It's a Wonderful Life

Classic Movies on the Radio

By: Screen Director's Playhouse

Narrated by: James Stewart, Frank Capra

Length: 28 mins

Publisher's summary

This radio dramatization of the classic movie is introduced by its director, Frank Capra, and features James Stewart re-creating his Oscar-nominated role. It aired on May 8, 1949.

The Screen Director's Playhouse featured adaptations of famous movies and called upon the directors to introduce and highlight their work. After each show, the director and stars gathered around the microphones to reminisce about the making of the film.

Hear more collections of radio movie dramatizations, or listen to all of the individual programs by themselves!

©2006 Radio Spirits Inc. (P)2006 Radio Spirits Inc.

A Holiday Favorite

If you're like me, your holiday season isn't complete without seeing Jimmy Stewart and Donna Reed do battle with Lionel Barrymore. This old radio braodcast is a condensed version of the movie, with all the same actors. It's a great way to enjoy this classic while dashing through the mall.

Who doesn't love radio screenplays from the past?!

"It's A Wonderful Life" is one of my top 5 favorite movies of ALL time. I love anything classic from the radio. Makes me feel as if I am transporting back in time. I only wish it were longer in length. =)

Classic Story & Classic Cast

Can't beat Jimmy Stewart. We listen to this every day after Thanksgiving while traveling. Gets us more into the holiday spirit.

So short, but Jimmy Stewart is amazing.

original story is much different, I enjoyed it though and laughed out loud a few times even. Jimmy Stewart is just incredible.
i say that as a 50 year old now. Younger kids might not appreciate this version. Thats a shame, but they can miss out and keep their Cherry Candy Canes I saw today Eww! So wrong!

What a wonderful story

I always watch the movie, It's a Wonderful Life at Christmas. Jimmy Stewart is one of my favorite actors. Once again through this broadcast, he brought George Bailey to life with his sincerity, and great performance.

not as good as the movie.

not going to replace the movie, but definitely a great listen before bed. kids would certainly enjoy it.

Enjoyed this version immensely

Great radio version of one of the best Christmas classics. George Bailey & his angel, Clarence, are part of our Christmas every year.

atta boy

Always a wonderful story... and to hear the radio version is extra special. Good ol' Clarence

i loved the movie and the radio production.

The radio production is a great recap the movie performances were great loved the
audio book.

a great story

Would you consider the audio edition of It's a Wonderful Life to be better than the print version?

there was no print lol

What did you like best about this story?

porky pig

Any additional comments?

the angel guy is played by porky pig in this version(the actor who played porky pig) its kinda weird otherwise great story its not the movie but it adds to it

*****Inspiring delight. A complete pleasure*******

Would you listen to It's a Wonderful Life (Dramatized) again? Why?

I will listen to this again. This abridged dramatisation is joyful. James Stewarts voice as George Bailey and Henry Travers voice as Clarence Odbody completely bring the experience of It's a Wonderful Life back to life with real delight.

Which character – as performed by James Stewart and Frank Capra – was your favourite?

George Bailey has to be my favourite. The way Jimmy Stewart uses THAT voice to perform is just one of the joys of this.

If you made a film of this book, what would be the tag line be?

"George Bailey I'll love you until the day I die"

Any additional comments?

What an absolute pleasure to find these short dramatisations, I will be purchasing more (if not them all in good time).... they made me feel like I was there, watching and listening, back in that lovely age.