It's a Wonderful Life

It's a Wonderful Life by Frank Capra is a film about a man George Bailey who attempts to commit suicide on Christmas Eve because of a life he thinks is terrible. The movie is about a guardian angel who is sent to save Bailey from his misery. Throughout the movie there are many flashbacks that show the viewer how Bailey impacted peoples lives. After all his self-doubting, Bailey recognizes his life as wonderful and truly rich one.

At the box office, It's a Wonderful Life didn't do as hot as planned.It actually was a flop. It was first showed in New York on December 20, 1946. It got mixed reviews and it had a major competitor at the time: The Best Years of Our Live. Although it wasn't the hit movie of the time, it has gotten recognition throughout the years.

"... Director Capra's inventiveness, humor and affection for human beings keep it glowing with life and excitement." Bosley Crowther "The New York Times".

I think one thing that made people like this movie was that it was something that they could relate too. It was released right after WWII and a time where people were sad and depressed so people saw the movie as dark, but now it as seen as a sentimental Christmas movie. The character of Bailey was easy to connect to with people watching at the present time and helped shape Stewart's film persona.

The film went into general release on January 7, 1947 and placed 26th in box office revenues for the year out of more than 400 features released. It also received five Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture, Best Director and Best Actor.
I think that James Stewart, who played Bailey, was a perfect man for the job. He really portrayed the character that Capra was trying to show the audience.

Although when the movie was first released didn't get good reviews, it did get the recognition of a top movie.