Classic Christmas Film Comes to Brighton
Frank Capra's timeless masterpiece, It's a Wonderful Life, is set to delight audiences at the Duke of York's Picturehouse, complete with mulled wine and festive treats. This iconic film has been captivating viewers for generations with its poignant and uplifting story.
Dir: Frank Capra
Cast: James Stewart, Donna Reed, Lionel Barrymore, Thomas Mitchell, Henry Travers, Beulah Bondi, Frank Faylen, Ward Bond
131 mins · 1946 · United States of America · Cert U · English
IMDb 8.6/10 · Rotten Tomatoes 94% · Metacritic 89/100 · TMDB 8.3/10 · Trakt 85%
Awards: Nominated for 5 Oscars. 11 wins & 7 nominations total
It's a Wonderful Life + Mulled Wine & Festive Cake
24 Dec 2026
Duke of York's Picturehouse (Brighton)
With an impressive array of accolades, including a Golden Globe Award and five Academy Award nominations, It's a Wonderful Life has solidified its place as one of the greatest films of all time. Boasting an impressive 8.6/10 rating on IMDb, 94% on Rotten Tomatoes, and 89/100 on Metacritic, this classic drama has clearly resonated with both critics and audiences alike. The film's scores on TMDB and Trakt, 8.3/10 and 85% respectively, further attest to its timeless appeal.
Directed by the renowned Frank Capra, It's a Wonderful Life tells the story of George Bailey, a small-town banker who has spent his life helping others, only to find himself at a crossroads on Christmas Eve. As George's guardian angel, Clarence, shows him the impact of his existence on those around him, the film takes a poignant and uplifting turn. With a talented cast, including James Stewart, Donna Reed, and Lionel Barrymore, this 1946 American Christmas fantasy drama is a masterpiece of storytelling.
The film's reception has been notable, with critics praising its inventiveness, humor, and affection for human beings. While some critics have noted the film's sentimentality, others have praised its ability to balance optimism and realism. Viewers have also been captivated by the film's timeless message, with many considering it a holiday classic.
On Thursday, 24 December 2026, the Duke of York's Picturehouse in Brighton will be screening It's a Wonderful Life, accompanied by a trio of mini desserts and a mulled wine to enhance the festive experience. Alternative hot drinks and vegan & gluten-free mince pies will also be available upon request. Tickets are on sale, available with the button beside this article.
As the holiday season approaches, It's a Wonderful Life is a reminder of the importance of kindness, generosity, and community. With its rich history, talented cast, and timeless themes, this classic film is sure to delight audiences of all ages. So why not join in the festive spirit and experience this beloved classic on the big screen, complete with a warm and welcoming atmosphere at the Duke of York's Picturehouse?
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What viewers say
Lazo · 10/10
It was the most beautiful and emotional movie I have ever seen, I recommend it to everyone. This movie was there when I needed it the most, it shows how much one man can make a difference in the world, no matter what he does, and how we sometimes don't even realize what impact our very own existence can have on other people's lives.
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AndrewBloom · 9/10
8.8/10. An incredible, life-affirming movie that has enough of a dark heart to earn the amazingly heart-warming sequence at the film's climax. Some of the angel stuff gets a little silly at points, but it's still just a stellar look at the advantages and pitfalls of the road not traveled, what doing and being good takes from you, and the invisible but strong connections within a community that form when a noble man takes the world on his…
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TKPNPodcast · 10/10
This is one of my all time favorite films and the recent re-watch did not move me from this conviction. The character of George Bailey, played by Jimmy Stewart at the height of his abilities, is so easy to relate to and a wonderful human being. He's not always a great guy...he has an anger management issue and is sometimes consumed with revenge, but you can't help pulling for him. Lionel Barrymore's Mr. Potter is a treat to watch and Henry…
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2fst4u · 4/10
Honestly incredibly boring. I struggle to see why this is so highly rated, it was an absolute chore to get through.
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Sólstafir · 7/10
There is charm in old movies and charisma in old actors. After seeing Frank Capra's It's a Wonderful Life, I wonder why such movies don't get made more often. From expressions to delivery, both James Stewart and Donna Reed are an absolute pleasure to watch. George Bailey has given up his dreams of seeing the world to take over his father's business. There is always one opportunity to step out of the town, even if briefly, but is always foiled by…
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Yirba · 10/10
_It's a Wonderful Life_ is a beautiful film and a true classic. It's often considered one of the best films ever made, and I am inclined to agree.
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SparklinDiamond · 8/10
Finally I have managed to watch this film. I really enjoyed it, it felt like it went on a little bit too long.....but the message was beautiful!
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Schenley · 10/10
A true classic - I can't believe I've never seen it before. Watched it with the kids, and they were slow to get into it, but were fully engrossed as soon as [spoiler] Clarence jumped in the water![/spoiler]. Of course, we had to watch the colorized version - they wouldn't even attempt the black and white version. Although the rate of inflation really is evident in this one, the story and the meaning still hold up extremely well. It did spur on a…
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