Jimmy Stewart, the War and "It's a Wonderful Life"-- Part 6: "Who Is This Monster?"

Playing the role of George Bailey was a personal and professional risk.

Lionel Barrymore, he played the mean-old Mr. Potter, even said to Jimmy Stewart; "So are you saying it's more worthwhile to drop bombs on people than to entertain them."  That really hit Stewart and made up his mind to play the role.

There is a scene in the movie where he questions his sanity and he's got that wild look about him.  Another scene is when he is in his living room and he's throwing things and yelling at his kids.  His wife and children are looking at him as if saying, "Who is this man.  Who is this monster.  He certainly isn't Dad.

Many American families faced men who came back from the war with this rage and Stewart played it beautifully.  He just let it out.

--GreGen