Ethan Colburn’s review published on Letterboxd:
Most movies make you sob less every watch. It's a Wonderful Life makes me sob more.
This film celebrates the accomplishments of an everyman. I appreciate that George Bailey isn't perfect, he doesn't do EVERYTHING right, yet he spends his time making small personal sacrifices for the betterment of others around him.
This film and Best Years of our Lives are flip sides of the same coin, as they both exist in a time when WWII veterans were trying to figure out how to adjust back to civilian life. While Best Years of our Lives confronts PTSD more head on, It's a Wonderful Life celebrates every day accomplishments like they are as important as the actions of a war hero. It reminded veterans that there is honor in being a hero to your community, though it might seem like it goes more unnoticed.
The amount to which I was sobbing at the end is comical. It was as if George Bailey was a personal friend of mine, and I felt vindicated and more appreciative every time I see him succeed. I see myself in George Bailey, just as I see my friends and those who have made sacrifices for me.
I have always believed in surrounding oneself with good people, and focusing your energy on positive individuals in your life. This film reminds us of the small impacts we make on the lives around us, and of the joys of living daily life, even if that means disappointment from time to time.
What a blessing it is to be alive.
No man is a failure who has friends. Thank you all you wonderful people.
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