10 Things You Didn’t Know About ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’
One of the most well-known movies in the history of cinema, It’s a Wonderful Life brings viewers holiday joy every Christmas season (or whenever they decide to watch it). Who among us doesn’t come across the title and immediately think of George Bailey (James Stewart) running through Bedford Falls, snow everywhere, as he wishes “Merry Christmas” to all he passes?
Considering its long-standing popularity, you might assume you know just about everything there is to know about It’s a Wonderful Life. But do you? Here are some nuggets that might surprise you.
1Inspiration for Bedford Falls
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A barber in Seneca Falls, New York, claimed that in 1945 he cut the hair of a man who identified himself as Frank Capra (the film’s director), who asked all about the town. This, many say, is proof that Seneca Falls is the inspiration for Bedford Falls.
2Henry Fonda as George?
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Henry Fonda, Stewart’s close friend, was also considered for the role of George Bailey, but he chose to star in John Ford’s My Darling Clementine.
3Real Blood & Tears
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Bobbie Anderson, who played young George, claimed that H.B. Warner (Mr. Gower) struck him for real while filming their confrontation, causing his ear to bleed and reducing him to tears.
4Box Office Flop
While it’s beloved now, the movie was a box office disappointment. It cost $3.7 million to make and only earned $3.3 million. It even caused the end of Capra’s production company, Liberty Films, which was sold off to Paramount.
5Largest Set Ever Created?
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The Bedford Falls set was one of the largest American film sets ever created. It covered four acres and included 75 stores and buildings, a three-block main street, and 20 full-grown oak trees.
6In the Public Domain
Due to a clerical error in 1974, the film became a perennial holiday favorite by the 1980s. It entered the public domain after the copyright holder forgot to file for a renewal. TV stations everywhere could play it without having to pay for the privilege. There were repeated showings every holiday season on hundreds of local television stations nationwide.
7Karolyn Grimes Didn’t See It Until Many Years Later
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Karolyn Grimes (pictured above), who played Zuzu Bailey, once said that she did not see the movie until she was 40 years old (more than 30 years after its release). She also still has the angel ornament from the Christmas tree in the movie.
8Capra’s Favorite Film
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Capra and Stewart both cited it as their favorite film, with the director screening it for his family every Christmas season.
9Christmas Run
Each year in Skagit County, Washington, in the town of Anacortes, local residents take part in “The Jimmy Stewart Christmas Run” on Christmas Eve. They bike, run or drive down Commercial Avenue in town and call out “Merry Christmas” to all the people, buildings and businesses they pass. It is rumored to have started in 1991 but we are unclear if it still happens annually.
10There Is a Museum and Festival
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Every year in Seneca Falls, New York, there is a festival the second week of December celebrating all things It’s a Wonderful Life. From screenings of the beloved movie to remaining cast members speaking, doing photo ops or panel discussions, there is something there for every fan. If you can’t make the festival, there is a museum there all year long.
Home For The Holidays
November 2021
Celebrate the holidays with your favorite classic stars!
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