Tuesday, April 13, 2010

Yo, Kane! Imma Review You!


For the past 3 days in class, I have had it very rough. I have been worked to the bone, almost. You would not believe the backbreaking work they make us do in this class! What have I been doing, you ask?


I have been WATCHING A MOVIE!


*gasps of horror* "Oh, the cruelty!"


Yes, I have been watching CITIZEN KANE, the movie that film nerds/snobs everywhere hail as the greatest movie of all time. It is a fact that AFI named CITIZEN KANE as the #1 movie of all time.


Do I agree with this title? I have no idea.
Now, don't get me wrong. I thought CITIZEN KANE was a good movie. But personally, the title of best movie ever made jsut sets this film up to be a disappointment. With this lofty title to uphold, first time viewers expect to be amazed and entertained for every second of the movie. With such an immense and intimidating reputation, viewers expect magic. Because of this title, I was left somewhat unsatisfied at the end of the film. If, say, the movie was given the title of worst movie ever made, I would definitely have enjoyed it more. The higher your expectations are, the more disappointed you will be. Isn't that the rule?
(This is your cue to say, "Why, yes it is! How insightful of you!")
For me, the best part of the movie was the twist ending. I am now able to understand all of those 'rosebud' jokes that I see on TV all the time. The world makes sense now.
Although the film's plot jumped back in forth, it was surprisingly easy to keep track of. This is something that I, hailing from what is known as the 'lazy generation', can definitely appreciate.
I liked Orson Welles in the lead role as Kane. After doing some research on him I discovered that prior to taking this role he had only done theatre and radio before, which is clearly evident when watching his theatrical acting style throughout the film. The fact that he was only 25 when filming the movie is remarkable. It really puts The Curious Case of Benjamin Button to shame. Welles aged without CGI help!
In the end, I found this movie quite sad. Kane is a character so desperate to be loved, yet he wants to control the love of others, which made love impossible and ultimately ended up in him dying alone. How depressing.
Oh well!

No comments:

Post a Comment