I think it is safe to say that we will never know whether or not The Magnificent Ambersons (1942) was a worthy successor to Citizen Kane, it suffers from studio meddling. It seems after an early screening 40 minutes form the original version were cut and a new ending was shot. That being said there are several aspects of the film that can be praised. The film has effective lighting throughout, and the ball scene near the opening is a great set piece that introduces all the major player in the film. I also like the ending of the film, which looks like documentary footage, that shows how Indiana has changed over time and lost something vital that it once was. The Ambersons house set is something akin to a character, not unlike Xanadu in Kane. It is a heartfelt tale of a family in decline, that is said to have had special significance for Welles and his upbringing in the midwest. Unfortunately, we will never know what his true vision for the Ambersons was.
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