It's a Wonderful Life (1946) REACTION

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[@lynnecurrie7561]

This was his first movie after serving in WW2. He was suffering from severe PTSD. He said later that this movie helped to bring him back and find joy in acting again. He is a Hollywood legend.

[@Hiraghm]

Nonsense. He was not suffering from _severe_ PTSD.

[@charlieeckert4321]

It was Lionel Barrymore who played Mr. Potter who talked Jimmy Stewart into taking this part. He is the great-uncle of Drew Barrymore.

[@charlieeckert4321]

The PTSD was severe enough to have him relieved of command and sent to a hospital.

[@davidcollver6155]

Yeah just Googled the PTSD on Jimmy Stewart several sources support the claim. Google is all knowing, isn't that what you all say?

[@alanh.7668]

I had heard that once, a true national treasure.

[@chrisg9196]

At 35:04 I had the pleasure of meeting the little girl plating the piano at my Bible College graduation. Her daughter was a classmate of mine, and she found out that "It's a Wonderful Life" was my favorite movie. So she arranged for me to meet her mother (the little girl playing the piano) and her father graduation night. I knew nothing about her knowledge of my favorite movie, nor of her plan to have me meet her mother. It was one of the most thoughtful things anyone has done for me. I think about it every year I watch this movie.

[@bighungry4666]

The scene where he visits Mary's house is very deep, many people get confused by his actions. George had always wanted to travel and get away from home. But something always came up that made him change his mind and stay. He always had some sense of responsibility or obligation and he was at a breaking point. The phone call and conversation with Mary pushed him over the edge but his feelings for home, and Mary, won out in the end. Beautiful scene, always hits me in the feels.

[@bwilliams463]

Lionel Barrymore (Old Man Potter) was one of the finest stage and screen actors of all time. His performance in this movie is a pure treasure.

[@3DJapan]

Drew Barrymore's great uncle.

[@rikk319]

Another case of a wonderful man playing an awful villain. Barrymore helped convince Stewart to take the role of George Bailey.

[@glstka5710]

He and Jimmy Stewart played in quite a few Frank Capra films. F C aways treated his actors well because he knew that the actors were the big thing in the movie. He treated them well so they kept coming back to him.

[@aj_aka_alan]

You ladies desrve a lot of credit for appreciating this movie almost 90 years old from a culture and language that you didn't grow up with. You have bridged many gaps to appreciate this film, so I appreciate your full hearts and intellect to first understand English, and then to understand the context and timing of this movie. I wound up crying as well as you were reacting in all the correct ways. It was so nice to see this through new (watery) eyes. You guys have wonderful souls.

[@wordeye]

totally! very well said.

[@rustincohle2135]

Movie is only 76 years old.

[@BradyQuartermaine]

This is great!

[@jd-zr3vk]

OMG, Vicki and Michelle were crying before Ellie. Will wonders ever cease?

[@mariocisneros911]

75 yrs ago not 90

[@TrackMaster844]

37:29 - Well look at it from George’s perspective. His whole life that he never got to live because he was helping others and keeping the family business afloat, all while trying to fend of that vulture Potter. And that night, 30+ years of hard work and sacrifice has essentially (at that point) amounted to nothing. The business is collapsing, he’s being faced with jail time, meaning he’d be ripped away from his family, the one thing keeping him going. It’s enough to break anyone…

[@jonalberts980]

As someone who has been trying to support their channel by subscribing and was even a Patreon member for many months in 2021, I can't stand them anymore. Because I've gotten to know them; what terrible, ungrateful, brainless, mentally ill and TOXIC people they are. This is literally as hard as some of them work (because they've said so) and they still act like they have terrible lives because they're miserable people who don't appreciate what they have. Ellie literally doesn't like George Bailey because she's only attracted to male garbage.

[@crweewrc1388]

Exactly!

[@cindyknudson2715]

And they will have to live with the shame and poverty without him being able to help.

[@elrikard7909]

Watching your reactions was amazing. As a Dad, and An American who grew up on this movie, the parts about George Bailey that stand out most are his enormous sacrifices throughout his life. He always puts his Family, Friends, and town over himself. He gave up his dream of traveling, going to college, getting a good career, independence, and lots of little things all the way. When he lashes out at his family it is when he has finally broken. He might go to prison for his foolish Uncle's mistake. It was an outburst but it had been building for 15 years.

[@robertboss8883]

I am from a family of 8 kids and Mom and Dad. When my next oldest brother (Dave) past away my oldest brother (Pete) at the graveyard said, you all remember "It's a wonderful life"? Then he rang a small bell and said, well today another Angel just got his wings. Now at each passing we all ring a small bell at the graveyard.... Thank You all for this beautiful Reaction. 🔔🔔🔔

[@TheScottSlater]

I always feel like Mary is one of the most amazing characters ever written. She is so pure and wonderful.

[@phila3884]

And Donna Reed- has any star exuded more goodness in a role than her?

[@ajonteampanalo]

And she started the first Go Fund Me!

[@the.seagull.35]

@@ajonteampanalo 😂

[@ChrisMaxfieldActs]

Pure and wonderful and mysteriously sexy! Maybe it's just the chemistry in their scenes together.

[@johntumahab323]

I just realized this year that Mary might have been other non-divine character to be aware of everything George had done over the course of his life. When you first see her at the drug store, she knows George is deaf in one ear, so she might have known how he got the deafness in that ear. She also overheard when Mr. Gower was hitting him, so she might have overheard the whole thing (if so, props to her for also keeping it a secret). And on that night they were out together, she heard George's big plans but also overheard about his father having a stroke, so she likely put two and two together that George stayed in Bedford Falls to keep the Building & Loan open.

[@ephennell4ever]

This truly is a 'Christmas Classic!'. For a lot of people, watching this is a yearly tradition, a part of the Christmas season! And you can't watch it and end up in a bad mood, just not possible! There are a few others like this - part of people's Christmas season. You should check them out, too! Two are 'sister movies', _"Scrooge"_ (an old movie), and _"Scrooged"_ the newer one, with Bill Murray, and which has a bigger comedy feel to it, while still 'tugging at the heartstrings'! They are both based on 'A Christmas Carol', the classic story from Charles Dickens. I love *both* versions, even though they have _very_ *different* styles! And there's _"A Christmas Story"_ from 1983. Even though it's from the '80s, it has the feel of a classic from the '50s, which is kind of amazing! There's also _"Miracle On 34th Street"_ which an old, true classic. I think all four of you will love all of them! *Enjoy!* P.S. - Jimmy Stewart was not only a legendary actor, but a legitimate war-hero. This movie was his first one after WW2 ended; and he apparently had a real PTSD problem (probably why the scenes with him being all stressed and mean/grumpy were so real-looking!). Look into his story, it's so inspiring and amazing!

[@Jay_Sullivan]

A Christmas Story does not have the classic feeling.

[@shotgunnerB]

A Christmas story is set in 1939!!!

[@sarahfullerton6894]

My absolute favorite Christmas movie. I suggest you ladies make watching this movie an annual event. It only gets better each time you see it.

[@julien.4617]

@@shotgunnerB "A Christmas Story" was made in the '80s and set in the '50's.

[@uggggggghhhhh]

I cry everytime I watch this movie especially when hes completely given up and begins to pray because theres nothing more that he can do, its heartbreaking and extremely relatable for many people, even for those that arent even religious. Really lovely film reminding us what life is about

[@ajonteampanalo]

That scene when he’s praying in the bar is one of the most moving I’ve ever felt. He’s so desperate and it’s heart wrenching

[@bobogus7559]

I think it's no exaggeration to say that Jimmy Stewart was one of the greatest actors of all time.

[@shawnnixon2811]

My favorite Christmas movie of all time. When you said he was toxic I knew you were missing the point. He's a good man with dreams. But he's unselfish and like many of us. Life happens and we have to sacrifice our dreams for others and for greater purposes. He sacrifices all his life for others until one day he's lost in self pity and self resentment and can no longer see the beauty in his life. He has to be reminded of what a great man he was and how much an impact his life had on the life of others. It is important to let people in your life ( friends, family, teachers, coaches, mentors, policemen, your personal heroes etc.) know what an impact they made on your life. Its an amazing thing to hear people randomly tell you what an influence you were to their life.

[@SaRENRampaiger]

ELlie hates traditionalism among marriages.. Feminism in a nutshell.

[@joshmontemayor6098]

My favorite Christmas movie is a tie between The Polar Express & A Charlie Brown Christmas.

[@Juber777]

You explained it so well that you hit a sensitive feeling, I have sleep seizures and I become a hateful person from the headaches and body aches from not sleeping well.... This helps me feel hopeful that maybe, I too can be a better person.... But it hurts just to think and I'm tired... I've been told I've been helpful in others life's but now I'm just too tired to really help as much as I want but I'm so useless in this body that I can't keep my life in order until I'm just the current mess wishing I was never born or not waking up after going to bed... I'll try to do better and find the good... but I'm going to keep needing God's help.

[@TheBTG88]

I always lose it when his brother calls him the richest man in town. It's not monetarily, but richness in quality of life, friendship, and positive influences.

[@Concetta20]

Every year I tear up at that scene. Agh 😭

[@MichaelHattem]

I’ve always wished he said, “the biggest man in town”

[@stevegottenbass]

“ biggest” could be interpreted by the town as being above everyone he’s obviously not the “richest” in town monetarily, the brother is saying he has “everything” - a rich life just hours after george that he had nothing

[@alexd0617]

This movie gets me every time. So many lessons to be learned here, like the value of friendship and loyalty to those in your own family and community. George Bailey was always there for others, and then, in his darkest hour, he received the help he needed. People respected George because he was a servant of the people. I'm glad you guys had a chance to see it. Christmas is never the same in my family without watching this.

[@DR-mq1vn]

I was 16 years old when I first saw this movie in the 1980s. I've seen it over 100 times now, and I still cry every time I watch it!

[@SergioArellano-yd7ik]

A grown man crying over this movie? You are a big wimp... And so am I !

[@michaelt6218]

Thank you for watching this! I cried right along with you, even though I have literally seen this movie more than 50 times. I just love it so much, and you know what? It will keep getting better each time you see it again, because you really get to know the characters and you can watch how they change through the years. Anyway, thanks for the *wonderful* reaction. Merry Christmas!🔔

[@sarahfullerton6894]

Agreed!

[@michaelf8702]

George was upset (just before he got married) because his brother came home and he anticipated his brother taking over the building and loan business. But when his brother showed up he found out his brother was married and had a job offer somewhere else and was taking it. So he knew he would be stuck with the building and loan business and not be able to travel. I don't think it had anything to do with the fact that Mary went away to college.

[@HuntingViolets]

To be fair to George's brother Harry, he didn't plan to take the job, but of course George couldn't let him make the sacrifice.

[@davewhitlow2984]

Really interesting to watch you ladies watch this. George displays the weight and responsibility of providing for a family, business, and community while also denying himself "first dibs" of what should have been rightfully his. His shortcomings deserve a little more understanding. George also displays many men's nature of bottling things up and dealing with hardships on their own.

[@penfold7455]

Fun fact: The actor who plays Nick the Bartender was this guy named Sheldon Leonard. Many years later, he became a major showrunner for the Columbia Broadcasting System (CBS). How renowned was he at CBS? Well, the first names of two lead characters of the show "The Big Bang Theory" we're taken from his name.

[@goldenager59]

I understand that he had a recurring role on *The Jack Benny Program* as the shady guy at the race track who would sidle up to Benny and say, "Hey, bud..." in this comically sinister way. Years later, *Sesame Street* paid homage in the character of Lefty the Salesman, voiced by Frank Oz. Yet another link between this movie and the Muppets (heck, by now everybody knows that the cop and the taxi driver in this movie gave their names to Bert and Ernie)! 😄

[@garycollins7750]

He also played the handy dandy salesman on I Love Lucy and was the movie director on Gomer Pyle who wanted to fire Sgt Carter.

[@jamesespey249]

He was also the brainchild behind such sitcom classics as I Dream of Jeannie.

[@FischerFan]

Now that you have watched this classic, you probably appreciate the quality with which movies were once made. No outrageous special effects, no filthy language; just genuine talent guiding us through a great story. Glad to see your tears are right on schedule when George discovers he has his life back.

[@hunterhuiet2785]

I am so happy that this group reacted to this timeless holiday classic! I remember when I watched this movie for the very first time, I had the exact same emotions. Thank you, Ellie, Michelle, Viki, and Lia for reacting to this movie!

[@bkazmer]

My family watches this movie every year for the holidays. It is done by nearly every family in the US. I love your reaction to this, and I was crying right along with you. You are four wonderful, beautifully gorgeous women. Thank you for this time with you all.😍😍😍😍 By the way... That pool under the gym floor is still there at Beverly Hills High School. Built in 1939 and still in use to this day.

[@gazlator]

So thankful the Homies made time to watch this. A deeply poignant Christmas movie that all of the girls seemed to fall in love with - so glad they did! The kind of film you're not likely to forget.

[@suzanneprock7286]

Such a great classic my family watches every year at Christmas. Donna Reed was gorgeous. He was a very selfless man and put everyone else's needs above his own.

[@mauriceedwards9588]

Hard to believe this wasn't a hit when it was first released in cinemas but Christmas showings on television soon made it a festival classic.

[@coldflamebluedragon196]

Jimmy Stewart gave such a multifaceted performance here. He was often cast as an easy-going guy but he had the ability to bring out despair and rage that wasn't detectable on the surface

[@emotionalideas]

Well, it's that time of year and you all reminded me...time to watch it again. Because that's just what you do. And by the way...the basketball court/pool? That's the Swim Gym at Beverly Hills High School where I went. It's still there and still in use.

[@stillaboveground2470]

Clarence: "Your brother, Harry Bailey, broke through the ice and was drowned at the age of nine." George Bailey: "That's a lie! Harry Bailey went to war! He got the Congressional Medal of Honor! He saved the lives of every man on that transport!" Clarence: "Every man on that transport died. Harry wasn't there to save them, because you weren't there to save Harry.” I get a lump in my throat every time I see that scene.

[@ajonteampanalo]

Every single time

[@stevelobban2766]

I can't believe you think George is "weak" and "toxic" He has lived his life for the betterment of everyone around him.

[@stevenvicijan4338]

As the Columbianka told me it's all about the " corazónovi " still till to this day relates to different points of view.

[@stevelobban2766]

@@stevenvicijan4338 Yeah,that's what I'm doing, giving my point of view

[@stevenvicijan4338]

....that's powerful stuff ...

[@stevelobban2766]

?

[@stevelobban2766]

@@stevenvicijan4338 it's a reaction channel where they invite you to comment on their reaction, I did that,hardly what I'd class as "powerful stuff" You seem to have some kind of problem with my comment

[@HuntingViolets]

George was grumpy because he was going to be stuck at the building and loan. He was letting his brother take the job his (brother's) new wife's father offered, and there would be no one but George to keep the building and loan going, so all of his dreams of travel and building things were destroyed. So, yeah, he was grumpy and looked at marriage as a trap.

[@Drewit1]

Now this is a great holiday classic. Thank you Ellie, Michelle, Viki and Lia!

[@Hiraghm]

"Tell your wife what's wrong" 1) how's she supposed to help? She has no fortune to replace the missing money. 2) this, again, is the 1940s. Men were expected to take responsibility for their families, not defer to their wives.

[@DylansPen]

And $8,000 in 1940 was over $100,000 today.

[@Fonny222]

I just now looked up the movie that was on the marquee at the theater as George runs by “The Bells of St Mary’s” which was is a real film, and the actor that plays Clarence the angel was in it.

[@cindyknudson2715]

The first time I saw _It's a Wonderful Life_ (1947) was on a "double feature" on the Friday afternoon after Thanksgiving in the mid-1980s. (Back then, the day wasn't just associated with shopping.) Anyway 🙂 the second movie of the "double" was _The Bells of St Mary's_ with Bing Crosby and Ingrid Bergman. (1945)

[@cyberingcatgirls7069]

Saturday Night Live made a "long lost ending to It's A Wonderful Life" where they all go and beat up Mr. Potter. 😂

[@karlstanc4444]

"George Bailey" played in a similar type of a fantastic old movie titled Shop Around The Corner! Quite recently a movie You've Got Mail was made, based on the story from the original: Shop Around The Corner. ...Just in case if you lovely girls would be interested in a movie in similar mood. I'm sure you' absolutely enjoy both: Shop Around A Corner and You've Got Mail...

[@brianfisher6165]

The dance where they fell in the pool was filmed at Beverly Hills High School! It is still there. It doubles as a basketball court and a swimming pool!👌👍✌️😁

[@calebmorrow96]

A man loses his mind a bit when he cant protect his family. It's a lonesome desperation

[@MC-ef6wo]

I was thinking the same thing watching. I don't think some of these girls get it

[@Logan-ed4pu]

23:51 Curiosity got me on this one. The promised $20,000 a year in 1946 would be the equivalent to $305,653 a year today. Damn.

[@gd3369]

but think of it ... George and Mary would be rich, but after that 3 years Potter would fire him and he would have gotten rid of the Building and Loan one way or another .... yes 20K back then was extremely wealthy ...

[@zvimur]

Proportionally, Uncle Billy lost about... 130,000! Ouch!!

[@Trashed20659]

This movie did poor box office sales in 1946 and was long forgotten until it started making yearly appearances on television. It gained a huge following that way and is now considered a top American Classic.

[@cindyknudson2715]

It was ahead of its time. It might be that right after the war, people didn't _want_ to think.

[@SueProv]

This movie was made in 1946. When the Depression which was worldwide started in 1929. In 1933 banks closed doors and bank deposits were not insured by the federal government. It was a scary time in the US

[@fenianbastard6226]

The first person ever to describe George Bailey as Toxic! 🤯

[@tec52]

I am so glad you ladies watched this. I was curious how you'd react considering that it's almost 90 years old and there are cultural references that I wasn't sure you'd understand. This is an American Christmas staple, and glad you loved it. Love you ladies.

[@realBkay]

53:49 - Lia, the other tough nut to crack. Seems the town’s giving spirit, touched her heart. Zu Zu’s comment about bell ringing and angel wings puts her over the top. Good for u Lia. I watch this movie every Christmas. I know the ending and it still evokes liquid seepage from my eyes.

[@kevtb874]

I think the others already had their cry and were enjoying the happy ending but it was that last minute that finally got to Lia. That's usually what does it for me. Harry toasting his brother and the crowd singing. And then the book, the quote about never being a failure if you have friends and the bells. It's a triple whammy of good feelings. There's no ending like it.

[@MrRondonmon]

Potter (Lionel Barrymore) is Drew Barrymore's Great Uncle, they were all great actors from the stage/silent movies and Lionel was probably the greatest one. That's why he could pull it off, I loved the villians acting in this one.

[@thomassmith6232]

Now you need to do a reaction to Harvey (1950). James Stewart said that his character in the movie (Elwood P. Dowd) was his favorite role.

[@lynnhathaway3755]

Yes! Harvey is such a great movie.

[@pnwcruiser]

This movie is a gem...truly a classic, and a wonderful holiday tradition.

[@TylerNally]

There are few better viewing experiences in life than watching four lovely ladies (of a family-centric Slavic origin) watch this movie. The heart of these ladies is in dead center target of the passions and upbringings of their heritage. As the movie moved and swayed, they kept perfect harmony with it. Bravo homies!

[@Stogie2112]

Your next Christmas assignment is MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET (1947) - Starring Maureen O'Hara and Natalie Wood. It's a wonderful tale about a department store Santa and a little girl who doesn't believe.

[@johnnehrich9601]

Absolutely!

[@SueProv]

The director of this movie was Frank Capra. He came as a 6 yr old boy with his parents and brother from Sicily. Capra means goat. The goat was with an Italian family. When Capra came into NY harbor his father carried him to the deck to see the statue of liberty and many of the people were in tears and on their knees thanking God for making it to this country.

[@philisett1888]

The four of you made my day! I love this film, and watching your reaction and the range of your emotions were a real blessing. Happy holidays!

[@footofjuniper8212]

Look for the "lost ending" of this movie as presented in a sketch on SNL in the 80s. Very funny and oddly satisfying.

[@JLOFlix]

This movie is a Godsend! Pure inspiration and full of life lessons! A template for living a good life and helping others! It really brings out the best in us for a sweet period of time!! Thank you SO MUCH for sharing your BEAUTIFUL reactions!

[@wordeye]

many life lessons here, yes. Life is beautiful and valuable, and when we don't see it that way, think of George and his epiphany. We influence so much in this life even when we don't realize it. Bendiciones, a todos, homies (homitas), los que comentan, etc.

[@Cosmo-Kramer]

Thanks for reacting to this all-time classic film, I'm glad you loved it! Hee-Haw & Merry Christmas to you girls!!!!

[@meredithchandler73]

One of the best films (not just Christmas films) ever made. And it never fails to make me cry. So glad you got to react to it!

[@chandie5298]

"No man is a failure who has friends."

[@CaptainFrost32]

1] The swimming pool still exists. The scene was filmed in the Beverly Hills high School. 2] The scene where Mary throws a rock and hits the glass was done in one shot. Donna Reed had been a highly talented pitcher when she had been in school. 3] At the end, Harry had been in Washington, D.C. at a dinner in his honor at the White House after being cited by Congress with the Medal of Honor. When he got the telegram from Mary about George's crises [scandal about Violet, bankruptcy, arrest warrants, etc.], Harry left his own celebration, grabbed a plane and flew home through the snowstorm. (As in, climbed in the cockpit and flew home in command of the plane, not as a passenger.) Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night!

[@SergioArellano-yd7ik]

In the Beverly Hills High?

[@SG-js2qn]

I'm glad you guys were able to enjoy this movie. So often it seems like the old values are just fading away, and people are just looking out for themselves.

[@louisenglish8069]

It's why reverence to God is vital. Our nature is to be selfish and narcissistic

[@randall-king]

@@louisenglish8069amen!

[@i_love_rescue_animals]

@@louisenglish8069 Well, I'm an atheist and also think this film is WONDERFUL and believe in these kind of values. I don't need a god for that. Merry Christmas - and btw, "Christmas" is actually a pagan holiday (mostly from the early Roman holiday - Saturnalia). It was just adopted by the Christians to get non-christians to convert more easily from their pagan ways (I'm not really a pagan either, though I do really believe in the beauty and power of nature).

[@louisenglish8069]

@@i_love_rescue_animals Yep, I've heard all the arguments. Hey, guess what? You're devotion to atheism (or whatever non- Christian take is popular these days) is no different from those devoted to Christianity. You're not special, you're not different or see things others don't. You're not rebellious, or non conformist for the nonsense you espouse. You want blowback? You want non conformist? Try being a Christian today. Only then will I, personally, be impressed

[@liamisaac1152]

That’s a sad thing about the world. It’s rare when someone is genuinely selfless for others in need.

[@jessfleury3761]

What I love about this movie is the fact that most of the movie is following George through most of his life. This allows the audience to really see the character development, fall in love with the characters, and draw more from the timeline where George does not exist. We saw the significant events that happened, but we do not see the regular events in between. We even forget through the movie some of the events that took place, or can’t draw conclusions from what may have happened to the characters that is not shown. The alternate timeline not only shows the impact of the significant acts like Harry, Mr. Gower, Mr. Martini, Uncle Billy and Mary. But, it also show others that were indirectly affected like Bert, Ernie, Ma Bailey, Violet, and the rest of the town. We could all learn a lot from this movie. I bet many times we see things through George’s eyes where we only see the negative right in front of us at the time. One of the quotes that hits me now is “Strange isn’t it? Each man’s life touches so many other lives. When he isn’t around, he leaves an awful hole doesn’t he?” Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays Homies! ❤️🤍💚🖤

[@cscook69]

In the scene where George freaks out on his family before running off, James Stewart, the actor who played George Bailey, was suffering from PTSD as a result of his service during WWII. During the scene, the emotional outburst he displayed was not in fact acting. Stewart later stated that this was actually his condition on full display. Even the film crew knew this wasn’t merely acting. But Stewart went on to say that this event allowed him to vent pent up emotions that had festered for years. After this, things began to calm down for him.

[@johnwest5837]

Merry Christmas to all of you ladies,and Happy New year from McAllen, Texas

[@johnwest5837]

Thank you.

[@TheNotoriousCheeto]

I like to think that after this movie, Mr. Potter tried to keep the $8000, but because he had no justification for the income the IRS audited him and he went to jail for tax evasion. One thing I really like about this movie is that George is NOT a perfect guy. He is a good person sure, but he definitely has a selfish side and a mean temper. Despite this, his actions for the town speak louder than his failings and they save him in the end.

[@lisathuban8969]

Happy to see all of you enjoyed the film. Great reaction! Just one little thing... When George asks Mary if it's a boy or a girl, one of you says "It's too soon to know". LOL, just fyi, there were NO sonograms back then. No gender reveals or that kind of thing. You didn't know what sex the baby was until they were actually born.

[@stephenmelone8589]

If you enjoy Jimmy Stewart in this you will love the movie HARVEY about an invisible 6 foot rabbit . It was a huge hit .

[@j.woodbury412]

That gym floor that opened up to reveal the pool underneath it was actually real. When they were filming the scene where George is in the bar praying, James Stewart became so overcome that he started crying. Frank Capra wanted to capture that scene so he had it frozen and blown up. That's why it looks grainier compared to the rest of the movie. Also, the movie was filmed in the Summer during a heat wave. If you look closely at George's face when he's on the bridge, you can see he's sweating. The actress who played George's daughter Zuzu, said she never watched the movie until she was an adult.

[@brightspacebabe]

When I was 12 in 1982 this movie was on the tv for 24 hours before Christmas and one year I saw it 3 times continuously! Love to see y’all enjoy it! Merry Christmas from Austin Texas ❤

[@thecaptain3594]

YES!!! Best Christmas movie ever made, hands down. Next, you should check out SCROOGE (1951). It is obviously an adaptation of A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens. And it is sort of the opposite of IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE. It shows a bad man what the world is like because of him. Great movie.

[@oliverbrownlow5615]

I prefer the 1970 musical version of *Scrooge* to the 1951 version, but I agree with your point about *It's a Wonderful Life* being the "opposite" of *A Christmas Carol.* Both stories are about what you might call a crisis of faith. In both, supernatural beings review the protagonists' pasts and presents before showing them a nightmare vision of a world in which they are absent. But *It's a Wonderful Life* turns *A Christmas Carol* on its head by focusing on a poor man who helps others rather than a rich, selfish man who treats others with disdain. The movie even underlines the point that this is not Scrooge's "Christmas Carol" by showing us an unrepentant Scrooge in the person of Mr. Potter, played by Lionel Barrymore, who was famous for playing the role of Scrooge in an annual radio version of *A Christmas Carol.*

[@PatrickOneal-nl7xk]

For many years this was a number one Christmas movie of all times. To me it will always be my favorite Christmas movie.

[@08wolfeyes]

It's so wonderful to see people watching some of the older movies who can enjoy and appreciate them. They may not have all the special effects that we have today but some of them have such wonderful stories. This movie really makes you think about the lives you touch in your own life, those whose lives may be better because you were there to help them through a difficult time. It makes you wonder what things might be like if you hadn't been born and whose lives wouldn't be the same without you around. A great reaction ladies. Have a wonderful day, take care!

[@wheelmanstan]

James Stewart eventually became a Major General of the Air Force. Incredible guy.

[@williebee7324]

The 4 of you are never more BEAUTIFUL - Than when you cry those Happy Tears at the end~! Thank You for your marvelous sense of Empathy and Compassion, it's contagious...:-) Cheers and Merry Christmas to you all~!

[@JordanCesaroni93]

James Stewart was a great actor and this is no doubt one of his most famous movies. RIP you legend

[@BenWillyums]

He was suffering from PTSD from his time as a bomber pilot in WW2 while he made this film

[@mjenningssmith]

This is a black and white movie. Color was added for the TV version many years later.

[@jd-zr3vk]

The scene where Mary and George get engaged, 2 pages of dialogue was left out. Kapra said, with acting like that, who needs dialogue. Our niece, Charlotte, died at the age of 21. Her maternal uncle was routed through Charlotte, NC. He bought a bell with Charlotte on it. The bell was placed in her casket so she could get her wings right away. 😢 We have followed that tradition ever since. Every relative and close family friend get a wing bell. That way they can become an angel right away. (Not really, humans do not become angels). If you look up Bedford Falls, the city, and Bedford Falls, there is about a 20 mile difference.Hiking between the city to falls is totally impractical. Thank goodness no one in a theatre looks up that kind of detail. Mary, are you on the nest? Back then they just could not say pregnant and certainly not knocked up.

[@wpl8275]

76 years old and the magic still continues. This story to me is the bookend of A Christmas Carol. One is about making the world a better place through change and the other is about appreciating the life you have because of the effect of it on others around you. It was made the year after Jimmy Steward got out of the military as a bomber pilot in World War 2. He had seen death and destruction up close and had lost so many friends. He knew the value of life by then to its fullest and could portray the emotions (especially of hopelessness) so well. It's a classic for a reason.

[@ianherrick3526]

Rear Window and Mr. Smith Goes to Washington are other great Jimmy Stewart classics.

[@oliverbrownlow5615]

Another -- which also has a Christmas connection -- is *Meet John Doe* (1941).

[@beccajoyner]

I relate to George Bailey so much. One of my all time favorites. I watch it year round honestly. Jimmy Stewart is a legend.

[@harpergras]

James Stewart was a National Treasure...A true icon...My Moms favorite actor.

[@tinanickerson1006]

You ladies are soooo sweet its so nice to watch you react to movies!! This is a classic in America for sure and is a must see during the holiday season ...sooooo glad you were moved by this movie and really took in the joy and love of the season!! Look forward to more of your reactions!!

[@cliveklg7739]

My dad was like George in that everyone he met became his friend. When he passed, there wasn't room in the church for all the people that came for his funeral.

[@randallshuck2976]

The emotion Jimmy Stewart was showing was made a bit easier since he was actively suffering from PTSD. He was an army pilot over Europe through WWII

[@Hiraghm]

He was a bomber pilot. And of course, everyone who served in WWII "suffered" from PTSD, don't you know? Except my father. And my uncle. But they were the only two out of the millions who didn't suffer PTSD, even though the millions of others went on to make families and lead normal lives, they all suffered terribly from severe, debilitating PTSD. To steal a quote form General McAuliffe... Nuts.

[@randallshuck2976]

@@Hiraghm Yeah I just picked that up from an interview with some of the cast. My uncle was in a tank crew who was wounded outside Bastogne and spent a fairly long time in a POW camp had some bad days especially around the 4th of July and on very cold nights. He would have denied that he had an problems. It wasn't acceptable to show anything but stoic resolve. Luckily I never had PTSD either.

[@rayvanhorn1534]

One of my absolute favorite holiday/Christmas films, so glad you ladies enjoyed it! So much to gain from this movie, all that is good & decent in a time of values & morals. (What a wife Mary is...any man would be so very blessed to have a woman like her by his side)

[@sobe9ball]

Vicky was the ONLY one of you with genuine emotion and the appropriate reaction for this movie! Sorry, she seemed very connected to it and understood it well!

[@jonalberts980]

Lia 53:49

[@davidhutchinson5233]

I loved it when he said, "Just remember this, Mr. Potter, that this rabble you're talking about, they do most of the working and paying and living and dying in this community. Well, is it too much to have them work and pay and live and die in a couple of decent rooms and a bath?" Goddamn right.

[@jimmccarley8280]

I just wanted to comment on this movie...This movie should be required for every person to watch. I own the dvd and watched it for the first time when I was a child. I am 65 years old. The black and white version is better simply because the original is black and white and it adds some tone to it like the dark scenes and such are just better in black and white. Anyway, I am glad you ladies enjoyed this movie, it is one of the best films ever made. We never know how our lives interact with others and even a kind word for a simple good deed by us may indeed change the course of events for many people...but then again, what if some people had never been born , the world might be a better place...

[@CJ87317]

"A toast to my big brother George: the richest man in town." --- doesn't matter if I've watched it from the beginning or just the last five minutes....that line destroys me every single time.

[@davideddy8557]

My family and I watch this every year on Christmas

[@PALMERUSA21]

That woman in the blue dress is Actress Donna Reed. She got her own show called The Donna Reed Show.

[@fernandof.2225]

You 4 are so sweet and romantic. I think is great you enjoyed one of the greatest Classic's in America history. I was tearing up for the 1st time after seeing you all tearing up :)

[@jd-zr3vk]

This movie did not get traction until the mid 1950s when it lost the copyright; it could be shown on all TV channels. It is now a Christmas favorite. NBC, somehow, has the copyright. Lionel Barrymore played Mr. Potter; he was Drew Barrymores great great uncle. Her great grandfather was John Barrymore who played the title role in the silent film, Dr. Jeckle and Mr. Hide. It is worth watching.

[@i_love_rescue_animals]

Thanks for reacting to this movie! I understand that when this movie was released, it was met by the overall American public with a "ho hum" - and didn't do that well at the box office. But then over time, it became a Christmas classic. This is my favorite (OK, one of my favorite) holiday films! ❤

[@pliny8308]

This is the best Christmas movie EVER! Watch it every year with my family and it gets me every time. :)

[@sheriffrory]

@37:25 Did the girl with pink hair call George weak?? Are we watching the same movie? The man gave up everything he ever wanted for the people in the town and then something that he couldn't control ruined his life. In the mist of shock and fear, he ended up on the bridge to take his own life, and the girl with pink hair called him weak. Interesting.

[@timj9466]

Yeah of all the reactions I've watched of this movie they are the only ones to look at George and think he is "toxic" or "weak"

[@donaldduncan7095]

Interesting side story.....A clerk at the studio forgot to file the $4.00 copyright fee for this movie, which cost the studio millions every year. 🤦‍♂

[@wadstur8429]

It’s so wonderful to see this through new eyes. I love it when people get to see it for the first time. Thank you

[@GoodCorporateRobot]

I'm a 59 year old grown ass man and I cry like a little baby every time I watch this movie.

[@TheR15C]

Zuzu’s pedals!!!! - I watch this every year with my family. I plan on giving a few copies to friends this Christmas. ‘Remember, no man is a failure who has friends!’

[@stevenorellano2039]

Black and white version is visually more appealing to me.

[@jeri3808]

Ladies the ringing bell in the beginning and end of the film was not about angel wings. It was the symbol for liberty Films, the studio, who distributed the film.

[@dalehenrickson6243]

There is no such thing as a toxic man. A man is either a good man with high character or a bad man with low character.