“It’s A Wonderful Life” was released 80 years ago in movie theaters and co-stars Denison native Donna Reed.
Nov/Dec 2026 (Volume 18, Issue 6)
By Michael Swanger
Like most families, watching Christmas movies—no matter how many times we have seen them—is part of my family’s ritual of celebrating the Christmas season. The best of them can demand your attention at any point in the storyline if you happen upon them while channel surfing. For me, that includes “It’s A Wonderful Life,” the classic Christmas drama that was released 80 years ago which stars Jimmy Stewart and Denison native Donna Reed.
Based on Philip Van Doren Stern’s short story “The Greatest Gift,” the 1946 black-and-white film follows George Bailey, portrayed by Stewart, who contemplates suicide on Christmas Eve due to financial troubles. Fortunately, his guardian angel, Clarence, shows George how many lives he has touched which helps him realize his worth to his family, friends and community. It’s an uplifting tale that hits home during the holiday season, steeped in themes of hope, love, joy, salvation and generosity.
Though the movie received mixed reviews and lukewarm reception at the box office following its release on Dec. 20, 1946, it would obtain its iconic status decades later thanks to television. After the film’s copyright lapsed in 1974, television stations across the nation were able to broadcast it without licensing or royalty fees and it became a staple of holiday programming. Since then, the film has been recognized by the American Film Institute as one of the best 100 American films.
Much has been written about “It’s A Wonderful Life,” including that Reed’s character, Mary Hatch Bailey, is the film’s hero. After all, Mary knew since they were children that she and George would marry. It was Mary who selected and helped renovate their home; where she and George raised their four children. And it was Mary who offered the couple’s honeymoon money to save the Building and Loan, as well as organize an impromptu community fundraising effort which established the premise for the movie’s emotional climax.
With that said, and more, is it any wonder that Reed would later call “It’s A Wonderful Life” the favorite film of her career? It’s certainly one of mine. Tune in this holiday season.
Jimmy Stewart, Donna Reed and others in “It’s A Wonderful Life.”
TO READ MORE FASCINATING STORIES ABOUT IOWA HISTORY, subscribe to Iowa History Journal. You can also purchase back issues at the store.