Needless to say, the book is better. This film had so much comic relief in it to balance out just how progressively dark the HP series has gotten by this point.
I feel like they left out a lot and it was just sort of a bridge to lead to the final book (which apparently will be split into two films).
The characters have definitely grown and it was very enjoyable! I think the directors took the time to sort of build the complexity of other characters (mainly Draco) and I applaud them for that.
There were times where I felt they focused too much on superfluous story lines and didn't emphasize or try and build on the actual plot itself.
All in all, I was satisfied with the film and cannot wait for the Deathly Hallow. =)