It’s a Wonderful Life

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This all-American holiday classic released in 1946 marked a return to the big screen for actor James Stewart, who had been serving in World War II for nearly five years. His role as George Bailey, a struggling businessman in the upstate town of Bedford Falls, was later cited by the actor as one of his favorites, while director Frank Capra brought both emotional drama and warm humor to the life-affirming fantasy that has become an annual movie-viewing tradition for viewers of all generations.

Featuring highlights from the Margaret Herrick Library and the Academy Film Archive.

Theatrical one-sheet
The Greatest Gift
The Early Days of IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE
Letter to Hedda
How They Made the Snow
The Bailey Household
Inside Bedford Falls
The Potter House
The final scene
It's a Wonderful Menu
Production Code's notes
It’s a Wonderful Life score
Lux Radio Theatre
James Stewart's Honorary Award