What happens when a bell rings?

If you know the answer to that, then you are among the millions of faithful watchers who enjoy a classic, classic every Christmas season. Even people who have never seen Jimmy Stewart in a Western like The Cheyenne Social Club (1970), or a comedy like the delightful Harvey (1950), know him as George Bailey, a down-on-his-luck banker in Bedford Falls, NY.

Jimmy seems to show up in the oddest of places when it comes to film, and there is no mistaking his slow, easy drawl or his lanky appearance. I love him for enchanting me in Harvey back in the 1960s!

As Mr. Bailey, he throws away his own ambitions in order to keep the family bank in business, and he has to deal with a nemesis, the incomparable Lionel Barrymore, who works to undercut him at every angle.

Through missteps and mishaps, George is accused of wrong doing, and as he drinks his way through his most terrible night, he contemplates suicide. We see the whole story unfold through the eyes of George’s guardian angel, Clarence, and George is told a story of what the world would have been like without him in it.

This film is considered one of the greatest movies ever made, but it was a box office flop when it was released. It never broke even, and it was never a commercial success. It was nominated for five Academy Awards, which included Best Picture, but it did not win any awards.

Mr. Stewart considers this one of his favorite films. It is cited as one of the most inspirational American films of all times, and Frank Capra, the director, said it was his favorite among the films he has directed. He screened it for his family every Christmas.

Had it not been for the fact that its copyright lapsed and it was placed in the public domain, we might never have seen it. Only then could it be broadcast without paying any royalties or licensing fees. It’s a shame that as many years as it has been shown every Christmas that the original folks do not get a dime from it, but that’s what happens when something goes into public domain.

Most of us have seen this classic, and if you haven’t, then I suggest that you make some popcorn and pull up a comfy chair when it comes around again this holiday season. You might want to keep a box of tissues handy because hoo boy, when that bell rings…

Here are some other things you may enjoy this holiday season, as well. If you don’t have your shopping done yet, now is the time to get started!

Pink Ribbon Angel Charm Necklace, Breast Cancer Awareness Jewelry

Victorian Style Treasures 

Believe You Can Canvas Print

Joanne Carey

Handmade Lampwork Glass Focal Bead

CovergirlBeads 

Red Bird on Branch Felt Christmas Tree Ornament

ClarieMDesigns2

Crystal Angel Earrings

Lindab142

Crocheted Angelic Cocoon & Hat Antique White

Magdalene Knits 

Owl Cupcake Toppers

Adore by Nat

Great Blue Heron Fine Art Print 

WatercolorsNmore 

Flowers Butterflies Earrings, Mykonos Copper Spring Handmade Jewelry

Shadow Dog Designs 

Rusted Steel Guitar Pendant With Burned Out Wings

The Singing Beader 

Black Angel Wing Onyx Sterling Silver Pendant Necklace

Rivendell Rocks Sedona 

Heart and Wings Earrings for Women with Drop Charms and Long Dangles

Blue Morning Expressions