Our favorite IAWL Moments!

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I had never heard of this movie before until 1979 when I was 14 years old. I had stayed up late on Dec. 23rd and decided to watch this Christmas movie on TV. I started balling at the end (like most people watching it for the first time) even though I did not think of myself as the type to cry from a movie. I have tried to live my life as a Christian should, thinking of others, and not getting caught up in the material things in life. God has always blessed me although not in the way the world sees blessings. I have since made it an annual tradition to sit down with my wife, kids, nieces and newphes every year to watch IAWL. If only Hollywood would make more movies like this based on faith.
Bill Dehler <billandleah@hotmail.com>
Davenport, WA USA - Friday, December 27, 2002 at 17:43:10 (EST)

Hey, really great site! For me, it's always a big pleasure to watch this movie. I've seen it every year since 1994. It's shown here on the German tv station ZDF always at the same time: December, 24th, at 0:45 at night. I drink coffee, eat the last pieces of my birthday cake (my birthday is a day earlier) and just enjoy once again the journey to Bedford Falls. And well, I'm not an old man, just 24 years old. You're never to young to enjoy this movie!
Matthias Engel <matthias_engel_thun@bluewin.ch>
Switzerland - Thursday, December 26, 2002 at 11:15:30 (EST)

I ENJOY YOUR WEB-PAGE.
cisco Torres <none>
diamond bar, CA USA - Wednesday, December 25, 2002 at 13:06:57 (EST)

Neat site....great graphics and links. I love that great movie also. PLEASE VISIT MY NEW FUNNY CARTOON ABOUT WHERE HENRY F. POTTER WOUND UP AFTER HE KICKED THE BUCKET!
jim <danchuk1@hotmail.com>
Deltona, FL USA - Friday, December 20, 2002 at 14:21:56 (EST)

The whole film is just full of wonderful scenes fron the moment the title start until the end. I just love those warm Bedford Falls characters. A perfect evening for me is watching IAWL on a frosty night, around Christmas, with my family around me and a log fire blazing. A good copy of the "George Lassos the Moon" picture above the fireplace would make it perfect. Thank you Frank Capra, as well as James Stewart and the rest of the cast, for creating and being part of a wonderful movie, which is so inspiational in respect of the real values we should all cherish.
Mick Freer <michael.freer@btinternet.com>
Halesowen, England - Friday, December 20, 2002 at 12:38:49 (EST)

I have watched this movie over and over my entire life. It always was fun around Christmas to see the movie over and over on different channels here in St. Louis, Mo. But my son, who is now 26 years old feels that it is the greatest movie ever made. He literaly can quote each line all the way through the movie. I have always felt that although most wouldn't agree with this there should have been a sequal to the movie, continuing the story. I guess it will always be left up to our Wonderful Life imaginations to wonder what happened in the years to follow. thanks for the site, I enjoyed it very much.
Gary Evans <gevans@slcacougars.org>
Saint Louis, MO USA - Thursday, December 19, 2002 at 13:09:22 (EST)

This film knocks socks off any other film produced these days, production values, storyline etc...this really is my favourite movie (it's really more than a movie) of any other I've watched. First watched this when I was around 11 years old, and probably watched it five times a year for the 13 years since..it does have a profound effect. The best thing is although it's a 'Christmassy' movie, the message is an all year one, which means you can watch it whenever...especially when feeling low. Of course, the end is a very special moment, and seeing all the friends inside George's house reminds us that he IS the richest man in town (excluding the money)...fantastic. Excellent site, cheers.
Hywel
South Wales - Wednesday, December 18, 2002 at 14:59:43 (EST)

Its a wonderful life will always be there for young and old square and hip alike. I must say that "E" got it wrong when they picked a christmas story as no 1 classic holiday movie (2002). Give me a break its like comparing a 427 AC to a vett. No way! it has to be Its A Wonderful Life!!!
Doug morgan
Canton, Oh USA - Tuesday, December 17, 2002 at 19:45:14 (EST)

Its a wonderful life will always be there for young and old square and hip alike. I must say that "E" got it wrong when they picked a christmas story as no 1 classic holiday movie (2002). Give me a break its like comparing a 427 AC to a vett. No way! it has to be Its A Wonderful Life!!!
Doug morgan <Dmorgan16neo@rr.com>
Canton, Oh USA - Tuesday, December 17, 2002 at 19:27:28 (EST)

IAWL has been one of my favorite movies for as long as I can remember. I would be hardpressed to specify any one part of it as my favorite.
David <dsurrett@yahoo.com>
Montgomery, AL USA - Monday, December 16, 2002 at 23:36:08 (EST)

I know the movie word for word, I have probably watched it 100 times. Its good to watch any time of the year. I have a photo from the IAWL cast and crew picnic of 1946 its autographed by Karolyn Grimes (Zuzu). Merry Christmas ALL!!!!
terri fielding <lkfan64>
Hammond, IN USA - Friday, December 13, 2002 at 06:43:01 (EST)

I have been watching IAWL since I was a kid, and at the time never knew I was watching an ultimate classic movie. I had the privilege in 1997 along with my 3 1/2 yr old son at the time to meet Karolyn at her house when she lived in Kansas. I was stationed with the Navy in Kasas City, MO. She is such a wonderful, warm and caring person. My son and I had such a wonderful visit with her. We had the opportunity to see her IAWL Bedford Falls town collection. I was so nervous meeting her because, even though she is not making movies anymore, she will always be a movie star to me. I am a classic movie buff and write to and collect autographed pictures of movie stars. Most of the stars I write to are from the 30's-50's. I have the honor of having 2 personally autographed pictures from Jimmy Stewart. I took those photos with me and showed Karolyn and she told me those were his autographs. He also answered his own fan mail. I also have a personally autographed picture w/letter from Carol Coombs-Mueller. Christmas is not Christmas without watching IAWL. It is a movie that will be passed down from one generation to the next and live on in our hearts forever. A true family classic movie that you never get too old to watch. There is always someting each time you watch the movie and see something different that you may not have noticed before. My son is growing up on IAWL. He may not appreciate it now, but I now in a few years he will.
susan clark <susan.clark@navy.mil>
nas lemoore, ca USA - Thursday, December 12, 2002 at 17:18:44 (EST)

I first saw this movie in 1971 or 1972, right after it had been released for free broadcast. I was probably 7 or 8 at the time. I've Been hooked ever since. When I'm down, I can pop in the tape, and whether it's July or January, hope returns and I'm able to carry on. This year I'm 38, the same age Jimmy Stewart was when he made the movie in 1946. It bothers me a little. My favorite part of the movie is, of course, the bell ringing, the inscription in the book, and Jimmy saying "atta boy, Clarence." Gets me every time. It's getting me now, just writing it. SNIFF.
Pete
Memphis, TN USA - Wednesday, December 11, 2002 at 18:56:49 (EST)

Like so many people, IAWL and its message of hope and reassurance carried me through a very difficult period of my life. Although I knew the movie from childhood it wasn't until I was in early 30's that I really understood George Bailey's anguish. But the stark realization that the world might be a very different place had I never been born and that the world would never have known the joy that my children bring to so many people brought me the "moment of clarity" (Friends of Bill W. will know what I'm talking about) that I so desperately needed. Over a decade later this is still my favorite movie of all time. I even carry the script and some graphics in my Palm Pilot all the year round. While every second of this picture is precious to me, my favorite moment is when George and Mary are in front of the Granville house after the dance, and George offers to lasso the moon for Mary "...and then you can swallow it, and the moonbeams will shoot out you fingers and your hair and .... say.... am I talking too much?" (from memory) This captures almost perfectly the moment I fell in love with my wonderful wife of 17 years. Nuf Sed
Ivan Avetissian
tucson, az USA - Wednesday, December 11, 2002 at 12:09:12 (EST)

I tear up during many moments in the movie so it's hard to pick a favorite moment, I love the whole thing, especially after George decides he wants to be alive again, I love the ending.
John <jogg@bellsouth.net>
Carrollton, GA USA - Wednesday, December 11, 2002 at 08:01:04 (EST)

Thank you so much for making such a wonderful website for the fans of "It's A Wonderful Life " to enjoy! I am a young 28 year old wife and mother whom have this film since my first time watching. It has increasingly become more enjoyable and fascinating! I see something new each time I watch. Unfortunatlely, it has been decreasing aired in Chicago over the years. I hope to be able to purchase my own copy to view whenever I want.
LATASHA SANDOVAL <GARDENOFABUNDANC2002@YAHOO.COM>
Chicago, il USA - Wednesday, December 11, 2002 at 02:51:40 (EST)

This is my favorite movie of all-time. I watch I've watched it every christmas for the last 15 years or so. The film helps me appreciate how I've been 'blessed'. My favorite scene is when George finally gets home, kisses his kids, and tramples down the stairs with his kids draped all over him. It's pure love. Thank you IWL.
Frank <frankcj@alumni.nd.edu>
San Francisco, CA USA - Sunday, December 08, 2002 at 16:56:27 (EST)

my son and i have watched this movie for 25 years together now his three daughters watch it with us
pat <grandkidsx5@msn.com>
republic, mo USA - Sunday, December 08, 2002 at 00:19:38 (EST)

Every Christmas I must watch IAWL with eggnog or it's not Christmas to me!! I have to watch it after Thanksgiving day Not Before or the Tape gets messed up!! I don't know why!! I have tryed to watch it twice! Once Before Thanksgiving and once with out eggnog and the tape was distoried in the Player! I LOVE IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE!! If I'm ever having 2nd thoughs about life I think about this movie and I know Oneday it will get better!!! THANK U FOR THIS SITE!!
Margie Anderson <FireSpice88@yahoo.com>
Copperas Cove , TX USA - Friday, December 06, 2002 at 17:36:37 (EST)

hey holler!!!!!
Amandita
Salem, MA USA - Thursday, December 05, 2002 at 10:40:30 (EST)

This is my favorite movie! I once watched it like 6x's in one day! It's just so funny & the way the actors are its like they werent even acting. I love Jimmy Stewart & Donna Reid also. There are so many funny parts to this movie. The best is well i dont no there are so many best parts but i really just love the entire movie. Especially when he bugs out b/c he doesnt realize he doesnt exist.
Lauren
USA - Tuesday, December 03, 2002 at 14:53:40 (EST)

This movie is never shown in my native country, Sweden, and hard to get hold of. I just saw it for the first time, and it is truly a great movie. Best line (Clarence): "You see, George, you've really had a wonderful life." I have never cried this much over a movie.
Olof Eriksson
Vancouver, BC Canada - Saturday, November 30, 2002 at 16:24:36 (EST)

IAWL is the best movie ever made...I havent missed a year watching it in 25 years now. Its one of my favorite Christmas time memories & traditions!
Lisa Melton
Nashville, TN USA - Monday, November 11, 2002 at 17:37:10 (EST)

A Christmas Story We have been given "Christmas Classic Movies" as a theme for our Christmas Parade this year. I was to tie it into the organization that surrounds itself with volunteer help from adults to help young children who are working with disadvantages in their homes and lives in the community. Immediately Zuzu's line "Teacher says every time a bell rings an angel gets its wings." THE CHILD’S WORD – all so knowledgeable & teaching to the ADULT after he had his experience – he could understand! The cuddly moment at the tree, it was apparent how important George’s love was to just this ONE CHILD let alone all the REST IN HIS FRIENDS IN THE COMMUNITY! I loved the mental image of Clarence guiding George so he could see his life - if he never had been born. Yes sacrifices were made by George never going off and accomplishing dreams he had set in his own mind but Clarence helped to CLARIFY the importance of the things George had done in his life. So much has changed in the last few years around Christmas - GREED and GETTING reigns dominant so our float will not be associated with Santa Claus, Material gifts or the popular gift ideas to make the children's eyes appreciate the float. Our's will be focused on the It's A Wonderful Life - Give the Gift of Time, Love and Friendship - (Organizations Name)are special friends...Angels on Earth....Who help Little Ones...Learn how to Fly. I'm hoping our image of George & Mary having fun at the christmas party with their children and the rest of the community WILL SPARK especially older adults minds that remember the movie to motivate them to come volunteer to make the difference not only for the children but for the purpose of making a difference in their own lives. For me a person that works hard: Christmas coming on...worries about shopping, working more than one job and volunteer work on the side. Sometimes I think “Why can't I manage to do great things in life, hold that top paying position, be able to take time off, go travel on vacations....” Hummmm …. was there a reason why I was to work on this project for my community OR WAS THIS A SPECIAL PROJECT GIVEN TO ME for MY LEARNING????? I think Clarence was at work again...In my mind over the past few months I was starting to sound a lot like GEORGE myself. (You know when you reach one of those awe inspiring moments...everything just stops around you and your mind ECHOS words YOU REALLY NEED TO HEAR! Well my moment came... YOU MAKE A DIFFERENCE! In a flash it seemed like the many things I am involved in came to mind and HOW they WOULD BE DIFFERENT WITHOUT ME! I have made SO MANY BONDS with people in my community especially my many LITTLE FRIENDS who I cherish when I see their faces light up!I am VERY RICH in so many ways I have wonderful friends BIG & SMALL who help and inspire me with projects which always includes the improvement of children’s services or their lives in one respect or another. I am hoping many people volunteer for this float project. This just won’t be a float building experience for children and adults but a community celebration of hot chocolate, cookies, music to make the atmosphere festive to get the work done. It will also be a joyful community experience as we get on the float, prepare to make music together and PRESENT our Christmas and New Years message to our COMMUNITY! It’s A Wonderful Life. Merry Christmas! All the BEST IN THE NEW YEAR! Wonderful website & tribute to IAWL..the VOICE as you come into the webpage...perfect! pmilne
P Milne
Canada - Tuesday, November 05, 2002 at 11:01:59 (EST)

the wife and i love the movie and miricale on 34th street. they have become staples of ours during the holiday season. however we find ourselfs watching them even out of season so to speak. they really do not make movies like they use to. it is sad but what i grew up with and believe is great (at 47) and what my 16 year old thinks is great is as wide as the grand canyon. however my 26 year old daughter still loves these movies and the rudolf (sic) the red nosed riendeer movies as well as the animatied grench (sic) movie. thanks for the site of one of everyones favorite movies. brick b.mock@att.net
BRICK MOCK <b.mock@att.net>
deer park, tx USA - Saturday, September 28, 2002 at 04:40:29 (EDT)

I would like it if you added an image of the scene when george bailey(Jimmy Stewart) says, "this is a very interesting situation" while he is holding her robe, I would like to make a little poster out of it and put it in my room and I can't find the image anywhere. Thank you.
David Fraser <Davfracross@hotmail.com>
USA - Wednesday, August 28, 2002 at 17:24:21 (EDT)

Just found you, because I took a chance on puting into a search engine the title of my all time favourite film. This is probably the most uplifting, life affirming movie of all time. Difficult to name a favourite scene when they're all so striking, but probably the scene in Martini's bar when George is getting drunk & having doubts about..well almost everything really, depicting that kind of despair was sheer genius. I also liked the Woody Allen-esque banter around the dinner table at the Bailey's house which, for the 1940's, was futuristic film making..'It's a wonderful'film!
Steve <arboryhill@hotmail.com>
London, UK - Monday, August 05, 2002 at 10:23:14 (EDT)

There are so many. but the one that hits me the hardest is... "clareance!...get me back to my wife and kids, i don't care what happens to me,...i want to live again....i want to live again...i want to live again..."
Michael Knight <michaelknight777@hotmail.com>
anaheim, ca USA - Sunday, July 14, 2002 at 02:40:21 (EDT)

Greetings to you and your guests. Love what you’ve done with your site. As an educator I can say you have great communication skills.
Catherine
La Mesa, Ca US - Friday, July 12, 2002 at 07:40:57 (EDT)

Great site! :) .
Alex <aegent235@aol.com>
Burbank, ca USA - Sunday, June 30, 2002 at 04:31:30 (EDT)

James Stewart counts to my top favourites, I have seen many films with him. And of course "It's a wonderful life". This is a great classic movie, we can learn much from it! Who would be as happy as Jimmy Stewart, like in "It's a wonderful life". There are so many wonderful classic movies too, in wich we can learn from. I am fan of classic movies since I was a little boy, and I am still a wonderful dreamer. One of my dreams is to find a nice woman for marriage. If you are interested in me, I am a very nice man, 27 years old, and would be happy to your letter for me. My e-mail address is: marcotosch@web.de
Marco Tosch <marcotosch@web.de>
Berlin, Germany - Wednesday, May 08, 2002 at 13:24:07 (EDT)

Thought I would sign! Like the colors!
Flowers
Dana Point, CA USA - Friday, May 03, 2002 at 20:27:38 (EDT)

I am 21 years old and we have been watching it's a wonderful life every year since I have been born. We have at least 5 copies of the video and when I moved out of my fathers house I bought my own. My family quotes that movie all the time. as in "why did we have to have all of these kids" (which is by the way not something you want to hear your father say if you couldn't quote the film) and "Mr. Martini, how 'bout some wine!" So I don't have a favorite part. When I am watching it alone, I have to turn it off halfway through because I just hate Mr. Potter. I just hate him! (of course I love silent film and stage star Lionel Barrymore, but Henry F Potter, no dice)But I can tell you this, my favorite Christmas song is Buffalo Gals.
Megan McCoy
NY USA - Saturday, March 16, 2002 at 00:21:27 (EST)

I am doing a project on this movie and wanted to know everyones views on how this movie had an impact on our culture/society. Thanks for your opinions!
Morgan <xMorganx_23@yahoo.com>
USA - Friday, March 08, 2002 at 10:51:25 (EST)

I love It's a Wonderful Life. I dont have a specfic favorite scene because the whole movie is good.
Lisa Robinson <lisa_pooh_4172@webtv.net>
Meshoppen, PA USA - Wednesday, February 20, 2002 at 10:45:38 (EST)

How about in the cemetery? "All of the men on that transport died because you weren't around to save Harry." Makes you think that something you might have done as a mere kid could extrapolate into the lives of so many...so positively.
dave <masterson@aol.com>
Waukegan, Il. USA - Monday, February 04, 2002 at 06:59:36 (EST)

What a great movie? It has been my favorite for many years. I enjoy the name association with the main character and have had years of fun with it. Even my wife's maden name was Reed, although not Donna Reed. I always enjoy watching the movie and have obtained several copies both b&w and colorized versions. I especially like the theme of the movie that points out the value in every person that lives.
George Bailey
Lilburn, GA USA - Friday, January 04, 2002 at 21:35:29 (EST)

I began watching the movie about 5 or 6 years ago when my mother gave me a copy. I have over the years, grown to enjoy watching it more and more and nevr get tired of it. I live in a small town and wonder if my city was like like Bedford Falls. I'm restoring a 112 year-old house and I'll turn it on while I'm working on something and just listen. I also like to watch it to get ideas of how the old houses were decorated. I especially like the staircases that are ahown in the movie. I have probably had the movie on about 10 times this year, and I have to say it is one of my favorite parts of Christmas.
Scott <cntryboy4oh@yahoo.com>
Loveland, OH USA - Thursday, January 03, 2002 at 16:38:37 (EST)

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