(Frank Capra, US 1946, 130 min.)

Happy Holidays. Cited as one of the most inspirational films of all time, James Stewart and Donna Reed find their way through rough times in Bedford Falls (modeled after nearby Seneca Falls, NY) by way of a loving, dedicated relationship and a little heavenly intervention. As Stewart’s, and director Capra’s, first work after their military service, the film takes the post-war malaise often seen in film noir and turns it on its head, constructing a narrative of faith and perseverance. Print courtesy of the Academy Film Archive. Special thanks to the staff at Academy for their assistance.

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