Review of Citizen Kane (1941) by Sarfaraz A — 11 May 2012

It took me almost 5 years to watch this movie, I started watching Citizen Kane in 2007, and I stopped at certain scene. In this huge period I learned so much about this movie, that watching it in one instant-go was impossible. I wanted to study each scene; and believe it or not, I just finished it in year 2012.

Orson Welles was just 25 years old when he wrote, directed, produced and starred in this great classic movie (now officially declared the greatest movie ever made). It covers many particular themes of Golden-age Hollywood. Intriguing elements have always ruled cinema-industry, especially at prestigious awards such as Academy Awards. The world has seen powerful role of print-media in shaping future of celebrities, movies, politicians etc.

Cinematographer Gregg Toland?s cinematography is exceptionally well-done, no doubt it?s his excellent usage of camera that movie has sought this much accolade throughout the world. What totally numbs me, is the idea of bringing ?silhouette? to the character of reporter played by William Allandd, everywhere he goes, the timing and placing is remarkably done, he is either shown with his back to camera, or from long shots, hiding his face; it is genius. Lifeless objects in movie are sharp and in-focus.

Several scenes have got their own standard touch, such as when Kane Foster takes over newspaper, under funny turmoil, and the final scene, just before the mystery is to be solved to audience. This grand climax scene, should be considered brilliant piece of cinema-art; unlike these days, when we seldom watch mysteries solved in moves by so-called either journalists or detectives. Discussion about, this final scene, is another wonderful issue to talk about. Even then I would not think to consider this movie to be regarded as greatest film ever made.