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Fascinating classic, based on the Pulitzer Prize winning Booth Tarkington novel, following the trials and travails of a turn of century family, the Ambersons, and how they deal with the changing times. When the movie starts it is a carefree era when people travel with horse and buggy and live in stately houses. By the time the movie ends the times have changed and so too have the Ambersons. The most affected by this change is young George Amberson Minafer, a spoiled young man who rejects change but is finally forced to accept it. His grandfather, a dignified gentleman of the past, is the family's patriarch. Each family member is integral to the story. Important, too, are the Morgans: Eugene, who is in love with George's mother, and Eugene's daughter, whom George is in love with. Excellent acting by entire cast, especially by Moorehead and Holt. A great film, probably best comprehended on second viewing. Can seem somewhat truncated and opaque in certain parts, probably due to its massive editing and partial reshooting with a different director. Interesting to note, nearly a whole hour of the film was cut by the studio (RKO), including its original ending, againgst Welles' wishes. The intended ending was considered too dark and cerebral for public consumption.
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