The best Christmas movie of all time is a gentle quiet film with a strong message

When we think of settling down to watch a Christmas movie, which titles come to mind? Love Actually? The Grinch? The Muppet Christmas Movie? There are so many to choose from, each one vying for the title of perennial favourite with families across the globe.

However, one movie that has been quietly sitting under the tree for decades sneaks up and nestles into a comfortable position in the top three Christmas movies of all time every single year. Some would argue it takes the prize as the best Christmas movie ever, as it simply yet powerfully demonstrates the true meaning of the season.

It’s a Wonderful Life, of course. For those of you of a certain generation, this might be a movie you have never heard of, and the idea of watching a film in glorious black and white might seem a stretch too far for a cosy winter afternoon in front of the telly, but give it a go.

I resisted this movie for years, for the simple reason that I assumed it being in black and white (which it is) I would be bored, it wouldn’t hold my attention, or, in true eye-rolling fashion, it didn’t have enough action or fun to keep me glued to the sofa and the screen for the almost two hours it takes to recall the story of one mans life.

The film, a 1946 classic directed by Frank Capra, follows the life of young boy George Bailey (James Stewart) as he lives what he believes is a rather dull and ordinary life.

But as George grows up, he realises he is facing financial ruin and, in despair, considers ending it all on Christmas Eve. However, his plans are thwarted by the arrival of his guardian angel, Clarence, who takes him through his life and shows him how much worse the world would be without his good deeds and the impact he has had on his small town of Bedford Falls.

The film also deeply explores themes of mental health, the power of community and human connection, and how one person’s life can impact many others.

The movie is considered a quintessential Christmas classic and is known for its gentle yet powerful message about the good deeds people do for one another, many of which go unseen or unheard but have a profound impact on the recipients. And for all of us in this crazy world, full of noise and bedlam, it’s a message worth holding on to, and a movie worth watching with all the family.

It’s A Wonderful Life, 1.10pm, RTE One Christmas Eve – December 24th