Mary, Merry Christmas. I’ve written a lot already about Mary Bailey’s immortal (and infamous) 30-second reel librarian character in the nightmarish alternative reality featured in the second half of It’s a Wonderful Life (1946). But hey, it’s a classic Christmas favorite — and one of my favorite films of all time.
Are you planning to watch — or rewatch – It’s a Wonderful Life for Christmas?
Mary is certainly a memorable character, whether you’re referring to the supportive soul mate of the first half or the Spinster Librarian of the second half.
Others agree.
Mary Hatch/Bailey made both the Movieline Magazine’s list for 100 Best Female Character Roles (#6) and Filmsite’s Greatest Film Characters of All Time.
Movieline highlights Mary Bailey as “a tribute to a lost breed — women who quietly, unfussily prevail.”
Do you agree?
Related articles
- It’s a Wonderful… Stereotype? (reel-librarians.com)
- (You’re My) Soul and Inspiration (reel-librarians.com)
