Citizen Kane Notes: Module 7 film

Orson Welles & Citizen Kane

Introduction

• Citizen Kane is a revered film that has been studied and referenced for over 80 years.

American Film Institute

• Citizen Kane is ranked number one on the American Film Institute's list of Best American films.
• Produced in 1941, its enduring impact raises the question of why it remains so significant.

Orson Welles

• Orson Welles was only 25 years old when he directed Citizen Kane.
• His involvement and the story behind the film's making contribute to its lasting fame.

Controversy

• Citizen Kane was a controversial movie due to its basis on a rich and powerful man.

Orson Welles: Early Life

• Welles was a child prodigy:
  • Age 3: performing on stage.
  • Age 6: painting, writing poetry, performing magic, and playing piano at an advanced level.
  • IQ test results indicated genius level (146).
• He graduated from The Todd School, a prep school for boys, at 16.

Travel to Europe and Ireland

• After graduating, Welles traveled to Europe and embarked on a painting tour of Ireland.
• He ran out of money and needed to find a job.

Gate Theater

• Welles secured a job at the world-renowned Gate Theater in Dublin.
• He later exaggerated his accomplishments at the Gate to advance his career in the U.S.

Return to the United States

• At 19, Welles returned to the United States to work on Broadway.

Broadway Star

• Welles became a Broadway star, showcasing his talent and ambition.
• He even did his own makeup.
• He desired more than just acting.

Directing and Producing

• Welles began directing and producing, seeking projects that would garner attention.
• He aimed to create unique and unconventional productions.

Harlem Macbeth

• In 1936, Welles staged Macbeth in Harlem, New York.
• He set the play in Haiti instead of the UK and hired an all-Black cast.

Notoriety

• This production brought him significant notoriety.
• He was hailed as a