Interview: Emily St. James, author of Every Time a Bell Rings

It’s a Wonderful Life turns 80 years old this year. When it first hit theaters in 1946, there was little indication that it would become the juggernaut it is.

Film critic and author Emily St. James joins Brian to discuss the history and legacy of this American classic. Her new book is Every Time a Bell Rings: The Legacy of It’s a Wonderful Life, America’s Most Beloved Holiday Film.

MUSIC IN THIS EPISODE

“Christmas Slow Jazz” — PulseBox, via Pixabay

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MY BOOKS
Of Christmases Long, Long Ago: Surprising Traditions from Christmas Past (2025, Lyons Press and Recorded Books) It’s Christmas as you’ve never seen it before, and it makes a great gift for all the Christmas lovers in your life.

Christmas Past: The Fascinating Stories Behind Our Favorite Holiday’s Traditions (2022, Lyons Press and Recorded Books)