Its a Wonderful Life (1946)

Nominee

AFI Top 100: #20

There are so many reasons this movie is one of the ultimate timeless classics but just to name a few:

1.) It tells us about the importance of life without any blatant dialogue discussing its deeper meaning: 

We could have just had long discussions about life's purpose and obtained the same outcome of discovering life's meaning, but that is not the magic of this movie. The magic lies in the fact that the meaning is discovered through  a simple and poetic style that gives tribute to a small but not forgotten life. Specifically a man who does not see his own worth because he never achieved what he wanted, but he needs someone else to show him what he has done. A subtle but powerful way to give us a lesson. 

2.) There are extremely likable (and unlikable) characters who are memorable:

This a town that has truly been built around the people. They are what gives the movie its real atmosphere, even as I am writing I can think of many of the bit characters in this movie...Bert the police officer, Ernie the cab driver, Violet, Harry, Mr. Gower, Martini, Sam "Hee-Haa" Wainwright. You come to know and care about all these little people. On top of that you have the leading cast from forgetful Uncle Billy, to lovable Clarence, to one of the worst villains in movie history, Mr.Potter, and of course, George and Mary Bailey. Here I will once again confess my undying love for Jimmy Stewart and add Donna Reed to my praise, they really make this work.  If you love the characters you are going to love the movie. 

3.) It provides one of the first real looks at life, no Hollywood sugar coating:

This movie was made by real people, for real people, about real people. They did not try to make some over the top fast moving plot as was the norm back then. They merely tried to tell a simple but important story and I think that still translates today. We still enjoy the flirtation as they walk back soaking wet from the high school dance, we still get so frustrated as we see Uncle Billy forget the money in the newspaper. These people are real and flawed and we like them that way. 

4.) Its has Christmas as an prominent mood setter: 

IT'S CHRISTMAS!!! Who doesn't like Christmas? It's bound to put a little joy in your heart right from the onset, you are sure to be singing along to Auld Lang Syne at the end. 

5.) The Ending:

It is the ultimate feel good ending. I have a friend from college who says "I would like to constantly experience two feelings, the feeling of putting on sweat pants and the feeling that you get at the end of It's a Wonderful Life." I of course agree, but what truly makes this ending great is the rest of the movie. We earn this ending as viewers, we were taken through a lifetime of hardship and love, and are given the ultimate gift of camaraderie and happiness. It is a great feeling.

Overall: At this point if you haven't guessed I love this movie. Now go watch it and then ring a bell, I am sure there is an angel who wouldn't mind some wings. :) Merry Christmas!