Citizen Kane Essay

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Citizen Kane was a film that set the curve for future productions to reach. The infamous Hollywood style is clearly shown in Orson Welles’ masterpiece by executing numerous conventions of film exceptionally well and using new methods of cinematography such as deep focus. The storyline of Citizen Kane revolves around flashbacks of Charles and his rise to wealth. Along the way, he encounters love interests and companions, while eventually dying alone in the biggest man-made castle since the pyramids of ancient Egypt. Even with his enormous fortune, he could never achieve true happiness. With that being said, the true brilliance of the film isn’t the plot, but rather how the director filmed the events happening to convey a unique perspective on …show more content…
Non-diegetic sound is playing while Jedediah is reflecting on the marriage of Citizen Kane and his first wife, Emily. The soundtrack to start the montage was a very soothing and romantic waltz-like genre of music. It set the tone to make the viewers think that the marriage was going swell and that the two were happily in love. After each cut, the music changed to a slightly darker tone. This can be compared to the relationship between Kane and his wife. Although they started off happily in love, much like the music getting faster and more menacing, their relationship quickly starts spiraling out of …show more content…
The mise-en-scene had the two moving farther and farther apart from each other as the years progressed, symbolizing their love fading. In addition, the change of centerpiece resembled their changing relationship so eloquently that it seemed natural. The sound also played a key role in setting the tone. The change of rhythm signified panic and concern in the viewer while expressing the emotions of Charles and Emily to be that of a failing relationship. This can also be seen as Charles’ change of character and now need for power because he has no love anymore. Overall, Citizen Kane was a film that encompassed numerous devices that made it the movie it is critically acclaimed to

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