I found the movie to be very moving and satisfying. Standing alone from the original story, this movie holds up on its own. The performances by the young actors are impressive.
After I saw the movie I read a summary of the original story. I think that they could have told the story the way it was originally written, and it would have been as good or even better. Yes, the movie would have been longer, but it would have been even more meaningful to see the journey of father and son, more depth into the lawyers life, and the tragic ending which was completely different in the movie.
I recommend this movie. It's good to cry sometimes.