Cinematography of Citizen Kane

This post will focus on how Welles used cinematography uniquely in Citizen Kane to make it the film it became. First, the movie is well known for its use in the deep focus lens. A perfect example of this is when Charlie playing in the snow as a kid, but his parents are inside talking to Thatcher. You see Charlie clearly through the window even though he is far away. Second, the crane movements in Citizen Kane helped give the audience a sense of familarity. The opening seen starts on the No tresspassing sign and cranes up towards the house, while the closing shot cranes down to the No tresspassing sign. Furthermore, the crane is used in going into the house when Susan is being interviewed on two occasions. This gives the audience something they recognize. Finally, the low angle shots of Charlie throughout the movie gives him a sense of power. Not only when he is takling to Susan, but also during his campaign speech. In contrast, the high angle shots of Susan make her appear powerless. This is important in showing the type of relationship Susan and Charlie had.