10 Greatest Films About Journalism

Considered by many to be the greatest film of all time, it may come as surprise to some that Orson Welles' masterpiece is not number one on this list. Whilst journalism is critical to the classic film's inspiration and plot, Citizen Kane is much more than another film about the press. Therefore for the purpose of this article, the fictional life story of Charles Foster Kane will be lower on this list.

In regards to the role of journalism in the film, Kane is the sole owner and publisher of the Daily Inquirer. Kane uses his financial power and natural charisma to propel the once struggling newspaper to new heights of popularity. Exaggerating stories for political motives, Kane uses the newspaper to spread his principals and agenda to the masses, eventually leading to the launch of an unsuccessful political career.

“Don't believe everything you hear on the radio. Read the Inquirer!” - Charles Foster Kane

As previously mentioned, the character and life story of Kane was influenced considerably by media mogul William Randolph Hearst. Infuriated by the supposed similarities between Kane and himself, Hearst attempted to suppress the movie's release, which ultimately had a negative impact on the film's box office performance. However, that did not stop Citizen Kane and eighty years on, it remains of the most influential films of all time.