I liked the movie because it started out with Kane living up to all his ideals and then they slowly eroded away as he got more and more power.
There's a certain amount of snobbery going on with some who watch Citizen Kane because they think they have to appreciate it and treat it too reverently (thereby sucking the fun out of it).
I happened to catch it on late night TV in the early 60's and wasn't aware of the accolades the film had garnered. Because I had no preconceived notions, I just enjoyed it for the sheer entertainment value and the fact that it spins a heck of good yarn. Now that I know how great Kane is, when I watch it, I don't let its stellar reputation get in the way. It's just a fine film, with first-rate acting and, as you alluded to, the storyline is compelling.