Citizen Kane is a phenomenal film, and it's still great despite its age. Everything about this film is perfect: the acting, plot, characters, and especially the haunting and powerful ending. It's not a very happy film, but it's fascinating and definitely a must-see.
As far as content goes, this film is refreshingly free of language and drugs. There are references to an affair, and one character becomes angry and begins to trash furniture and objects in his room. This film might be a bit confusing for young kids to follow, because of the unusual way it is presented.
CITIZEN KANE is continually listed by countless film studies as the greatest American film ever made. Is it? Maybe. I wouldn't be the one to tell. Is it my favorite? No. But it is an engaging, stimulating, and gorgeously made film about one man's flawed life and his constant search for meaning, which evades him to his death.
There is no violence or language. It is mentioned that Kane's political life is ruined after his extra-marital affair with his soon-to-be second wife, but it is fleetingly mentioned. Kane tries to buy happiness in all forms, and is very self-centered and controlling towards both of his wives. There is also some social drinking, and one character proves to be quite fond of liquor.