Commentary
Frank Capra is remembered as one of the most beloved directors of all time. His movies from the 1930s to 50s captured the American spirit with touching sentiment and truthfulness, which have made them enduring classics to this day. At this time of year, “It’s a Wonderful Life” from 1946 is played on television and at movie theaters around the country. This beloved Christmas classic starring James Stewart, Donna Reed, and Lionel Barrymore is not only one of the most popular holiday films but perhaps Capra’s most famous movie.
This Christmas season, I thought about reviewing “It’s a Wonderful Life,” but what could I say which hasn’t already been said? I’m sure all my readers have heard of and seen the film, so I don’t need to convince anyone that it’s a masterpiece. Thus, I decided to write about another Capra film which takes place during the holiday season. This movie is “Pocketful of Miracles” from 1961, which would be Frank Capra’s last feature film. Starring Bette Davis, Glenn Ford, and Hope Lange, it’s rarely included in the ranks of “Mr. Smith Goes to Washington,” “You Can’t Take It with You,” and “It’s a Wonderful Life” as one of his enduring classics….