We actually saw it today. I'd been planning on posting a little review, but just didn't get around to it.
In a word: fucking amazing. Believe the hype.
That said, nobody's kidding when they say the movie is super intense and very dismal. That isn't to say there aren't other elements to it, because there certainly are, but be prepared to doubt the motives of several key characters, watch a lot of people die, and (unless you're a heartless robot like Sy and myself) cry. It isn't the most dismal movie ever, and there are some touching elements and stuff alongside everything else, but it's a very raw movie. That said, it's just pure wonder. It meshes up very well with a lot of my life philosophies and really spoke to my heart on both comfortable and uncomfortable levels.
It does have its flaws, but they're few and far between. The CG and what I assume is some costume work are all really well done, and the movie's got one of the coolest and most original horror monsters I've seen in *years* (made even cooler by way of context). The acting is great. The sets are great. The mood is all over the place. Just really good stuff on the whole.
So while I definitely recommend it, don't go in expecting an easy ride. It's a very difficult movie, which you'll see right from the outset, but one that rewards you for your trouble. There's more historical fiction than actual fantasy, but it's mixed beautifully and is used to actually make a point (one, I might add, that's more than a little subjective, its definition depending very much on interpretation). If you're taking a date, make sure they're ready for quite a bit of violence and some sadness, but by all means get to a theater and see this while its still on the big screen. You'll definitely regret it if you don't.
Julia didn't make it with us because she was feeling terrible, so I've already got plans to see it a second time with her.
