Beset with personal and professional problems, George Bailey finds his previously happy life falling apart on Christmas Eve. Seeing no way out, he considers jumping off a bridge. Then, however, his guardian angel Clarence intervenes to show George what his beloved hometown would be like without him.

What would Christmas be without it? Frank Capra’s beloved sentimental classic may nestle darker truths about the human experience, but its valuing of atonement and friendship over consumerism captures the true spirit of the holidays. Get the hankies out for the ultimate big-screen seasonal ritual!