Citizen Kane (1941) Synopsis / Plot The story charts the rise and fall of a newpaper publisher whose wealth and power ultimately isolate him in his castle-like refuge. The last word he utters before his death is 'Rosebud', which triggers a mystery. A group of journalists start investigating in order to solve it. Awards 1941: Oscar: Best Original Screenplay. 9 Nominations 1941: National Board of Review: Best Film 1941: New York Film Critics Circle: Best Film