'It's a Wonderful Life' should be every college student's holiday staple

“It’s a Wonderful Life” is an essential movie for college students to watch, especially during the holiday season, because it conveys powerful messages about not taking life for granted. It also resonates with relatable struggles, and it breaks with traditional stereotypes of men. I don’t accept the notion of many critics that the film is outdated and irrelevant.

The central message is this: If life is troubling, that doesn’t mean you give up. “George Bailey is a relatable character because he embodies just how hard it can be to keep going when it seems like the world is falling apart,” said Kaitlin Smith in the Voyager, the Eastern Regional High School newspaper in Voorhees Township, N.J. The movie is a powerful reminder that students can find strength even in their lowest moments.

According to the New Hampshire Coalition for Suicide Prevention, “George Bailey’s story is one of broken dreams and hard choices — so many of us can recall feeling this way at one point in our lives, making this film highly relatable.” George’s challenges resonate deeply with those of us who have faced despair. His emotions are part of the human experience.

The film also challenges traditional gender roles by portraying vulnerability as a source of strength.  George Bailey’s story “teaches us that our lives are deeply interconnected. Men often bear the burden of being the ‘strong, silent type,’ but George’s experience underlines the importance of expressing vulnerabilities and leaning on loved ones for support.” says Daniel Fallon, a men’s health writer. The movie encourages a healthier perspective on masculinity.

Some critics argue that “It’s a Wonderful Life” is too dark and depressing, focusing heavily on themes of despair and hardship. “George Bailey’s life isn’t presented as inherently valuable; it’s only valuable because of his constant selfless deeds,” says Emily Strong in Salon. But that misses the film’s deeper purpose: It’s meant to be not sad but cathartic. It provides psychological relief through the strong emotions we feel while watching the movie. The raw, heartfelt emotions shown throughout the film release our emotions — and show us what’s important.

Far from being outdated, “It’s a Wonderful Life” is a timeless classic. It’s a blueprint for resilience, connection and hope, reminding us that in our darkest moments, our lives matter more than we realize. The film shows that our worth isn’t measured by success or perfection, but by the love we share with others, reminding us of the power of community and compassion.

Ryan Kuhns, of Naugatuck, is a junior year student at Central Connecticut State University.