As a film from 1941, Citizen Kane did not bore me while I was watching it, which surprised me for a piece this old. Just like the book mentioned, the movie built the narrative using the non-linear plot. With a combination use of flashback and reverse chronology that are prevalent nowadays, it is such a pioneer and innovative attempts back in the day.

The film started with the scene of Kane dying while bring up the main theme “rose bud”, which placed a question mark within viewers’ mind, only to be solved before the end. As the plot progressed, we are placed into the reporters POV to hear testimonials from different characters and ultimately understand what rose bud represent. This hook kept the viewers engaged and curious to keep watching the film. Using modern perspective to analyze this film, this technique Orson Welles used it still very effective and interesting for viewers, not outdated at all.

Another interesting part of Citizen Kane’s narration that I have not seen from any film before (maybe it’s because I have not watch enough), is the use of telling the same story multiple times but from different perspectives. From each time, viewers are able to extract new information and understand different character (the storyteller)’s feelings and thoughts. Welles shot Susan’s failing orchestra show twice, from Leland’s and Susan’ POV. From Leland, we see that the entire performance was a mess. The scene started with Susan at the center of the stage singing the first line, then immediately the camera tilts up and shifted to the next scene. I interpreted it as Leland’s attention has already shifted away from the performance, and he did not care anymore. On the other hand, when Susan was telling the story, camera was shot from her back. When viewers face the audience off that stage that is entirely black, I sensed a tragic vibe. From two characters telling the same story, we see different shots which creates overlap but also new layers of meaning from the narration. This is such an innovation in film history that we still don’t see a lot in modern days. To conclude, I do believe Welles narrative technique of keeping viewer curious and fulfilled, made it a film that if produced today, still fun and great to watch.