It's a Wonderful Life
1946 | 131 min | Drama, Family, Fantasy
Why it’s a Saturday Special
Critics loved it (94%), audiences adore it (8.3/10) and it drew serious awards attention, despite soft box office. A strong pick for the weekend.
Based on critics, audiences, awards, box office and buzz. Details below.Have you seen it?
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George Bailey has spent his entire life giving to the people of Bedford Falls. All that prevents rich skinflint Mr. Potter from taking over the entire town is George's modest building and loan company. But on Christmas Eve the business's $8,000 is lost and George's troubles begin.
How it earned its rating
- CriticsVery strong
94% on Rotten Tomatoes, 89 on Metacritic
- AudiencesVery strong
8.3/10 from 5K viewers
- AwardsStrong
1 win, 5 other nominations — nominated for Academy Award for Best Picture; nominated for Academy Award for Best Director
- Box office & staying powerBelow par
$10 million worldwide on a $3 million budget
- Buzz & cultural impactSolid
Measured from current popularity
Where to watch in US
Amazon Prime Video
Amazon Prime Video with Ads
Hoopla
Fawesome
The Roku ChannelRent or buy: JustWatch TV Store, Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Fandango At Home
Trailer
Cast & crew
Directed by Frank Capra
- James StewartGeorge Bailey
- Donna ReedMary Hatch
- Lionel BarrymoreMr. Potter
- Thomas MitchellUncle Billy
- Henry TraversClarence
- Beulah BondiMrs. Bailey
- Frank FaylenErnie
- Ward BondBert
- Gloria GrahameViolet
- H.B. WarnerMr. Gower