A tilted narrow tray balances a pale moon-like disc and two red glass beads against indigo.

Original artwork, not a still

George Bailey

What do you want, Mary? Do you want the moon? If you want it, I'll throw a lasso around it and pull it down for you. Hey! That's a pretty good idea! I'll give you the moon, Mary.

— It's a Wonderful Life · 1946

Behind the line

What it means

Our interpretation.

George is romancing Mary with wildly extravagant promises. If she wants the moon, he'll lasso it and haul it down. Then he seems delighted by his own idea, which makes the gesture sweet and a little goofy.

Context reviewed

Share this quote