Widely regarded by many critics as THE greatest “picture” ever in cinema. It feels almost intimidating writing anything about this film. It reminds me of writing a paper for english class. I almost want to be more casual on my thoughts in protest of these feelings.This 1941 film was written, produced, directed and starred 25 year old Orson Wells. I was a bit less busy at 25 in comparison.....but I digress. We follow the life of Charles Foster Kane from his humble origins to acquiring the sixth largest private fortune. We see a man obsessed with running his newspaper based entirely on what he says is happening. His word influences many readers (including presidents) and these yellow journalism tactics even takes the US into war (a la, William Randolph Hearst).Marriage, a run for politics, scandal, divorce, remarriage, divorce, and finally loneliness. My takeaway from the story of Charles Foster Kane is one of a man that wanted to be loved and have complete control of everything. He was not willing to make sacrifices to love someone back. But I could be wrong. Orson Wells cleverly made the film to follow Charle’s life story through the lens of his friends and loved ones. We only get fragments of the man and it’s clear that Charles never really opened himself up to other people. There’s this wall of loneliness that despite the best efforts of people (ex:wives) it was too difficult to surmount. Charles Foster Kane is loved by millions, his word is gospel to a global audience and yet he would tell you that he’s the loneliest man. The human psyche sure is fickle.Citizen Kane holds up very well for a movie made in 1941. It’s clear from the directing, the cinematography and writing that this film has had a profound influence on generations of American cinema. If it isn’t your favorite director’s favorite movie, it’s probably his/her favorite director’s favorite movie.Tough to rate as the greatest with today’s lens, but I would still recommend the movie. Just try not to think of it as a homework assignment that you must watch.https://boxd.it/1PSGep via /r/movies https://ift.tt/3vLzKMY
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