Citizen Kane

Citizen Kane

Year: 1941

Runtime: 119 min

Language: English

DramaMystery

In a quest to unravel the enigma of newspaper mogul Charles Foster Kane's (Orson Welles) cryptic dying declaration, "Rosebud," a determined reporter embarks on an intriguing investigation. As he delves into Kane's life, a complex tapestry unfolds, revealing a man whose meteoric rise was fueled by both triumph and tragedy, with the elusive answer forever tantalizingly out of reach.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Citizen Kane (1941)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Citizen Kane (1941). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

Late 19th century to early 20th century

The movie spans several decades, starting from the late 19th century during Kane's childhood to the early 20th century at the height of his newspaper empire. This period was marked by significant social changes and industrial growth in America, coinciding with Kane's personal and political adventures.

Location

Xanadu, Colorado, New York

Xanadu is the opulent mansion where Charles Foster Kane spends his final days, known for its extravagant architecture and a private zoo. Colorado is where Kane spent his childhood and experienced early family struggles. New York serves as the backdrop for Kane's rise in the newspaper industry, where he manipulates the media and expands his influence.

🏰 Xanadu 🌄 Colorado 📰 New York

Last Updated: January 18, 2025 at 14:34

Main Characters – Citizen Kane (1941)
Meet the key characters of Citizen Kane (1941), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Charles Foster Kane (Orson Welles)

Kane is a complex character who embodies the American dream yet is ultimately a tragic figure. His relentless ambition and desire for power lead him to financial success but personal failure, highlighting the dark side of wealth. Kane's obsession with control and recognition defines his life, yet he remains deeply unfulfilled.

🤑 Wealth 😔 Tragedy 📈 Ambition

Jedediah Leland (Joseph Cotten)

Jedediah is Kane's closest friend and confidant, representing loyalty but also the disillusionment that accompanies Kane's downfall. His character provides critical insight into Kane's complex nature and the impact of his choices on personal relationships. Leland's memories serve as a poignant contrast to Kane's self-destructive path.

👥 Friendship 🤔 Disillusionment 📝 Loyalty

Susan Alexander Kane (Dorothy Comingore)

Susan is a pivotal character who experiences the consequences of Kane's ambition firsthand. Initially an aspiring singer, she becomes a victim of Kane's controlling nature, ultimately leading her to a downward spiral. Her struggles reflect the sacrifices made in the name of love and ambition, contributing to the tragic elements of Kane's story.

🎤 Ambition 💔 Sacrifice 🍷 Alcoholism

Last Updated: January 18, 2025 at 14:34

Major Themes – Citizen Kane (1941)
Explore the central themes of Citizen Kane (1941), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

💔 Isolation

Isolation plays a crucial role in Kane's life as his wealth leads to loneliness. Despite his social status and numerous relationships, he ultimately dies alone, showcasing the emptiness that can accompany success. This theme is reinforced through Kane's failed marriages and estranged friendships.

📰 Media Manipulation

Kane's journey in the world of yellow journalism illustrates the power of media in shaping public opinion. His ability to manipulate narratives reflects the ethical dilemmas faced by journalists. The exploration of media influence is a central theme as Kane uses it both to build his career and to damage his opponents.

❄️ Lost Innocence

The theme of lost innocence is encapsulated in Kane's childhood memory of the sled 'Rosebud'. This symbolizes the joy and simplicity of his early life, contrasting sharply with the complex realities of adulthood. Ultimately, it reveals how his early experiences shaped his later loneliness and failures.

Last Updated: January 18, 2025 at 14:34

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