Citizen Kane vs. RKO 281

Attribute	Citizen Kane	RKO 281
Director	Orson Welles	Benjamin Ross
Release Year	1941	1999
Genre	Drama	Biography
Story	Loosely based on William Randolph Hearst	Based on the making of Citizen Kane
Cast	Orson Welles, Joseph Cotten	Liev Schreiber, James Cromwell

Plot

Citizen Kane, directed by Orson Welles, follows the rise and fall of Charles Foster Kane, a wealthy newspaper publisher. The film is known for its non-linear narrative structure, as it explores Kane's life through flashbacks and interviews with those who knew him. RKO 281, on the other hand, focuses on the making of Citizen Kane itself. The film delves into the behind-the-scenes drama and controversy surrounding the production of the iconic movie.

Characters

In Citizen Kane, the titular character is a complex and enigmatic figure, portrayed brilliantly by Orson Welles. Kane is a larger-than-life figure with a tragic past and a thirst for power. The supporting characters in the film, such as Kane's second wife Susan Alexander and his best friend Jedediah Leland, also play crucial roles in shaping the narrative. In RKO 281, the focus is on the real-life figures behind the making of Citizen Kane, including Orson Welles, Herman J. Mankiewicz, and William Randolph Hearst. These characters are portrayed by actors such as Liev Schreiber, John Malkovich, and James Cromwell.

Themes

Citizen Kane explores themes of power, wealth, and the corrupting influence of ambition. The film delves into the complexities of human nature and the consequences of unchecked ambition. RKO 281, on the other hand, delves into themes of artistic integrity, censorship, and the power of the media. The film highlights the challenges faced by filmmakers and artists in a world dominated by powerful figures like William Randolph Hearst.

Visual Style

Citizen Kane is renowned for its innovative cinematography and visual storytelling techniques. The film features deep focus shots, low-angle shots, and striking use of light and shadow. Orson Welles' direction and Gregg Toland's cinematography set a new standard for filmmaking at the time. RKO 281, on the other hand, adopts a more traditional visual style, reflecting the era in which the film is set. The movie captures the glamour and drama of Hollywood in the 1940s, with lush sets and period-appropriate costumes.

Reception

Citizen Kane was initially met with mixed reviews upon its release in 1941 but has since been hailed as one of the greatest films ever made. The movie is celebrated for its groundbreaking storytelling and technical achievements. RKO 281, on the other hand, received positive reviews from critics for its performances and historical accuracy. The film sheds light on a lesser-known chapter in Hollywood history and provides insight into the making of a cinematic masterpiece.

Legacy

Citizen Kane has had a lasting impact on the film industry, influencing generations of filmmakers and setting a high bar for cinematic storytelling. The movie's innovative techniques and complex narrative continue to be studied and admired by film scholars around the world. RKO 281, while not as widely known as Citizen Kane, serves as a valuable companion piece that offers a behind-the-scenes look at the making of a cinematic classic. The film provides a glimpse into the creative process and the challenges faced by artists in the face of powerful opposition.