Citizen Kane, directed by Orson Welles and released in 1941, is widely regarded as one of the greatest films ever made. The film’s narrative, technical innovation, and complex characters have set it apart as a groundbreaking piece in cinema history. Here’s a detailed description of the film:
Plot and Narrative Structure
The story of Citizen Kane revolves around Charles Foster Kane, a wealthy and influential newspaper magnate whose life and career are examined after his death. The film begins with the death of Kane, whose last word, "Rosebud," is the central mystery of the narrative. This enigmatic word sets off a journalistic investigation into Kane's life by a reporter named Jerry Thompson. The narrative unfolds through a series of flashbacks as Thompson interviews various people who were close to Kane.
As the reporter delves deeper, we learn about Kane’s rise from a humble background to becoming one of the most powerful figures in America. The film is structured around these interviews and flashbacks, revealing Kane’s multifaceted personality and the impact of his personal and professional decisions on those around him.
Themes
Citizen Kane explores several profound themes, including the corrupting influence of power, the elusive nature of truth, and the impact of personal choices on one’s legacy. Kane’s life is portrayed as a tragic quest for meaning and fulfillment, marred by his inability to connect with others genuinely. The film scrutinizes how Kane’s wealth and influence, while making him a formidable force, ultimately isolate him from meaningful relationships and self-understanding.
Characters
Charles Foster Kane, portrayed by Orson Welles, is a complex character whose charisma and ambition are matched by his personal flaws and emotional isolation. Welles’s performance captures the character’s grandeur and vulnerability, making Kane a compelling figure whose greatness is shadowed by his inner turmoil.
Other significant characters include Kane’s first wife, Emily Norton, who becomes increasingly disillusioned with him as his obsession with power grows. Kane’s second wife, Susan Alexander, is an aspiring opera singer whom Kane tries to mold into a star, leading to personal and professional conflict. The character of Mr. Bernstein, Kane’s loyal business manager, offers a different perspective on Kane’s life, highlighting the contrast between Kane’s public persona and the private man he becomes.
Cinematic Techniques
Citizen Kane is renowned for its innovative use of cinematic techniques. Welles and his cinematographer, Gregg Toland, employed deep focus photography, allowing the foreground, middle ground, and background to remain in sharp focus simultaneously. This technique enhances the visual storytelling and adds depth to the scenes.
The film also makes effective use of low-angle shots, which emphasize Kane’s power and dominance, as well as high-angle shots to portray his vulnerability and isolation. The editing, sound design, and use of non-linear storytelling further contribute to the film’s groundbreaking nature.
Legacy
Citizen Kane has had a profound influence on cinema, setting new standards in film narrative and technique. Its innovative approach to storytelling, including its use of flashbacks and unreliable narrators, has inspired countless filmmakers. The film's exploration of the complexities of human nature and the consequences of power has made it a lasting subject of study and admiration.
The film’s impact extends beyond its technical achievements; it has become a cultural touchstone for discussions about the nature of greatness and the personal costs associated with it. Its enigmatic final word, "Rosebud," continues to spark debate and interpretation, symbolizing the unfulfilled desires and lost innocence that define Kane’s tragic life.
In summary, Citizen Kane stands as a monumental achievement in the history of cinema, blending a compelling narrative with revolutionary film techniques. Its exploration of character, power, and the search for meaning ensures its place as a timeless classic in the film canon.