It's Still a Wonderful Life

Directed By Frank Carpra

Starring
James Stewart, Donna Reed, Lionel Barrymore, Thomas Mitchell, Henry Travers It’s a Wonderful Life is a magical story of hope and honour that still has the power to move and inspire in this, its 60th Anniversary year.

The heartwarming tale is that of George Bailey, an ambitious man with aspirations to travel, study and live a life outside of small town Bedford Falls. However when his father dies, George is left to manage his business, which only serves to distance him from his dreams and make him disillusioned with his lot. But just when life seems stuffed with misery and disappointment George realises that it truly is wonderful.

Capra’s movie remains a classic because ultimately, it is a story about hope, honour and good coming to those who deserve it most.  And in these modern times of naked desire and looking out for number one it is a fitting reminder of what really matters in life.

James Stewarts’ George is one of the best-loved film characters of all time, and Henry Travers’ Clarence a perfect ‘higher being’ who shows him a Bedford Falls that he never knew existed.

It’s a Wonderful Life may not be cool or contemporary but, this Christmas, watch it and see why this beautiful film can still cut it.

Stephanie  Stalidis

We spoke to Amazon.co.uk's Media Product Manager Matt Henderson on how ‘It’s a Wonderful Life” fares on the site.

Does  "It's a Wonderful Life" consistently sell  well at Christmas?
Yes, it has remained popular and sells particularly well at Christmas.  It is currently ranked 36 on our DVD bestseller charts which is amazing for a film from 1946.

Is  the movie is still relevant today, 60 years on, and why?
Its strong sales are testament to the film's enduring relevance and are proof that a great, well executed story is more important than flashy special effects.  Our website review of the film puts it well: The director's triumph is to acknowledge the difficulties and disappointments of life, while affirming his cherished values of friendship and individual achievement.

What demographic buys the movie?
We don't reveal specific customer details but I can say that sales of the film are closely correlated with other Christmas-oriented titles - many customers of "It's a Wonderful Life" have also purchased "Miracle On 34th Street" or "Scrooge" so it's clear that, regardless of their demographic, they love Christmas!

Do you think there would ever be a re-make?
Personally I hope there never will be - the story doesn't need updating and no-one could ever play the lead role better than James Stewart.

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