You can make the case that Mary is the true hero of this film. She never loses faith and quietly saves the day again and again.

@holddowna

6 ай бұрын

💯

@melanielopez735

6 ай бұрын

Came here to say this! Mary ended up saving everyone ❤️

@JakNasty69

6 ай бұрын

This world needs more women like Mary Bailey

@butkusfan23

6 ай бұрын

People talk about Sam from LOTR being the real hero, but Mary did it first.

@td811

6 ай бұрын

Eh, you could also make the case that Mary is the one who trapped George indefinitely in Bedford falls though. Yes some things happened beforehand, but literally immediately after her wish his dad died and he never got close to leaving again.

Small-town boy, devoted son, Princeton graduate, loyal husband, Brigadier General, and Oscar-winning Hollywood legend.

@robertzapata5395

6 ай бұрын

Brigadier general!? I don't think so.

@steelers6titles

6 ай бұрын

@@robertzapata5395 James Maitland Stewart was promoted to the rank of Brigadier General on July 23, 1959.

@johnathanstruble1064

6 ай бұрын

James Stewart was last generations Tom Hanks.

@robertzapata5395

6 ай бұрын

My mistake. I meant he never served actively as a general. He got it in 1959 long after he was fully active in the military. I'm not trying to take anything away from the man but to get that many promotions in only a short period he must've had connections.

@SueProv

6 ай бұрын

​. You think wrong..try Google before you blunder.

The thing that always surprises people is just how good a film this is. It's not at all schmaltzy or cheesy, it's the epitome of "they don't make them like this anymore". A fabulous film.

@holddowna

6 ай бұрын

So great! Thanks for watching ! Happy holidays

@Jupiter-T

6 ай бұрын

Yeah the stereotype is that modern movies are darker and edgier than old movies, but could you imagine a studio making a Christmas movie this dark nowadays? People might like it, but studios don't take chances. Christmas movies are like this "safe zone" where you can't do anything too upsetting or different. (Adaptations of "A Christmas Carol" get a pass, but that's not something new - it's already expected.)

@dwhitman3092

5 ай бұрын

​@@Jupiter-T You are Spot On with that description! Happy Holidays.

@kennethgodwin7769

5 ай бұрын

If a film can reach down and touch and grab someone's soul, then that's a sign of a great movie, and that's what this movie is, no matter how many years I have seen it, it still makes me cry, it's wonderful to see new people just now watching it for the first time, I loved your reaction to it.

@Anon54387

5 ай бұрын

@@holddowna A bit of trivia is that pool under the floor really exists. It is in the gym at Beverly Hills High School and it still operates.

"To my big brother George. The richest man in town." Gets me every time. RIP Mr. Stewart. In life you were George Baily. Thanks for the heartfelt, genuine rection Ames.

@brutbrutus2669

6 ай бұрын

Same here! I try to watch this every year, and that line always brings me to tears. Potter had the most money, but George was the richest man.

@jeffreyg607

6 ай бұрын

Several lines and gestures get the waterworks going for me, but that line form his brother tears me up, along with the line in the book; "No man is a failure who has friends!" PREACH IT! The trick in life is it is through keeping others off the ledge that save us FROM the ledge 💪 Being needed MATTERS! Hold Down A, I was waiting for the lovely emotions to flow ❤Mary Bailey, watch the way she LOOKS at George. For those of us who have had that, it cannot be matched. Hold out for it! Every time I watch this movie, my hope is given its glimmer back :)

@token1371

6 ай бұрын

Harry accepting a drink from Ernie and delivering that line is also when my tears fall. Sam's $25,000 ($407,700 today) advance started it.

@jeffreyg607

6 ай бұрын

@@token1371 For me, movies like this one and Somewhere In Time (the lovely Jane Seymour and Christopher Reeve), it doesn't get any better IMO! Great movies always have "hook lines" in them! So much to learn when watching this movie, and I am a fit 63, so I am an avid viewer :) Amazing film. Donna Reed (swoon). Mary Bailey, what a woman!

@token1371

6 ай бұрын

​@@jeffreyg607Agreed. 🎯 Donna Reed almost played her TOO perfect. Without Mary, George"s bitterness at staying in Bedford Falls would have affected everyone.

I always say I can’t be friends with someone who doesn’t cry at the end of this movie.

@holddowna

6 ай бұрын

I think I’m with u!

@Audra1964

4 ай бұрын

@@holddownaI appreciate your thoughtful reaction all the way through. Sometimes a younger audience is too busy being snarky about the corniness of it that they completely miss the meaning.

@fiat2496

3 ай бұрын

So true. If you dont cry at the end you are a sociopath

@jethro1963

2 ай бұрын

@@Audra1964 No, it means they lack imagination and can't see what is beyond their fingertips. This whole can't watch a B&W movie or something that isn't in 4k or older and not of their time is a very recent phenomena. When I was a kid I watched stuff 50 years before my time and still had imagination enough to enjoy it.

@DavidRay39

Ай бұрын

@@jethro1963 I refuse to watch the "colorized" version of this movie. I will only watch it in its original Black & White format. It's a true classic, and my favorite movie of all time.

I'm a 76 yo male & cry like a baby every time I see this Masterpiece. (Probably 100+ times -- I grew up on it*) It makes me so happy & optimistic to see someone from your generation appreciate the art of film from my time. This is why so many of us complain about the movies being served up today. THANK YOU!❤❤❤❤

@Progger11

6 ай бұрын

Lol gotta love the prior generation's obsession with what is perceived as masculine or strong. Don't worry, bro. Being a "male" doesn't need to be qualified before admitting you cried at something that moved you. :) Peace and love.

@chetcarman3530

6 ай бұрын

@@Progger11 I think it makes it more interesting that not all Boomers are MAGA hat-wearing, gun-toting, overcompensating, "get off my lawn" assholes. I'm from a time when boys were taught not to cry and were ostracized, ridiculed & worse for showing such "signs of weakness." I was pointing out that this movie can indeed touch all of us.

@DavidWalker-sh1dq

6 ай бұрын

Same, I had it on video as a double bill with Field of Dreams. Got to love a god cry.

@jakerazmataz852

6 ай бұрын

As I write.😥

@themartialartsapproach8786

6 ай бұрын

To be fair, there are classic films from every decade. We just see all the bad ones now, whereas the old crappy films have been filtered out over time. Try not to fall in the trap of seeing nowadays as bad, and old times as good. It's always been a mix.

No one ever mentions it but I think Lionel Barrymore deserves kudos for his portrayal of Mr. Potter. He's a truly despicable character that, in a rarity for films, gets away with everything. Barrymore himself was apparently a really nice guy but is remembered most as the villain in one of the most beloved films ever. Also, he was the great-granduncle of Drew Barrymore.

@rikk319

6 ай бұрын

It's funny how so many actors who play awful characters are remarkable, kind people in reality--I'm thinking in particular of Tom Hiddleston, who played Loki in the Marvel movies, Thomas F. Wilson, who played Biff in Back To The Future, and Clancy Brown, who's played a ton of heels, like the head guard in The Shawkshank Redemption and Mr. Krabs in Spongebob. All three are mentioned as incredibly kind people. Lionel Barrymore was more of the same back in his day.

@luketimewalker

6 ай бұрын

oooh

@kbob1163

6 ай бұрын

If you watch another Jimmy Stewart movie, "You Can't Take It With You," Lionel Barrymore plays a really nice, lovable guy in that. He had range.

@steelers6titles

5 ай бұрын

Actually, one less generation removed from Drew; Lionel was Drew's grand-uncle; his brother John Barrymore was her grandfather.

@iarocks44

5 ай бұрын

Very good point. He was one of the kindest and generous people in Hollywood at the time. Let me add that it was Lionel Barrymore that convinced Jimmy Stewart to do this movie. They were very good family friends and Jimmy didn't want to do the movie due to the war and it's ugliness. Lionel convinced him that it would America heal from the war by providing the release from reality the entertianment provides.

Look up the story of Jimmy Stewart. He was a B-24 pilot in WWII. He saw a lot of his men die. This was his first movie after the war. In the bar scene, when he prays, the director couldn’t believe the depth of emotion. Stewart was channeling the PTSD from his war experience.

@451whitworth4

6 ай бұрын

He's the real deal

@youpigfacetv

6 ай бұрын

He was so good in that scene. I could feel his desperation. Marvelous acting.

@ZacCostilla

6 ай бұрын

Jimmy Stewart was such a good Airman that he enlisted and was given a field commission and promoted all the way to Colonel in two years. He stayed active in the Air Force Reserves until he was much older and retired as a Brigadier General.

@EShelby2127

6 ай бұрын

I've heard that this movie was written to help soldiers and sailors who had returned from WWII, and felt that their moment to be heroes had passed them by. Most who served and returned, were not on the front lines and their stories were of boredom and monotony, uncelebrated. The message was that they could still be heroic, by living a good life and doing what was right. The movie "Mister Roberts" with Henry Fonda and Jack Lemon comes closest to the plight of those whose jobs were vital, but not in the awareness of the public. When they returned, they felt that the chance to shine was past...

@Jessica_Roth

6 ай бұрын

That's probably why I feel Stewart's best line here is "Harry Bailey went to war! He saved the lives of every man on that transport plane!"

32:27 The actress who plays his mother is off the hook amazing. Contrast her as a loving, caring, happy mother with how she is when George hasn't been born. amazing actress.

@holddowna

6 ай бұрын

I agree! I was so mesmerized in this movie I hardly spoke! And I totally agree with her contrast! In the alt life .. she had lost a lot in that version and never had George 😭

@thomastimlin1724

6 ай бұрын

@@holddowna Donna Reed, a brilliant actress. Reed won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for Fred Zinnemann's war drama film From Here to Eternity (1953). she then got her own TV Sitcom which ran from 1958 to 1966. Plus she was a gorgeous lady.

@Music_Lover26

6 ай бұрын

Beulah Bondi, the actress who played George's mother was one of the great character actresses of the Golden Age of Hollywood. Her greatest role (imho) is in the film "Make Way For Tomorrow". A masterpiece, well worth watching. Great reaction to It's A Wonderful Life! Would love to see you react to The Best Years of Our Lives. Best wishes for the holidays!

@Divamarja_CA

5 ай бұрын

Beulah Bondi played his mother five different times throughout their careers!

After filming the scene where George and Mary get engaged, the script girl (that was the name of the position in the 1940s) told Frank Kapra that 2 pages of dialogue were left out. Kapra's response was, "With acting like that who needs dialogue." In the bar scene where George prays to God for help, Jimmy Stewart was not supposed to cry, but the trauma of WWII stilled weighed heavily on him and he was emotionally overwhelmed .

@dr.burtgummerfan439

6 ай бұрын

In the bar scene, you may notice that Stewart's closeups appear somewhat grainy. They weren't originally shot as closeups, but Capra was so impressed by Stewart that he had those frames of the film blown up.

@holddowna

6 ай бұрын

I friggen love that

@wingedbuffalo4670

6 ай бұрын

Jimmy Stewart was so emotionally overwhelmed because he was suffering from what would become known in the present day as PTSD. Jimmy was a genuine hero -- he flew B-24 bomber missions in WW II and suffered the deaths of many friends and fellow pilots.

It’s truly one of, if not the, most life affirming movie ever. No matter how many times I see, whether I’m watching the film or watching reactions to it. I feel such overwhelming emotion when we get to last twenty minutes. I deal with intrusive thoughts and this movie resonates so profoundly to me because it’s got genuinely a darkness to it. The finale is absolutely earned because. It’s wonderful.

@holddowna

6 ай бұрын

So wonderful! Thanks for watching with me!

@Jupiter-T

6 ай бұрын

I appreciate Christmas-related media that isn't just surface-level tinselly shenanigans. You want to feel good around the holidays, but I think if you just watch goofy cornball stuff, it worsens your mood if you're already feeling bad. I think the reason the darkness in this movie works so well is that it doesn't feel like it ignores suffering - it says "Yes, life gets dark and hopeless. It's real and it's painful, and quite honestly it's understandable to be depressed. But there's so much more than just the darkness. Life is incredibly worth living despite it, and YOU are worth it no matter what you think."

@Melancthon7332

6 ай бұрын

I think it's important to note that as full of warmth and love and togetherness as this movie is, it is just as full of bitterness and anger and resentment. This movie would not have lasted as it has if that were not the case.

@AnnaB22

5 ай бұрын

@@Jupiter-T I love this response you are absolutely right. It doesn't pretend that all your dreams come true - George's didn't, but it does let you know that there are so many good things still in our lives despite that - which we tend to overlook. I sob every time I read "No man is a failure who has friends." It is the hope that I hold onto every year deep in my soul for myself. The greatest movie ever.

A couple years ago I watched a KZreadr watch this movie. She did not shed a single tear. I unsubscribed immediately. So that’s how i gauge a KZreadrs worth now. You passed the test👍🏻👍🏻❤️❤️❤️

@holddowna

6 ай бұрын

Aww thanks for the sub! Appreciate it! 🥲

@volourn9764

3 ай бұрын

You have zero empathy and understanding.

@ShaunHensley

29 күн бұрын

@@volourn9764Having discernment isn't an indicator of lack of empathy. what a weird hill

They don’t even scratch the surface, of George’s impact on the world…Sam Wainright would never have gotten into “plastics” and the town would probably have been economically devastated by the lack of jobs and such…because it was also even George’s suggestion to use the factory and labor in Bedford Falls of the bankrupt company.

This movie is 78 YEARS OLD, and still touching hearts and minds. What a gift this film is. My personal #1.

Good reaction as always. Ames. Btw, regarding he $5000 house that Mr. Potter mentioned, in 1928 inflation-adjusted is equivalent to $90,000 in 2023. So, even back then in 1928, a $5000 house in a small town like that was still considered an inexpensive home in that era....basically a starter home for a young couple. Also, the $20,000 per year salary that Mr. Potter offered George Bailey in 1932, is equivalent to around $450,000 (Four Hundred and Fifty Thousand) Dollars per year today in 2023 dollars. And the $8000 that was lost (the money that Mr. Potter 'stole') in 1932, is equivalent to $180,000 in 2023 dollars.

I am delighted that younger generations appreciate the message of It's a Wonderful Life

@YouWillBeHappyOrElse

5 ай бұрын

It's always interesting to me, to watch them go from "He needs to tell everyone to eff off and go live his OWN dreams, bet!" to just dissolving in tears because the love and kindness he's given his hometown have come back around to him in the end.

Over the years this classic has been known to have actually saved some lives.

That scene at the bar when George breaks, Stewart was having an actual emotional moment from his PTSD from being a pilot in WWII. This was his first movie after the war ended. He remained in the Air Force reserve until 1968, taking his last flight over Vietnam and retired a Brigadier General. He was also instrumental in the creation of The Air Force Strategic Command

@holddowna

6 ай бұрын

Makes this movie even more powerful to me

@stuckinarkansas1

6 ай бұрын

​@@holddownaHe was already famous before the war and when he enlisted the military tried to limit his service to training, recruiting, and other safe jobs, but he fought them to be able to serve on combat missions. He ended up flying 20 missions over Europe. He was a true hero.

I watch this film every year and bust into tears when his brother toasts him , “to my big brother George, the richest man in town”……every.single.time. ♥️

If you want to watch more Jimmy Stewart movies, keep in mind that the war changed him so much that it's almost like he was two different people. Before the war he was shy but light hearted (especially in The Philadelphia Story and The Shop Around the Corner). Afterwards he was acquainted with darker themes (Vertigo, Rope, Broken Arrow and Anatomy of a Murder)

@holddowna

6 ай бұрын

I must watch more jimmy! He’s amazing!

@YouWillBeHappyOrElse

5 ай бұрын

@@holddowna Harvey. You must watch Harvey.

@Audra1964

4 ай бұрын

@@YouWillBeHappyOrElseYes. Harvey is my favorite Stewart film and my top 10 all time favorite. Hilarious, amazing acting and gives you so much to think about. What is “normal” anyway? And who decides? Makes me think about Beethoven and if he had lived in modern times would he have been drugged into normalcy?

As popular as this movie is, I didn't watch it until about 10 years ago. Now I watch it annually and tear up at the end every time. Such a beautiful story. Great reaction as always! I'm glad that you got to experience this film.

@holddowna

6 ай бұрын

Thanks so much for watching! I loved this movie so much!

Stewart's dad ran a hardware store in Indiana, Pa. (east of Pittsburgh); Jimmy's home town. After Jimmy won his Oscar for The Philadelphia Story, his dad displayed it in the store.

21h Most people don't realize how DARK this movie is until they've seen it. Of course there is a lot of comedy along the way, and a beautifully touching finish. But this is a great film *because* it's not afraid to show the depth of evil in some people (like Potter), and the conflicted nature of even a good character like George Bailey, who can really be nasty to others when things are down. I think that quality is what makes this movie so relatable, and has made it stand the test of time. Thanks for the reaction, Ames!🎄

@SliderFury1

6 ай бұрын

Facts. One of the most genuine, real-feeling movies ever made. So much goes "wrong" in Bailey's life, but it's only at the end that you realize, it was alright 😊

@xedra

6 ай бұрын

Well said

@user-bw2zt5jd9u

6 ай бұрын

@@SliderFury1Can’t believe I just saw it for the first time! I’m speechless.

@Eric-ff4bf

6 ай бұрын

Agreed. George"s fall into suicidal despair is so powerful in part because Capra has shown us, for the entire film, what a selfless, self-sacrificing, genuinely good person George is, at his core. So we can understand where his rage is coming from, but also be shocked at the transformation (and then the transformation BACK when given another chance.) Words really come up short in describing the brilliance of Jimmy Stewart's performance. I agree with those that say this is a Christmas film in a class all by itself.

@Jupiter-T

6 ай бұрын

Interestingly, a movie with a vaguely similar plot came out the next year (1948) - Good Sam. I had never heard of it until a few days ago. The plot involves a very selfless family man who ends up in a financial pickle because of stolen money, and it ends on Christmas. It was striking to me because it was so much worse of a movie. During the final conflict of Good Sam, the main character (Sam) and some other guy sit at a bar getting increasingly drunk while the other guy keeps saying "I don't understand you, you're just too nice. You're so nice. Why are you so nice?" And then the Salvation Army band drags drunk Sam home, where he drunkenly sings a love song to his wife, and his wife lets him know that they're being given a loan by this financial guy because of how nice Sam is. No darkness, no real despair, none of the plot interest of an angel showing him a life without him, no outpouring of emotion from a great actor, and none of the joy of yelling "MERRY CHRISTMAS!" on his way home. It's a Wonderful Life dug deep into ugly human emotions and actions, and because of that, the ending (and the movie as a whole) feels so much more heartfelt and relatable. On top of that, the character Sam felt almost like someone's ego trip writing him as such a lovable amazing guy. But you could never say the same about George Bailey, because I don't think anyone wants to admit to acting like him when he snapped.

It's a wonderful reaction! Thanks, Ames. This film has some real power--it could have been so corny, but it never fails to get to me. From great acting to inspired script and flawless direction, it pleases on every level.

@holddowna

6 ай бұрын

Thanks for watching! I loved This movie so much!

@luketimewalker

6 ай бұрын

​@@holddowna My gratitude from France for taking this masterpiece up one notch and allow me to revel in in further. My late dad - his name was Georges - always told me about this film and we never got to see it while he was alive. A decade after his passing I saw it, with my mom, and fell in love with it. Rewatching it through your lovely and sensible reaction, I understand a lot more things - and so this piece of cinema from the forties, is literally a miracle maker. Thank you, and Merry Christmas!

Stewart's WW2 record is amazing. He was already a Hollywood star and enlisted in the Army Air Corps to fly B-24 bombers. Because he knew that other flyers were suspicious of him getting special treatment, he volunteered for every extra mission and spent more time preparing than any other officer. He ended up flying more than 100 bombing missions over Europe, more than any other pilot in his unit, including the most dangerous ones, was promoted to squadron commander, and the pilots under his command called him the best and most prepared commander they ever served under.

@anthonypanepinto9685

6 ай бұрын

I believe crews were only required to fly 25 missions into combat situations.

@rikk319

6 ай бұрын

He flew 20 missions, and all you have to do to confirm that is look it up on multiple places online or in books. Jimmy Stewart's life was amazing enough without needing to embellish it.

It really is one of my all time favorites. BTW, this was filmed after WWII, and Jimmy Stewart(now a real war veteran)had just returned as a B-24 Liberator pilot having served a tour flying missions over Germany. So in actuality he really was a man who had witnessed the destruction of lives in a war and could truly appreciate what life had to offer. Not to mention Donna Reed is simply fantastic in this role and stunning.

I'm 70 years old and from a family of 8 kids plus Mom and Dad. At each passing, (we have lost 6 now) one of us would ring a BELL at the funeral so they would get their WINGS....I loved your Reaction to this movie.... Keep up the great work young lady!!!

When this came out, audiences had just gone through WW2 with all its losses, deaths, and horrific changes to their world, so everyone was in a similar situation as George. The ending affirms that despite the evil which does exist, that community, hope and love can help people endure and overcome.

Thank you for this review. I’ve been hospitalized or in rehabilitation since October 27 when I was hit by a Ford F-150 truck while walking in my neighborhood. This is one of my favorite movies, and I cry every time I watch it. Seeing your reaction both made me emotional and lifted me up.

@GirlWithAnOpinion

6 ай бұрын

Sending you prayers for a full recovery and a beautiful Christmas.

This might be the most beautiful reaction to this movie I’ve seen yet. You are right. This movie is SO special. There is a something about old classics like this that just can’t be equaled. I hope you watch more of them !

I can’t listen to auld lang syne without bursting into tears thanks to this movie. Makes new years parties a little awkward but damn if it doesn’t hit me right in the heart

Jimmy Stewart’s first movie after returning from serving in the armed forces during WW II. The utter hopelessness that Jimmy Stewart portrayed in his George Bailey character before he went to the bridge to kill himself is astounding. This movie is a Christmas classic and still brings a tear to my eye whenever I see it. Thank you for a “Wonderful” reaction and Merry Christmas…😊

@dastemplar9681

6 ай бұрын

He was even officially the first American film actor to volunteer for enlistment right after the attack on Pearl Harbor. Received his commission in ‘42 in the Army Air Corps and helped trained bomber pilots. In ‘43, he didn’t want his celebrity status to keep him in rear duties so he appealed to be assigned to the 703rd Bomber Squadron in England as a Captain. He flew 26 combat missions over Germany in ‘44-45 and would see through WWII with the rank of Colonel and recipient of the Distinguished Flying Cross, France’s Croix du Guerre with palm, and Air Medal with three palms. This man definitely saw action and watched men suffer and die under his command and faced his share of danger and near-death to himself. He would be promoted Brigadier General in 1959 in the Air Force Reserve, making him the highest ranking film actor in American military history.

@leefriedman9882

5 ай бұрын

And I believe he didn’t want to do it originally because it was too soon after he returned, but Lionel Barrymore urged him to do it.

For those who want some satisfaction, look up the SNL lost ending to It’s a Wonderful Life. In the skit, they figure out Potter stole the money and hunt him down and proceed to beat the heck out of him. 😂

@holddowna

6 ай бұрын

I must!

@memphistim2001

6 ай бұрын

@@holddowna kzread.info/dash/bejne/qKtsm9FpkcnIYqQ.html

@jasonedmiston779

6 ай бұрын

@@holddowna kzread.info/dash/bejne/qKtsm9FpkcnIYqQ.html It's the satisfying ending this film deserves.

It's always so warming to watch people react when seeing this movie for the first time, and your reaction is no exception. They just don't make movies like this anymore. You've earned a new subscriber.

@akamisdarth

6 ай бұрын

The Holdovers literally came out this year. So, they do make 'em like this still!

Being from Rochester this film is legendary. 2019 the dryden theatre at the George Eastman house screened a 35 mm print of its a wonderful life. It was truly an experience to see it on the big screen. Bedford falls is based on seneca falls NY. The home of the women's suffrage movement.

@holddowna

6 ай бұрын

Thanks so much for watching with us!

There are Christmas movies, and there's "It's a Wonderful Life." It's on a pedestal, all its own. Absolutely life affirming.

This is without a doubt the best Xmas movie made. I know generations younger than mine may disagree but the story is timeless. I'm 66 years old and have seem this every year without fail. First with my mom and dad and later with my children. To this day, I still cry at the end because after all, "George Bailey is and always has been the richest man in town".. in so many ways..

Thanks for the wonderful cry, Ames! I've always been amazed by the INCREDIBLE cast of actors who made up this ensemble. Merry Christmas to you and your family. 🥰

I LOVE that you "get it". I'm 64, and have watched this movie literally my whole life. In these later years, this film has brought a whole new meaning for me, and can't help tearing up at many points. The world could NEVER EVER be this way again unfortunately

The old Silver Screen era was all about the story, the acting, the camera work, no CGI, all practical shooting; and remember this was rated G. Loved your reaction. It's the stuff that dreams are made of!

Hey Ames! Great reaction! Did you catch the quick cameo from Little Rascals legend Alfalfa? He was the guy George cut in on to dance with Mary at the party.

The throwing of rice at a wedding derives from old fertility rites. A way of blessing the union and the prospect of children.

This movie means a lot to me. Holidays are always a weird time. I've been up and I've been down but this movie always sets my head right when I'm not feeling it. Love seeing people react to this movie around this time of year.

Such an amazing movie! I watched it for the first time around 25 years ago & regretted not seeing it sooner. Your reaction was so beautiful & genuine. It's wonderful to see someone from your generation appreciate this film...thank you & Merry Christmas!

Gloria Grahame (the adult Violet) went on to a distinguished career in film and television. In A Lonely Place.

@richardpowell1772

6 ай бұрын

One of my favorite movies. Bogart gave his best performance in that movie, too.

A lot of people miss it, but Mary is the hero of the movie.

@holddowna

6 ай бұрын

💯

@TheBTG88

6 ай бұрын

With one exception - It was Mary that wanted to keep leaving when they saw the ‘run’ on the bank. When she saw and heard George make his impassioned speech about the people sticking together - she then understood the selflessness of her new husband. She then got on board by offering their honeymoon money. So, even as wonderful as Mary was, she also was positively influenced by George.

@EdwardLewisIV

6 ай бұрын

@@TheBTG88 I understand your point, but I'd say it's a little nit-picky. She only wants to leave because she knows how important it is to him. Let me also be a little more specific. George is the protagonist of the movie, but she is his hero.

@TheBTG88

6 ай бұрын

@@EdwardLewisIV Well, if she knew how important the business was to him, she would not have suggested they leave town without stopping. I’m not saying that Mary is not an important character and has strong morals and ethics, simply that you can see an arc of maturation she undergoes throughout her relationship with George. Rather than hero, I would ascribe that she is George’s foil and rock.

@user-ul9vn6hn2g

Күн бұрын

She made a wish to marry George and live in the old house, to keep her from being an old maid and George was her angel that saved her from being an old maid. True story. You be the judge.

I know your of the younger generation but Jimmy Stewart, as you just witnessed, is one of the greatest actors that ever graced the screen. If you want to witness the greatest actor that ever lived proacting his craft, just watch all the wonderful movies that Jimmy Stewart stared in, he's the one that will never be replicated.

Some folks don't care for the old black and white movies. Those are all we watched when I was a kid. And there were some great movies, believe me. In the 50's, when I was little, my Mom and I would watch movies on TV (big black and white TV) every Saturday night. We'd stay up late...past 10:00 pm! It's hard for me to understand why young folks wouldn't give those old movies a chance. We didn't have CGI and wondrous special effects, but they were still good to watch! So thanks, so much, for your emotional reaction to a wonderfully emotional movie. May God bless you and yours, and may you and your family enjoy a very merry Christmas, and a wonderful 2024!

50 yrs old and I still tear up to this everytime and I knew I would even worse watching you react to it!

James Stewart, my all time favorite actor in most every genre except musicals❣️

@holddowna

6 ай бұрын

I love him can’t wait to watch him in more

@denpea-mm8zr

6 ай бұрын

@@holddowna I would recommend Jimmy Stewart in one of the Alfred Hitchcock classics, "Vertigo" or "Rear Window". Loved your reaction to this one. Had me breaking up !

@skipjack23

6 ай бұрын

I agree, he's my favorite Hitchcock actor. But he also brought some real darkness to a lot of Westerns. He's still underrated. @@denpea-mm8zr

@Eric-ff4bf

6 ай бұрын

@@holddowna I would recommend another film by Frank Capra, "Mr. Smith Goes to Washington." Another emotional, tear-jerking finale and Jimmy Stewart is AWESOME as an Everyman fighting corruption in Washington. You might also check out Anatomy of a Murder, which is one of the great courtroom dramas in Hollywood history.

This movie may have saved my life when I was at a very low point.

Thank you for sharing, Ames. As a small child I watched this movie with my grandparents (same age as Jimmy Stewart) dozens of times. Thank you for sharing your first time watching with us. Thank you for making me remember the gift of Christmas and my grandparents (RIP).

Sixty one year old man and I've watched this movie probably a hundred times. Watching your reaction was like seeing it for the first time through your eyes. Thank you for this and Merry Christmas to you. Now I need to go dry my eyes. 😢

Does anyone remember when Jimmy Stewart lost his beloved dog Beau (HUGE animal lover and rescuer here) and he read a poem for his canine buddy on Johnny Carson? CLASS! Love him so much. Mr. Stewart, you ARE and will always be George Bailey❤

Jimmy Stewart is amazing and excels at playing the everyman role. He plays a similar heroic character in Mr Smith Goes to Washington. I think you'd like it. I can't believe this film bombed at the box office when it was first released. It's such a classic. I had a crush on Donna Reed, which is weird cuz by the time I saw this movie she was already gone. I love the old films where they give the actress's faces that warm glow. The first time you see her in the film she looks angelic compared to the other women. i think most men fall in love with her just like George Baily does. Thanks for reacting!

Merry Christmas Ames. Now you can see why this movie appears on every list of the greatest movies ever. It is a timeless classic. Fantastic reaction

@holddowna

6 ай бұрын

Totally ! Happy Holidays!! Thanks for being here!

Hey Ames, I want you to remember the feelings you had while watching this movie, because you will have the same feelings every time you watch it! I have seen this movie at least once a year for the past 50 years and the feelings I get are just like the first time I watched it!!! This is my all time favorite Christmas movie!!!

That's how this movie should hit ya. Great acting and a touching story. Nice to see people still can love this movie 🎄☮️🌹🌜🏡❤️

Yes this movie brought this Famous line to the world .. ( EVERY TIME A BELL RINGS AN ANGEL GETS HIS WINGS ) Awesome Movie. 😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😊🇺🇸🙏😇👍

Bless you for thinking that Potter was going to have a change of heart! It’s true, he’s a very Scrooge-like character. But I appreciate that this story actually portrays him realistically: most people like Potter in the real world only get worse as they go along - more bitter, more selfish, more hurtful. Not to say that they *can’t* improve, just that sadly they often *don’t* improve. Great reaction! 😊

@Spidercat616

6 ай бұрын

Which is why the alt ending on SNL was weirdly satisfying

@rockstarvideoproductions6288

6 ай бұрын

Just to point out: Lionel Barrymore WAS Scrooge for over 10 years on the Campbell (Soup) National Theatre which played “A Christmas Carol” live from NYC every Christmas Eve back in the 30’s and 40’s.

Pre-war James Stewart might not have been able to carry this film. He really channeled his PTSD into distraught George Bailey. Considering some of the dark themes in this movie, I'm amazed it ever got past the Hays code. Especially since Potter never gets a comeuppance and "crime does not pay" was one of the Hays code commandments. This film is in a class by itself. Glad you finally got to experience it.

Another MUST SEE uplifting feel good Classic,, "Pocket Full Of Miracles" (1961) ..TRUST ME!!

This is one of my all-time favorite movies and I love watching first time reactions for new viewers. You are the FIRST of dozens of reactors I’ve seen to recognize and comment that George’s lashing out at the bridge models and sketches in his house was an incredibly meaningful moment representing his frustration toward those dreams and ambitions that now seem finally extinguished. Thank you for being such a careful and entertaining commentator. I’d highly recommend digging into some of the history and backstory of this film. It is truly an all-time classic.

The actress playing Mary was Donna Reed. She had her own show back in the 50's. Jim Henson name the Sesame Street characters after Bert and Ernie from this movie. If you want to watch another great Christmas movie, White Christmas stars Danny Kaye and Bing Crosby. I tear up when Bing Crosby sings " I'm Dreaming of a White Christmas".

@holddowna

6 ай бұрын

Thanks for watching! I loved Donna Reed!

@i.marchand4655

6 ай бұрын

A better movie (imo) with the same song, plus others, is "Holiday Inn."

@michaelstach5744

6 ай бұрын

To see Donna Reed in a very different role watch From Here To Eternity.

You have the best movie reactions because you show the right scenes to keep the continuity of the movie and maintain the story line. I can't even watch other reactors because their scene cuts destroy the continuity of the movie. Good job, and great reaction.

I've seen this movie at least 50 times or more and I still get choked up. It's an amazing movie and stands alone on its merits, not just a Christmas movie. I just earlier watched a video about the blond girl Violet, her name was Gloria Graham, Violet is the role she is most famously known for but, she later won an Acadamy award for a performance in a movie that she was on screen for only 12 minutes. She was one of the first actresses to utilize plastic surgery. She was a well celebrated actress but never eclipsed the role of Violet in the publics eye. She had a controversial private life that was sometimes publicized. She was married 3 times and her Most stable marriage lasting over 40 years was to her former stepson. She died in 1984.

As far as I’m concerned, this is THE Christmas movie. The singular one

My 2nd favorite movie of all time; after the BACK TO THE FUTURE movies in a three-way tie for 1st. The filmmakers definitely designed PART II to be an homage to IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE, especially the alternate 1985 scenes.

A Christmas classic. It's fun watching folks discover it. Good reaction and you really got it. Another Jimmy Stewart film you should catch is the comedy "Harvey". It was a favorite of Stewart according to interviews he did. I assume you saw the Hitchcock suspense movie with Stewart and Grace Kelly called "Rear Window". Lots of Stewart films to go through. Merry Christmas.

I've watched this wonderful movie annually for about 40 years now. It's so great seeing younger people discovering this classic -- and loving it! And the ending always gets to them; I love it, lol.

I swear. Some sort of dust storm kicks up in my house EVERY time I watch this movie, even the abbreviated versions such as your reaction. I remember watching this as a teen for the first time when it played ad nauseum on tv. It was late night on an old 8 inch black and white tv, amazing experience. Thanks for this.

I knew you'd love this one. The absolute best Christmas film ever. Hands down. I've watched it countless times, the final message gets me through each year. Did you notice it NEVER snows in Pottersville ? Yes you can see it on the ground but look when George is begging to Clarence that he wants to live again - the moment it starts to snow is when you know he's back in good old Bedford Falls. The snow was a new development for the film too. Capra wanted to use live sound for the close up scenes so the usual Hollywood method - cornflakes bleached or painted in white was out as clearly any walking nearby would create unwanted sound so the special effects team came up with a brand new method. There was actually a record heatwave going on whilst the film was being made ! The Raven that Uncle Billy owns is called 'Jimmy'. He starred in 1000+ films and was quite the star - insured for the equivalent of thousands of dollars today. He's actually the 'crow' that lands on the Scarecrow in 'The Wizard of Oz'. Capra found a part for him in every film he made after 1938. Speaking of Uncle Billy, in the scene where he leaves the frame and there's a crash, a set hand dropped some equipment accidentally and the look of concern from Jimmy Stewart was genuine. Some say 'Uncle Billy' improvised the cry that he was alright, others say it was dubbed on in post. But the crash is genuine and unscripted. Jimmy Stewart was still suffering with PTSD from his WW2 service and credits this movie experience as being therapeutic. In particular, in the prayer scene it wasn't scripted for him to cry and they weren't really setup for a close up to really capture the emotion. Capra knew he couldn't replicate the emotion in a reshoot so he decided to go with the original footage and zoomed in on the negative for the final cut of the film. If you look, it looks grainier because of that but Capra thought it worked in bringing more emotion and it was certainly better than asking Jimmy to go again. Stewart is one of my favourite actors and even more so when you see this performance. So glad new generations are still enjoying this classic - and in black and white as it should be ! I shall be watching it - again - on Christmas Eve as is my tradition along with 'A Charlie Brown Christmas' and I shall cry like a baby just like I always do. Being a 52 year old guy doesn't change that such is the power of this movie. Jimmy Stewart said it was his favorite and who are we to argue.

It's so fun to witness someone experience this film for the first time. *hat tip* :)

Outstanding reaction. So happy someone your age watched this movie. The Golden age of Hollywood had the best Actor's and Actresses as far as I'm concerned. Jimmy Stewart and Donna Reed are Legendary. Absolutely great flim. Watch it every year. I hope you have a new appreciation for older movies. Well done.

Donna Reed (Mary) made numerous good movies and had her own TV show in the 60's. Gorgeous.

This is one of the most inspiring stories, and I believe one of the reasons it's on the list of the top 100 movies of all time. I haven't met a person yet that hasn't gotten at least teary-eyed by the end. Great reaction!

Hard to believe the movie was a flop when it first released. It became a classic in the 60's, 70's and 80's it was public domain so all local channels would it at Christmas. I remember there was a time when it ended in one channel you would change to another channel and it would be starting. Great movie beautiful reaction Thank You

James Stewart was a real life hero.

I'm 57 and I've watched it every Christmas since I was 15 and I still cry

As always, you make my day, Amy. Your humanity and genuine emotions come through with every smile. You make great movies better to watch. Thank you for all you have done this year.

My wife and I have watched this movie every year for the last 30 years, and we finally realized a couple of years ago that I'm "George Bailey"...LOL Also, we have 2 goldendoodles, and the youngest one is actually named Zuzu Petals because of this movie.

@i.marchand4655

6 ай бұрын

I always wondered about that name (where'd they get Zuzu?). But I recently discovered that the National Biscuit Company (now called Nabisco) put out a line of Ginger Snaps somewhat before the movie was made. They called them "Zuzus." Now it makes sense when George calls Zuzu his "little ginger snap."

My mom and her 5 sisters always talked about growing up in Indiana PA not far from the Stewart family hardware store. They were so proud that he was from their hometown. I remember going there for the dedication of the Jimmy Stewart Museum in the mid 90s. My mom loved this movie and watched it many, many times, she wore out the vhs. So glad you found this classic and a man recognized as the 3rd greatest American male actors, he has quite the library (80) of films.

I can't imagine this world without this movie existing. Think how many people and lives it has affected.

Thank you for this reaction. I must have seen it a hundred times before but somehow watching along with you made it new again and I was in floods of tears. This is a tough Christmas for me and I feel really grateful for the message in this movie. I hope you have a wonderful Christmas!

@VenusDeMilitant

6 ай бұрын

I'm sorry you're having a tough Christmas time. Here's wishing you a brighter happier new year.

@NataliePine

6 ай бұрын

@@VenusDeMilitant Thank you that's very kind! I hope you have a great Christmas and an awesome 2024

Your reaction got me bawling. I'm so glad you decided to watch it for us.

Donna Reed was so beautiful, inside and out. She was a pin-up girl during WW2, with her scantily-clad, smiling image warming the hearts of many a homesick G.I. She also volunteered many hours at The Hollywood Canteen, a club owned by several actors during WW2, that served members of the military who visited Hollywood. It was a place where they could get a free show and hot meal, and even a dance with an actual celebrity. Donna danced with countless boys in uniform, some of whom would ship out soon after, never to come back. She kept a shoebox for the rest of her life with a few hundred of their letters, that they wrote her from overseas, telling her of their hopes, fears, dreams, and even some humor to try and make her smile. She never forgot 'her boys'. As a child, I grew up having the biggest celebrity crush on her, hanging on re-runs of this movie, and of her old TV show ('The Donna Reed Show'). After I got older and learned of her fondness for the servicemen of her time? Well, let's just say that old crush -- I confess, I still have it....

I watched this movie probably 40 times and is the first time I have tears rolling down in my face because of you. You are so fantastic for video-reactions.

Merry Christmas Ames...glad I could watch with you😍 this movie really reminds me of the reason for the season. Pretty simple...this>❤

Omigosh, I soooooo happy to see this come up on your channel!❤ --just a brilliant & beautiful film; excellent cast, setting, cinematography....& the black & white contrast really sets it. (The colorized version just doesn't carry the same weight. The scene with George at the bar, his lowest point & the desperation in his prayer just hits me. Same with his heartfelt plea on the bridge, only when he asks God does time return. Just a magical performance by Jimmy Stewart. ) To me Mary is the heroine...what else can be said about her?! What a wife. So glad you enjoyed this Ames, thank you for this. [OH, if you have time, here's another fantastic Christmas film: "The Shop Around the Corner "...& "The Bishops Wife"] Hope you have time😊...have a blessed Christmas.

@holddowna

6 ай бұрын

Thank u for watching ❤️❤️❤️🎄🎄🎄thanks for ur comment! I loved this movie it was so special!

For the past few years, actress Karolyn Grimes (83), who played little Zuzu Bailey, has visited to Seneca Falls, NY (the town that inspired the movie's fictional town of Bedford Falls, NY), to participate in the annual 'It's a Wonderful Life' Festival, including this year's celebration a couple of weeks ago. Grimes' character's name Zuzu is thought to have come from an old Nabisco cookie, Zu Zu Ginger Snaps, widely popular at the time. This is why, at the end of the movie when George rushes up the stair and hugs her, he gushes, “Zuzu, my little ginger snap!“ “I was named after a cookie!” laughed Grimes, in one interview.

Love the movie and love your reaction. I will be 83 in 26 days. Love, love, love for most people.

Thank you, Ames! That was perfect, seeing how much you appreciated the acting, themes, and production of that film! It's such an important message for our times. We've become so alienated from each other, and money is consistently put forward as the only way out of our existential (and ideological) misery. That's so wrong, but we have to rediscover the power in pulling together, shouldering and sharing our mutual burdens and distress, to work together to build a better world. In a world full of Henry F. Potters be a George Bailey, that's what I say! Great reaction!

@holddowna

6 ай бұрын

Thanks SO much for ur wonderful comment! Happy Holidays! Thanks for watching with me!

Merry Christmas Ames! As I expected, another great and touching reaction. I knew before it started that you would love it. This is such a powerful movie. I used to watch it with my family every year when I was a kid in the '70s and '80s. By then, 'It's a Wonderful Life' was already almost 30 years old and generations had already watched it and found it so special. Makes me homesick for those days with my family; that now seem so long ago.

Nothing better than watching a beautiful woman reacting to a beautiful movie

I'm 65 years old and have watched this movie every year since I was a kid. 😊

Ahh yes, my go to xmas movie, black and white version is where its at as well, so soooo goooood

I loved your reaction and your ability to feel for the characters. I hope you share this movie with us every year. Merry Christmas!

If you're at all open to watching/reacting to a foreign film with subtitles, you should definitely check out IKIRU (1952) by Akira Kurosawa. It could be described as Japan's version of It's A Wonderful Life.

@kylecope528

6 ай бұрын

I wasn thinking that earlier this evening! I intend to watch it in full before the year is out since I am studying film.

@clarkness77

5 ай бұрын

Ikiru is amazing!

Jimmy Stewart is so fantastic.

One of my favorite movies ever. Jimmy Stewart was such an amazing actor and person. The only actor to reach the rank of Brigadier General as he stayed on in the reserves after his service during World War Two. No words can ever express how much I love this movie and everything about it, as well as how much it means to me. If you want to see more Jimmy Stewart, you should watch Mr. Smith Goes To Washington and Harvey. Both amazing films. I also recommend looking for the clip from the time Jimmy Stewart was on the Tonight Show and read a poem he had written about his dog, Bo. There was not a dry eye in the house by the time he got to the end.