citizen kane

  Introduction

Since its release in 1941, Citizen Kane has been hailed as one of the greatest films of all time. Directed by Orson Welles, it has received praise for its innovative use of narrative and cinematography. However, despite its legendary status, there are those who consider this film to be overrated. In this article, I will explore the reasons why Citizen Kane does not deserve the glory given to it, analyzing its plot, its characters, and its relevance in the current context.

Plot and Narrative 

Nonlinear Structure 

One of the most praised aspects of Citizen Kane is its non-linear narrative structure. However, this technique, although innovative for its time, can be confusing and ineffective for many viewers. The story unfolds through flashbacks, which can make it difficult to emotionally connect with the protagonist, Charles Foster Kane. Viewers often feel lost in the complexity of the narrative, which can lead to a frustrating viewing experience.

Lack of Thematic Depth

 Although the film addresses themes such as power, loneliness and the search for happiness, many critics argue that it does not delve deeply enough into these issues. Kane's character, while fascinating, is often presented in a superficial manner. His evolution as a media mogul and his eventual downfall are interesting, but they lack emotional exploration that allows the audience to empathize with him. This can make the film feel more like a technical exercise than a moving story.

Characters and Performances

Charles Foster Kane

The main character, played by Orson Welles, is often considered a cinema icon. However, its complexity is debatable. Kane is portrayed as a powerful man who, despite his wealth, cannot find happiness. But do we really understand their motivations? Many viewers may feel disconnected from their suffering, which limits the emotional impact of the story. The lack of development of the secondary characters also contributes to this disconnection, as they fail to contribute to the depth of the narrative.

Secondary Characters

The secondary characters, Although played by talented actors, they often feel one-dimensional. From Susan Alexander to Jedediah Leland, these characters seem to exist only to serve Kane's narrative, without having their own stories or development arcs. This can make the film feel unbalanced and the audience unable to fully engage with the story.

Visual Style and Cinematographic Techniques

Technical Innovations

It is undeniable that Citizen Kane introduced several technical innovations, such as the use of unusual camera angles and dramatic lighting. However, some critics argue that these techniques often overshadow the story itself. Rather than serving the narrative, they seem to be an end in themselves, which can make the film feel more like a display of cinematic skill than a cohesive work of art.

Outdated Aesthetics 

The film's aesthetic, while revolutionary at the time, may seem outdated to modern audiences. Filming and editing techniques that were once seen as innovative may not resonate with contemporary viewers, which can make the film feel distant and less accessible. 

Cultural Relevance 

Historical Context

It is important to consider the historical context in which Citizen Kane was released. The film was created at a time when cinema was beginning to explore new narratives and techniques. However, in today's film landscape, many of the ideas presented in the film may seem outdated. Criticism of the power of the media and the search for truth are relevant themes today, but the way they are addressed in Citizen Kane may not resonate with contemporary audiences.

Comparisons with Other Works

 When comparing Citizen Kane to other films from the same era or even more recent works, it can be argued that there are films that address similar themes more effectively. Films like Pulp Fiction or The Social Network have managed to explore the complexity of power and loneliness in a way that may be more impactful for today's audiences. This raises the question of whether Citizen Kane really deserves its place at the top of the movie charts.

Conclusion

 While Citizen Kane has been hailed as a cinema classic, it is valid to question its status and consider whether it truly deserves the glorification it has received over the years. Its confusing narrative, shallow characters, and filmmaking techniques that can seem outdated contribute to the perception that it is an overrated film. Although its influence on cinema is indisputable, its relevance and emotional connection with contemporary audiences may not be as strong as has been proclaimed. In the end, filmmaking is subjective, and it's crucial to remember that not all masterpieces resonate with all viewers.