On July 29, 1940, a 25-year old called Orson Welles shot the first scene of what many believe to be one of the finest films ever made. He called it Citizen Kane.
The movie - which he co-wrote, directed, produced and then, for good measure, also starred in - didn't get him big bucks. Considering it was his first attempt though, the influence it had on cinema was staggering. Consistently topping lists of the greatest movies ever, Citizen Kane broke new ground in sound techniques. It also convinced filmmakers to re-think the manner in which they used their cameras.
Courses on film studies now routinely begin with a screening of Citizen Kane. It is discussed, analysed, fought over and, ultimately, appreciated for the masterpiece it undoubtedly is. Haven't watched it yet? Call your DVD rental guy at once.
Text: Preetee Brahmbhatt | Photograph: A still from Citizen Kane
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