I think we are expected to believe that the George in the kissing scene isn’t the real George. Let’s not forget. He is sent on his errand to woo the lovely Mary by his mother. I think that this scene is relatable to men because there is a woman who loves George despite his grumpiness. Because the kissing scene is not the only grumpy George. He kicks the car door closed after the Italians move into their house, and he yells at his daughter when he comes home that Christmas eve. George angrily blows his whistle at the neighbour who doesn’t have the air raid screen down. He calls child Mary at the soda counter, “brainless”.

But we know that George is brave and honourable. He suffers injury to save his brother. He accepts abuse to protect Mr. Gower. He gives up on his dreams to save the Building and Loan so that the people of Bedford Falls have someone to go to that’s not Potter. He sends his brother to college in his stead.

George Bailey is a flawed human. I think you’ve nailed it when you say that you wouldn’t be interested in the George who throws the temper tantrum. Who would?

Mary does. She sees the George who is brave and honourable. I think Mary chooses George because she admires him. I’ve fallen in love because of admiration. It’s a compelling motivator.