Watch the complete reaction on my PATREON: www.patreon.com/OnceUponaReaction PAYPAL: www.paypal.com/paypalme/onceuponareaction?locale.x=es_XC Follow me in my social networks: Instagram: instagram.com/shows_reactions1 Personal Instagram: instagram.com/vane_gutierrez_official/ Twitter: @AVane_g twitter.com/AVane_g Tik Tok: @avane_official vm.tiktok.com/ZSQGbM2v/
A lot of people don’t get what happened when George kisses Mary passionately for the first time. It was George desperately hanging on to his childhood dream of moving away and travelling the world. He didn’t really have a chance because he loved Mary even more. George was so intensely passionate throughout his entire life. What a man.
The scene where Gower hits young George always makes me cry because there's such grace in it. George knew that that wasn't how Mr Gower actually was, that it was a dark moment. That forgiveness & understanding from such a young kid just touches my heart.
@@trhansen3244 No, I didn't know that. Looking into it, at least it seems the actor who played Gower did feel bad about it. But oof, people got away with a lot making movies back then.
As Gower is hitting George, the camera cuts to Mary, who hears the whole thing. She winces as if she's receiving the blows herself. She really did love him from the beginning.
@@Jeff_Lichtman She did. And I've said elsewhere Mary is a force of nature. She loved & wanted to marry George, it happened. She wanted to stay in Bedford Falls & live in the Granville place, she made it work. Never bet against Mary.
Jimmy Stewart won an Oscar in 1940. During World War II he became a bomber pilot in the European theater. He rose to the rank of Colonel and was the commander of a bomber squadron. He suffered Post Tramatic Stress because of the pressure of sending his men on dangerous missions. He needed to spend about 6 months in hospital. Lionel Barrymore who played Nr. Potter encouraged Stuart to take this part because the country needed good stories to get back to normal.
@@brianelliott8050 Stewart both wrote in biographies and gave interviews where he described his issues with depression and other emotional trauma after his service in WW2--what we now call PTSD--so I call bullshit on your claim.
EXACTLY -- Jimmy Stewart MOST CERTAINLY DID suffer from PTSD !!!!!!!!!! One war event in particular sent him into deep depression and psychological suffering and nearly broke him: he missed leading one bombing mission in particular due to battle fatigue or other issues, and a LARGE portion of his squadron got wiped out in that day's bombing mission absent his leadership (or at least that's what Jimmy attributed all those deaths to). Jimmy always beat himself up over the incident, and it haunted him for many years. @@rikk319
George really struggles with Mary - he doesnt want to marry because it is another thing to get in the way of what he wants to accomplish - but he really likes her at the same time - the conflict inside of him is such that he gets really mad and upset - while the scene seems strange it really is well done.
It seems strange because we are so used to the freedom birth control gives couples. There was no reliable birth control in the 1920s, and little daycare or careers for women. For a man, getting married meant children and responsibilities came fast. George can't travel the world with a pregnant wife - it was either his dreams, or Mary.
The Mary/George kissing scene always confuses people. I always interpreted as that he loved Mary deeply, but he knew that if he pursued a relationship with her, his chances of achieving his dreams would go down significantly because they'd start a family and he'd have to provide, etc., etc. So on the phone, he's looking at her and he wants her, but he's also tired of putting off his dreams, so just as he is about to break and kiss her, he shouts at her. But the way she's looking at him, he can't deny it. So he gives in. It's a really beautiful scene that really shows how we as humans get conflicted sometimes.
That scene is incredibly hot and romantic, they don't make love scenes like that anymore. I interpreted it as you did. There was no reliable birth control and little daycare in the 1920s. So for a man getting married meant settling down and assuming a lot of responsibilities. It wasn't just that his chances of achieving his dream would go down. He couldn't travel with a pregnant wife. It was either/or - either his dreams or Mary. His shouting was his final surrender of his lifelong goals, to love. Maybe that's why romantic scenes in modern movies don't have the electricity they do in these old movies, because since the sexual revolution the stakes aren't as high.
The scene with George and Mary on the stairway in her mother's house is one of the most passionate in film history. George, throughout these scenes, starting with meeting his brother and his new wife at the railway station, is feeling how his life is getting away from him, and he's realizing he likely will never leave his home town. It all comes flowing out with the scene with Mary on the stairs. He's trying to convince himself that he can't be tied down. But as their mutual passion wells up and comes to the surface he chooses life with Mary.
The last surviving adult cast member passed away in August, at age 97. Many of the child actors, including ZuZu, are still alive, though. Karolyn Grimes, who played ZuZu, is 82.
It doesn't matter how many times I watch this, there are always times when tears are dripping off my chin. The more times you watch, the more you cry at different points. You understand the ramifications of each scene, like talking to his dad at the dinner table, giving his speech to the townspeople during the depression, praying at Martinis. Each scene becomes more significant when you know the whole story. Your's is my favorite reaction. You paid attention to the details and cried at the end. I did it with you. Merry Christmas!
James Stewart plays conflicted (and George's other ....dark... emotions) really well because he might not have been acting. He was fresh back from the war and no doubt had a deep emotional well to draw from. The more I see this film, the more I appreciate Donna Reed's acting chops - especially comparing it with other notable roles she did like 'From Here to Eternity' and her long TV career from her eponymous 1950s sitcom to Dallas in the 1980s. She made it all look so effortless, her talent was underrated.
James Stewart flew a bomber in WWII for the United States Army Air Corps, hitting targets in Nazi-controlled areas of western Europe and was depressed for a long time, feeling guilty about the innocent people he likely had killed on the ground.
Dear child. Don't ever think you haven't influenced anyone, don't believe you arent important. You've made more impact than you could know. Thanks for your content. I just love your reactions!
Clarence: "Your brother, Harry Bailey, broke through the ice and was drowned at the age of nine." George Bailey: "That's a lie! Harry Bailey went to war! He got the Congressional Medal of Honor! He saved the lives of every man on that transport!" Clarence: "Every man on that transport died. Harry wasn't there to save them, because you weren't there to save Harry.” I get a lump in my throat every time I see that scene.
YOU were soo intent and saw the details in every scene Vannessa. I have not see many reactors see how Uncle Billy loses the money as quick as you did😄. YOU were so into this film, and Im glad you want to see more classic Black & white films.i have been promoting a wonderful one called ROMAN Holiday with GREGORY PECk and AUdrey Hepburn , you will absolutely love it and its full of comedy, romance and just a great idea all taking place in 2 days
5:05 I had weekend and summer jobs when I was 12 years old cutting lawns, raking leaves and trimming hedges. At 15 years I was working 10 hours days on the weekend at the local grocery store and after school during the week I bagged groceries and brought them out to peoples cars for them. That was 35 hours per week of work at 15 years old.
You know George always criticized their house as being old. Back then, a new brick ranch house was popular. And back then, his type house was probably considered old fashioned. But today, everyone loves those big old Victorian houses. Fashions change.
@@trhansen3244 A Christmas Carol and It's a Wonderful Life have nothing in common outside of the angel/ghost thing. The message is different, what the angel/ghosts did was completely different, the character and how interacted with the world was completely different. Mr. Potter has more in common with Scrooge than George, and he's the same grumpy old man at the end that he was at the beginning. If there's any American story that copied A Christmas Carol, It's How the Grinch Stole Christmas.
There was a time in the early 70's where this film came up for being charged to keep it private, but the company did not do that. It then went into public domain where it was not charged for at all. Since then, it has played every Christmas
Merry Christmas Vanessa! I hope you realise how much joy you've given the countless thousands of people around the world watching your wonderful reactions, you always put so much passion into them - your personality truly shines through! I wish we had more people like you in the world... we all love you - wishing you all the very best for the holiday season and for the future! :)
For as long as I can remember, going over 6 decades, this film has been an annual seasonal event in my life. It's always a timely reminder of what is truly important. I'm glad you finally discovered this iconic holiday classic. Merry Christmas!!!
Hey Once Upon, Jimmy Stewart (George Bailey) is supposed to be playing a young man in his early 20s, but the once-boyish 38-year-old had just returned the year before from fighting in World War II, and only makeup and careful lighting could give him a semblance of youth. Donna Reed (Mary) was 25 years old when It's a Wonderful Life was made.
40:03 George said in the beginning" he wanted to travel and do great things"...... but, he didnt have to leave town to accomplish this. George never realized before that he- and he ALONE - kept Potter in check, which prevented the town from turning to vice and misery ... just by taking up his fathers mission,- becoming his successor, he prevented this from happening.Not to mention he saved his brother- a future war hero's life,and prevented a child from dying by a distraught pharmacist.
Such a heart warming movie Unfortunately there are to many Mr Potters in this world. Dispite his frustration and struggles George is a good man that loves his family and he felt terrible for taking his anger/frustration out on them. Mary is not just beautiful but a kind loving woman and renovated the old house almost by herself. She also got everyone together to raise the missing $8000 which would be equivalent to approx $122,137 in 2022. Have a Wonderful Christmas 🎄 🎅
The absolute best Christmas film ever. Hands down. I've watched it countless times. The final message gets me through each year. Glad you noticed it NEVER snows in Pottersville. The snow was a new development for the film too. Capra wanted to use live sound for the close up scenes so the usual Hollywood method - cornflakes bleached or painted in white was out as clearly any walking nearby would create unwanted sound so the special effects team came up with a brand new method. There was actually a record heatwave going on whilst the film was being made ! The Raven that Uncle Billy owns is called 'Jimmy'. He starred in 1000+ films and was quite the star - insured for the equivalent of thousands of dollars today. He's actually the 'crow' that lands on the Scarecrow in 'The Wizard of Oz'. Capra found a part for him in every film he made after 1938. Speaking of Uncle Billy, in the scene where he leaves the frame and there's a crash, a set hand dropped some equipment accidentally and the look of concern from Jimmy Stewart was genuine. Some say 'Uncle Billy' improvised the cry that he was alright, others say it was dubbed on in post. But the crash is genuine and unscripted. Jimmy Stewart was still suffering with PTSD from his WW2 service and credits this movie experience as being therapeutic. In particular, in the prayer scene it wasn't scripted for him to cry and they weren't really setup for a close up to really capture the emotion. Capra knew he couldn't replicate the emotion in a reshoot so he decided to go with the original footage and zoomed in on the negative for the final cut of the film. If you look, it looks grainier because of that but Capra thought it worked in bringing more emotion and it was certainly better than asking Jimmy to go again. Stewart is one of my favourite actors and even more so when you see this performance. So glad new generations are still enjoying this classic - and in black and white as it should be !
NEVER is a long time. Say rather “it doesn’t snow for TWO FULL HOURS in Pottersville” to see how crazy this sounds. If it NEVER snows in Pottersville, what’s all that white stuff on the ground, coke? Remember, we only see the cases Perry Mason defends on Saturdays.
Follow this crow in Frank Capra’s « You Can’t Take It with You » and you’ll meet again James Stewart, Samuel Hinds (Pa Bailey) and Lionel Barrymore (Potter) as the sweetest grandpa ever, all of them in a movie which is also a true lesson of life ! Greetings from France 🇫🇷
Just finished watching it again. It always brings me to tears. Like you said in todays world it’s a good lesson. It’s not about possessions or material things it’s about your loved ones
You are a sweetheart! It touched my heart that you "caught yourself" when you read the message from Clarence inside the book. Believe me, I have broken down over that part of the movie many times. Bless you and I am so glad you liked the movie! Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!
The thing is, George knows that if he gets married to Mary that he's putting yet another anchor into that town and it's going to get even harder for him to go and be adventurous like he wanted to ever since he was a kid. So he's struggling between the fact that he likes her and the fact that he wants freedom
22:09 "All you can take with you is that which you're giving away." I don't know _how_ many times I've seen this movie over the years. There was even a stretch during which I owned it on VHS. I've never seen that sign before. This is one of the reasons I watch reactors.
I am 68, cannot count how many time I watched this movie and it’s also the first time I realise this ! Another person made me realise that, in his office, Potter has both his own portait and a bust of Napoleon !!!
Merry Christmas, Vanessa!!! Thank you for tracking down the black & white version....it makes all the difference. This was a beautiful and hilarious reaction! Every time you laughed, I laughed! And yes, PLEASE do more classics! There are so many great ones, and you get a certain kind of romance and glamour that you don't get from later movies (and for the 70s, you get a realism and sense of experimentation that you don't always get from later films). THANKS for all the great reactions this year, you were one of the first reactors I ever discovered, a year and a half ago! I'm a happy subscriber!
I loved your reaction to my favorite Christmas movie! This just proves that whether it’s 1940 or 2020 this movie is still so relatable and still relevant. Enjoy your Christmas 🎉
Now everyone watching knows what Zuzu's petals are. But did you know that Zuzu's Petals is the name of a flower shop in Brooklyn, a boutique in Chicago, a restaurant in Long Beach, CA and the name of a national charity? There's even a female character named Zuzu Petals in The Adventures of Ford Fairlane (1990) with Andrew Dice Clay? All of these paying homage to It's a Wonderful Life.
If Vanessa was never born, I would not have one of my favorite TH-cam Channels that has brought me hours and hours of smiles and laughter. Merry Christmas Vanessa!! And Happy New Year!
Great reaction! Just a quick note, of the actors who played the Bailey children, the ones who played Zuzu, Janie, and Tommy are all still alive. Karolyn Grimes, who plays Zuzu still makes many public appearances at Christmas events around North America!
This movie isn’t about George knowingly getting what he wanted" it’s about being the kind of man who puts others needs ahead of himself. He kept hanging on to his old dreams even though he was already making a huge difference in the lives of his fellow townsfolk. He was already having a wonderful life.
Yeah, this movie is a classic that we watch almost every year for Christmas. It's a lot like A Christmas Carol with Ebenezer Scrooge if you think about it... Scrooge gets visited by spirits who show him his past, present, & future. George gets to see what would have happened if he had never been born. Both of them get a 2nd chance & decide to be happy and appreciate life in the end.
t's a Wonderful Life is more than a Christmas movie I am not christen and I love it. It is a feel good movie and one of the first time travel element movies. It is so much about time travel or alternative realities that Back to the future allude to it :). Fun fact the movie was not a financial success when it came out and was forgotten. Only because of a copyright registration error ( Which was fixed decades later) the movie was considered public domain for years and because of the that the Tv Networks aired over and over every Christmas till it became a cult classic. Another fun fact the scene with the uncle that was drunk and fell down was adlib because one of the stage worker dropped something in the middle of filming. I love George speech to Mr Potter about the working class. The actor who plays Mr Potter is by the way Drew Barrymore great uncle. If you want another great Jimmy Stewart movie you should watch Mr Smith goes to Washington.
Time travel? Hmmm. Sorry, but I didn't see any time traveling. We saw an alternative timeline without George Bailey. Is that really time travel, though? The answer to that requires a mind of high intellect and logic rarely seen since the fictional Sherlock Holmes. I'll email Joe Biden immediately.
This is one of the greatest movies (not just for Christmas) ever made, and is my favorite. I think you'll probably like "A Christmas Story," which is a modern movie, but it was set in the 1950s. But another really fantastic movie (and another in B&W) is "Miracle on 34th Street." This is one of the best Christmas movies ever made, and is very much loved. There were 3 versions of this movie made, but the very best was the original from 1947, and somehow, they managed to find and cast the REAL Santa Claus to play himself (though he was billed as Edmund Gwenn.)
3:28 "Is this gonna be a sad movie, guys? I don't wanna cry." Oh. Oh dear. Well, I mean, why do you think this movie has the distinction of being an American _classic?_ The first time you watch it, it moves you to tears.
The raven and the squirrel at the Bailey Building and Loan show the eccentricity of Uncle Billy and the raven in particular was a signifier of death, it may still be in some areas, so it was a foreboding omen for that place. Also, $8,000 in 1940 would be near $150,000 today so it was in fact a huge sum in the story. We watch this film every Christmas season, the message is timeless and as human as it gets. It is what Christmas is supposed to be about. Great to see young reactors watching this and finding out that they knew how to make great movies from the beginning of the movie industry.
First time viewer. It was beautiful to see how the movie chipped away at your hard exterior. It's a beautiful movie, and you're a beautiful soul. I really enjoyed experiencing this movie with you.
The film itself fell out of copyright in 1974. However, Republic Pictures owns the rights to the original story and the music used in the film. I haven't seen them going after any TH-camrs though.
Acabo de mirar esta reacción, espero con mucha sinceridad que de verdad no sientes que tu vida no tenga valor!! Even an interaction in a minimal circumstance can hold so much weight in someone else’s life. Your reactions help people. Ojalá que el año que viene sea el mejor de tu vida!
Actually I'm a little surprised the Hays code, or whatever morality censors had control in those days, let Mr. Potter get away with the theft with no consequences. That's not sending a good message for the kiddies watching the movie. Oh great, if you're rich you can get away with crimes all you want! I guess what was true in 1947 is still true 75 years later in 2022.
Yes, sadly people are creative enough to come up with their own ideas, no talent, they have to reach back and take from a classic wholesome pure film and defile it into what they think is 'funny'. No respect for the creative genius and efforts of Frank Capra, James Stuart and others to produce one of the most memorable and heart warming films of all time. Such a lack of respect is blatant and shameful. I was not brought up that way. My parents were the WW2 generation, the generation of this film and they taught me the same values and morals of their day. I am so grateful that I was given the gifts they gave me like in this film. "All you can take with you is that which you're giving away." The last couple of generations are missing so much in their lives lacking these things imparted to them that would make their lives so much richer. I pray they somehow learn the value of the depth of sacrificing for others brings the greatest reward. I see this young lady, as young as she is, has the capability of the depth of feeling and appreciating what this film is about. Blessings Always Vanessa!
When you said at 39:30 that nothing would change if you’d never been born at all because you’re not that nice of a person, I burst out laughing! 😂 It’s refreshing to hear someone say that. I’ve found that most claim they’re good people even when they’re definitely not. 🤓
George was 12 in 1919. In 1928 when Harry graduated from high school George was about 23. Of course Jimmy Stewart was quite a bit older than his character, George.
Jimmy the raven raven featured in numerous Hollywood films Jimmy the crow (often erroneously credited as Jimmy the Crow) was a raven actor who appeared in more than 1,000 feature films from the 1930s to the 1950s. Zsa Zsa Gabor, Jerry Lewis, Dean Martin, and Joanne Dru in 3 Ring Circus (1954) 3 Ring Circus Jimmy the Crow (uncredited) 1954 Joseph Cotten, Barbara Stanwyck, Leslie Caron, and Louis Calhern in The Man with a Cloak (1951) The Man with a Cloak Villon (uncredited) 1951 He's a Cockeyed Wonder (1950) He's a Cockeyed Wonder Jimmy (uncredited) 1950 Anita Lhoest and Johnny Weissmuller in Captive Girl (1950) Captive Girl Caw-Caw the Crow (uncredited) 1950 Trudy Marshall and Johnny Weissmuller in Mark of the Gorilla (1950) Mark of the Gorilla Caw-Caw the Crow (uncredited) 1950 Ken Curtis, Charlie Hughes, Robert Lowery, Martha Sherrill, and Black Diamond in Call of the Forest (1949) Call of the Forest Jimmy - the Crow 1949 The Secret Garden (1949) The Secret Garden Raven (uncredited) 1949 Roy Rogers in Susanna Pass (1949) Susanna Pass Jim the Crow (uncredited) 1949 Elena Verdugo and Johnny Weissmuller in The Lost Tribe (1949) The Lost Tribe Caw-Caw the Crow (uncredited) 1949 Lita Baron and Johnny Weissmuller in Jungle Jim (1948) Jungle Jim Caw-Caw the Crow 1948 Rory Calhoun and Audrey Long in Miraculous Journey (1948) Miraculous Journey Jim the Crow (as Jim the Crow) 1948 Bill and Coo (1948) Bill and Coo The Black Menace (as Curley Twiford's Jimmy the Crow) 1948 Alan Curtis and Anne Gwynne in The Enchanted Valley (1948) The Enchanted Valley Jim the Crow (as Jim the Crow) 1948 Roy Rogers, Andy Devine, Jane Frazee, and Trigger in Springtime in the Sierras (1947) Springtime in the Sierras Jimmy the Crow (uncredited) 1947 James Stewart and Donna Reed in It's a Wonderful Life (1946) It's a Wonderful Life Crow in Bank (uncredited) 1946 Birds Make Sport Jimmy the Raven Short 1946 Helen Gilbert and Robert Lowery in God's Country (1946) God's Country Jim (as Jim the Crow) 1946 The Enchanted Forest (1945) The Enchanted Forest Blackie (as 'Jim' the Crow) 1945 Cary Grant and Priscilla Lane in Arsenic and Old Lace (1944) Arsenic and Old Lace Graveyard Raven (uncredited) 1944 Jerome Cowan and Faye Emerson in Find the Blackmailer (1943) Find the Blackmailer Blackie (uncredited) 1943 Lon Chaney Jr., Louise Allbritton, Evelyn Ankers, and Robert Paige in Son of Dracula (1943) Son of Dracula Madame Zimba's Crow (uncredited) 1943 Milton Berle, John Carradine, and Brenda Joyce in Whispering Ghosts (1942) Whispering Ghosts Jim, the Crow (uncredited) 1942 James Cagney and Bette Davis in The Bride Came C.O.D. (1941) The Bride Came C.O.D. Pop Tolliver's Crow (uncredited) 1941 Moon Over Miami (1941) Moon Over Miami Mr. Sylvester (uncredited) 1941 Ralph Bellamy, James Burke, Charley Grapewin, and Margaret Lindsay in Ellery Queen, Master Detective (1940) Ellery Queen, Master Detective The Raven (uncredited) 1940 South of Suez (1940) South of Suez Raven (uncredited) 1940 Judy Garland, Ray Bolger, Jack Haley, Bert Lahr, and Frank Morgan in The Wizard of Oz (1939) The Wizard of Oz Crow in Cornfield (uncredited) 1939 James Stewart, Jean Arthur, Lionel Barrymore, Spring Byington, Edward Arnold, Mischa Auer, Samuel S. Hinds, Donald Meek, Ann Miller, and H.B. Warner in You Can't Take It with You (1938) You Can't Take It with You Raven (uncredited) 1938
Valores actuales (en dolares del año 2022) de las cantidades de dinero referidas durante la película: $5000 en 1928 (el precio de la casa de Ernie Bishop): $87,050 $2000 en 1933 durante la Gran Depresión (el dinero de la luna de miel de George y Mary): $45,802 $242.60 en 1933 durante la Gran Depresión (el dinero que quizo retirar el hombre Tom de su cuenta): $5,555.75 $15,000 en 1945 (el valor de la póliza de seguro de vida de George): $248,093 $8,000 en 1945 (el dinero para depositar en el banco que perdió Tío Billy): $132,316 El poder horrible de inflación ...
The movie is NOT saying that there's something wrong about being an old maid. The scenes contrast the young Mary who said that she would love George until the day she died with the alternate Mary who never met the one man who would be the love of her life. Throughout the film, Mary is shown to be as noble and benevolent as George. If George chose not to be born, Mary's life is also less full than it might have been. Also, George and Mary are subtly shown to be very passionate. The alternate Mary lacks fire. Anyway, a great reaction to It's A Wonderful Life. The film was not a great success when it was first released. It accidentally fell into the public domain in the early 1970s, and TV stations could show it without paying any royalties. The film gained popularity and now is a favorite with many viewers.
I think she was more upset by the terminology of the phrase "old maid" thinking it was an insult. She said "what the f---, she's not old" not realizing that it was just the common term for unmarried women over 25 or so in those days. Of course in these PC days, it would be a mortal sin to use the term today and we wouldn't want anyone to be offended, would we? Better to just drop f-bombs throughout. That doesn't seem to offend anyone.
Haha. My 90-year-old mother is originally from Peru and sounds exactly the same yelling at Mr. Potter when she watches this film. I guess those fiery South American genetics haven't watered down at all through all the generations. ;-) Feliz Navidad a todos.
Yes, having a job after school or on weekends was pretty normal for kids this age even in the 70s. Lot's of those jobs were neighborhood helpers like cutting grass, shoveling snow, helping people with their landscaping, babysitting, etc. I think you had to be 14 or 15 to get a paying job through a business or employment agency.
Wonderful reaction beautiful soul. Welcome to the tear jerker club! Whenever I see someone choke up watching this movie, my faith in humanity strengthens! Thank you!
Hello Vanessa, I’ve never seen this movie before ! I enjoyed watching it with you ! You are the true Angel Sweetheart! Merry Christmas Sweety ! I love you !
Great reaction indeed to one of my favourite movies. 68 year old « spinster* », I have watched it so many times … if you had not lived for pointing it out, I wouldn’t have noticed the motto on the Bailey’s wall ! 😅 Greetings from France 🇫🇷 * better be an old maid than marry the wrong man !
Well, there would be no TH-cam reaction channel and no subscribers or viewers to complete this particular circle in life. And in the end, no one is a failure who has friends, of which you can count as many. So, Wishing You and Yours, A Very Merry Christmas and A Happy New Year!!! 🎄✨ P.S. A Great Reaction!
You might not think that your life has effected others, but you are wrong. Just what you are doing now brings joy to others. That joy may make the difference in someone you may never know. Be well and bright Blessings to you and yours.
The crow and the squirrel crawling on "Uncle Billy" are symbolic. The crow is the bringer of bad omens and the squirrel is treating him like he is a tree! In other words, "Uncle Billy" is a coward who brings bad fortune upon himself with his actions. He is not a bad person. He just lacks the courage and wisdom to be a leader. In contrast, George Bailey has courage, integrity and wisdom. He also has an unselfish heart and that is why he has an internal struggle.
Young Lady, your enthusiasm, editing in jokes, and wit made this so fun even though I have seen this movie dozens of times. From a 67 year old. Do not be afraid of black and white classic films, they won't give you VD.🤣 Try Casablanca 1942, you'll be surprised!
I love watching reactions to movies and music that impacted me. People who grew up just like me from the same area can be (not always) predictable. Therefor anyone with a different background -someone from Colombia is perfect, is really desirable, as I just feel I will learn something new. I enjoyed this.
Lionel Barrymore (Mr Potter) was Drew Barrymore's great uncle. He was a highly regarded actor in the early days of the film industry. He played a few villain rolse including Ebenezer Scrooge in annual broadcasts of A Christmas Carol.
Hi Vanessa, I`m glad you enjoyed the film. Please consider reacting to the 1947 film (The Bishop`s Wife) next Xmas, I think you will enjoy it too. As for the jumper, Red certainly suits you !! :)
Since you seemed to have a lot of trouble with tracking people’s ages, I have made a basic timeline for you: 1872 William Bailey (Uncle Billy) is born 1903 Brothers Peter and William Bailey begin the Bailey Brothers Building and Loan Corporation In Bedford Falls, New York, U.S.A. 1907 George is born, probably sometime mid year 1910 Mary Hatch and Violet are born 1911 Harry is born, probably in the first two weeks of January 1919 probably around Christmas, Harry falls through the ice, and is rescued by George and his friends, including Sam “Hee-haw” Wainwright and Marty Hatch (Mary’s older brother). George is 12, and Harry, though technically only 8 and 3/4, is credited as 9 because his birthday is so close 1920 January or early February, George is not yet 13, and gets his ears boxed by Mr. Gower, witnessed by Mary, who is 9 or 10 1928 Harry’s graduation dance, George is 21, Harry is 17, Mary is 18 1932 Harry’s return, he is married to Ruth, and George agrees to marry Mary. Harry is 21, George is 25, Mary is 22 1945 Harry wins the Congressional Medal of Honor, Uncle Billy misplaces $8000, George contemplates suicide. Uncle Billy is 73, Harry is nearly 35, Mary is 35, George is 38, George and Mary’s oldest son is 12. Some of these dates are approximate, they may be off by several months. But it should give you a general idea of who is what age when.
Good reaction to a favorite movie. Others you might like are "Miracle on 34th street" or Stewart's favorite, "Harvey". Working at twelve was kind of late by early 1900s standards There were 5- and 6-year old's called newsies who sold newspapers on the big city streets. I was working construction and farm labor for wages during summers at 10 in the late 1950s-early 60s. It was not unusual. This movie was the first one that Stewart did after coming back from leading a bomber squadron over Europe after WWII. He was rumored to be suffering from PTSD and a lot of the time he got emotional and forgot his lines such as the phone call at Mary's, in the scenes when he couldn't find the money and through the non-existence period at the end of the story. Stewart was an excellent actor.
I love you so much, #OnceUponaReaction, because you're such an amazing reactor. Your content is so amazing, and I love watching your reactions to different shows and movies.
Great reaction Vanessa! Just have to say the world would definitely be a worse place if you weren’t born. Your reactions alone give people enjoyment and joy and that can be a powerful thing!!
It Happened One Christmas was a 1977 TV remake of It's a Wonderful Life(1946). The actor who played Mr. Gower played Jesus Christ in a silent 1927 film.
That scene when George got mad at Mary. I think he could sense that Mary was pressuring him to commit to her. That made him feel like he would be trapped in yet another situation where he couldn't leave to fulfill his dream. He was momentarily angry with her for putting him in that dilemma. But when he saw her reaction to his rebuke of her, the emotional torment that showed in her face when she realized that her dream of marriage to him was about to be crushed, he couldn't bear it. He realized in that moment that he loved her more than his own dream. So in a sudden fit of remorse, he covered her in kisses to alleviate her pain. To let her know he would never sacrifice her happiness for his own. And in the end he realized, Mary's dream was the better dream. The dream that would bring the most happiness for BOTH of them.
34:01 "She cried for an _hour!_ It isn't enough she _slaves,_ teaching your stupid kids how to read and write, and you have to bawl her _out!"_ Then what the hell are you doing at a _bar_ instead of staying at home to comfort _her?_
You said with out you nothing would happen? Your reactions has helped me get through some tough times. Thank you for being you. Merry Christmas. Feliz Navidad y Prospero año.
Don't say nothing would be different if you never existed. Last year, right after Christmas, I was watching this reaction and lost track of the time. Because of that, I missed my bus. That bus was strucked by a train, killing everyone on board. So you see, you saved my life. If it wasn't for, oh, like for, oh OK, that's not true. I made it all up. You're right the world wouldn't be different if you never existed.🙂
0:23 Copyright notice-- I have a DVD where the director's son does commentary on the extra feature. He said that the reason this became a Christmas classic was because they forgot to renew the copyright and it fell into public domain. TV stations that wanted to do a Christmas special would play this so they wouldn't need to pay royalties of have production costs for something new.
How wonderful! I loved seeing you so funny and cocky at the start and thinking "Oh dear - she'll be crying by the end of this one!" 😊 I hope you'll consider reacting to "Mr Smith Goes to Washington" which has the same star and director and the same kind of vibe as this one. 😊
Watch the complete reaction on my PATREON: www.patreon.com/OnceUponaReaction
PAYPAL: www.paypal.com/paypalme/onceuponareaction?locale.x=es_XC
Follow me in my social networks:
Instagram: instagram.com/shows_reactions1
Personal Instagram: instagram.com/vane_gutierrez_official/
Twitter: @AVane_g twitter.com/AVane_g
Tik Tok: @avane_official vm.tiktok.com/ZSQGbM2v/
8000 dollars in 1945 when this scene is taking place (end of ww2) is about 130,000 dollars today
JESUS CHRIST 💀💀💀
I love the new setup 🥰
Nice sweater Vanessa 🥰
❤
A lot of people don’t get what happened when George kisses Mary passionately for the first time. It was George desperately hanging on to his childhood dream of moving away and travelling the world. He didn’t really have a chance because he loved Mary even more. George was so intensely passionate throughout his entire life. What a man.
The scene where Gower hits young George always makes me cry because there's such grace in it. George knew that that wasn't how Mr Gower actually was, that it was a dark moment. That forgiveness & understanding from such a young kid just touches my heart.
Did you know he really did hit the kid and that is real blood?
@@trhansen3244 No, I didn't know that. Looking into it, at least it seems the actor who played Gower did feel bad about it. But oof, people got away with a lot making movies back then.
As Gower is hitting George, the camera cuts to Mary, who hears the whole thing. She winces as if she's receiving the blows herself. She really did love him from the beginning.
@@Jeff_Lichtman She did. And I've said elsewhere Mary is a force of nature. She loved & wanted to marry George, it happened. She wanted to stay in Bedford Falls & live in the Granville place, she made it work. Never bet against Mary.
@@trhansen3244 Bullshit!😏
Jimmy Stewart won an Oscar in 1940. During World War II he became a bomber pilot in the European theater. He rose to the rank of Colonel and was the commander of a bomber squadron.
He suffered Post Tramatic Stress because of the pressure of sending his men on dangerous missions. He needed to spend about 6 months in hospital.
Lionel Barrymore who played Nr. Potter encouraged Stuart to take this part because the country needed good stories to get back to normal.
There's no evidence that Stewart suffered from PTSD.
@@brianelliott8050 Stewart both wrote in biographies and gave interviews where he described his issues with depression and other emotional trauma after his service in WW2--what we now call PTSD--so I call bullshit on your claim.
EXACTLY -- Jimmy Stewart MOST CERTAINLY DID suffer from PTSD !!!!!!!!!! One war event in particular sent him into deep depression and psychological suffering and nearly broke him: he missed leading one bombing mission in particular due to battle fatigue or other issues, and a LARGE portion of his squadron got wiped out in that day's bombing mission absent his leadership (or at least that's what Jimmy attributed all those deaths to). Jimmy always beat himself up over the incident, and it haunted him for many years. @@rikk319
George really struggles with Mary - he doesnt want to marry because it is another thing to get in the way of what he wants to accomplish - but he really likes her at the same time - the conflict inside of him is such that he gets really mad and upset - while the scene seems strange it really is well done.
It seems strange because we are so used to the freedom birth control gives couples. There was no reliable birth control in the 1920s, and little daycare or careers for women. For a man, getting married meant children and responsibilities came fast. George can't travel the world with a pregnant wife - it was either his dreams, or Mary.
The Mary/George kissing scene always confuses people. I always interpreted as that he loved Mary deeply, but he knew that if he pursued a relationship with her, his chances of achieving his dreams would go down significantly because they'd start a family and he'd have to provide, etc., etc. So on the phone, he's looking at her and he wants her, but he's also tired of putting off his dreams, so just as he is about to break and kiss her, he shouts at her. But the way she's looking at him, he can't deny it. So he gives in. It's a really beautiful scene that really shows how we as humans get conflicted sometimes.
That scene is incredibly hot and romantic, they don't make love scenes like that anymore. I interpreted it as you did. There was no reliable birth control and little daycare in the 1920s. So for a man getting married meant settling down and assuming a lot of responsibilities. It wasn't just that his chances of achieving his dream would go down. He couldn't travel with a pregnant wife. It was either/or - either his dreams or Mary. His shouting was his final surrender of his lifelong goals, to love. Maybe that's why romantic scenes in modern movies don't have the electricity they do in these old movies, because since the sexual revolution the stakes aren't as high.
It's fascinating that modern viewers, accustomed to the freedom which birth control gives people, don't even understand George's anger.
Yes George is very emotionally conflicted in that scene. He loves Mary but knows admitting it means he's giving up on his dreams.
The scene with George and Mary on the stairway in her mother's house is one of the most passionate in film history. George, throughout these scenes, starting with meeting his brother and his new wife at the railway station, is feeling how his life is getting away from him, and he's realizing he likely will never leave his home town. It all comes flowing out with the scene with Mary on the stairs. He's trying to convince himself that he can't be tied down. But as their mutual passion wells up and comes to the surface he chooses life with Mary.
The last surviving adult cast member passed away in August, at age 97. Many of the child actors, including ZuZu, are still alive, though. Karolyn Grimes, who played ZuZu, is 82.
She also played the young daughter in another great Christmas movie "The Bishop's Wife" with Cary Grany, Loretta Young and David Niven!
@@jamesalexander5623 That movie is on TCM.
@@trhansen3244 Just finnished watching it!
@@jamesalexander5623 Oh man, that's a good one too!
It doesn't matter how many times I watch this, there are always times when tears are dripping off my chin. The more times you watch, the more you cry at different points. You understand the ramifications of each scene, like talking to his dad at the dinner table, giving his speech to the townspeople during the depression, praying at Martinis. Each scene becomes more significant when you know the whole story. Your's is my favorite reaction. You paid attention to the details and cried at the end. I did it with you. Merry Christmas!
I subscribed.
James Stewart plays conflicted (and George's other ....dark... emotions) really well because he might not have been acting. He was fresh back from the war and no doubt had a deep emotional well to draw from. The more I see this film, the more I appreciate Donna Reed's acting chops - especially comparing it with other notable roles she did like 'From Here to Eternity' and her long TV career from her eponymous 1950s sitcom to Dallas in the 1980s. She made it all look so effortless, her talent was underrated.
James Stewart flew a bomber in WWII for the United States Army Air Corps, hitting targets in Nazi-controlled areas of western Europe and was depressed for a long time, feeling guilty about the innocent people he likely had killed on the ground.
Dear child. Don't ever think you haven't influenced anyone, don't believe you arent important. You've made more impact than you could know. Thanks for your content. I just love your reactions!
Clarence: "Your brother, Harry Bailey, broke through the ice and was drowned at the age of nine."
George Bailey: "That's a lie! Harry Bailey went to war! He got the Congressional Medal of Honor! He saved the lives of every man on that transport!"
Clarence: "Every man on that transport died. Harry wasn't there to save them, because you weren't there to save Harry.”
I get a lump in my throat every time I see that scene.
We're all in this world for a reason. You've done more good than you'll probably ever know.
And who knows what great goodness is in her future!
You *are* a good person....you've brought a lot of joy to people watching your reactions. 🥺
YOU were soo intent and saw the details in every scene Vannessa. I have not see many reactors see how Uncle Billy loses the money as quick as you did😄. YOU were so into this film, and Im glad you want to see more classic Black & white films.i have been promoting a wonderful one called ROMAN Holiday with GREGORY PECk and AUdrey Hepburn , you will absolutely love it and its full of comedy, romance and just a great idea all taking place in 2 days
5:05 I had weekend and summer jobs when I was 12 years old cutting lawns, raking leaves and trimming hedges. At 15 years I was working 10 hours days on the weekend at the local grocery store and after school during the week I bagged groceries and brought them out to peoples cars for them. That was 35 hours per week of work at 15 years old.
thank you for posting this reaction. I feel in the Christmas spirit now.
You know George always criticized their house as being old. Back then, a new brick ranch house was popular. And back then, his type house was probably considered old fashioned. But today, everyone loves those big old Victorian houses. Fashions change.
Countless TV shows and sitcoms have had episodes inspired by this movie, where a character sees what life would've been like without them.
Al Bundy found out...
That life would have been much better. 😀
I hear tell the Yanks stole this story from Dickens' A Christmas Carol. Can you confirm or deny that?
@@trhansen3244 Yes. It's a Christmas Carol but in versus and with one ghost/angel, as George Baily didnt deserve the misfortunes as Scrooge did.
@@trhansen3244 A Christmas Carol and It's a Wonderful Life have nothing in common outside of the angel/ghost thing. The message is different, what the angel/ghosts did was completely different, the character and how interacted with the world was completely different. Mr. Potter has more in common with Scrooge than George, and he's the same grumpy old man at the end that he was at the beginning. If there's any American story that copied A Christmas Carol, It's How the Grinch Stole Christmas.
There was a time in the early 70's where this film came up for being charged to keep it private, but the company did not do that.
It then went into public domain where it was not charged for at all. Since then, it has played every Christmas
My favorite Christmas movie. I'm 54 and I still tear up watching it forty-something years since I first saw it.
Pareil pour moi (j’ai 68 ans) !
Merry Christmas Vanessa! I hope you realise how much joy you've given the countless thousands of people around the world watching your wonderful reactions, you always put so much passion into them - your personality truly shines through! I wish we had more people like you in the world... we all love you - wishing you all the very best for the holiday season and for the future! :)
For as long as I can remember, going over 6 decades, this film has been an annual seasonal event in my life. It's always a timely reminder of what is truly important. I'm glad you finally discovered this iconic holiday classic.
Merry Christmas!!!
If you are interested, Nicolas Cage was in a more modern version of this called “The Family Man” back in 2000. It’s a good movie and worth watching.
Hey Once Upon, Jimmy Stewart (George Bailey) is supposed to be playing a young man in his early 20s, but the once-boyish 38-year-old had just returned the year before from fighting in World War II, and only makeup and careful lighting could give him a semblance of youth. Donna Reed (Mary) was 25 years old when It's a Wonderful Life was made.
40:03 George said in the beginning" he wanted to travel and do great things"...... but, he didnt have to leave town to accomplish this. George never realized before that he- and he ALONE - kept Potter in check, which prevented the town from turning to vice and misery ... just by taking up his fathers mission,- becoming his successor, he prevented this from happening.Not to mention he saved his brother- a future war hero's life,and prevented a child from dying by a distraught pharmacist.
Nothing is bigger, than the smallest act of kindness.
Such a heart warming movie
Unfortunately there are to many Mr Potters in this world.
Dispite his frustration and struggles George is a good man that loves his family and he felt terrible for taking his anger/frustration out on them.
Mary is not just beautiful but a kind loving woman and renovated the old house almost by herself. She also got everyone together to raise the missing $8000 which would be equivalent to approx $122,137
in 2022.
Have a Wonderful Christmas 🎄 🎅
Actually, in Biden's inflation America it would be worth a little more than that, approximately $4,566,520.
@@trhansen3244No one wants delusional Troll BS especially at Christmas.
@@smavtmb2196 To be fair, I sent that message before Christmas. Right? So you just shove off, eh? Eh!
@@trhansen3244 Get psychiatric treatment
@@smavtmb2196 I am a proud Democrat!
The absolute best Christmas film ever. Hands down. I've watched it countless times. The final message gets me through each year. Glad you noticed it NEVER snows in Pottersville. The snow was a new development for the film too. Capra wanted to use live sound for the close up scenes so the usual Hollywood method - cornflakes bleached or painted in white was out as clearly any walking nearby would create unwanted sound so the special effects team came up with a brand new method. There was actually a record heatwave going on whilst the film was being made !
The Raven that Uncle Billy owns is called 'Jimmy'. He starred in 1000+ films and was quite the star - insured for the equivalent of thousands of dollars today. He's actually the 'crow' that lands on the Scarecrow in 'The Wizard of Oz'. Capra found a part for him in every film he made after 1938. Speaking of Uncle Billy, in the scene where he leaves the frame and there's a crash, a set hand dropped some equipment accidentally and the look of concern from Jimmy Stewart was genuine. Some say 'Uncle Billy' improvised the cry that he was alright, others say it was dubbed on in post. But the crash is genuine and unscripted.
Jimmy Stewart was still suffering with PTSD from his WW2 service and credits this movie experience as being therapeutic. In particular, in the prayer scene it wasn't scripted for him to cry and they weren't really setup for a close up to really capture the emotion. Capra knew he couldn't replicate the emotion in a reshoot so he decided to go with the original footage and zoomed in on the negative for the final cut of the film. If you look, it looks grainier because of that but Capra thought it worked in bringing more emotion and it was certainly better than asking Jimmy to go again. Stewart is one of my favourite actors and even more so when you see this performance.
So glad new generations are still enjoying this classic - and in black and white as it should be !
Hands down the best? And what would be your hands up best Christmas movie ever? Don't say Die Hard. Do not say Die Hard.
He was my Dad's favourite actor because he served with him in the 445th Bomb Group based at Tibbenham, England in WW II flying in B-24 heavy bombers!
NEVER is a long time. Say rather “it doesn’t snow for TWO FULL HOURS in Pottersville” to see how crazy this sounds. If it NEVER snows in Pottersville, what’s all that white stuff on the ground, coke? Remember, we only see the cases Perry Mason defends on Saturdays.
In Dallas,this would come on television 2to3 times a day in December back in the 80’s..
Follow this crow in Frank Capra’s « You Can’t Take It with You » and you’ll meet again James Stewart, Samuel Hinds (Pa Bailey) and Lionel Barrymore (Potter) as the sweetest grandpa ever, all of them in a movie which is also a true lesson of life !
Greetings from France 🇫🇷
Just finished watching it again. It always brings me to tears. Like you said in todays world it’s a good lesson. It’s not about possessions or material things it’s about your loved ones
You are a sweetheart! It touched my heart that you "caught yourself" when you read the message from Clarence inside the book. Believe me, I have broken down over that part of the movie many times. Bless you and I am so glad you liked the movie! Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!
Don't you remember ? George asked Mary why she married him - Her response was " So I wouldn't become an OLD MAID".
No way that a woman who looks like Donna Reed would become a spinster!
You passed the test : you crying proves your a good girl ! Merry Christmas
The thing is, George knows that if he gets married to Mary that he's putting yet another anchor into that town and it's going to get even harder for him to go and be adventurous like he wanted to ever since he was a kid. So he's struggling between the fact that he likes her and the fact that he wants freedom
22:09 "All you can take with you is that which you're giving away."
I don't know _how_ many times I've seen this movie over the years. There was even a stretch during which I owned it on VHS. I've never seen that sign before.
This is one of the reasons I watch reactors.
I am 68, cannot count how many time I watched this movie and it’s also the first time I realise this !
Another person made me realise that, in his office, Potter has both his own portait and a bust of Napoleon !!!
Old Maid was a term for any woman who didn't get married and have kids when they "had the chance"
Merry Christmas, Vanessa!!! Thank you for tracking down the black & white version....it makes all the difference. This was a beautiful and hilarious reaction! Every time you laughed, I laughed! And yes, PLEASE do more classics! There are so many great ones, and you get a certain kind of romance and glamour that you don't get from later movies (and for the 70s, you get a realism and sense of experimentation that you don't always get from later films). THANKS for all the great reactions this year, you were one of the first reactors I ever discovered, a year and a half ago! I'm a happy subscriber!
PS: Love the Christmas sweater! It made the reaction that much more festive!
I loved your reaction to my favorite Christmas movie! This just proves that whether it’s 1940 or 2020 this movie is still so relatable and still relevant. Enjoy your Christmas 🎉
Now everyone watching knows what Zuzu's petals are. But did you know that Zuzu's Petals is the name of a flower shop in Brooklyn, a boutique in Chicago, a restaurant in Long Beach, CA and the name of a national charity? There's even a female character named Zuzu Petals in The Adventures of Ford Fairlane (1990) with Andrew Dice Clay? All of these paying homage to It's a Wonderful Life.
PS : Go and watch « The Bishop’s Wife » another - very good - Christmas movie, and you’ll see Zuzu and young George Bailey !
How interesting ! Thank you from France 🇫🇷
Oh I'm thrilled to see you react to this! A great movie classic!
If Vanessa was never born, I would not have one of my favorite TH-cam Channels that has brought me hours and hours of smiles and laughter. Merry Christmas Vanessa!! And Happy New Year!
Member of Victom generation...
Victim
Merry Christmas, Vanessa! I hope 2023 is especially kind to you!
Great reaction! Just a quick note, of the actors who played the Bailey children, the ones who played Zuzu, Janie, and Tommy are all still alive. Karolyn Grimes, who plays Zuzu still makes many public appearances at Christmas events around North America!
This movie isn’t about George knowingly getting what he wanted" it’s about being the kind of man who puts others needs ahead of himself. He kept hanging on to his old dreams even though he was already making a huge difference in the lives of his fellow townsfolk. He was already having a wonderful life.
Yeah, this movie is a classic that we watch almost every year for Christmas. It's a lot like A Christmas Carol with Ebenezer Scrooge if you think about it... Scrooge gets visited by spirits who show him his past, present, & future. George gets to see what would have happened if he had never been born. Both of them get a 2nd chance & decide to be happy and appreciate life in the end.
That run at the bank was the start of the Great Depression (1929 - 1939).
That was a beautiful reaction. You'd make a great Mary! (or maybe you're more dangerous,like Violet!)
t's a Wonderful Life is more than a Christmas movie I am not christen and I love it. It is a feel good movie and one of the first time travel element movies. It is so much about time travel or alternative realities that Back to the future allude to it :). Fun fact the movie was not a financial success when it came out and was forgotten. Only because of a copyright registration error ( Which was fixed decades later) the movie was considered public domain for years and because of the that the Tv Networks aired over and over every Christmas till it became a cult classic. Another fun fact the scene with the uncle that was drunk and fell down was adlib because one of the stage worker dropped something in the middle of filming. I love George speech to Mr Potter about the working class. The actor who plays Mr Potter is by the way Drew Barrymore great uncle. If you want another great Jimmy Stewart movie you should watch Mr Smith goes to Washington.
Time travel? Hmmm. Sorry, but I didn't see any time traveling. We saw an alternative timeline without George Bailey. Is that really time travel, though? The answer to that requires a mind of high intellect and logic rarely seen since the fictional Sherlock Holmes. I'll email Joe Biden immediately.
@@trhansen3244 I said time travel element or alternative realities, Also the angel did see George Baily past so they did travel to the past
This is one of the greatest movies (not just for Christmas) ever made, and is my favorite. I think you'll probably like "A Christmas Story," which is a modern movie, but it was set in the 1950s. But another really fantastic movie (and another in B&W) is "Miracle on 34th Street." This is one of the best Christmas movies ever made, and is very much loved. There were 3 versions of this movie made, but the very best was the original from 1947, and somehow, they managed to find and cast the REAL Santa Claus to play himself (though he was billed as Edmund Gwenn.)
“I should start watching more black and white movies.”
Casablanca would be a great start.
Vane, this is the best reaction to "its a wonderful life" that I have seen! Great job. You look great as always!
George : " I want to do something big , something important ! " .
HE DID .
3:28 "Is this gonna be a sad movie, guys? I don't wanna cry."
Oh. Oh dear. Well, I mean, why do you think this movie has the distinction of being an American _classic?_ The first time you watch it, it moves you to tears.
The raven and the squirrel at the Bailey Building and Loan show the eccentricity of Uncle Billy and the raven in particular was a signifier of death, it may still be in some areas, so it was a foreboding omen for that place. Also, $8,000 in 1940 would be near $150,000 today so it was in fact a huge sum in the story.
We watch this film every Christmas season, the message is timeless and as human as it gets. It is what Christmas is supposed to be about. Great to see young reactors watching this and finding out that they knew how to make great movies from the beginning of the movie industry.
First time viewer. It was beautiful to see how the movie chipped away at your hard exterior. It's a beautiful movie, and you're a beautiful soul. I really enjoyed experiencing this movie with you.
I'm glad you watched it in black and white. That's the way it was filmed and it just looks better.
The film itself fell out of copyright in 1974. However, Republic Pictures owns the rights to the original story and the music used in the film. I haven't seen them going after any TH-camrs though.
Acabo de mirar esta reacción, espero con mucha sinceridad que de verdad no sientes que tu vida no tenga valor!! Even an interaction in a minimal circumstance can hold so much weight in someone else’s life. Your reactions help people. Ojalá que el año que viene sea el mejor de tu vida!
There's an old SNL skit, back when it was funny, of George finding out Mr Potter had the money. Worth watching.
LOL! Dana Carvey does a great Jimmy Stewart impression.
th-cam.com/video/vw89o0afb2A/w-d-xo.html
Actually I'm a little surprised the Hays code, or whatever morality censors had control in those days, let Mr. Potter get away with the theft with no consequences. That's not sending a good message for the kiddies watching the movie. Oh great, if you're rich you can get away with crimes all you want! I guess what was true in 1947 is still true 75 years later in 2022.
Yes, sadly people are creative enough to come up with their own ideas, no talent, they have to reach back and take from a classic wholesome pure film and defile it into what they think is 'funny'. No respect for the creative genius and efforts of Frank Capra, James Stuart and others to produce one of the most memorable and heart warming films of all time. Such a lack of respect is blatant and shameful. I was not brought up that way. My parents were the WW2 generation, the generation of this film and they taught me the same values and morals of their day. I am so grateful that I was given the gifts they gave me like in this film. "All you can take with you is that which you're giving away." The last couple of generations are missing so much in their lives lacking these things imparted to them that would make their lives so much richer. I pray they somehow learn the value of the depth of sacrificing for others brings the greatest reward. I see this young lady, as young as she is, has the capability of the depth of feeling and appreciating what this film is about. Blessings Always Vanessa!
When you said at 39:30 that nothing would change if you’d never been born at all because you’re not that nice of a person, I burst out laughing! 😂
It’s refreshing to hear someone say that. I’ve found that most claim they’re good people even when they’re definitely not. 🤓
Was feeling the same way about my life, watching Vanessa's reaction.
George was 12 in 1919. In 1928 when Harry graduated from high school George was about 23. Of course Jimmy Stewart was quite a bit older than his character, George.
Jimmy the raven
raven featured in numerous Hollywood films
Jimmy the crow
(often erroneously credited as Jimmy the Crow) was a raven actor who appeared in more than 1,000 feature films from the 1930s to the 1950s.
Zsa Zsa Gabor, Jerry Lewis, Dean Martin, and Joanne Dru in 3 Ring Circus (1954)
3 Ring Circus
Jimmy the Crow (uncredited)
1954
Joseph Cotten, Barbara Stanwyck, Leslie Caron, and Louis Calhern in The Man with a Cloak (1951)
The Man with a Cloak
Villon (uncredited)
1951
He's a Cockeyed Wonder (1950)
He's a Cockeyed Wonder
Jimmy (uncredited)
1950
Anita Lhoest and Johnny Weissmuller in Captive Girl (1950)
Captive Girl
Caw-Caw the Crow (uncredited)
1950
Trudy Marshall and Johnny Weissmuller in Mark of the Gorilla (1950)
Mark of the Gorilla
Caw-Caw the Crow (uncredited)
1950
Ken Curtis, Charlie Hughes, Robert Lowery, Martha Sherrill, and Black Diamond in Call of the Forest (1949)
Call of the Forest
Jimmy - the Crow
1949
The Secret Garden (1949)
The Secret Garden
Raven (uncredited)
1949
Roy Rogers in Susanna Pass (1949)
Susanna Pass
Jim the Crow (uncredited)
1949
Elena Verdugo and Johnny Weissmuller in The Lost Tribe (1949)
The Lost Tribe
Caw-Caw the Crow (uncredited)
1949
Lita Baron and Johnny Weissmuller in Jungle Jim (1948)
Jungle Jim
Caw-Caw the Crow
1948
Rory Calhoun and Audrey Long in Miraculous Journey (1948)
Miraculous Journey
Jim the Crow (as Jim the Crow)
1948
Bill and Coo (1948)
Bill and Coo
The Black Menace (as Curley Twiford's Jimmy the Crow)
1948
Alan Curtis and Anne Gwynne in The Enchanted Valley (1948)
The Enchanted Valley
Jim the Crow (as Jim the Crow)
1948
Roy Rogers, Andy Devine, Jane Frazee, and Trigger in Springtime in the Sierras (1947)
Springtime in the Sierras
Jimmy the Crow (uncredited)
1947
James Stewart and Donna Reed in It's a Wonderful Life (1946)
It's a Wonderful Life
Crow in Bank (uncredited)
1946
Birds Make Sport
Jimmy the Raven
Short
1946
Helen Gilbert and Robert Lowery in God's Country (1946)
God's Country
Jim (as Jim the Crow)
1946
The Enchanted Forest (1945)
The Enchanted Forest
Blackie (as 'Jim' the Crow)
1945
Cary Grant and Priscilla Lane in Arsenic and Old Lace (1944)
Arsenic and Old Lace
Graveyard Raven (uncredited)
1944
Jerome Cowan and Faye Emerson in Find the Blackmailer (1943)
Find the Blackmailer
Blackie (uncredited)
1943
Lon Chaney Jr., Louise Allbritton, Evelyn Ankers, and Robert Paige in Son of Dracula (1943)
Son of Dracula
Madame Zimba's Crow (uncredited)
1943
Milton Berle, John Carradine, and Brenda Joyce in Whispering Ghosts (1942)
Whispering Ghosts
Jim, the Crow (uncredited)
1942
James Cagney and Bette Davis in The Bride Came C.O.D. (1941)
The Bride Came C.O.D.
Pop Tolliver's Crow (uncredited)
1941
Moon Over Miami (1941)
Moon Over Miami
Mr. Sylvester (uncredited)
1941
Ralph Bellamy, James Burke, Charley Grapewin, and Margaret Lindsay in Ellery Queen, Master Detective (1940)
Ellery Queen, Master Detective
The Raven (uncredited)
1940
South of Suez (1940)
South of Suez
Raven (uncredited)
1940
Judy Garland, Ray Bolger, Jack Haley, Bert Lahr, and Frank Morgan in The Wizard of Oz (1939)
The Wizard of Oz
Crow in Cornfield (uncredited)
1939
James Stewart, Jean Arthur, Lionel Barrymore, Spring Byington, Edward Arnold, Mischa Auer, Samuel S. Hinds, Donald Meek, Ann Miller, and H.B. Warner in You Can't Take It with You (1938)
You Can't Take It with You
Raven (uncredited)
1938
Most of all « You Can’t Take It with You » !
This is my favorite movie to watch for Christmas growing up and as an adult!!!
Valores actuales (en dolares del año 2022) de las cantidades de dinero referidas durante la película:
$5000 en 1928 (el precio de la casa de Ernie Bishop): $87,050
$2000 en 1933 durante la Gran Depresión (el dinero de la luna de miel de George y Mary): $45,802
$242.60 en 1933 durante la Gran Depresión (el dinero que quizo retirar el hombre Tom de su cuenta): $5,555.75
$15,000 en 1945 (el valor de la póliza de seguro de vida de George): $248,093
$8,000 en 1945 (el dinero para depositar en el banco que perdió Tío Billy): $132,316
El poder horrible de inflación ...
The Bartender , became one of the biggest TV producers of the 60s thru 80s
The movie is NOT saying that there's something wrong about being an old maid. The scenes contrast the young Mary who said that she would love George until the day she died with the alternate Mary who never met the one man who would be the love of her life. Throughout the film, Mary is shown to be as noble and benevolent as George. If George chose not to be born, Mary's life is also less full than it might have been. Also, George and Mary are subtly shown to be very passionate. The alternate Mary lacks fire. Anyway, a great reaction to It's A Wonderful Life. The film was not a great success when it was first released. It accidentally fell into the public domain in the early 1970s, and TV stations could show it without paying any royalties. The film gained popularity and now is a favorite with many viewers.
I think she was more upset by the terminology of the phrase "old maid" thinking it was an insult. She said "what the f---, she's not old" not realizing that it was just the common term for unmarried women over 25 or so in those days. Of course in these PC days, it would be a mortal sin to use the term today and we wouldn't want anyone to be offended, would we? Better to just drop f-bombs throughout. That doesn't seem to offend anyone.
It's a Wonderful reaction. As always from you.
Haha. My 90-year-old mother is originally from Peru and sounds exactly the same yelling at Mr. Potter when she watches this film. I guess those fiery South American genetics haven't watered down at all through all the generations. ;-) Feliz Navidad a todos.
Yes, having a job after school or on weekends was pretty normal for kids this age even in the 70s. Lot's of those jobs were neighborhood helpers like cutting grass, shoveling snow, helping people with their landscaping, babysitting, etc. I think you had to be 14 or 15 to get a paying job through a business or employment agency.
So nice hearing your accent. My mother was from Colombia. She died 3 years ago and I miss her every day. ❤️
Wonderful reaction beautiful soul. Welcome to the tear jerker club! Whenever I see someone choke up watching this movie, my faith in humanity strengthens! Thank you!
I stocked a shelves at a corner store after school when I was 11. I told them I was 13! Lol.
if you want to react to more old hollywood Black & White movies I would recommend Casablanca (1942)
Hello Vanessa,
I’ve never seen this movie before ! I enjoyed watching it with you ! You are the true Angel Sweetheart! Merry Christmas Sweety ! I love you !
Great reaction indeed to one of my favourite movies.
68 year old « spinster* », I have watched it so many times … if you had not lived for pointing it out, I wouldn’t have noticed the motto on the Bailey’s wall ! 😅
Greetings from France 🇫🇷
* better be an old maid than marry the wrong man !
Well, there would be no TH-cam reaction channel and no subscribers or viewers to complete this particular circle in life. And in the end, no one is a failure who has friends, of which you can count as many. So, Wishing You and Yours, A Very Merry Christmas and A Happy New Year!!! 🎄✨
P.S. A Great Reaction!
You might not think that your life has effected others, but you are wrong. Just what you are doing now brings joy to others. That joy may make the difference in someone you may never know. Be well and bright Blessings to you and yours.
Great reaction! You seem very sweet yourself and I would bet you've touched more lives than you believe.
Merry Christmas to you. Thanks a million for reactions that have such terrific humor and open-heartedness. Of course you're changing things.
The crow and the squirrel crawling on "Uncle Billy" are symbolic. The crow is the bringer of bad omens and the squirrel is treating him like he is a tree! In other words, "Uncle Billy" is a coward who brings bad fortune upon himself with his actions. He is not a bad person. He just lacks the courage and wisdom to be a leader. In contrast, George Bailey has courage, integrity and wisdom. He also has an unselfish heart and that is why he has an internal struggle.
Young Lady, your enthusiasm, editing in jokes, and wit made this so fun even though I have seen this movie dozens of times. From a 67 year old. Do not be afraid of black and white classic films, they won't give you VD.🤣 Try Casablanca 1942, you'll be surprised!
$20,000 in 1946 is the equivalent of $326,000 in today's money!
$8,000 in 1946 is the equivalent of $130,000 in today's money!
I love watching reactions to movies and music that impacted me. People who grew up just like me from the same area can be (not always) predictable. Therefor anyone with a different background -someone from Colombia is perfect, is really desirable, as I just feel I will learn something new. I enjoyed this.
Lionel Barrymore (Mr Potter) was Drew Barrymore's great uncle. He was a highly regarded actor in the early days of the film industry. He played a few villain rolse including Ebenezer Scrooge in annual broadcasts of A Christmas Carol.
Hi Vanessa, I`m glad you enjoyed the film. Please consider reacting to the 1947 film (The Bishop`s Wife) next Xmas, I think you will enjoy it too. As for the jumper, Red certainly suits you !! :)
Everyone has touched someone in a good way❤ Beautiful reaction!
"I don't want to cry."
*Well you're gonna hafta!* 😈
Have a very happy Christmas, and thank you for all the heart-warming, wonderful reactions you have shared with us this year. Love your energy.
Cheers!
Since you seemed to have a lot of trouble with tracking people’s ages, I have made a basic timeline for you:
1872 William Bailey (Uncle Billy) is born
1903 Brothers Peter and William Bailey begin the Bailey Brothers Building and Loan Corporation In Bedford Falls, New York, U.S.A.
1907 George is born, probably sometime mid year
1910 Mary Hatch and Violet are born
1911 Harry is born, probably in the first two weeks of January
1919 probably around Christmas, Harry falls through the ice, and is rescued by George and his friends, including Sam “Hee-haw” Wainwright and Marty Hatch (Mary’s older brother). George is 12, and Harry, though technically only 8 and 3/4, is credited as 9 because his birthday is so close
1920 January or early February, George is not yet 13, and gets his ears boxed by Mr. Gower, witnessed by Mary, who is 9 or 10
1928 Harry’s graduation dance, George is 21, Harry is 17, Mary is 18
1932 Harry’s return, he is married to Ruth, and George agrees to marry Mary. Harry is 21, George is 25, Mary is 22
1945 Harry wins the Congressional Medal of Honor, Uncle Billy misplaces $8000, George contemplates suicide. Uncle Billy is 73, Harry is nearly 35, Mary is 35, George is 38, George and Mary’s oldest son is 12.
Some of these dates are approximate, they may be off by several months. But it should give you a general idea of who is what age when.
You did a great job !
Good reaction to a favorite movie. Others you might like are "Miracle on 34th street" or Stewart's favorite, "Harvey".
Working at twelve was kind of late by early 1900s standards There were 5- and 6-year old's called newsies who sold newspapers on the big city streets. I was working construction and farm labor for wages during summers at 10 in the late 1950s-early 60s. It was not unusual.
This movie was the first one that Stewart did after coming back from leading a bomber squadron over Europe after WWII. He was rumored to be suffering from PTSD and a lot of the time he got emotional and forgot his lines such as the phone call at Mary's, in the scenes when he couldn't find the money and through the non-existence period at the end of the story. Stewart was an excellent actor.
I love you so much, #OnceUponaReaction, because you're such an amazing reactor. Your content is so amazing, and I love watching your reactions to different shows and movies.
Great reaction Vanessa! Just have to say the world would definitely be a worse place if you weren’t born. Your reactions alone give people enjoyment and joy and that can be a powerful thing!!
It Happened One Christmas was a 1977 TV remake of It's a Wonderful Life(1946). The actor who played Mr. Gower played Jesus Christ in a silent 1927 film.
H. B. Warner.
That scene when George got mad at Mary. I think he could sense that Mary was pressuring him to commit to her. That made him feel like he would be trapped in yet another situation where he couldn't leave to fulfill his dream. He was momentarily angry with her for putting him in that dilemma. But when he saw her reaction to his rebuke of her, the emotional torment that showed in her face when she realized that her dream of marriage to him was about to be crushed, he couldn't bear it. He realized in that moment that he loved her more than his own dream. So in a sudden fit of remorse, he covered her in kisses to alleviate her pain. To let her know he would never sacrifice her happiness for his own. And in the end he realized, Mary's dream was the better dream. The dream that would bring the most happiness for BOTH of them.
34:01 "She cried for an _hour!_ It isn't enough she _slaves,_ teaching your stupid kids how to read and write, and you have to bawl her _out!"_
Then what the hell are you doing at a _bar_ instead of staying at home to comfort _her?_
😂 Judicieuse remarque !
You said with out you nothing would happen? Your reactions has helped me get through some tough times. Thank you for being you. Merry Christmas. Feliz Navidad y Prospero año.
Thank you for showing this classic movie.
Don't say nothing would be different if you never existed. Last year, right after Christmas, I was watching this reaction and lost track of the time. Because of that, I missed my bus. That bus was strucked by a train, killing everyone on board. So you see, you saved my life. If it wasn't for, oh, like for, oh OK, that's not true. I made it all up. You're right the world wouldn't be different if you never existed.🙂
0:23 Copyright notice-- I have a DVD where the director's son does commentary on the extra feature. He said that the reason this became a Christmas classic was because they forgot to renew the copyright and it fell into public domain. TV stations that wanted to do a Christmas special would play this so they wouldn't need to pay royalties of have production costs for something new.
How wonderful! I loved seeing you so funny and cocky at the start and thinking "Oh dear - she'll be crying by the end of this one!" 😊 I hope you'll consider reacting to "Mr Smith Goes to Washington" which has the same star and director and the same kind of vibe as this one. 😊