Citizen Kane

In a grand mansion known as Xanadu in Florida, the wealthy newspaper publisher Charles Foster Kane lies on his deathbed. As he passes away, he whispers the word 'Rosebud' while holding a snow globe, which subsequently slips from his hand and shatters on the floor.

Following Kane's death, a newsreel obituary highlights the major milestones of his life, depicting him as an immensely wealthy individual with a wealthy media empire. It narrates his rise from humble beginnings to owning 13 newspapers and radio stations across the United States.

The discussion transitions into Kane’s childhood, revealing that he was born into a poor family in Colorado. In 1871, after discovering a gold mine on her property, his mother decided to place him in the care of Walter Parks Thatcher for a better education.

As young Kane plays joyfully in the snow with his sled, he is unaware that his mother has given up control of the gold mine in exchange for a trust fund. This trust would later grant him a significant fortune at the age of 25, leading him to a different life path.

At the age of 25, after gaining control over his trust fund, Kane dives into the world of journalism. He acquires control of the New York Inquirer and adopts a sensationalist style of yellow journalism, swiftly building its readership.

Kane's aggressive newspaper tactics infuriate Thatcher, who is directly affected by the scandalous articles. Despite losing significant money—up to $1 million per year—Kane clings to the ownership of his paper and his reputation.

The Great Depression strikes, and after the 1929 stock market crash, Kane is forced to relinquish control of his prized newspaper empire to Thatcher. This marks a significant downslide in Kane's business ventures and influence.

While building his career, Kane marries Emily Norton, niece of a U.S. President. Their marriage, however, is marred by Kane's uncompromising public persona and his fierce criticism of government policies, which adds tension to their relationship.

During his political ambitions, Kane begins an affair with Susan Alexander, an aspiring singer, leading to a scandal. This relationship ultimately results in Kane's political career being shattered, as both his wife and political rival confront him about the affair.

Kane marries Susan, but their relationship deteriorates as he pressures her into a singing career for which she is not suited. Her lack of talent and ambition leads to a tension-filled marriage, causing Susan to feel trapped.

After enduring years of domineering control and isolation at Xanadu, Susan attempts to take her life due to Kane's oppressive nature. Ultimately, she leaves him, marking a turning point in Kane's already tragic life.

After Susan departs, Kane spirals into a fit of rage, violently destroying her belongings. He then unexpectedly calms down upon coming across the snow globe, where he utters 'Rosebud' one last time, reflecting his lost innocence.

Reporter Jerry Thompson continues his investigation into Kane's last word, interviewing Kane's friends and associates in an attempt to uncover its meaning. Despite thorough inquiries, he is unable to determine the significance of 'Rosebud.'

As Thompson concludes his efforts, the camera zooms in on a simple sled—the very sled Kane played with as a child. It is revealed that 'Rosebud' was the name of this humble object, symbolizing the joy and innocence lost in Kane's life.

In a tragic irony, the sled is discarded and burned, perceived as junk by the staff of Xanadu. This act underscores the overarching theme of lost dreams and the ultimate futility of Kane's pursuits throughout his life.