I expected this movie to have more of a "Tim Burton" feel to it (being a HUGE fan of his movies), but it was more toned down & believe me, it wasn't a bad thing! I would explain further, but I'd be giving the movie away. lol. The special effects for some of the fight scenes left something to be desired at some points in the movie, but the special-effects make-up was brilliant! Very realistic! The storyline was great, very poetic, lots of action & great acting! I didn't know this movie was actually a book first and after seeing this movie, I ended up buying it for my nook! I am definitely giving this a read! One thing I want to mention, they do NOT have this movie in the IMAX, so don't pay extra for it (like I did). Also, to be perfectly honest, one could do w/o watching the 3-D version of the movie. They don't even use it as often as you think they would. Well done to all involved!