Citizen Kane

Definition

Citizen Kane is a 1941 film directed by Orson Welles, widely regarded as one of the greatest films in cinema history. The film is notable for its innovative narrative structure and groundbreaking cinematography, which reflect the complexities of American life and the influence of media in shaping public perception, particularly within urban settings.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Citizen Kane was inspired by the life of newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst and reflects themes of power, wealth, and the American Dream.
2. The film employs a non-linear narrative that uses flashbacks to reveal the life story of Charles Foster Kane through the perspectives of different characters.
3. Orson Welles was only 25 years old when he co-wrote, directed, and starred in Citizen Kane, showcasing his prodigious talent at a young age.
4. The innovative cinematography in Citizen Kane, including deep focus shots, allows viewers to see multiple planes of action simultaneously, enhancing the storytelling.
5. Citizen Kane was initially met with mixed reviews upon release but has since gained recognition as a masterpiece and is often studied for its artistic achievements.

Review Questions

• How does the narrative structure of Citizen Kane contribute to its overall impact on audiences?
  • The narrative structure of Citizen Kane plays a significant role in engaging audiences by using a non-linear format that presents the protagonist's life through various perspectives. This approach allows viewers to piece together Kane's character and motivations from different angles, creating a more complex understanding of him. By revealing details about his life through flashbacks and interviews with people who knew him, the film effectively highlights themes such as memory, loss, and the elusive nature of truth.
• Discuss the significance of Orson Welles' contributions to Citizen Kane in terms of direction and innovation.
  • Orson Welles' contributions to Citizen Kane are significant because he not only directed the film but also co-wrote it and starred as Charles Foster Kane. His innovative techniques in filmmaking, including deep focus cinematography and creative use of lighting, set new standards for visual storytelling. Welles' bold choices in narrative structure and character development pushed the boundaries of conventional cinema at the time, establishing Citizen Kane as a transformative work that influenced future filmmakers.
• Evaluate how Citizen Kane reflects societal issues related to media influence and urban life in America during its release.
  • Citizen Kane serves as a critical reflection on media influence and urban life in America during the early 20th century. The film showcases how wealth can corrupt ideals and how media moguls can manipulate public perception through their control over information. Through the character of Charles Foster Kane, viewers see the duality of ambition and isolation inherent in American society. This exploration remains relevant today as it prompts discussions about the ethics of media power and its impact on democracy, making it a timeless commentary on societal issues.

Related terms

Orson Welles:

An American actor, director, producer, and screenwriter known for his revolutionary work in theatre and film, particularly for his role in creating Citizen Kane.

Narrative Structure: The framework that underlies the order and manner in which a story is presented in a film, which in Citizen Kane includes non-linear storytelling and multiple perspectives.

Cinematography: The art of photography and visual storytelling in film, where Citizen Kane is renowned for its innovative use of deep focus and lighting techniques.