The book is always better than the movie, but my family and I enjoyed this movie. We liked it better than the last (Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix). The special effects were fun, and I especially like the Quidditch match. If you have seen all of the movies, then you won't want to miss this one. However, my advice is to re-read the book AFTER you go to the movie. You'll enjoy them both more that way!
During the first part of the movie, I thought I had made a mistake, with all of the horrible things that were happening. As the movie progressed, I got more and more hooked. It tells the story really well. Take the R rating seriously though. I don't think it is appropriate for younger children. I will say that this is one of the best movies I have seen in many years! It's hard to believe in the first half of the movie, but there is a great ending and it really is a feel good movie! If you can only see one movie this year, this is the one to go to.