Cast
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Liev Schreiber
as Orson Welles
James Cromwell
as William Randolph Hearst
Melanie Griffith
as Marion Davies
John Malkovich
as Herman Mankiewicz
Liam Cunningham
as Gregg Toland
David Suchet
as Louis B. Mayer
Fiona Shaw
as Hedda Hopper
Anastasia Hille
as Carole Lombard
Brenda Blethyn
as Louella Parsons
Roy Scheider
as George Schaefer
Roger Allam
as Walt Disney
Simeon Andrews
as John Houseman
William Armstrong
as Mr. Lewis
Jay Benedict
as Darryl Zanuck
Ron Berglas
as David O. Selznick
Crew
Director
- Benjamin Ross
Producer
- Su Armstrong
Reviews
Gurre
RKO 281 is a very underrated movie I haven't seen alot of people talking about. It's based in part upon the real-life story of the behind the scenes of Orson Welles' Citizen Kane, and in part of the documentary The Battle over Citizen Kane that made as a part of The American Experience.
Orson Welles (Liev Schreiber) has been offered a carte blanche-contract with RKO after his legendary War of the Worlds broadcast, however he has troubles coming up with a picture, and he lacks inspiration. One night, at a party hosted by newspaper tycoon William Randolph Hearst (James Cromwell) he finds the inspiration. He wants to make a movie about this powerful man. He and writer Herman Mankeweizc (John Malkovich) starts writing the screenplay and Citizen Kane gets into production. When the movie is near completion, Hearst gets the information that Citizen Kane is about him (and not the most flattering portrait either) so he is determined to have the film destroyed. He blackmails the studio-bosses in Hollywood to buy the filmnegative... and burn it...
Honestly, I find this movie much more interesting and BETTER than Citizen Kane itself. Although I love that movie, I find this so much better! A compelling, well-written film (with a kind of downbeat ending) that keeps your (atleast my) attention all the way through. The highlight of the film for me is when Welles is filming Kane! Great re-creation of the sets in Kane, the details are just right! The actors do a good job at portraying their characters and it's well-directed.
To fully appreciate this movie, you have to watch Citizen Kane first. If you have already seen Citizen Kane, then go right ahead and watch RKO 281! Highly recommended!
I give it a 10/10
May 31, 2014
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, RKO 281 examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Benjamin Ross brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2000, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of RKO 281 took approximately 34 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 84 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 112 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 10 months to complete.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 2000, when this film is released:
- The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
- Environmental concerns were becoming more mainstream.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While RKO 281 shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Last Emperor, which focuses more on action than character development, RKO 281 offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like GoodFellas and Gandhi explore similar territory, RKO 281 stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: April 7, 2000
- Runtime: 1h 24m
Where to Watch
