The decision to split the book into two parts turned out to be an excellent idea, because it allowed the adaptation to stick very close to the book (thus far). The action sequences are compelling and appropriately creepy, the quieter scenes of the trio on the run maintain much of their emotional resonance. Kudos to the kids for their best acting in the series. There were even a few artistic surprises, such as the animation of the Tale of the Three Brothers. Nearly pitch-perfect movie adaptation of a wonderful book.