It’s a Wonderful Life

I begin this review wondering if I’ll burn in hell for what I’m about to write, since so many hold this film in high regard. It was a good film, but worthy of four or even five stars? I can’t agree with that. For one, there’s a lot of exposition, the death knell of most films. The story rolls along predictably, and showing life without George Bailey has a very Dickens feel to it. Most of the story is just sad, so when the ending comes, it feels too convenient. I liked the film, but didn’t love it. If I were to choose a better, comparable holiday classic, it would be Miracle on 34th Street.