One of the best movies ever made--and, in my opinion, the best Christmas film ever--is getting ready to air on NBC at 8 p.m. (Eastern). Be sure to tune in!
It's a Wonderful Life is one of my favorite things about this time of year. However, I do miss the old days when you could see it on about 11 channels at a time--remember that? Now it only airs once or twice a year or so on NBC. But when you have your own copy--as you should--then you can watch it anytime you see fit. And it doesn't have to be Christmastime to enjoy this classic.
Back in 1996, I wrote a story about the 50th anniversary of IAWL for the newspaper at which I was working at the time. I had the pleasure of interviewing (via phone) Karolyn "Zuzu" Grimes and Jimmy "Tommy" Hawkins--both played Jimmy Stewart's children in IAWL. They were both so nice!
I have had some fun IAWL memorabilia over the years, including the Hallmark Christmas ornament pictured above. I have so much more to write, but I have to run right now. Be sure to watch tonight!
Each man's life touches so many other lives. When he isn't around, he leaves an awful hole, doesn't he? --Clarence the Angel
Dear Karen,
ReplyDeleteNice post! My name is Peter Ricci, and I'm a college student and journalist who currently contributes to 'Too Shy to Stop,' an online magazine focused on culture and the arts.
I came across your post, as it would turn out, while searching for different blogs on "It's a Wonderful Life," as I just finished an essay on the film.
While a wonderful film, I take an alternate view, seeing it as a populist message in cue with Capra's career and its current status as a holiday chestnut a misinterpretation.
Check it out! I think you will like it, and I would love a comment: http://tooshytostop.wordpress.com/2008/12/24/its-a-wonderful-life-wonderfully-misinterpreted/
Sincerely,
Peter Ricci
P.S. Those interviews are quite admirable.