Film, at its core, is an art form rooted in storytelling. Yet, the way these stories are crafted—what we call narrative form—can vary dramatically, creating a rich tapestry of cinematic experiences. Chapter 3 of Film Art: An Introduction dives into the intricate structures that shape narrative, revealing how filmmakers can manipulate time, space, and perspective to engage audiences in profound ways.

This chapter also discusses plot and story, a relationship that profoundly shapes our cinematic experiences. The distinction between these two elements is crucial to understanding how filmmakers craft their narratives. While “story” refers to the broader events and characters that drive a film, “plot” is about how those events are organized and presented to the audience. This chapter illustrates how the interplay of these components can create engaging and often complex narratives.

A prime example of this relationship is Orson Welles’ Citizen Kane. The film opens with the death of its protagonist, Charles Foster Kane, and unfolds in a non-linear fashion through a series of flashbacks. The story—Kane’s life, from his childhood to his rise and fall as a media mogul—serves as a rich backdrop. However, it is the plot’s structure that captivates us. By starting with Kane’s death and then peeling back layers of his past through the perspectives of various characters, Welles creates a narrative that keeps the audience guessing and deeply engaged. We are not just presented with facts, instead, we experience the complexity of Kane’s character and the ambiguity of his motivations.

This distinction between plot and story is vital for filmmakers. Manipulating the order of events allows filmmakers to evoke emotional responses, build suspense, and reveal character traits in ways that a straightforward narrative might not achieve. In Citizen Kane, the disjointed timeline emphasizes the fragmented nature of memory and the elusive quest for truth. Each flashback adds depth, allowing us to piece together the enigma of Kane’s character while also questioning the reliability of the narrators who recount his life.

Moreover, the use of symbolism in Citizen Kane—like the iconic “Rosebud”—further illustrates the richness of plot versus story. While the story as a whole revolves around Kane’s tumultuous life, the plot intricately weaves in the significance of “Rosebud,” which serves as a poignant reminder of lost innocence and unfulfilled desire. This layered approach compels the audience to engage in deeper analysis, encouraging us to reflect on the broader themes of ambition and loneliness.