There’s magic to spare in this inspirational film, Frank Capra's lovingly crafted, sentimental blend of drama, comedy, tragedy and fantasy. Stewart was never better as a financially-strapped, suicidal family man visited by an angel (Travers), who shows him what the world would be like had he never been born.
It's definitely the most popular and beloved film to watch at Christmas with its portrayal of close community spirit in wintry suburban America. Brilliant.