Grade: A+
This 1946 black-and-white American classic seems to only improve with age. There’s no denying that the holiday season is just not the same without the story of Clarence the angel showing George Bailey just how wonderful and precious life is. Most importantly, it shows the audience how their actions can affect the lives of so many others. James Stewart gives the performance of his career as a man who sacrificed his dreams for others, dealing with issues that are still relevant today. It teaches the values of loyalty and self-respect, but the greatest lesson this film has to offer is put best by the angel Clarence: “A successful life isn’t measured by the amount of money you collect, but by the amount of friends you have gained along the way. Remember no man is a failure who has friends.” In short, you’d have to be Scrooge himself to not love this film.