The movie itself was very artistic however it was just so sad. The boy obviously has some severe problems, which is not really how I read the actual book. I was really glad that I didn't take my five year old to see it. She would have been scared and would not have understood what was going on, even though it is one of her favorite books. I think the director read a lot into the movie. I have to admit I was a little disturbed by how aggressive the boy was.
I thought the movie was very well done. Great acting, sound, and costuming. The action was very intense and fast paced. It was a perfect date movie. That being said I also think it was appropriately rated PG-13 and a kid under 13 would probobly be overwhelmed by the intensity of the film. I would not recommend this for a child.