George Bailey has spent his entire life giving to the people of Bedford Falls. All that prevents rich skinflint Mr. Potter from taking over the entire town is George's modest building and loan company. But on Christmas Eve the business's $8,000 is lost and George's troubles begin.
Acting
Stewart's raw breakdown in the bar—Method before Method existed.
Direction
Capra's 'Capra-corn' perfected: sentiment earned, not manufactured.
Writing
That ending phone scene—every line a dagger wrapped in tinsel.
Director
Frank Capra
James Stewart
George Bailey
Donna Reed
Mary Hatch
Lionel Barrymore
Mr. Potter
Thomas Mitchell
Uncle Billy
Henry Travers
Clarence
Beulah Bondi
Mrs. Bailey
Frank Faylen
Ernie
Ward Bond
Bert
Gloria Grahame
Violet
H.B. Warner
Mr. Gower
Frank Albertson
Sam Wainwright
Todd Karns
Harry Bailey
Samuel S. Hinds
Pa Bailey
Mary Treen
Cousin Tilly
Virginia Patton
Ruth Dakin
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
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