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It's A Wonderful Life 60th Anniversary 2-Disc Collector's Set Print E-mail
Reviews - DVD
Written by Candie Johnson   
Tuesday, 13 November 2007

itsawonderfullife_dvd.jpgRated: NR
Starring: James Stewart, Donna Reed, and Lionel Barrymore
Directed by: Frank Capra

Director Frank Capra called It's A Wonderful Life his favorite film, and it has become the favorite of millions since its original theatrical release in 1946—even voted the #1 most inspiring film of all time by the American Film Institute's 100 Years. . .100 Cheers.

It is the story of George Bailey, an ordinary man in a small town who thinks he is a failure, but is given a chance to see what the world would have been like if he'd never been born. This timeless holiday classic is full of well-loved characters and a message as simple and powerful today as when it first appeared more than 60 years ago.

Jimmy Stewart as George, starring in his first film after returning from the Army in World War II; newcomer Donna Reed as Mary Bailey—the girl with whom George falls in love even while determined that he won't; Lionel Barrymore as the Scrooge-like banker who tries to ruin the little town of Bedford Falls and it's most beloved citizen. 

These talented actors (and many more who make cameo appearances) add depth and texture to this charming story. It is also, according to Frank Capra Jr., "a kind of tour of America in the first half of (the 20th) century. . ." , and continues to delight new generations of viewers with its simple, heartwarming message that no one is a failure who enriches the lives of others.

DVD Features:

  • Restored original black and white version
  • Enhanced color version
  • Original theatrical trailer
  • Full screen format
  • English Mono/French Mono/ English subtitles
  • The Making of "It's a Wonderful Life" documentary featurette hosted by Tom Bosley
  • A Personal Remembrance
  • A special tribute to Frank Capra, narrated by his son Frank Capra Jr.

Critique:

This special edition DVD includes the full-length original black and white version which has been fully restored, as well as the newer colorized version released more recently. The black and white version has several entertaining special features, including a documentary full of tidbits and trivia - the Bedford Falls winter snow scenes are even more fun to watch once you know they were actually shot on a set in Southern California during a record-breaking heat wave.

The movie was nominated for several Academy Awards, and although not originally a commercial success, has become one of the most beloved films of all time. Positive, uplifting, sentimental - Frank Capra loved to promote these themes in his films, and in It's A Wonderful Life he succeeded brilliantly.

This 2-disc set is a great holiday gift for any classic film fan, as it combines both available versions and the special features from previous releases in one collector's set.

Comments
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Oliver Closehoff   |2007-11-14 11:01:58
Well written review - makes me want to buy the set!
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