Sunday, January 24, 2010

Citizen Kane (1941)

Reviewed: 07.23.2007
Following the death of newspaper tycoon and philanthropist Charles Foster Kane, news reporters set out to discover the meaning behind his last word... "Rosebud". Kane's life is re-examined through a series of newsreel footage in an attempt to discover the man behind the persona.

Citizen Kane is considered one of Hollywood's classics. Judging this film by today's standards, doesn't do either party justice. To think generations are missing out because of it's age or that it's B&W is sad. Citizen Kane is on top of those lists for a reason. After viewing, you'll see why.

Grandiose and bombastic, Orson Wells embodies Kane from the ambitious 20-something to the disillusioned 60 year old, Wells makes Kane overwhelmingly real. It's a masterful performance. The supporting cast of characters all seem to be operating on another plane, symbolizing periods of time in this man's life.

The visual styling of Citizen Kane is unconventional and stunning. Creating themes through the symbolism, special effects, scoring and detailed cinematography, the film assaults the senses. Combined, the viewer is easily engrossed in the story of a vulnerable man and his Rosebud.

Citizen Kane, again, is essential viewing for film fans. However, the dependence of symbolism may very well impede the best of intentions.

01.24.2010 ~ Although the secret is out, I love this one.  The symbolism is key.  'Grandiose and bombastic' still stand.

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