Frank Capra's It's a Wonderful Life started off small, berated by many critics, overlooked by much of the public and decades later, distributed to public domain, but its humble status distinguished its destiny, making it a Christmas classic, even though it works just as well at any time of the year.
LIFE's periodical homage, It's a Wonderful Life: The Season's Most Beautiful Film (#1 Christmas Movie of All Time), written by Richard Jerome, covers the production's genesis, stemming from an inspirational, short story by Philip Van Doren Stern to a complex, character-driven Twilight Zone precursor (accentuated by screenwriters Capra, Frances Goodrich, Albert Hackett, Jo Swerling and Dorothy Parker), where James Stewart's suicidal, do-gooder, George Bailey, is granted the chance to see how the world would be if he had never been born: a jarring wish bestowed by a bumbling, wingless, guardian angel, Henry Travers' amicable Clarence Odbody.
Jerome's multi-part, detailed-laden essay is heightened by endearing photos (accompanied by rare, behind-the-scene shots) and sturdy bios, which cater not only to Stewart and Travers, but their exceptional costars: Donna Reed, Lionel Barrymore, Thomas Mitchell, Gloria Grahame, Ward Bond, Frank Faylen, Sheldon Leonard, Beulah Bondi, Samuel S. Hinds, H.B. Warner and Karolyn Grimes. I'd have preferred hearty sections on Todd Karns and Ryan Slater, but alas, these fine contributors must prevail through insinuation and viewers' cherished recollections.
On the further downside, Jerome's tribute sometimes delves into superfluous, socio-political editorializing, which has nothing to do with the movie or its message. That Capra was conservative is an implied concern, when all he did was make a heartfelt movie that appeals to all good, hard-working people, regardless of their philosophical swings or denominations. Let's be honest. The film's adage, "No Man is a Failure who has Friends," is what eclipses any and all distinguishing differences among those who fight the good fight.
Despite its occasional, soap-box slant, LIFE's salute is a quality package, which commemorates one of cinema's inarguable greats. It's a Wonderful Life: The Season's Most Beautiful Film can be purchased at supermarkets and drugstores nationwide. Be sure to pick up a copy this holiday season.
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