It’s a Wonderful Life – Budget of $3.18 million – 2 hours and 10 minutes

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God hears the prayers of Bedford Falls and they are all for one man, George Bailey.  Hearing the pleas, God decides to have an angel visit him.  Clarence has been in heaven for centuries without his wings.  In order to get them, he must save someone.  God has chosen Clarence to stop George from committing suicide.  Before Clarence goes to visit George, God shows Clarence George’s life.  At the age of 12, George saved his brother Harry from drowning but lost the hearing in his right ear.  At 18, George was ready to travel the world and go to college.  But his father had a stroke and died.  In fear of the town miser taking over, George canceled his plans, took over his father’s company, and sent his brother to college.  Even his marriage to his high school sweetheart Mary runs into bad luck when his company almost collapses.  With every string of good luck, something awful happens.  As embezzlement and jail time looms, George believes he is worth more dead than alive.  Clarence has to show him the truth.  Life is the greatest gift.

Based on The Greatest Gift by Philip Van Doren Stern, this is one of the best movies of all time (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer).  Not just holiday movies but movies period.  It’s a proven fact that people are more likely to become depressed during the holidays.  So hearing a message of hope and the importance of life is necessary.  This movie also solidifies the message that you may not be where you want to be but you are exactly where God wants you to be.  George didn’t realize how significant his life was until someone showed him the way.  And your life is significant too.  So watch this movie.  Now some scenes may be too much for young children, but 10 and up should be ok.  Leave it to your own discretion.  But don’t let another Christmas go by without seeing this classic.

I give it 5 out of 5 stars

George Bailey, I’ll love you til the day I die – Mary

Are you running a business or a charity ward? Not with my money – Mr. Potter

I wish I had a million dollars. Hot dog – George

This old thing. Well I only wear it when I don’t care how I look – Violet

You were born older – Peter

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