Over-rated

Rating: Null/10 (11 November 2002)

Technically brilliant film, but pacing flags for the most part and characterisation is not terribly interesting. The performances are fine, but apart from Kane himself, everyone else seems to be lacking in their delivery. Perhaps it is because Welles is a master actor and outshines everyone else, but there is definitely something lacking on screen.
It amazes me how this film often makes number 1 on most "Greatest Films of All Time" lists. The mood is magnificent and the musical score from Bernard Herrmann wonderfully brooding. Such a pity the emotion of the film doesn't live up to its potential.