Subtext: Conversations about Classic Books and Films Identity and Infamy in “Citizen Kane” (1941) (Part 2)
Jan 15, 2024
Delve into the complexities of Charles Kane’s character, highlighting his moral struggles and moments of selflessness. Explore nostalgia's role in manipulating relationships and how love and ambition clash in a world driven by media. Discover Susan's transformation as she challenges Kane's materialism, revealing deeper truths. The discussion also includes innovative cinematography showcasing characters' emotional journeys and the fascinating artistic freedom emerging from Welles' naiveté in filmmaking.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Kane's Moral Ambiguity
- Orson Welles's Kane rarely does unequivocally good deeds, making him morally ambiguous rather than a straightforward villain.
- That ambiguity deepens tragedy because his early idealism (newspapers as public good) becomes compromised by self-interest.
Tenderness That Triggers Ruin
- The toothache scene is the film's rare moment of selfless tenderness where Kane distracts Susan to ease her pain.
- That small genuine care becomes the root of his downfall because the affair sabotages his public life.
Voice As Public Possession
- Kane treats Susan's singing as something to amplify publicly rather than enjoy privately, reflecting his compulsion to externalize and publicize intimacy.
- His drive to make her an opera star mirrors his need to manipulate reputation rather than accept private affection.
