The cheery, upbeat tale of a proudly bohemian family and their efforts to find common ground with the snooty, stuffed-shirt parents of a future son-in-law. I don't usually go for such brash, in-your-face optimism, but something about this ragtag group of merry, welcoming, open-hearted characters really struck a chord. Though it brims with loud personality - new faces pile in by the fistful each time we visit the house - there's a shocking level of character development at play here. That can be partially attributed to its roots in theater, and the associated volumes of dialog that are breathlessly peppered in, but I think just as much credit must go to the actors, who commit wholeheartedly to their roles (no matter how silly) and smoothly grant fast, earnest credibility. Stereotypes abound in the plot, from the sinister banker looking to tear down a merry little village to the happy-go-lucky grandpa who's always got the perfect sentimental speech prepared, but that legitimacy of character (plus the film's age) makes it all feel like a natural fit. And really, don't some themes ring eternal? A true classic that warms the heart and reminds us to slow down and ensure we're still getting all we want from life.

one of the most beautiful funny emotional movies I've seen what a joy top 10 movies ever happy personal classic Hollywood day rewatch

Approach it as a Drama, not a Comedy. The message is relevant, but it’s a comedy of manners and a ~85 years later, society has changed enough where there is no/minimal humour in those situations. A couple touching moments of humanity, but not near as hard-hitting as It’s A Wonderful Life, which I had been hoping for. 6/10

Good acting and sends a good message. Lionel Barrymore is a that guys that's always super upbeat and super annoying but means well. A little too long for its own good.

image 3,25 / 5 and sound 3/5 . Delicious ensemble comedy with great performances, and Frank Capra