Since the book was so popular, many of us already know the story. It did the book justice because all those wonderful visuals in my mind's eye came to life. It was beautifully directed and photographed and the casting was perfect. I was worried that it was just going to be another Julia Roberts movie, but she was exquisite! So vulnerable and believable. Richard Jenkins had one of the most touching and memorable scenes I've ever seen. I'm sure I'll see it again. The only thing that could have been "bigger", although it was done nicely, was Elizabeth's awakening scene at the Ashram when she really knows God is there. It was more profound in the book, possibly made less important in the movie. But the scene with the elephant was quiet and really cool. A nice movie - good change from all the violent, stupid ones out there.