In one of the IFI’s most popular traditions, perennial favourite It’s A Wonderful Life, required viewing over the festive period, once again returns to our screens to warm even the coldest of hearts. James Stewart is at his most likeable as George Bailey, loyal family man and friend whose selfless nature has resulted in his spending his whole life in hometown Bedford Falls, despite his ardent desire for travel and adventure. When despotic merchant Mr. Potter seizes an opportunity to ruin George, and thus consolidate his own control over the town, George finds himself preparing to jump from a bridge. However, a higher power intervenes and sends Angel (Second Class) Clarence Odbody (Henry Travers) to show George what life in Bedford Falls would have been like had he never been born. This uplifting story continues to be rediscovered and beloved by successive generations.

Notes by Kevin Coyne.