RKO 281

Orson Welles, George J. Schaefer and Herman J. Mankiewicz begin the ambitious project that will become Citizen Kane. They grapple with control, credit, and the practical hurdles of making a groundbreaking film at the studio. The team sets out to craft a vision that could redefine American cinema.

At a party at Hearst Castle, Welles confronts Hearst's tyrannical persona and is inspired to tell a life story about him. The party reveals the power and danger of the subject, pushing Welles toward a bold, controversial project. Mankiewicz remains wary but intrigued by the daring subject despite the risk.

Mankiewicz expresses strong concerns about provoking Hearst and the consequences that may follow. Welles argues that the subject makes the project essential and asserts control over the screenplay. The disagreement foreshadows the credit battles to come.

Welles demands primary credit and control, leading to a fierce confrontation with Mankiewicz. Mankiewicz accuses Welles of stealing credit and Welles refuses to back down. The partnership fractures as they cut ties, threatening the project's future.

After reflection, Welles decides to keep Mankiewicz on and offer joint screenplay credit. Mankiewicz agrees, recognizing that their collaboration is essential for the project to go forward. The screenplay evolves under a fragile, hard won cooperation.

Hedda Hopper, after viewing a press screening, reports that the film is a thinly veiled biography of Hearst. Hearst uses his power to block the film's release and protect his image. Hollywood executives begin to fear the political and financial costs of a public battle.

Hearst wields influence to suppress the film, pressuring studios and editors. Hopper and Hearst threaten to publicize Hollywood if the movie is released, turning the project into a wider scandal. The struggle pits artistic ambition against corporate and media power.

Hearst's mistress Marion Davies endures public humiliation as intimate details are exposed. Davies supports Hearst during the crisis and tries to stabilize things behind the scenes. The couple's fragile bond is strained by the film's revelations.

Davies sells the jewelry Hearst had given her and gives him the money in the form of a check. The gesture is meant to help Hearst survive financially amid mounting pressures. The public attention further complicates the relationship between Hearst, Davies, and the studio.

The project suffers from delays and harassment as the saga plays out in the industry. The professional relationship between Welles and Mankiewicz dissolves, and Schaefer faces personal and career costs. The studio's finances and reputations are strained by the turmoil.

After a long struggle, Citizen Kane is released, but Hearst bans mention of the film in his publications, muting its public profile. Despite the obstacles, the film achieves significant commercial success and draws critical notice. The release marks the beginning of a new era in film storytelling.

Citizen Kane earns lasting critical acclaim and is widely regarded as one of the greatest American films. Welles achieves a professional milestone, while the film's controversial subject continues to spark discussion. Its influence on narrative technique and cinema history endures.