The Magnificent Ambersons: Orson Welles’ Underrated Masterpiece and Its Complicated Legacy
- This term often applies to musicians and athletes, but it can also fit filmmakers.
- After the success of Citizen Kane, Welles started working on his next project, The Magnificent Ambersons, in 1942.
- The Magnificent Ambersons tells the story of a wealthy family, the Ambersons, over several decades.
Introduction to The Magnificent Ambersons
Table of Contents
No artist wishes to be known as a one-hit wonder. This term often applies to musicians and athletes, but it can also fit filmmakers. The pressure after a successful debut is enormous. Orson Welles faced this challenge after his acclaimed 1941 film, Citizen Kane.
Orson Welles’ Follow-Up
After the success of Citizen Kane, Welles started working on his next project, The Magnificent Ambersons, in 1942. This adaptation of Booth Tarkington’s novel began with high expectations. However, as production costs increased and early screenings received poor feedback, RKO Pictures took control of the final edit. Although the film was significantly altered, Welles’ distinctive vision remains evident, and many consider it one of the greatest films ever made.
What is The Magnificent Ambersons About?
The Magnificent Ambersons tells the story of a wealthy family, the Ambersons, over several decades. The film explores themes of family dynamics and the impact of change. Isabel Amberson, a central character, chooses security over passion in love. As fate unfolds, her past lover, Eugene Morgan, and his daughter re-enter her life, causing conflict.
George Amberson, Isabel’s self-involved son, tries to control the circumstances, resulting in tension within the family. His jealousy and arrogance lead to strife between him and Eugene, reflecting a struggle between traditional values and modern advancements, particularly in the automobile industry.
The Critical Reception of The Magnificent Ambersons
The film’s initial reception was mixed, partly due to RKO’s edits. Audiences found Welles’ vision compromised, but critics still acknowledged its brilliance despite the missing footage. Over decades, appreciation has grown, leading to a current Rotten Tomatoes score of 89% for the film, with many calling it a classic.
Awards and Recognition
Upon release, The Magnificent Ambersons received four Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture and Best Supporting Actress for Agnes Moorehead. However, it did not win in any category. Despite this, the film remains a significant part of cinema history.
Restoration Efforts
After its initial release, RKO destroyed the original negatives of The Magnificent Ambersons, preventing a complete restoration. Many attempts have been made to recover the lost footage, including a recent initiative called The Ambersons Project, which aims to recreate the missing 45 minutes using various resources, including Welles’ original screenplay.
Conclusion
In hindsight, the cuts made by RKO seem misguided. The enduring popularity of The Magnificent Ambersons highlights the lasting impact of Welles’ talent and storytelling. Despite its flaws, the film showcases a powerful narrative that resonates with audiences even today.