“Jimmy” shows the meaning of a wonderful life

World War II has occupied Hollywood storylines for over 80 years. Before the United States even entered the war, Hollywood legend Charlie Chaplin was mocking Hitler in 1940’s “The Great Dictator,” and the conflict hasn’t left movie theatres since. “Jimmy” is the most recent film in this tradition. It follows the life of legendary Hollywood actor Jimmy Stewart while he serves as a bomber pilot over occupied Europe. Modern war films almost universally focus on big-budget combat sequences, but “Jimmy” sets different priorities. This film instead brings the audience complex characters, an examination of duty and the feeling of fuzzy warmth rising from the chest that only old Hollywood can provide. Today, most people know Jimmy Stewart for playing George Bailey in “It’s A Wonderful Life,” the 1946 film that defined his career. But in his time, Jimmy Stewart was one of the most famous men in America, beloved everywhere for his authenticity and charm.

This excerpt comes from the named source. Read the original for the full reporting.