Everyone's missing the point.

Rating: 9/10 (4 November 1998)

Yes, I understand that this is America, and everyone is entitled to their opinion, and many like to "rate" things, trying to figure out who is best, who is second best, etc... Well, yes Citizen Kane has been called #1 on many lists. However, these lists are made by professionals, and they look as much at technical issues as anything else. And they are just lists. Let me say it again, and this applies to everyone's lists, not just the critics' : they are just lists. The great directors, Welles included, do not (and did not) make films to beat out other directors on lists. This is not college football here. This is art. And, it is entertainment. The film has been around for 57 years, and every sort of person has seen it in every sort of way with many different intentions. Therefore, opinions will vary to such a degree that any sort of "absolute" ranking, comparing it to other films, should be looked at as mere fun, just something to give film lovers something to talk about. If you see this film and you love it, it may be because the plot intrigues you. It may be because you appreciate the innovation of the directing, or simply that you love old movies in black and white! "Greatness" is relative folks, and I hope you all at least enjoy yourselves a little bit as you make your lists.