I was a little worried about this movie going in. Not pessimistic, but worried. It's part one of an epic finale and after a decade of being invested in these fictional characters, their ending is important. I was immensely satisfied. The cut some things out--of course, that is necessary--but I think they did a better job explaining some things that other movies did not. This might be the easiest movie to watch if you haven't read the books. I have read them all though, and I thoroughly enjoyed this film. I'm not much of a crier, but there were a few times I got misty eyed. Those who watch it can probably guess when. I went to the midnight release and there was a great energy in the audience. It made the experience. And, thanks to this site, I didn't have to wait 2 hours on line for a ticket and then end up sitting on the front row. I like having my neck not cricked. This movie seems long, but when you're watching it, the time goes quickly. I'm going to see it again and again, and then probably buy it.