This movie is clearly a bridge movie and I would suggest that at the very least you read the preceeding book or watch the preceeding movie before watching this one. This movie is decidedly darker than the privious HP's following the turn in the books. Darker times mixed with the main characters' teen angst and you got it. The "Aha" moment in the movie was a little flat. All in all I would have been just as happy watching the DVD.
Very good movie for the whole family. Amy Adams as Giselle steals the show. Children will enjoy the animation especially one CGI Chip Monk. Parents will like the send up of fairytails with a nod to sleeping beauty. Of course Susan Sarandon is perfect as Queen Narissa. Surprisingly entertaining.