RKO 281

RKO 281 is a 1999 American-British biographical drama film that delivers an engaging depiction of the behind-the-scenes drama involving Orson Welles and his groundbreaking film "Citizen Kane". The film was directed by Benjamin Ross and stars Liev Schreiber, James Cromwell, and Melanie Griffith. It was originally produced by HBO, yet received a limited theatrical release internationally.

The heart of the narrative is a young, ambitious, and revolutionary Orson Welles, impeccably portrayed by Liev Schreiber. Orson Welles, awarded full creative control by RKO, a production company, believes in the power of storytelling and the moving picture. The film delves into his motivation to create a masterpiece that would change American cinema forever. And so, "Citizen Kane", later recognized as one of the greatest films ever made, was born.

James Cromwell embodies the powerful and influential newspaper tycoon William Randolph Hearst, on whom the character of Charles Foster Kane in Citizen Kane is based. RKO 281 presents Hearst's struggle against Welles, triggered by the blatant depiction of his life, filled with power, scandals, and complex relationships, on the big screen. The conflict between these two strong personalities, both pushing against each other with the intensity of their conviction, shapes the center stage of this movie.

Melanie Griffith, with her irresistible charm, breathes life into the character of Marion Davies, Hearst's longtime partner and a movie star of the Silent Era, bullied by the press for her Brooklyn accent. Davies is inaccurately portrayed in Citizen Kane as the lacklustre operatic singer Susan Alexander Kane, which further fuels Hearst’s rage. Griffith’s performance as a woman caught in the crossfire of Welles’s and Hearst’s clash of egos gives the movie an added depth, adding an emotional layer to the events.

RKO 281 also explores the after-effects and complications that followed the making of Citizen Kane, showing the desperate attempts of Hearst to get the film banned, the tension at the initial screening, as well as the personal and professional consequences for the people involved. It presents an in-depth look at the process of filmmaking during the ‘30s which, peppered with political power plays and personal struggles, was far from simple.

While the war of ideals forms the crux of the plot, the movie also provides insights into the lives of its characters. Orson Welles, a theatre sensation, and William Randolph Hearst, who wielded immense influence over American public opinion, are portrayed as flawed, complex individuals. The conflict stems as much from their ambitions and creative visions as it does from their personal shortcomings, which gives it a raw authenticity.

Liev Schreiber's gripping portrayal of the complex and multifaceted Orson Welles captures the spirit of a passionate artist who seeks to push boundaries and challenge conventions. On the other hand, James Cromwell's powerful performance depicts the obsession of a man desperate to maintain control over his image and status.

The film is charged with intense performances, great storytelling, and a touch of historical intrigue. Coupled with superb cinematography and a captivating narrative, RKO 281 gives the audience an unforgettable trip into the world of cinema during a time when the industry was just beginning to discover its potential. It consolidates the cultural and historical importance of "Citizen Kane" and the process of its creation, paying tribute to the perseverance and resilience of its creators.

In summary, RKO 281 is not just a movie about the making of another movie; it is a portrayal of a turbulent era, a study of ambitious characters with clashing ideologies and their passion for excellence. It manages to bring forth the drama, suspense, and tension in the backstage world of filmmaking, making it a must-watch for cinephiles and enthusiasts of cinema history. With its compelling narrative, sharp dialogues, and top-notch performances, the film stands as a testament to what goes into the making of a masterpiece.