ROCHESTER, N.Y. — It was a very personal look at a beloved Christmas classic at the Eastman Museum Wednesday night.

Big crowds came to a special screening of "It's a Wonderful Life."

Part of the draw, two of the movie's stars made a special appearance.

Karolyn Grimes, who played Zuzu Bailey, and Jimmy Hawkins, who played Tommy Bailey, met with fans and signed dozens of autographs.

Approximately 15,000 visitors are expected to head to Seneca Falls this weekend for the It's a Wonderful Life Festival.

Starting Saturday, Seneca Falls will transform into the fictional town of Bedford Falls depicted in the 1946 classic.

"Timeless movie. Message over the decades hasn’t changed," said Chuck LaRocco of Penfield. "Everyone's life is important. It's a great way to come and celebrate the holiday season.”

The Eastman museum will have another screening of "It's a Wonderful Life" on Sunday at 2 p.m.