Citizen Kane (1941) is an American drama film directed by and starring Orson Welles, who also co-wrote the screenplay with Herman J. Mankiewicz. Often regarded as one of the greatest films ever made, Citizen Kane revolutionized filmmaking with its innovative narrative structure, deep focus cinematography, and groundbreaking special effects.

The film’s plot revolves around the life and legacy of Charles Foster Kane (played by Orson Welles), a wealthy newspaper magnate based on the real-life figures of William Randolph Hearst and Joseph Pulitzer. The story begins with Kane’s death and his enigmatic last word, “Rosebud.” This sparks a search for the meaning behind the mysterious word by a reporter named Jerry Thompson, who interviews those who knew Kane throughout his life.

Through a series of flashbacks, the audience learns about Kane’s rise to power, his pursuit of political ambitions, and his complex relationships with those around him. As Thompson delves deeper into Kane’s past, he uncovers the many contradictions and complexities of the man, revealing a portrait of a deeply flawed individual whose relentless pursuit of wealth, power, and success ultimately leaves him isolated and unfulfilled.

Citizen Kane is celebrated for its innovative storytelling techniques and powerful themes exploring the human condition, ambition, and the corrupting influence of power. The film’s influence on modern cinema cannot be overstated, as it continues to inspire filmmakers and audiences alike.

Moneyball (2011) is an American sports drama film directed by Bennett Miller, based on the non-fiction book of the same name by Michael Lewis. The film stars Brad Pitt as Billy Beane, the general manager of the Oakland Athletics baseball team, and Jonah Hill as Peter Brand, a Yale-educated economist. The movie is a true story that explores the innovative strategies used by Beane to build a competitive team despite having a limited budget.

In the film, Beane and Brand challenge traditional baseball scouting methods and develop a new approach based on sabermetrics, a statistical analysis of player performance. Their goal is to identify undervalued players who can contribute to the team’s success without breaking the bank. Beane and Brand face skepticism and resistance from both the team’s scouts and the media, but they are determined to prove that their unconventional methods can lead to success on the field.

As the Oakland Athletics begin to defy expectations and rack up wins, Beane’s approach gains traction and changes the way major league baseball teams evaluate players and construct their rosters. Alongside the main plot, the film also delves into Beane’s personal life and past as a once-promising baseball player.

Moneyball received critical acclaim for its engaging story, strong performances, and unique perspective on the world of professional sports. The film earned six Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture, Best Actor for Brad Pitt, and Best Supporting Actor for Jonah Hill.