Brand New! “The Making of It’s a Wonderful Life” (Brief, 2023 Documentary)

Re-posted by N.S.

2,560 views Nov 11, 2023

“Films in Review is proud to present this exclusive short documentary made by managing editor, John Larkin.

Compiled purely from existing footage and photos, this short documentary reflects on the making of and enduring legacy of one of the greatest films ever made, the seminal holiday classic It’s a Wonderful Life (1946).”





Jimmy Stewart’s daughter was mistaken. It was Lionel, who brought Jimmy back. (Yes, in our family, it’s “Jimmy” and “Lionel.”)

Making his first shoot since coming back from being a bomber pilot and squadron commander, Jimmy was complaining that acting was no proper career for a man. Lionel countered (paraphrased), “So do you think that dropping bombs on people is the only proper way to earn a living?”

That did it. Major James Maitland Stewart snapped out of it, and gave the greatest performance by a lead actor in the history of talkies.

Lionel wasn’t just a brilliant stage and movie actor.

Donna Reed said, “It was not a happy set.” Back in 1939, Capra didn't want to work with Stewart. He preferred “Coop,” but “Coop” wasn't available. But by 1946, Capra's views had changed. Jimmy didn't want to make this picture, but Capra practically begged him. “I can't make this picture with anyone else!” As great as Coop was, there are scenes in which Stewart's face must withstand the sort of scrutiny by the camera that no other sound actor could withstand (think, the scene when he goes to meet his brother at the train, and learns that his hopes have been dashed--yet again).