Citizen Kane (1941)

I've felt badly because once I set up this Meetup I haven't been able to offer a movie just for this group. I maintain a separate website, ClarkstonMovieClub.com, and I had such success with it that our first two films reached maximum capacity (10 guests) right away. So, in addition to our regular meeting on the third Saturday of each month, I've decided to add a separate showing just for this group.

So we are going for the big one, Citizen Kane, often listed first on critics' list of the best movies of all time. Whether you've never seen if before or have watched it several times, you're sure to enjoy seeing it in a small group setting with other film fans.

Some modern viewers watch Citizen Kane and wonder what all the fuss is about, and a few find it confusing, even boring. But it's practically required viewing for any lover of American cinema.

The evening will start with an opportunity to mingle and enjoy snacks guests will be asked to bring (I will coordinate this so not everybody is bringing the same thing). At 8 PM we will gather in my little movie room where I will start with a short presentation to talk about what makes this movie such a vital experience. I'll cover some aspects such as the innovative use of lighting and camera work, the nonlinear screenplay and other pointers that will help enlighten your viewing enjoyment.

After the viewing we will have a group discussion to get the opinions of everybody about their impressions of the film. We'll end with a fun little movie trivia quiz and the winner will get a small door prize. Everyone is sure to leave with a sense of enjoyment in watching this classic movie and meeting some new friends.

Seating is limited to 10 guests, so reserve your seat soon. Even though I won't be able to show it until January 4th, the time will be here before you know it! I look forward to hosting this event!

You can click here to watch the original Citizen trailer. You may also find it valuable to read about the movie ahead of time (you will find numerous websites devoted to it). For a deep dive you may want to invest 13 minutes to watch this interesting overview. You can also enjoy Robert Ebert's loving introduction when it was shown on AMC. There's lots of other helpful info all over the place, so dip into some of the commentary out there!

And since this is 2024, here's a helpful ChatGPT outline of some aspects of the movie that make it worth watching:

Citizen Kane (1941) is widely regarded as one of the greatest films ever made. Its enduring reputation stems from its groundbreaking storytelling, technical innovation, and deep thematic exploration. Here's what makes it special:

1. Innovative Narrative Structure
*Citizen Kane* uses a non-linear narrative, with the story unfolding through flashbacks as journalists investigate the meaning of Charles Foster Kane's dying word, "Rosebud." This fragmented storytelling was revolutionary at the time and influenced countless films.

2. Groundbreaking Cinematography
Cinematographer Gregg Toland pioneered the use of deep focus, where the foreground, middle ground, and background are all in sharp focus, allowing for layered storytelling within a single frame. The film also employed innovative low-angle shots that required cutting holes in floors to capture perspectives that gave the characters larger-than-life qualities.

3. Sound Design
Orson Welles, having come from radio, brought a mastery of sound to the film. Overlapping dialogue, innovative use of silence, and auditory transitions added depth and realism.

4. Thematic Depth
The film explores themes of power, ambition, loneliness, and the American Dream. Kane's rise and fall reflect the complexities of human nature and the corrupting influence of wealth and power. "Rosebud," Kane's childhood sled, symbolizes lost innocence and the unfulfilled yearning for love and happiness.

5. Orson Welles's Creative Control
At just 25 years old, Orson Welles was given unprecedented creative freedom by RKO Pictures. He directed, co-wrote, and starred in the film, bringing a unified artistic vision. His willingness to experiment and break traditional filmmaking rules set a new standard for auteur cinema.

6. Cultural Impact
While not an initial box-office success, *Citizen Kane* gained critical acclaim over time, cementing its legacy as a landmark in film history. The film's narrative structure, visual style, and thematic ambition inspired generations of filmmakers and critics.

7. Controversy
The film drew controversy due to its perceived parallels with the life of publishing tycoon William Randolph Hearst. Hearst attempted to suppress the film's release, creating a mystique and intrigue around it.

8. Timeless Legacy
*Citizen Kane* remains relevant because its themes resonate universally, and its technical and narrative innovations are still studied and admired in film schools worldwide. Its combination of storytelling, technical artistry, and thematic richness is why *Citizen Kane* continues to be a benchmark for cinematic excellence.