"It's a Wonderful Life" starring Jimmy Stewart is a true Christmas classic. My husband and I watch it traditionally every Christmas for many years now. I think Jimmy Stewart did an amazing job as George Bailey who lived and worked (much to his fret) in a sleepy town called "Bedford Falls".

This family movie has George married with children but yet he still dreams of bigger and better things. He truly was a nice man that did a lot to help others. His life was going along okay until one Christmas Eve when he had some trouble, it was then he learned through the help of a Heavenly friend Clarence, what life would be like for his family and friends if he had never been born. In the end George realizes he truly has a "wonderful life". That part always makes me tear up!

Donna Reed also does a superb job as Mrs. Bailey in this holiday classic. I don't know of anyone who hasn't seen this! I love Christmas and nothing like a good hot chocolate and this wonderful movie to put us in the spirit. This is my favorite Christmas movie ever. A must have for the DVD collection!!

At its center, the film works because we all have wondered what would the world be like if we were never born. Have we had an impact? After all, whether it's leaving behind descendants, works of art, discoveries, or just our name, we all want some recognition, that we mattered, or at least were here. It helps define our sojourn, and allow us to extrapolate meaning from a cosmos which is random, indifferent, and so large and eternal as to defy the meager human ability to fully comprehend. With that as a base desire, the film then goes nearly two hours showing us a life that has many tangents with ours- be you an American, Mongolian, or Zulu. We see the effect George has had, even if he does not, and know what can only await him when Clarence pulls out his life's rug from under his feet- if not the particulars, certainly the general effects, which can only be negative. Yes, George may be more involved with others than the typical person, but we are all connected, however peripherally. This film does a better job than any other film in espousing the notion of The Butterfly Effect, even more so than the recent film of that name. We all see ourselves in George Bailey, for the film does not focus on George's mere home nor business lives, but all the important moments they bound, and even fail to contain. We can easily extrapolate ourselves into his position, especially at his moment of crisis, when he literally, as Potter taunts, is worth more dead than alive- at least on a material level.... This toweringly great film is all about corralling the material instincts and aspects of the world, and using them for the right reasons, while appreciating the values that lie beneath those instincts. The cynics, dummies, and willful misreaders of this film be damned! It is not corny, cheesy, hokey, nor a mere feel good tearjerker, like its many inferior copycats are. Too often the commercials or excerpts that are shown damage the overall film's perception, for it's a synergistic film, whose whole far surpasses its parts. It is great art, period. It is defensible not only on an emotional level, but on intellectual and artistic levels. It is also testament to the fact that great art always rises to the surface, even if bad critics pummel it. This has an extra resonance for me and those who produce excellence with no immediate reward nor recognition. But, even without that, It's A Wonderful Life deserves its plaudits, and your viewership.

`It's a Wonderful Life' is one of those movies that could easily have fallen victim to its own popularity. Rendered as one of the greatest American films, `It's a Wonderful Life' has a lot to live up to, and with all that hype comes, at times, major disappointment. The nice thing about `It's a Wonderful Life' is that it actually lives up to the hype, and then some. Not only is it one of the most heartwarming films I've ever had the privilege of seeing (sure, it may not seem it at times, but just wait) but it is also one of the smartest and most intelligent films to come along.

The film tells the story of George Bailey, your typical `nice' guy with big dreams that finds himself shortchanged by everyday happenstance until he's married with children, still living in the same small town he wanted so badly to escape from and working a job he never anticipated or desired. It's not that George is unhappy it's just that he is less than satisfied. As events unfold within his life that press firmly upon him to where he starts to feel trapped George contemplates the unfathomable.

Suicide.

The film somewhat starts at this point; with an angel being sent down to save George from himself in an attempt to gain his wings. What follows is a beautiful look at a life lived to the full despite not being lived as fully as one would have hoped, and then we get a glimpse at what life would have been like had George never lived at all, and while the results are a tad on the extreme side they help us to appreciate that each and everyone of us play a large part in the lives of everyone we touch. It's a beautiful and sincere message that resonates with everyone and touches every soul.

If you walk away from `It's a Wonderful Life' unmoved then you must have ice in your veins.

Some pass this movie over expecting it to be nothing more than a Christmas film, but Christmas is the smallest part of this film. Yes, it is used around the holidays to fill the heart with gladness and express the wonderment of children and family and friends and blessings but those emotions and that message is much farther reaching than a single yearly event.

The film is bolstered along by some beautiful performances, especially from James Stewart (who has never been one of my favorite actors). He delivers such a powerfully moving and real portrayal of a man who doesn't fully understand all that he has until he is faced with the prospect of never having it at all. His transformation from a man down and out and unsatisfied to a man striving to retain all that he fears he has lost is amazing and utterly convincing. This is the type of performance that moves people to tears. I was also impressed with Lionel Barrymore who portrays Henry F. Potter (the Scrooge in this tale) with such devilish intrigue. He is the perfect villain to Stewart's worn soul. This is the type of villain you love to hate.

In the end I must urge everyone to watch this movie, not once, not twice but over and over again. Don't limit yourself to that one time of year to enjoy this wonderful movie but indulge yourself with one of the most beautifully complete tales of love, life and the American dream ever made.

Every home should have this movie in their DVD library and watch it every year. It has been my all-time movie favorite for many years that everyone can name my fav.

The moral of this story is so touching to help someone realize how 'wonderful' their life is and the people in it. It will help remind you of your true gifts in your daily presence.

A must own movie!

Merna

Pocket of Pearls: A 30-day pocket workbook to start hearing a softer voice inside of you!

This is by far my favorite movie of all time. George Bailey is so real. I have been that man. A guy looking for the glitz and the glamour only to settle for small town life raising kids and going to work everyday. He is never the richest in terms of money, but when it comes down to it you finally realize money is not all that matters.

This film, starring the brilliant James (Jimmy) Stewart, is one of the best movies made since film first started rolling. I don't know that words can really capture the magic of this film.

A true holdiay classic, and a great movie! A must have for your collection!

For many, "It's A Wonderful Life" is a staple to their holiday traditions. With all major networks vying to get their hands on this mediocre blockbuster, this little film transforms from ordinary to cult status every holiday. As a viewer, outside of the final act, this Jimmy Stewart classic is more than just a Christmas movie, but instead a powerful Capra film that demonstrates an America from long ago. It shows a small-town America, without the plowed Wal-Mart roads or big-box makeovers. For this critic, it demonstrates the power of independent business, and why we may never find this type of service ever again. As an independent, downtown shop owner of about a year and a half myself; "It's A Wonderful Life" transformed this viewing from holiday pastime to dedicated film exposing the corruptive nature of capitalism as well as the realism of independent business. With this change in tact, Jimmy Stewart's words become more emotional, Donna Reed's actions become more honest, and our little Christmas film transforms into a man's journey to search for himself. I cannot denounce that this is a holiday film, Stewart screams "Merry Christmas" throughout the entire ending, but before that final conclusion there are about two hours of small town America and one man's struggle to escape. "It's A Wonderful Life" is a powerful blend of realism and fantasy, individualism and community, dreams and truth, as well as frustration and joy. The cast is superbly placed in their respective roles and Capra's action behind the camera stands boldly in place. This is not just a movie, but an experience coupled with foreshadowing - giving George not just a glimpse of a world without him - but also a glimpse of a world without small business

"It's A Wonderful Life", the film itself, is beautifully crafted. With new editions being released each season, one can easily see the crisp beauty of Capra's image. Its characters; George Bailey, Mary, Sam Wainright, Potter, Bert and Ernie, and even Clarence seem to jump from the screen, giving us imaginative citizens to this quaint town of Bedford Falls. Capra not only gives these characters spirits and souls, but also the town. Capra built three blocks of Bedford Falls so that he could capture the honesty of the town that Stewart so adamantly wanted to leave - and upon doing this gave this little town a soul of its own. Watching this film, Stewart's portrayal of George Bailey runs the gambit of powerhouse acting. Stewart, freshly back from the war, was worried if he could carry the weight of Bailey's cynicism. His ability to care for Bedford Falls, while always dreaming of wanting to escape could only be portrayed through Stewart's Americana eyes. When he screams at Mary, denouncing his desire to be on the ground floor in plastics, or when he yells at Potter's bid to join him - we scream with him. This film works from an acting standpoint because we believe in the characters - we trust the actors to give us a slice of their souls for these roles - and they do. One cannot fault anyone in this film for their acting and that is a rarity in today's Hollywood.

Capra's eye in this film seems far more advanced than the credit he has received. His enormous sets, the birth of a new "snow", and his ability to create a world we care for without having to travel the globe. What I enjoy about "It's A Wonderful Life" is that Capra tricks you by the end. Here we believe, outside of the brief opening, that this is just your typical drama, a man's life is shown in scope so that he can see his full worth, but then sneakily Capra brings in (depending on your religious basis) a huge science-fiction element that was unheard of during the time. One cannot argue the validity of science fiction vs. religion in this film - since Joseph is portrayed by the stars and planets. Sure, Clarence was an angel, but there is this aura of the supernatural. Clarence offers no evidence that he is, in fact, sent by the man upstairs, so one has to question the time this film was released, the faith in spirituality, and the fact that Capra's Clarence could be alien, vegetable, or mineral. This film teeters between drama and science fiction, while so many critics award this film the "feel-good" holiday movie during December; I find it a bit strange that perhaps this film lead to so many other science fiction movies of the same nature. Perhaps the "Cloverfield" monster could be considered a Clarence to someone in New York City? I may be stretching a bit, but what pulls me into this film time and time again is the fact that Clarence is not of Earth, yet George easily believes. He listens, follows, and - with some resistance - does what Clarence orders. This is a film without guns, without explosions, without the President getting on his red phone - but instead a film where a celestial being can visit someone without fear, anger, or confusion. This is why I collect the "Alf" television series.

Overall, "It's A Wonderful Life" remains in constant rotation no matter the time of year in my home. The acting is superb, the sci-fi element seems fresh every time, and the growing fact that George Bailey is pro-independent business means quite a bit in this rushed Wal-Mart world. Bailey, and this film, is the voice for the little man, the quiet shopkeeper who doesn't want to sell to Potter, but instead dreams of keeping their home-style values. The spark between Potter and Bailey can be seen in every facet of today's growing world, as the rich continue to get richer - the less fortunate work harder and feel more held back. Dreams are traded for jobs - communities are strengthened by friendships. This film is a time capsule for the future, as we discover convenience overcomes customer service; it is nice to look back and see a world like Bedford Falls. The science fiction element to this film, yep - that is what I am considering it - comes in sharp and remains powerful throughout. Did anyone else see Jimmy Stewart's eyes throughout those scenes? Brilliant! While this film will remain a staple through the holidays, I persist that you watch it away from the holiday to see the real message behind the film. Capra was a genius in creating this film, and subsequently crafted a cult film that will remain forever. Even today, nearly thirty years since my first viewing, I am more impressed that ever. It is a film that grows with you, and that is quite a rarity in today's cinema.

Grade: ***** out of *****

Although it didn't impress much at the time of it's release, this film probably more than most others, goes to show that eventually the cream always rises to the top. It's just a charming, heart-warming film with a nice mix of comedy, drama, sadness, despair and joy which makes it difficult for any human being to not be touched emotionally in some way by this film. The screenplay is very good, the casting excellent and James Stewart shows why he is considered to be among the greatest screen actors of all time.

The DVD though isn't all that much to shout about. The Special Features are pretty decent with a very good documentary about the film hosted by Tom Bosley of "Happy Days" fame being the standout but it's placed on the the "B" side of this single disc. Fortunately with the advent of Blu-ray and the much greater capacity such a format affords, we don't have to put up with this inconvenience any longer. The sound quality is in the original mono format which has been THX mastered which makes it the best possible mono quality that you can find. However, it would have been nice if they were to provided Dolby or otherwise 5.1 Surround Sound Options as well. The picture quality has been restored but not very well as visual imperfections exist throughout the film suggesting either a poorly preserved master or that the restoration job wasn't the best.

I note at the time of writing that a Blu-Ray version is out there and I wonder if they made any more audio and visual restorations and if so, I will certainly put it on my list of Blu-Ray titles to get in the future. If you are not too picky about the "dirtiness" of the picture quality, this DVD is certainly one for your collection that bears the test of repeated viewing and enjoyment.

Recommended.

This is one of the most beloved movies in film history. It is very uplifting, and while can be viewed at anytime for a boost, it always has been part of my family's Christmas Eve tradition. While the colorized version is okay, I prefer the original black and white. The quality appears to be much better, and maybe that has something to do with traditional expectations also. I always wonder when they make a movie like this, if they realize it is something special, and how important it will be.

I was introduced to this movie 20+ years ago in a college film class. I watch it every Christmas season 2-3 times, and even though I know almost every line and everything that is going to happen, it never fails to bring me to tears of joy. This is truely the greatest movie ever made. Jimmy Stewart and Donna Reid are outstanding. You cannot go wrong with this purchase.

This is the first movie that we watch around Thanksgiving - it sets the tone for thankful, hopeful hearts to express their joy. This DVD replaces my old video cassette tape so I will always have George's story each and every year in November.

Having both formats and a lot of extra features is worth the price.

Vendor exceeded expectations with very prompt shipment.

Great Digital-Transfer by LEGEN-FILMS in USA
I`m a Movie Junkie in Old Germany,and this is the best Picture of 1948 !!
I have Miracle on 34th Street(Das Wunder von Manhattan)and this two Great Movies is Good for all Time !!

I am so excited to finally be the proud owner of the DVD showing my favorite movie of all time. Awesome seller! I think I received it in the mail about 30 seconds after I ordered it. Very impressed!

One of the most inspiring movies out there. The DVD had nice features of past interviews, etc.

Great movie that should be viewed regularly. We watch this movie every year.

This is a great make over in color. My wife & I lovede it even more than the balck & white. You have to watch them both.

Nothing like watching a movie that's good for the soul. This movie brings you to a point where you see life in a different way. Definitely a spirit lifter. If you are looking for a "good pick me upper" then this movie will do it. The "all things happen for a reason" visual. An excellent classic that's a must see to grasp it's meaning. Enjoy!

A GREAT feel good movie for the family. My family always watches this movie during Christmas.

It's a Wonderful Life looks great in color. I remember watching the old colorized version and being very disappointed. Back then, it was much better in black and white. My husband, the purist, still prefers to watch it in black and white. I am happy to own this two-disc set to get the best of both versions.

I highly recommend this movie to everyone.

It was "wonderful" - a real classic. I have to watch it every holiday season.

I ordered the DVD "It's a Wonderful Life - 60th Anniversary Edition" for my wife for Christmas, and she received the package practically immediately! Thanks for the speedy delivery!!

For those who have acquired copies of "It's a Wonderful Life" before, the question might be: What do you need with another copy? Well, the answer is that the color and details in this colorized version are almost perfect and far more impressive than the black-and-white copy. That's even though the re-mastered B&W version of the movie is fine, too. If Mary Bailey (played by Donna Reed) were to see the color version she would say, again: "It's a miracle." Try as we could my wife and I couldn't find anything wrong with the colorization. Details on human faces are incredible--shadows where there should be shadows, beard stubble on the despairing George Bailey (played by Jimmy Stewart), etc. The only question we might have would be how Mary Bailey got her Hollywood sun tan living in Bedford Falls? But we've wondered that before in the re-mastered, B&W version. Other aspects in this rendering are just outstanding, too, like color posters of the South Pacific in the Baileys' honeymoon suite, colors of Ernie's taxicab, birds in the trees and on window ledges, colors of flowers, grass, trees, snow, women's dresses, men's ties, and on and on. We'd venture to say that once you've seen the colorized version you'll never bother with the black-and-white copy again. Special features include introductions and analyses by Tom Bosley and Frank Capra, Jr. These were done in the early-1990's and even have a Frank Capra, Sr. interview shortly before his death. If you or a friend are feeling down we have this advice: get this production and watch it. You'll feel better right away. Sorry to be corny, but it really is a wonderful life.

I replaced my vhs tape movie with this for it was getting to old to view and I was so happy to recieve this 2 dvd collection,B&W and color my old vhs was B&W so first time I have seen it in color and it was Great I would recommend this very highly to anyone and the price is great.

We are excited to get this movie; it's one of our holiday favorites; great price, fast shipping

This is great! I had video taped this movie back in the 80's when it was aired on television in the former colorized format. The tape was not very good quality, but I really liked and preferred the colorized version. I had been looking for a DVD copy of that colorized version for awhile, which was fruitless until I did a new search right after Christmas 2007. That's when I found this one! The colorization quality is great, yet it still has that feel like an old timey movie! Thanks y'all!

This is a fantastic remaster! no marks crackles or pops. Previously i had bought a cheap version off play, terrible copy, unwatchable. This is brilliant. and the colour version is unbeliveable! you cant belive your eyes ,it is so good, buy it!

I bought this 2-disk set for my mom as a Christmas present. She loved it. The picture and sound were great, and she loved having both B&W and color versions. Great buy.

I wasn't sure that I wanted the color version, but once we watched it, it is great and the color was fantastic. It brought more warmth and charm to this classic movie. The product was received within days as promised.

It's a Wonderful Life is clearly a classic tale and a classic movie. It is by far my favorite holiday season treat. I can't believe it took me fairly forever to purchase the DVD so I don't have to endure the commercial television version---cut up every few minutes and devastating the flow. I was curious if I would feel the same way about the colorized version as I do about the black and white. I was afraid the movie wouldn't translate as well. I needn't have worried. In color or in black and white the story is timeless, the emotion as emotional, the jokes and witicisms as funny and witty as ever. Treat yourself, this is a terrific set of DVD's.

Great, classic movie. Too bad movie writers today do not have, or use, the talent to write movies with such great story lines and acting rather than appealing to the sensual and violent. Enjoyed the colorized version.

There's not much more I can add to the already written reviews except to add my 5 stars. I bought this copy for a friend who had NEVER seen "It's a Wonderful Life" -- can you believe that?!! :-) I'm just glad this movie is still available for purchase.

So good to have both color and black and white versions of the film. I have never been a fan of colorisation, but the color version here is quite appealing, especially as this film has suffered for years in bad prints never looking as good as it does here.


In retrospect I am not sure the film deserves quite the masterpiece status it has acquired over the years. The storyline seems a little clunky today , but there is no denying its charm and there never has or ever will be anyone quite as wonderful as Jimmy Stewart.

movie is wonderful, but when dvd was shipped, discs had unsnapped and were moving around inside the case. no problems detected so far, but i wasn't happy about that.

This is a Christmas Classic that makes the spirit of Christmas come to life. We watch it every Christmas Eve.

It is the story of a man who "gets stuck" running the bank in a small town when his early dream was to go to college and do something "big" in a large city. He does his work well and develops great compassion for all the people in his little town. Something goes wrong and he is challenged to see how different things would be if he hadn't been born and in the right place at the right time in order to help so many people. In the end he realizes that his life is important and wonderful.