DVD Reviews

Citizen Kane: Special Edition

In 1941, Orson Welles created a masterpiece of cinema. It was Citizen Kane, and it is, without a doubt, the greatest film ever made. Many have tried to argue this, but they have always failed. Critically, it has always been known as such a great film in cinema history, largely due to using innovative techniques never before seen within the history of motion picture. The fictional story of a media tycoon’s growth and demise in his world came under major controversy upon its release for being too similar to a real life media tycoon and thus propelled the film to its original success.

Now, as Citizen Kane celebrates the 60th anniversary of its release, the world’s greatest film is now offered in the DVD format as a two-disc special edition, giving the film the royal treatment. To add to that treatment, the film has been digitally remastered in both picture and sound, making the film look and sound much better that it already was. This excellent transfer completes the package that is a suitable and honourable treatment for the greatest film ever made. Citizen Kane is not only an excellent film; it is also an experience of cinematic greatness, voyeurism and curiosity, and observing the life of just one man who made a difference.

Presented in the original aspect ratio of 1.33:1, the picture quality is flawless. The transfer is perfect, with no noticeable grain, and maintaining the deep focus and sharp contrast that made the film truly distinctive. In fact, it has never looked this good, it is fabulous! The only sound option offered is mono, but for a mono soundtrack, it is surprisingly quite clear and crisp.

The supplemental material is thorough and reasonable without overshadowing the film itself. It includes the1941 premiere newsreel footage, the original trailer, production notes, and a large memorabilia gallery, plus two excellent commentaries, one by film director and Welles biographer Peter Bogdanovich, and another by film critic/historian Roger Ebert. The second disc contains the superb documentary "The Battle Over Citizen Kane", which discusses in great detail the controversy between Welles and newspaper mogul William Randolph Hearst. This is a great documentary on its own, and is an excellent addition to the set.

This masterpiece of cinema history has made its way to DVD in a big way, getting the treatment it so rightfully deserves. Complete with an excellent digital transfer and compelling features, this package is a must own for anyone who appreciates the art of cinema. It is an excellent film, and an excellent DVD, and is definitely worth the time and effort to buy. But, in the final words of Peter Bogdanovich’s commentary, "It is a great film. Just enjoy it."

Review By Chris Emery