I have mixed emotions about this movie. As a standalone film, I believe that it's well-executed, well-cast, and well-done. Just well would be the word to describe my reaction. However, if judging it with the bias of being a fan of the novel, I would probably have the same reaction. Except for one small, tiny little nitpick:
"It's not accurate."
Okay, look. I know everyone who is everyone has this complaint about a movie. I even think this sometimes, too. But that shouldn't take away from a film in it of itself. Just let it be a standalone thing.
So I will judge it like that. And, because Google won't let me do this, I give this movie 5.7/10.
Some of the acting was dry, if only boring. I almost couldn't stand the main girl, but she is okay in the end.
Black Beauty is the best character. There, I said it.
George was fine, I suppose. No need for a love interest, though.
And it was set in the modern times? That's okay.
All in all, this movie has the benefit of being a decent film on its own merit rather than just being a book adaptation. Not many movies based on already existing properties have this luxury.
So with that, here is my final statement:
I didn't hate the movie, and I didn't love it.
I liked it. Quite more than usual.