A+ in terms of cinematography and casting. Mann is effective in capturing the essence of the time period...the costumes and set are authentic and impressive. Through the interesting camera angles, you feel as though you are a witness to events of the 1930's. The gritty lenswork contributes to the darkness of an era when bad guys were heroes, government was the enemy, prohibition was at an end, and the economy was inciting public panic. My only complaint was that this movie was rich on melodrama and heavy on exaggeration. While the interpretation of the period was indeed accurate, much of the story, in terms of chronology and characterization, was very loosely interpreted and glamourized.
If you read the books and expect a literal translation, you will not be pleased. However, if you watch the movie with an open mind, you will be satisfied. The casting was superb, especially the Edward and Jacob characters. No, this movie will not win oscars, but it will make you want to fall in love with a vampire. Leave your high expectations at the door and your movie experience will be a memorable one.