The holiday classic "It’s a Wonderful Life" is at the center of a controversy surrounding Amazon's streaming of an abridged version. The shortened film, available on Amazon Prime, omits the crucial "Pottersville scene" where George Bailey, played by James Stewart, wishes he'd never been born. This scene is considered pivotal as it leads to his guardian angel, Clarence, showing him an alternate reality – a grim vision of what his town would be like without him. This experience ultimately brings George to the realization of his life's true value.

The missing scene has sparked significant backlash from fans who argue it fundamentally alters the narrative. Without the Pottersville sequence, George's sudden change of heart appears abrupt and unexplained. Many viewers expressed their frustration on social media, criticizing Amazon's decision to offer this edited version. Some questioned the purpose of abridging the film in this way, while others called it a "sacrilege" and demanded an explanation.

James Stewart and Karolyn Grimes in "It's a Wonderful Life" (1946). (Silver Screen Collection/Getty Images)

James Stewart, Donna Reed and Carl Switzer in "It's a Wonderful Life." (Everett)

James Stewart, Donna Reed, Carol Coombs, Jimmy Hawkins, Larry Simms and Karolyn Grimes in "It's a Wonderful Life." (Herbert Dorfman/Corbis via Getty Images)

Reports suggest the edit might be due to a copyright issue related to the Pottersville scene's origin in a short story. However, Amazon Prime also offers the full, unedited version of "It's a Wonderful Life." The availability of both versions hasn't quelled the anger of viewers who stumbled upon the abridged version, leaving many to wonder why the edited film exists at all. Fox News Digital contacted Amazon for comment on the situation.