Our family has been waiting for this movie with such anticipation. For me personally it was in some ways better and in other not as good as the first. The special effects and cinematography were awesome. However very disappointed that they did not stick closer to the book. I understand that they have to take some liberties to make it more interesting and to fill in spots to make it flow. But certain aspects that were added were not necessary and had NOTHING to do with the books whatsoever. I would recommmend it to others with the understanding that it is not as close to the book as the first. The acting and scenery were superb.