Jessica Doll's Citizen Kane Reflection
Citizen Kane is a classic "rags to riches" story of the 1940's, a time in which our country was emerging as a powerhouse both in the military and economically. The powerful and rich Charles Foster Kane symbolizes the economic success of the United States at that time. Much like the United States Kane always wanted more, from his extravagant estates and Inquirer business to running for Governor.
Daniel P. Franklin, author of Politics and Film, also recognizes the movie Citizen Kane as a "metaphor for our country's history." He points out that Citizen Kane falls under the category of "American Tales" lying beside classic westerns and individual achievement stories. He goes on to say how these tales support our biases and beliefs in this country.
Citizen Kane is always on the "greatest ever" film lists because it not only epitomizes our country's history but also some of our current elected officials. For example, after Charles becomes board with his wife, his estate, and his business he decides to run for governor, despite his lack of experience. Many Americans can identify with celebrities going into politics (i.e. Jesse Ventura, Arnold Schwarzenegger, and Jerry Springer). In many cases, it seems as though pop culture is lowering the expectations of our elected officials when we put celebrities lacking experience in office.
Despite all of Kane's success, in the end of the film he dies unhappy and alone, thus reinforcing the belief that money cannot but happiness.