On Christmas Eve, a compassionate but discouraged man is granted a chance to see how the world would look if he had never existed. As familiar places and people appear strangely altered, he begins to understand the profound impact of his everyday kindness and sacrifices. Initially overlooked on release, the film later gained cult status through repeated television broadcasts and word of mouth, eventually becoming one of the most beloved holiday classics and a lasting reflection on community, purpose and the value of an ordinary life.