It’s A Wonderful Life is a touching Christmas classic that captures the essence of the season’s message of hope, and redemption. The character George Bailey, played by James Stewart, won viewers’ hearts with his kindness that goes unrecognized almost throughout the movie.
He was let down by several people, especially his business partner Mr. Potter, who is considered the antagonist in It’s A Wonderful Life. While many agree, there may be one more villain going unnoticed in the movie, likely because he meant no direct harm to George.
Who was the other bad guy in ‘It’s A Wonderful Life?’
Mr. Potter was set up to be hated by the average viewer, who watched him greedily try to take over the town by owning properties and businesses, including George’s. He also framed poor George for mismanagement to exploit him and refused to help him on the verge of suicide.
Potter’s brazen show of meanness overshadowed Tom’s selfish display at the bank, which was on the brink of shutting down. During this scene, Mary Bailey is already forced to give up her honeymoon to keep her husband’s business afloat, while Mrs. Davis does not mind taking just $17.50. Unlike everyone else, Tom refused to sacrifice.
What did Tom do to George Bailey?
Everyone gives up a chunk of their money to keep the bank open; however, Tom insists on getting all of his $242, which would send the Building & Loan into Mr Potter’s hands. Despite knowing this and being the odd one out, Tom refuses to back down.
One cannot remain angry at Tom for long as the ending of the movie shows him giving George some money along with the others. It’s A Wonderful Life was a good depiction of society and the extremes of people: the overgiving George, Tom, and the greedy Mr. Potter.
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