Citizen Kane Movie Review: a Cinematic Exploration of Ambition and Loss

“Citizen Kane,” often hailed as one of the greatest films ever made, is a masterpiece that delves into the complexities of human nature, ambition, and the elusive quest for happiness. Directed by Orson Welles, who also played the titular character, the 1941 film is a rich narrative that weaves through the life of a fictional newspaper magnate, Charles Foster Kane. This essay presents a summary of “Citizen Kane,” examining its plot, thematic depth, and the innovative cinematic techniques that have contributed to its enduring legacy.

The movie opens with the death of Charles Foster Kane in his palatial estate, Xanadu. His last word, “Rosebud,” becomes the film’s central mystery. The story unfolds in a series of flashbacks, as a reporter, Jerry Thompson, sets out to decipher the meaning behind Kane’s enigmatic final utterance. Through his investigations, which include interviews with Kane’s friends, colleagues, and loved ones, the film pieces together the mosaic of Kane’s life.

Born into humble beginnings, Kane is catapulted into a life of wealth and influence when a mining deed on his family’s property turns out to be immensely valuable. Raised by a bank trustee, Kane grows into a man with insatiable ambition and a complex personality. He uses his inherited wealth to acquire a New York newspaper, The New York Inquirer, and quickly turns it into a sensationalist powerhouse. Kane’s journey through the media world is marked by his idealism and later, his descent into a ruthless pursuit of power.

As Kane’s empire grows, so does his ego and his thirst for control. His relationships suffer, including his two marriages, both of which end in failure and heartache. Kane’s first wife, Emily, grows distant due to his infidelity and obsession with his newspaper. His second marriage to Susan Alexander, a singer whom he tries unsuccessfully to promote, also crumbles under the weight of his controlling nature.

The narrative structure of “Citizen Kane” is non-linear, a radical departure from traditional storytelling at the time. The film employs flashbacks, multiple perspectives, and deep focus photography to explore Kane’s character. Each interview reveals different facets of Kane’s personality and life, showing how he is perceived and remembered by those who knew him.

Ultimately, the mystery of “Rosebud” is revealed to the audience, but not to the reporter Thompson. In the film’s final scenes, it is shown that “Rosebud” was the name of the sled Kane played with as a child – a symbol of the innocence and happiness he lost when he was taken from his home. This revelation is a poignant commentary on Kane’s life, suggesting that despite his wealth and power, he yearned for the simplicity and joy of his childhood.

In conclusion, “Citizen Kane” is much more than a cinematic milestone; it is a profound exploration of the human condition. The film’s innovative narrative structure, coupled with Welles’ powerful performance, crafts a compelling tale of a man who gains the world but loses his soul. “Citizen Kane” delves into themes of power, corruption, and the search for meaning, making it a timeless piece of cinema that continues to resonate with audiences today.

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