Orson Welles, a renowned boy genius, faces creative block for his first film, inspired by a heated argument with William Randolph Hearst at a dinner party at Hearst Castle. Welles eventually convinces co-writer Herman J. Mankiewicz and the studio to make a movie about Hearst, but keeps it under wraps. The film tells the story of an aging newspaper mogul who manipulated those around him, including his mistress, who was destined for stardom. However, a rough cut sparks Hearst's ire, prompting a crusade to not only prevent the film's release, but its very destruction.
RKO 281
Orson Welles's iconic film, Citizen Kane, debuted in 1941, defying the resistance of its powerful mentor, William Randolph Hearst.