FRANK Capra's life affirming 1946 drama is arguably one of the best films ever made and certainly a Christmas classic.

James Stewart plays family man George Bailey, manager of the Bailey Building and Loan Society in the close-knit community of Bedford Falls, who has devoted his entire life to his beautiful wife Mary (Donna Reed) and children.

Driven to suicidal thoughts by the greed and selfishness he sees around him, much of it perpetrated by villainous Potter (Lionel Barrymore), George is dragged back from the brink by all-knowing, all-seeing guardian angel Clarence (Henry Travers), who allows the depressed father a glimpse at the world without him in it.

The nightmarish vision shakes George back to his senses. Stewart has never been better as a lovable everyman, and the direction and pacing throughout is virtually flawless.

The story, a variation on a theme of A Christmas Carol, cannot fail to melt even the coldest heart as Clarence finally gets his wings.

Can there be a more glorious sight that George racing through the snow-laden town, fit to bursting with festive joy? "Merry Christmas, movie house!" he screams passing the local cinema, "Merry Christmas, Emporium! Merry Christmas, you wonderful old Building and Loan!"

Hankies at the ready.

DVD Extras: Introduction by Frank Capra Jr, 'The Making Of It's A Wonderful Life' featurette, director interview. Tweet