ranking item image

Citizen Kane

Movie

About

Citizen Kane is a 1941 American drama film directed by Orson Welles, who also stars in the title role. The movie tells the story of Charles Foster Kane, a fictional media mogul whose life is examined after his mysterious death. Kane's final word, "Rosebud," sparks an investigation into his past, revealing a complex character through multiple perspectives and flashbacks. The film's narrative structure, which deviates from traditional linear storytelling, adds depth and mystery to Kane's character. Citizen Kane is celebrated for its groundbreaking cinematography, particularly the use of deep focus photography, which keeps all elements in focus simultaneously. This technique, combined with innovative camera angles and lighting, revolutionized the visual storytelling in cinema. The film's themes of wealth, power, and personal isolation are intertwined with its technical innovations, making it a landmark in film history. Despite controversy surrounding its release, Citizen Kane remains a seminal work in cinema, influencing generations of filmmakers with its artistic and narrative achievements.