Review of Citizen Kane (1941) by Ninon M — 31 Aug 2017

'Citizen Kane' doesn't need any other praise (mine especially) for its reputation. But it's such a FILM that I have to write one. When I first saw it I had no technical awareness of its genius, what I saw was a sensational use of light and dark shot by a sublime camerawork in an inventiveness that is astonishing with modernity even a 21st century audience, an indecent maturity in the acting and directing of a 26-year old Welles, and an extraordinarily innovating non-linear structure, telling with dexterity a tale.

And what a tale! The expressive and thought-provoking tale of successful Charles Foster Kane from its childhood to its death (which are shown to be connected), and whose first and final 'Rosebud' comes to crown 'Citizen Kane' as not merely a cinematic apotheosis, but an unforgettable work of art.

Is it the greatest film of all time? I dislike that expression, it doesn't make any sense. 'Citizen Kane' deserves better - like to be called a Grand Film.