Orson Welles

The Magnificent Ambersons Orson Welles

The sweeping saga of a prominent wealthy family's attempt to adapt to the changing times at the close of a decadent age. Though mutilated by studio executives before studio release, this film remains a masterpiece of directorial artistry, as Welles refined the techniques of shadow, quick-cutting, camera angles, and sound manipulation he used for the previous year's 'Citizen Kane' and actually edited the film while it was being shot. Based on a novel by Booth Tarkington. Academy Award nominations: 4, including Best Picture, Best Supporting Actress (Agnes Moorehead), Art Direction-Set Direction, and Cinematography. Winner, Best Actress (Agnes Moorehead) by the N. Y. Film Critics.