The book was ... very different. Mostly metaphysics wrapped in a thin story veneer. The movie was one of those that intentionally tries to pull your heartstrings, to the point where it overwhelms the story and becomes the movie's whole reason for existence. At that point, in my opinion, it becomes painfully obvious--almost like trolling for sadness. It's been a while, but there were some glaring holes in the movie's own logic, too. Can't recall them off hand but I remember going, "but you just said x, and suddenly it doesn't apply?" That being said, it was beautifully filmed. But you know--opinions. I can see its appeal