It's a Wonderful Life
This classic delivers warmth all year long.
Parents say
Based on 38 reviews
Kids say
Based on 65 reviews
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It's a Wonderful Life
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this movie.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that Frank Capra's heartwarming movie It's a Wonderful Life is a Christmas classic. Tweens and teens will be engaged by the mature way in which it takes on the human condition in all its complexity. While there's some dated behavior -- particularly in the way a Black domestic worker is treated -- there's also a beautiful message about how much each person means to the world. Expect some gunshots, a short fistfight, and other scenes involving temper issues -- as well as the despair that drives George to consider ending his own life -- but overall this is a family-friendly pick for the holidays (or anytime!).
Community Reviews
The main message: be grateful for this wonderful life!
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Slapping a child, not pleasant to watch period
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What's the Story?
Frank Capra's heartwarming movie IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE, about a man who comes to realize the value of his own life, has been a Christmas favorite for years. At the story's center is George Bailey (James Stewart), a man with big plans whose even bigger heart keeps him from leaving his hometown. When George wishes he were never born, an angel named Clarence (Henry Travers) shows him the tremendous impact he's had on his community.
Is It Any Good?
This film has earned a reputation as a perennial Christmas classic, and with good reason. It's a Wonderful Life conveys the values of love, compassion, sharing, and kindness through a no-nonsense story that defies conventions of what a holiday movie should be. After contemplating ending his life, George discovers that his existence has saved his community from the cruelty of robber barons and, more importantly, from its own greed and shortsightedness.
Made just after World War II, the film was a favorite for both leading man Stewart and director Capra. There's a delightful song and dance sequence, visually witty moments like the dance floor that converts into a swimming pool during a feverish Charleston competition, and sophisticated dialogue. Stewart gives one of his best performances, showcasing the ways in which all our contributions, whether we see them as big or small, make a difference in the world.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about It's a Wonderful Life's more disturbing aspects. For instance, why does George contemplate ending his life?
Talk about how each member of your own family enhances the others' lives. How can you show that every day?
How do the characters in It's a Wonderful Life demonstrate integrity and gratitude? Why are these important character strengths?
Why is George a hero? Identify heroes in your everyday life.
What makes this film a Christmas classic? Why is it worth revisiting every holiday season?
Movie Details
- In theaters: December 20, 1946
- On DVD or streaming: September 19, 1995
- Cast: Donna Reed, James Stewart, Lionel Barrymore
- Director: Frank Capra
- Studio: RKO
- Genre: Classic
- Character Strengths: Gratitude, Integrity
- Run time: 125 minutes
- MPAA rating: NR
- Last updated: January 13, 2023
Our Editors Recommend
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A Christmas Carol (1984)
Bleak but solid adaptation of Dickens' classic.
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An American in Paris
Unforgettable musical is great for parents and kids alike.
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Funny Face
Bubbly, fashion-crazed Hepburn-Astaire musical.
For kids who love the holidays
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