when sakurai saw the festival line-up, one film really excited him. it was the 1946 american film "it's a wonderful life." he had wanted to see this classic for years. the main character loans money to the local townsfolk, even if they're poor. bad luck hounds him. eventually, he tries to take his life. >> you got your wish, you've never been born. >> reporter: but an angel appears and shows him how valuable life is. >> strange, isn't it? each man's life touches so many other lives. >> reporter: the night the film is screened. our movie buff is there with his wife. >> translator: i'm very excited. it's been a while. ever since i heard it was playing, i've been looking forward to it. >> reporter: at the film's climax -- >> get me back to my wife and kids! help me, terrence, please! kids! let me touch you, are you real? oh! >> george, george! >> reporter: the film's main character sees how wonderful life is and he and his family break into song. >> translator: my heart is beating. it's important to keep moving forward. and i'm going to give it my best s