It's a Wonderful Life is both outdated and progressive. Its undertones of misogyny, racism, martyrism, and oversimplification are problematic, but its themes of economic struggles and mental illness were groundbreaking. Its solutions are corny (and counterproductive), but its messages around unacknowledged butterfly effects are powerful. Plus, its storytelling format is quintessential. The protagonist's evolution is gradual, believable, and motivated. His obstacles have weight and the final plot device is iconic (inspiring countless recreations). Finally, the acting is impressively vulnerable and ranged. Overall, It's a Wonderful Life endures because of its daring honesty.
Technically, It's a Wonderful Life is proficient. Its cinematography uses detailed focus, movement, lighting, framing, and composition. The editing utilizes montages, fades, wipes, freeze framing (which was new), structured pacing, inserts, and smash cuts. Its sound has layered voiceovers, echoing, and emphasis. The music is sentimental and clear in its tones, adding magical stings and diegetic piano. The effects are multifaceted with miniatures, animations, makeup, rear screen projections, stunts, and weather simulations. Lastly, the casting is defining for legends as big as James Stewart. Ultimately, it's understandable why It's a Wonderful Life is considered a classic.
Writing: 9/10
Direction: 9/10
Cinematography: 9/10
Acting: 10/10
Editing: 8/10
Sound: 7/10
Score/Soundtrack: 8/10
Production Design: 8/10
Casting: 10/10
Effects: 8/10
Overall Score: 8.6/10
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