Zuzu's Petals...

Our family watched It's a Wonderful Life over the weekend. Now I know that a lot of people think that it's a corny, feel-good movie, that has an unrealistic ending in which everything comes out alright. (in spite of the fact that everything doesn't come out alright - for one, Potter gets away with stealing eight thousand bucks) My wife and I have watched it several times, but this was the first time we showed it to our children (ages 8 and 3). It pretty much was over the 3 year old's head, but the 8 year old enjoyed it. The plot and circumstances of the movie gave us a very good opportunity to talk with her about aspects of loyalty, friendship, family, wealth, etc. How many movies are around today that have those aspects and are clean enough to take an 8 year old to? What also strikes me every time I see the movie is how well made it is. The acting is superb, the plot intriguing, and the screenplay believeable. But the cinematography is what especially captures my attention. I'm so glad that Capra made the movie in black & white. Color would not have done the storyline justice. Combine that with Jimmy Stewart's acting (and his awesome supporting cast) and we have ourselves a classic. Try it out for yourself this year. In fact, if you're going to watch some movies this Christmas season, why don't you avoid taking the kids to the theater and watch some classics at home instead?