- In some sense, the 'best Christmas movie ever' is a matter of personal preference. Like much else about Christmas, the movies we watch at this time of year tend to hold sentimental value for us. But I think more so than other popular festive movies like 'Elf' or 'The Grinch', 'It's a Wonderful Life' is a Christmas movie for everyone, regardless of their situation or family traditions. - Christmas as a season is often criticised for having [become too commercialised] (https://jagwire.augusta.edu/is-christmas-too-commercial-well-thats-the-reason-it-became-popular/), and its associated films can be accused of reflecting this. I think 'It's a Wonderful Life' is refreshing in this sense — it's sentimental, yes, but ultimately it's about this flawed, vulnerable individual overcoming adversity. - It is a pretty [unconventional Christmas movie] (https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0038650/plotsummary) in many senses — it begins with a character about to commit suicide, and from that point on, it doesn't follow that classic trajectory of a regular person working hard and reaching great heights. Instead, this man has an ordinary life, pretty bad luck, isn't very self-motivated — but what's emphasised as 'wonderful' is the relationships he has, and the impact he's had on the lives of those around him. - The ending of 'It's A Wonderful Life' is much more to do with a shift in perception than in situation. Jimmy Stewart's character makes peace with his lot and the movie ultimately celebrates the power of human connectedness, rather than individual triumph. I can accept that there is room for criticism from the movie's detractors — it is a bit outdated in some respects, it has a pretty long running time, and it is in black and white. But in terms of its overall message, I think it really encapsulates the festive spirit of togetherness and warmth and hope, in a way that feels comforting and not overly commercialised. (It has also proven to have [an impressive staying power.] (https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/films/features/its-a-wonderful-life-christmas-classic-film-james-stewart-frank-capra-a8681486.html))

I have not seen all Christmas movies, so I cannot say that it is the best Christmas Movie ever. However there is an interesting fact concerning it. According to wikipedia it was voted as the most inspirational american movie of all time, in a study by the American Film Institute in 2006. I think, though it is just my opinion, it is one of those movies that can influence your moral character, if you see it when your young and still working out your values. It certainly influenced mine!