Citizen Kane

Citizen Kane, Directed by Orson Welles and released in 1941 was, like said in my review about Bringing up baby, there was more to this movie than meets the eye. Although, with my predicament of not even being alive in the 1940’s, I am enjoying it 70 years later.

The Story more-less follows various news reporters trying to figure out what the last words of a News paper publisher Mr. Kane (“rosebud”) meant.  But there has been quite a dispute over this subject. How could have anyone known that Mr. Kane uttered “rosebud” when no one was in the in the room when he passed away? Sounds like a possible film Easter egg? The movie is not in chronological order either because each man interview by the press had their separate story of Mr. Kane. SPOILER! When I finally saw rosebud in the movie (on his sled) it makes me think that he wished he could have started over. I got the impression that he wanted to go back to the day when he got adopted and stay with his true family. Who knows?

Mr. Kane had many rough edges and questionable traits. He had the passion to collect literally everything, mainly statues. He apparently wanted everyone to love him, but never acted like it. He was well aware he could have anyone and everything he wanted. He seemed more selfish and submissive than loving that he’s employees said he was.  

To be honest, there was no structured acting in this film. With actors changing with every “mini” story of Mr. Kane, no one is developed minus Mr. Kane himself. Sadly, this made the story a little gray in this area. But it wasn’t about character development so I understand its stand point.

To conclude, would I recommend anyone to watch this film? I think I might if this sort of film interested them. Otherwise no.

Pros: Creative film, Makes you think and not just watch

Cons: At times hard to follow, slow

Bottom Line: I like the idea of making the viewer think not just watch. You may enjoy it after you’ve thought about it a little and given it some time.

4/5 Stars

Review by Shane Sullivan

Bringing up baby

Bringing up baby, released in 1938 and directed by Howard Hawks, follows a passive and shy palaeontologist  Dr. David Huxley (Cary Grant) who is constantly dragged into ridiculous situations caused by Susan Vance (Katharine Hepburn). Dr. David is working on completing a complete assembly of a brontosaurus and trying to get a 1 million dollar donation for his museum. But Susan has other plans.

The plot is fast paced and easy to follow. You really get drawn into the film and its plays with your emotions. Not in a sad way, in such a way you find yourself yelling “no don’t do that” and “why would you think that” without even thinking before you speak. Susan and David make a hilarious couple being there personalities and perspectives are so different.

This movie is like and acquired taste. It gets better the more it's thought about and discussed. Right away, it may be difficult to understand its aqward qualities. Although being a classic, there’s more to it than meets the eyes. It’s somewhat “deeper quality’s” are only exposed when not only seen, but felt.

Unfortunately, Katharine Hepburn’s acting career went downhill after this movie. Being ahead of its time, people didn’t appreciate the quality’s she had to offer to film like Monet’s paintings. This movie though is not a big screen movie. It’s an at home couch movie. Would I see again? Yes, but with someone who had not yet seen it yet.

Pros: Fast-paced, upbeat and easy to follow

Cons: Black and white, somewhat predictable

Bottom line: Go and see it. I truly believe you might like it. In fact, I am sure there will be a part in the movie you’ll enjoy.

4/5 stars

Review by Shane Sullivan

Singing In The Rain

Singing In The Rain

Singing in The Rain directed by Stanley Donan and Gene Kelly released to the big screen January 1 1945, will likely have you happy in your seat or have you franticly looking for the off button.  The musical is performed by lead actors Gene Kelly, Jean Hagen along with Debbie Reynolds and Donald O’Connor.

The story depicts the Don and Lina’s struggle acting with the new technology of recorded sound in a movie.  It is considered a long-time classic and retells wonderfully the progression and invention of film in its early days.

Although, the plot seems to drift of its main goal various times in the film which made the movie hard to follow. The “Gotta Dance” song was dragged out way past its necessary length like Donald O’Connor’s “Make em’ laugh” song. On the other hand, Lina (Jean Hagen) played the stereotypical Hollywood actor wonderfully.

Bottom line: I wouldn’t suggest this film to anyone. Its chirpy, old style dancing, fashion and depiction of society outweigh its positive factors. I give it 2/5 stars.

Review by Shane Sullivan

Film Studies 15, Mr. Chow