Citizen Kane - Blocking

"Blocking" describes the placement and movement of the actors as directed by the director. This direction can define the meaning of a scene.
Through the use of blocking, the viewer is automatically aware of the hierarchy present during the scene. The actors position reflects the position of his character. We are also primarily involved with the mother, the main character in this scene, as she is placed in the centre or front of the camera for the whole shot.




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Category:

Film & Animation

Tags:

• citizen
• kane
• blocking
• film
• sledge
• scene
• analysis
• studies
• movie
• directing

[Zbenhope]

this is a brilliant scene - great shot indeed. the story is not very captivating and personally find it absolutely boring. I guess this might be the reason why O. Welles' directing talent was not immediately recognized or awarded.

[mindonfilm]

@Zbenhope As for awarded, Welles won an Oscar for his screenplay and was nominated for 2 more the same year Kane was released...

[mazzy713]

Very informative, god job! I'm studying this scene myself for a project I'm trying to do, you wouldn't happen to have any idea of how he made sure that the background, foreground and characters are all in focus at the same time?

[mindonfilm]

@mazzy713 I'm guessing he used a wide angle lense...once set at a short distance you get a wide focus range on it

[hedonism13]

Well done. (Oson Welles?)

[mindonfilm]

@hedonism13 oh yeah...didn't notice that thx

[borbetomagus]

One aspect I've read about in this scene is 'Depth as Fate', where Mary Kane's actions in the foreground have long lasting repercussions for Charlie (who's in the center of the scene). His joyful shout: "The Union Forever!" (unknowingly at the time) foreshadow Kane's lifelong yearning back to this happy time in his life symbolized by Rosebud.

[sondrebeatlebaker]

Great analysis



[2012lacruz]

I like the pacing of the film, Orson's acting, plot twists, camera angle, etc. But, I like the emptiness and vanity of the character in old age.



[watsupmnerds]

This is going to help me write my paper. Thank you very much. The observations pointed out provided me with a new view on this scene.

[Zbenhope]

@mindonfilm - Glad to learn that but I was specifically talking about his directing talent. Citizen Kane is a must-see movie for directors. will check on the other nominations. Thanks!

[vitajazz]

@mazzy713 A small aperture of F8 or F16 was used instead of the usual F2.5.. To compensate lighting was double the usual lumens and Kodak XXX stock was used. Also Toland used his own special coating on the lens to increase transmission and reduce reflections and the fringing that can occur at small apertures.

[mazzy713]

Cool, thanks!