Please stop pigeonholing Frank Capra’s most important work as a holiday movie. While It’s a Wonderful Life does contain a few scenes with a Christmas tree, the core of this film involves a family-owned savings and loan struggling to stay afloat in the face of corporate banking greed, eventually claiming victory over an evil financial executive through the power of community lending, and angelic suicide prevention. Capra’s 1946 production is nothing short of a master class in making movies, featuring a brilliant screenplay, beguiling cinematography, and a kick-ass cast anchored by the inimitable Jimmy Stewart, who gives the performance of his career. As if the evening couldn’t get any sweeter, our hometown orchestra accompanies the high-definition screening with a live performance of the score. Hot damn, get yourself to the Schnitz if you can.

BRIAN HORAY