Another Christmastime movie that is often parodied or looted from for television episodes is Frank Capra’s It’s A Wonderful Life. Though not always limited to Christmas episodes, this movie has provided many a writing team with an easy script and many actors the chance to either tug our heartstrings or make us wet ourselves laughing.
Genre Interpretations
Doctor Who – “Turn Left”
The newest episode on our list, “Turn Left” distinguishes itself by not being a stale rehash of the Wonderful Life premise and instead delivering one of the most interesting and effecting episodes of the season.
Supernatural – “What Is and What Should Never Be”
In the original, an angel shows George Bailey a different life in order to help him, but Wonderful Life episodes sometimes give the motivation a sinister bent. After all, whenever a djinn is involved you know to expect some evil shenanigans.
Smallville – “Apocalypse”
You wouldn’t think Superman would need convincing that he’s important to the world, but… well… there you go.
