3. Citizen Kane
"The greatest film ever made" as many critics and filmmakers alike have said. Watching Citizen Kane for the first time almost felt like a cultural obligation but it's impossible not to get caught up in the genius of Orson Welles that it doesn't matter if Citizen Kane is the best movie ever made or not. The character of Kane is difficult to love but there is some odd, charm that he exudes that makes him an extremely powerful screen presence and a brilliant showcase for the acting talents of Welles. There is film before and after the arrival of Citizen Kane. You can see its influence in every movie that followed it and by watching what came before it you can see just how revolutionary it was. Welles was never a better director than he is here because he had youthful ignorance and full studio backing. I didn't want to agree with the popular consensus here but after writing this entry I think I have to.