This is a well-executed realization of a weak script. The acting was good to excellent, with standout performances by Kate Winslett, Kathy Bates, and the actors who played the roles of Kathy's husband and son. I would have preferred an older actor than Leonardo di Caprio, who tended towards "overacting" his part, giving certain scenes the impression that we were watching theater rather than film.
The problem I have with the script is that it leaves many of the side issues under-developed, resulting in a rather two-dimensional movie. On the positive side, the movie's 1955 setting was beautifully done and entirely credible. Beautifully shot and edited, great music.