Orson Welles' First Directorial Work Debunked: From Twelfth Night to Citizen Kane

Contrary to popular belief, Orson Welles' very first film as director was not the celebrated Citizen Kane (1941). In 1933, at the tender age of 18, Welles directed a short film of William Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night. This early work marked the beginning of a journey that would revolutionize the film industry.

Early Beginnings

Bearing in mind Welles' young age when he made this film, it is not surprising that he chose Shakespeare. Shakespeare was not just a subject of obsession but also a source of inspiration from his childhood. The Bard’s written works stayed with Welles throughout his life, remaining his favorite author. This early affinity with literary giants underscored the young director's potential.

The short film, although approximately 10 minutes long, was a bold and daring debut for a teenager. It showcased Welles' understanding of directing, storytelling, and mise-en-scène. His experience may have been limited, but his talent was immediately apparent. The film, as noted, was the first of several amateur works Welles directed during his formative years.

Following the success (or, more accurately, the promise) of Twelfth Night, Welles continued to explore the medium. In 1934, at the age of 20, he directed and starred in another short film titled The Hearts of Age. This project further solidified his reputation as a creative force to be reckoned with. His raw talent and unique vision were already emerging in these early works.

Further Exploration

Welles' artistic journey did not stop there. In 1938, around the time he was working on the acclaimed adaptation of The Mercury Troop for radio, he directed and starred in a short film called Too Much Johnson. This film featured Joseph Cotten in a leading role and played as a constant chase movie, showcasing Welles' evolving style and narrative techniques.

Released in 1941, Citizen Kane introduced the world to a prodigious talent that had been developing through these early works. It not only marked the arrival of a new director but also revolutionized the way stories were told on the silver screen.

Legacy and Impact

Welles' early works laid the foundation for his later achievements. His journey from a young prodigy to a renowned filmmaker demonstrates the power of early exposure to literature and the arts. These films provided the necessary stepping stones for the creation of Citizen Kane, a film that would forever change cinema.

Orson Welles' path to greatness may have begun with less-known projects like Twelfth Night, but the impact of these works was profound. They showcased his unique vision and creative genius, setting the stage for his future success in the film industry.

Further Reading

For more information on Orson Welles' early works and how they influenced his later career, delve into the following resources:

Orson Welles: The First Films - Documentaries and Early Works Articles and essays on the significance of Twelfth Night and The Hearts of Age Interviews with film scholars and historians discussing early filmmaking techniques and styles

Continuing to explore the early works of Orson Welles can provide invaluable insights into the evolution of film as an art form.