Citizen Kane

Citizen Kane, directed by Orson Welles and released in 1941, is regarded by many as one of the greatest films ever made. The film enlightens viewers on the ins and outs of human personality, ambition, and the American dream. It features a heavyweight cast that includes Orson Welles (who also wrote and directed the movie), Dorothy Comingore, and Joseph Cotten.

At the heart of its narrative is a story of a speculator's ascension to fame and wealth, his struggle for power, and his eventual demise. The film is an exploration of the paradox of a man's life—the complexities and contradictions with which all individuals live.

The film begins with the cryptic utterance of a single word—"Rosebud"—from publishing tycoon Charles Foster Kane (played by Orson Welles) on his deathbed. This utterance sets off a riveting flashback storytelling style, recounting Kane's rise from a humble life to becoming a newspaper magnate.

Through the perspective of a newsreel crew attempting to decipher "Rosebud's" meaning, the story unravels by delving into different episodes of Kane's spellbinding life. His kaleidoscopic biography is revealed through the accounts of those who knew him, a narrative device that contributes to the mystery and allure of the film. Every flashback contributes another layer to the viewer's understanding of this complex character.

Kane's story, rich in plot twist and ironies, schema and symbols, is made all the more enchanting by Welles' groundbreaking direction. His use of camera angles, light, shadow, and sound was ahead of its time, audaciously experimenting with filmic conventions and nurturing stark atmosphere and mood. Welles' framing techniques and 'deep-focus' method, wherein the background stays just as detailed and visible as the foreground, were revolutionary in the 1940s cinema.

Kane's life is not told in a linear timeline; rather, the viewer pieces it together using overlapping narratives, each presenting different perspectives on the individual behind the legend. We encounter Kane the titan of industry, Kane the political candidate, Kane the art collector, and Kane in his waning years, each facet throwing light on different aspects of his character.

While Welles' performance in the lead role is spectacular, the supporting cast greatly adds to the film's multi-dimensional appeal. Dorothy Comingore delivers an exceptional performance as Susan Alexander, Kane's second wife—a singer over whom Kane attempts to wield his influence and power. She provides crucial insights into Kane's personal life, displaying moments of vulnerability that demonstrate Kane's struggle between personal desire and public demand.

Joseph Cotten, who plays Kane’s friend and business confidant, Jedediah Leland, gives a noteworthy performance as well. He reveals some of Kane's idiosyncrasies during conversations, offering intimate hints of depth beneath the self-made tycoon's exterior.

The impressive visuals of Citizen Kane are aptly complemented by Bernard Herrmann's brilliant score. Herrmann, a regular collaborator with Alfred Hitchcock afterwards, brings deep sense and mood to scenes with his exceptional work, elevating the film's aesthetic and emotional appeal.

Citizen Kane is a melange of genius direction, exceptional performances, and creative storytelling approach. It challenges viewers to consider themes of power, the human condition, and personal mortality, complexities that define everyone, no matter how simple or grandiose their lives. With its inventive and groundbreaking techniques, it continues to inspire countless filmmakers and remains a masterpiece of American cinema.