Protecting Underrated Masterpieces: Citizen Kane and Beyond

When imagining a world without certain films, it is easier to evoke strong emotions and debates about their cultural impact and why or why not they should endure. From historical and morally questionable works to major film franchises deemed overhyped, the selection is vast. However, delving into the debate on which movie to save, or which to eliminate entirely, reveals a deeper appreciation for cinematic craftsmanship and the complexity of cultural and societal reflections in film.

Case for Saving Citizen Kane

In a world where one could only save one film from disappearing, my choice would be Citizen Kane. Often cited as the greatest film of all time, it has been overanalyzed and dissected in academic circles. However, its groundbreaking narrative and technical innovations should not be the sole focus of its legacy. It is more about how it has influenced generations of filmmakers and helped redefine storytelling in cinema.

One reason to keep Citizen Kane would be its monumental impact on the film industry. A film like this not only sets a standard for technical excellence but also serves as a testament to the power of cinema in shaping public discourse. Imagine a world without the intricate storytelling techniques that Hitchcock refined or the seamless transitioning of cinematic styles inspired by this masterpiece. For many high school and college teachers, its removal would indeed mean losing a valuable educational tool. Nevertheless, educators can find alternatives to make the case for why this film remains essential.

Conversely, Removing Problematic Films

When considering removing a film from existence, the most egregious choices are not films like Citizen Kane, but works that perpetuate harmful ideologies. One such example is Song of the South. Despite its charm and use of animation, the film’s racial stereotypes and outdated narrative would be detrimental to modern audiences. The importance of films in promoting progressive values and cultural understanding cannot be understated, and works like Song of the South would best serve as a cautionary tale of what not to emulate in the future.

In a similar vein, the question arises of which film to remove from reality. For many, the choice would be clear. Two notable cases come to mind: Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker and Avengers: Infinity War.

Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker

The final installment of the original trilogy is often criticized for its disjointed narrative and the way it wraps up the story without proper closure. A film that was once beloved by many has now become a point of contention and criticism. While not everyone disliked episodes VII and VIII, the third movie feels like an unnecessary conclusion rather than a satisfying one. Its removal would not mean the loss of a beloved franchise but rather the start of a chance to remake the conclusion, making the saga more cohesive and satisfying for fans and newcomers alike.

Avengers: Infinity War

On the other hand, Avengers: Infinity War is a film that, while highly entertaining, would be a bizarrely meta decision to remove. Its complex storylines and interwoven plots have become hallmarks of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. However, while it is endlessly rewatchable and beloved by many, the question remains: would its removal change the course of superhero cinema significantly? While the film brought the MCU to a new level, there could be room for improvement in its narrative and pacing, which might not be reflected if it were to disappear. It serves as a reminder of the current state of superhero films and the challenges in storytelling within a vast interconnected universe.

Salman Khan’s Race 3: A Critic’s Dossier

The catastrophic Race 3 stands as an epitome of poor filmmaking and shady stories. Directed by Remo D’Souza, the film is a chaotic and illogical mess designed solely to cater to Salman Khan’s fanbase. It is a prime example of how the pursuit of commercial success can often overshadow artistic merit. Poor direction, subpar acting, and ridiculous plotlines are the cornerstones of this movie, making it difficult to recommend even as a guilty pleasure. The film’s excessive use of action scenes and explosions only serves to highlight its , Adventure, Sci-Fi, Superhero

Conclusion

The question of what film to save or remove from existence is deeply personal, shaped by historical context, cultural impact, and individual taste. While films like Citizen Kane and Song of the South are clear choices for preservation due to their cultural significance and the need to address problematic content, other films become more complex. Ultimately, the choices we make reflect our values and the lessons we seek to learn from the medium of cinema. By removing or preserving certain films, we shape the future of cinema, guiding its trajectory towards innovation and inclusivity.

Related Keywords

Citizen Kane, Racism in Film, Film Criticism