Citizen Kane

Citizen Kane is hailed as one of the greatest achievements in cinematic history—a defining achievement in the medium of film. Many so-called “great” works and achievements in artistic fields only gain status because they are considered great—a positive feedback loop of reverence. This ouroboros of acclaim can turn any work of deserved or undeserved “great” praise into a disappointment to the expectant. The Mona Lisa is considered by many to be of this breed, as before it was stolen in 1911, it was a famous painting, but after, it became legendary. This begs the question: is Citizen Kane considered one of the greatest films ever because it is considered that, or is it earnestly a generational masterpiece? Thankfully for Citizen Kane, it is absolutely a masterpiece.