Examining the Impact of ‘Citizen Kane’: A Review Essay on the Greatest Movie of All Time
April 20, 2022
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Orson Welles’ ‘Citizen Kane’ has long been heralded as one of the greatest films ever made. Released in 1941, IT revolutionized the world of cinema with its innovative storytelling techniques, striking cinematography, and profound exploration of power and the human condition. In this review essay, we will dive deep into the impact of ‘Citizen Kane’ and analyze why IT is considered a timeless masterpiece that continues to captivate audiences today.
The Making of a Masterpiece
‘Citizen Kane’ tells the story of Charles Foster Kane, a wealthy media tycoon, through a series of flashbacks and interviews with people who were close to him. This non-linear narrative structure, combined with Welles’ use of deep focus shots and low-angle camera shots, created a sense of depth and visual dynamism that was unprecedented at the time. The film was also notable for its use of long takes, seamless transitions, and overlapping dialogue, further enhancing the immersive experience for viewers.
An Exploration of Power and the Human Condition
At its core, ‘Citizen Kane’ is a thought-provoking examination of power and its corrupting influence on the human soul. Through the rise and fall of Charles Foster Kane, the film explores themes of ambition, loneliness, and the loss of personal relationships. IT offers a cautionary tale about the pursuit of wealth and influence, reminding us that despite all his success, Kane ultimately became a prisoner of his own desires.
Influence on Future Filmmakers
The impact of ‘Citizen Kane’ on subsequent generations of filmmakers cannot be overstated. Its technical innovations and narrative techniques served as a blueprint for future auteurs and shaped the language of cinema as we know IT today. Directors like Martin Scorsese, Stanley Kubrick, and Quentin Tarantino have all cited ‘Citizen Kane’ as a major source of inspiration, which is a testament to its enduring legacy.
Reception and Awards
Upon its release, ‘Citizen Kane’ received mixed reviews from critics, but IT quickly gained recognition for its technical achievements. However, the film was met with resistance from William Randolph Hearst, an influential media mogul who saw similarities between the character of Charles Foster Kane and himself. This led to a limited release and a lack of widespread success at the time. Nevertheless, ‘Citizen Kane’ received nine Academy Award nominations and won for Best Original Screenplay, marking a clear acknowledgment of its artistic merit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is ‘Citizen Kane’ considered the greatest movie of all time?
A: ‘Citizen Kane’ is often regarded as the greatest movie of all time due to its groundbreaking storytelling techniques, innovative cinematography, and profound exploration of complex themes.
Q: What impact did ‘Citizen Kane’ have on the film industry?
A: ‘Citizen Kane’ revolutionized the film industry with its non-linear narrative structure, inventive use of cinematography, and technical achievements, becoming a reference point for filmmakers and changing the way movies were made.
Q: What is the main theme of ‘Citizen Kane’?
A: The main themes in ‘Citizen Kane’ include the corrupting influence of power, the pursuit of wealth and happiness, and the loss of personal relationships as a consequence of one’s ambition.
Q: Did ‘Citizen Kane’ receive any awards at the time of its release?
A: While ‘Citizen Kane’ did not achieve considerable commercial success upon its release, IT was recognized for its achievements in the film industry and won an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay.
In conclusion, ‘Citizen Kane’ is an unparalleled cinematic masterpiece that continues to leave an indelible mark on the art of filmmaking. Its innovative storytelling techniques, powerful themes, and enduring influence cement its place as a timeless classic that will forever be celebrated as one of the greatest movies of all time.
