Content

There are brief references to romantic relationships, but no explicit sexual content.

Language

There is minimal use of mild language.

Drugs / Alcohol

There are scenes depicting alcohol consumption in a social context.

Frightening Elements

Some themes may be emotionally intense, particularly around despair and loss.

Summary for parents:

It's a Wonderful Life is a classic film that explores themes of hope, community, and the impact of one's life on others. Parents should be aware of some emotional and mature themes, but overall, it is suitable for older children and teens.

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Connections with other movies

This movie has thematic and stylistic connections with the following productions:

Rear Window

1954

Same Actor James Stewart

Zootopia

2016

Similar Theme

Spirited Away

2001

Similar Genre

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Box Office

Budget: $3,180,000

Revenue: $9,644,124

Profit $6,464,124

ROI +203.3% (3x)

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It's a Wonderful Life is directed by Frank Capra .

Cast of It's a Wonderful Life

James Stewart

George Bailey

Donna Reed

Mary Hatch

Lionel Barrymore

Mr. Potter

Thomas Mitchell

Uncle Billy

View Full Cast Cast Filmography

See the complete cast and other films with these actors.

Directors

Frank Capra

Director

Keywords

#black and white 181 #amused 140 #christmas 81 #small town 80 #adoring 57 #holiday 36 #suicide attempt 30 #candid 24 #magic realism 23 #great depression 18 #alternative reality 17 #christmas eve 13 #bank 12 #told in flashback 12 #angel 10

Trivia & Fun Facts about It's a Wonderful Life

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• The character of Mr. Potter, played by Lionel Barrymore, was originally envisioned as a more sympathetic figure, but Barrymore's portrayal added a menacing quality that shaped the character's final depiction.

  Fun Fact ai

• During the film, there is a scene where George and Mary Bailey are seen dancing at the high school graduation dance; the dance floor was actually a set designed to look like a gymnasium, complete with a painted backdrop.

  Behind the Scenes ai

• There is a brief moment in the film where a newspaper in the background shows a headline about the 'Bailout of the Bailey Building and Loan', showcasing the film's underlying themes of community support and resilience.

  Easter Egg ai

• Frank Capra was inspired by his own experiences during the Great Depression, which influenced the film's themes of sacrifice and the value of community, making it a reflection of his personal beliefs.

  Movie Connection ai