The Underside of Ambition: Corruption and Ambiguity in 'Citizen Kane' Anonymous 12th Grade

It is the textual integrity of Orson Welles’ film Citizen Kane (1941) which enables it to effectively demonstrate the need for healthy relationships and the dangers of the exclusive pursuit of power. The film’s non-linear structure which returns to the Gothic façade of Xanadu also conveys the ambiguity of Kane’s character and the human experience. Elements of German Expressionism then account for many of the film’s unorthodox techniques such as chiaroscuro lighting and distorted sets, which add richness in textual integrity and heightens the enigma of Kane.

Kane’s relentless pursuit of power and disregard for integrity can only yield him temporary glory, followed by endless regret. Kane’s eventual downfall exposes the intrinsic flaws of the idealistic American Dream, which promoted the false illusion that financial success generated emotional fulfilment. Kane’s youthful innocence is depicted in the childhood scene, where his indistinct shouting in the background of a deep focus shot emphasises his blissful detachment from the money-driven, adult world in the foreground. However, his unwilling departure with banker Thatcher immerses him in an unhealthy environment of “gold mines, oil wells, shipping and real estate”. Kane’s...