Why was Citizen Kane added to the National Film Registry?

Citizen Kane (1941) was added to the National Film Registry in 1989 because it was deemed "culturally, historically or aesthetically significant" to America’s film heritage.12

As a landmark work in the history of cinema, the film is widely considered one of the most influential movies ever made. Its inclusion recognizes the groundbreaking techniques employed by Orson Welles, including his innovative use of narrative structure, photography, and dramatic lighting. Furthermore, the film is noted for the pioneering focusing methods of cinematographer Gregg Toland and the dramatic editing style of Robert Wise, both of which continue to influence filmmakers today.324