It's a Wonderful Life (1946)

A festive and timeless masterpiece: It's A Wonderful Life directed by Frank Capra has to be one of the (if not the) greatest Christmas films of all time. A stunningly beautiful forties classic which is guaranteed to cling onto audiences long after viewing.

James Stewart is simply marvellous in his Academy Award winning role as the hardworking, honest George Bailey who puts everyone and everything before himself. With his sights set on the typical young dreams of venturing to far away lands, it's safe to say that these dreams are sacrificed by that of his good heart. The film follows George throughout his life from a simple shop boy to a husband and father. However, the beauty of It's A Wonderful Life is that it has the power to be so much more than - just another Christmas film.

When George's life in Bedford Falls becomes desperate, he is sorely driven to committing suicide. With the help from his guardian angel Clarence, George is shown the extent of his importance within his life.

It's A Wonderful Life reminds its audience of an individual's, single impact upon the world and how the simplest of acts can affect so many.

An honest opinion of Capra's classic is that this film will reveal more and more with every viewing, its messages will become clearer and earlier scenes will appear all the more relevant. The story telling can be only described as beautiful and it is a complete must watch for Christmas.