In the past I walked away from HP films disappointed, wondering where the rest of the book had gone. But with HBP I found they did a much better job of including all the vital info. While a few side stories disappeared or took a back seat the main theme was clear and well delivered. I was also very pleased to see the life come back to the characters. They allowed time for true character and relationship development. I walked away a very happy movie goer. My only complaint and the reason for 4 instead of 5 stars is that they altered the ending. They left out an important battle and something else that I won't say for those non HP book readers. I would recommend this film to anyone!
I am a huge fan of the books. I went into the movie expecting things to be left out but was surprised at how much they just glazed over. Bella has so many relationships throughout the first book that make her a more realistic character and a lot of that was left out of the movie making her seem a little flat. I think Robert P. did an awesome job as Edward; in fact all of the Cullen family was great. The production was a little lacking; some of the special effects seemed as if they used old technology and looked cheesy. I wish Stephenie had written the screen play, it would have been better. If you have read the books it is most definitely worth seeing; but don't expect the superior quality of the book.