The Greatest Original Script for a Hollywood Movie: Citizen Kane

The history of cinema is littered with iconic films, but few have the enduring charm and complexity of Citizen Kane. At 75 years, the narrative of this film still captivates audiences and film critics alike. This article explores why Citizen Kane's original screenplay stands out as a masterpiece and how it continues to inspire discussions and analyses in the realm of screenwriting.

Classics of Cinema

One cannot overlook the inspiring diversity of great original screenplays in the Hollywood genre. From the romantic drama of Casablanca to the courtroom drama of The Caine Mutiny, these films have not only captured the hearts of filmmakers but also earned a place in cinematic history. However, when it comes to original scripts, the narrative and dialogue from Citizen Kane often stand out, making it a classic of cinema.

The Echo of Time

Arguably, one of the greatest and most influential films in history, Citizen Kane was written by the wunderkind Orson Welles and his co-writing partner Herman J. Mankiewicz. The screenplay won the Oscar for “Best Original Screenplay”, and it is a testament to its genius that it still resonates today.

Source and Impact

The screenplay was loosely based on the life of newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst, and the film's opening line, "Rosebud," became a superb piece of dialogue. It is fascinating to note that Hearst's response to the film was not favorable. He ordered his critics to pan the film, which led to a resoundingly negative reception. Despite this, the film's quality remains unparalleled, and it still holds a respected place in film history.

Visual and Narrative Mastery

One of the reasons why Citizen Kane stands out is its outstanding visual appeal. Unlike many films that rely solely on dialogues, Citizen Kane combines excellent storytelling with incredible visual effects and movement. For instance, the famous "Newsroom" scene in Citizen Kane is a prime example of how screenwriting can blend dialogue with visual storytelling.

Case Study: The "Newsroom" Scene

The "Newsroom" scene involves Charles Foster Kane and his newspaper staff discussing the possibility of war between the US and Spain. The complexity of this scene is not just confined to the dialogue but also the visual elements, including the marching band and showgirls.

Mr. Bernstein: Isn't it wonderful? Such a party.
Jedediah Leland: Yeah.
Mr. Bernstein: What's the matter?
Jedediah Leland: Bernstein, these men who are now with the Inquirer who were with the Chronicle until yesterday. Bernstein, Bernstein; these men who were with the Chronicle weren't they just as devoted to the Chronicle policies as they are now to our policies?
Mr. Bernstein: Sure they are, just like anybody else. They got work to do and they do it. Only they happen to be the best men in the business.
Jedediah Leland: Do we stand for the same things the Chronicle stands for, Mr. Bernstein?
Mr. Bernstein: Certainly not. Listen, Mr. Kane will change them to his kind of newspapermen in a week.
Jedediah Leland: There's always a chance of course that they will change Mr. Kane without his knowing it.

The dialogue is profound, and it fits seamlessly into the scene cuts, making the conversation dynamic and rich in meaning. This scene perfectly blends the written word with visual storytelling, creating a holistic viewing experience.

Timeless Dialogue

Citizens Kane is renowned for its quotable dialogue, which remains relevant decades after its release. Consider the famous lines: "You long-faced, overdressed anarchist!" and "Im Charles Foster Kane! Im no cheap, crooked politician trying to save myself from the consequences of my crimes! Im going to send you to Sing Sing!" These lines not only showcase the brilliance of the screenplay but also the talent of the cast, particularly Orson Welles, who delivered these lines with panache.

Conclusion

In the annals of Hollywood, Citizen Kane remains not only as one of the greatest original scripts but also as a landmark in screenwriting. Its enduring impact and captivating narrative continue to inspire new generations of filmmakers and writers. As we explore the golden age of cinematic storytelling, Citizen Kane stands as a shining beacon of excellence, a true testament to the power of a well-crafted screenplay.