Citizen Kane (1941)
Raiting: 
8,2 /10
Genre: Drama
Director: Orson Welles
Stars: Orson Welles, Joseph Cotten and Agnes Moorehead
Country: United States
Release date: 17 April 1941
Length: 119 minutes
"Citizen Kane" (1941), directed by and starring Orson Welles, is often lauded as one of the greatest films in the history of cinema. It tells the story of Charles Foster Kane, a wealthy newspaper magnate whose life is examined posthumously through the recollections of those who knew him. The film opens with a newsreel recounting Kane's life upon his death at his opulent estate, Xanadu. His last word, "Rosebud," becomes the focal point and mystery driving the narrative.
A reporter, Jerry Thompson, is tasked with uncovering the meaning behind Kane's enigmatic final word. His quest leads him to interview people who were close to Kane at various points in his life, including his business manager Mr. Bernstein, his estranged best friend Jedediah Leland, his second wife Susan Alexander Kane, and the butler of Xanadu. Through their stories, the film paints a complex portrait of Kane, charting his rise from an idealistic young man to a powerful, yet ultimately isolated and unhappy figure.
The narrative structure of "Citizen Kane" is non-linear, with the various interviews and flashbacks revealing different facets of Kane's character and life. We see his early triumphs in the newspaper industry, his failed political career, his troubled personal relationships, and his descent into a lonely and unsatisfying opulence. Each person's account adds a layer to the understanding of Kane, though often their perspectives are subjective and incomplete.
As Thompson delves deeper, the film explores themes of power, corruption, love, loss, and the elusiveness of truth. Kane is shown to be a man who had the means to acquire almost everything he desired, yet he remained enigmatic and unreachable, even to those who thought they knew him best. The film's ending reveals the significance of "Rosebud" in a poignant twist that reflects on the innocence and simplicity lost in Kane's pursuit of wealth and influence.
"Citizen Kane" is renowned for its innovative cinematography, narrative techniques, and its complex examination of character and American life. Despite the reporter's failure to find a definitive answer to the mystery of "Rosebud," the film suggests that a single word or memory cannot encapsulate a person's life. "Citizen Kane" remains a powerful and timeless work that continues to influence filmmakers and captivate audiences with its deep human insights and cinematic artistry.
Top cast - Citizen Kane (1941)
Trailer - Citizen Kane (1941)
Orson Welles' "Citizen Kane" is a tour de force of cinematic storytelling that has stood the test of time as a landmark piece of American filmmaking. Released in 1941, the film broke new ground with its innovative use of narrative structure, cinematography, and sound. It's a bold examination of a man's life, ambition, and the elusive nature of happiness and fulfillment.
The film's narrative is a complex jigsaw puzzle, piecing together the life of Charles Foster Kane through the perspectives of those who knew him. This mosaic of memories and viewpoints offers a rich exploration of Kane's character, from his early years of idealistic fervor to his final days of desolate isolation. The non-linear storytelling, which was groundbreaking at the time, invites the audience to actively engage in piecing together Kane's story, making the film an interactive experience in many ways.
Welles' performance as Charles Foster Kane is a powerhouse of acting. He embodies the character with a charisma and depth that is captivating, charting Kane's transformation over the years with nuance and precision. The supporting cast, including Joseph Cotten as Jedediah Leland and Dorothy Comingore as Susan Alexander Kane, provide compelling performances that add to the film's emotional weight and complexity.
Technically, "Citizen Kane" is a masterclass in filmmaking. Gregg Toland's deep-focus cinematography allows for intricate staging and layered storytelling within each frame. The film's visual style, with its dramatic use of light and shadow, creates a visual texture that is both striking and symbolic. The innovative use of sound, including the overlapping dialogue, enhances the film's realism and narrative dynamism. Bernard Herrmann's score perfectly complements the film's tone, adding to its emotional resonance.
While "Citizen Kane" was not a commercial success upon its initial release, it has since been celebrated for its artistic achievements and its profound impact on the medium. The film's exploration of power, media influence, and the complexities of the human soul remains relevant today. The enigma of "Rosebud" and the film's final haunting image serve as a poignant commentary on the price of ambition and the simplicity of joy that is often overlooked in the pursuit of greatness.
In conclusion, "Citizen Kane" is not just a cornerstone of American cinema but a timeless narrative that continues to challenge and inspire. Its boldness in both form and content has cemented its place in the pantheon of cinematic greats. For cinephiles and casual viewers alike, "Citizen Kane" remains an essential viewing experience, offering a richly layered and thought-provoking journey into the life of a complex and enigmatic character.