though i would classify this movie as a "chick-flick," i truly believe even a husband or boyfriend could appreciate the realities it exposes. it brings to surface the problems people have when they lose themselves and the great things that can be discovered when taking the time to love oneself. julia roberts is phenomenal but i must say, javier bardem (felipe) really wowed me. they both really were their characters and though i did not cry, their emotional scenes were flawlessly believable. the story developed at a great pace and had a very satisfying ending. while i didn't read the book and cannot offer that comparison, i will say that the movie was phenomenal.