Things Fall Apart and Citizen Kane Essay - 1544 Words

Things Fall Apart and Citizen Kane Okonkwo, the main character of Things Fall Apart, by Chinua Achebe. And Charles Foster Kane of Orson Welles Citizen Kane, both have value systems that are incongruous with their cultures. Thus allowing them to be defeated by society. These are two men with a great need for recognition. Their need for something that was extinguished long ago. Okonkwos struggle to prove his greatness in the face of those who knew his father. Charles Foster Kanes void that must be filled. The relentless pursuit of respect, power. Okonkwo must conquer the image of weakness inside him and his fear of powerlessness. Both characters feel that their material possessions can earn†¦show more content†¦In this scene the protagonist receives a gift from Mr. Thatcher wishing him a merry Christmas. And cuts directly to a happy new year, some ten years later. Suggesting conveniently, the lack of a meaningful childhood. This editing technique carries the viewer quickly through time, to the beginning of Charles idealism. The films plot is separated into flashbacks of the important people in Kanes life. Each flashback is in sequence with the events of his life. The nature of each flashback is consistent with the narrators opinion. The first flashback is that of Mr. Thatchers. He was the only person involved in Charles pre-adult life. Although not greatly involved, his presence is purely in the area of financial aspects. Bernsteins flashback focuses on a very positive and successful part of Kanes life. Which is concordant to Bernsteins idolization of Charles. Jed Leilands flashback is centered on Kanes downfall, and so on. Throughout these recollections we slowly gather evidence with which to judge Kane. This evidence along with the cinematic techniques used, create a perfectly clear perception of the characters inner conflicts. The first occurrence Charles selfish pride is depicted in a group of cuts with his new wife Emily. The first shot is of Emily being complimented by the charming young Kane. The lighting in the seen is focused on her and she looksShow MoreRelatedCitizen Kane Film Analysis1195 Words   |  5 PagesWelles’s Citizen Kane: The Blackmail Scene (Definite Version) â€Å"There’s only one person in the world to decide what I’m going to do – and that’s me.† – Charles Foster Kane from Orson Welles’ Citizen Kane. Orson Welles’ 1941 classic film Citizen Kane tells the story of Charles Forster Kane. The turning point of the film is when Jim Gettys attempts to blackmail Kane. The scene demonstrates Kane’s fall from grace through pride. 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