If, IF, you have read the book(s), know the books, love the books, and understand the books, this movie is a virtual love letter. Even more than Lord of the Rings, this was a book done right. Every beat rings true, every visual is what was described. It was a perfect visual representation of a book that I have loved for a long time.
If you HAVEN'T though... I'm not sure how your viewing will be. This is the first part of a VERY long, complex story, and boy does it show. It drags if you don't see how it will come to fruition later.
It's a visual feast for the eyes, but maybe not for those looking for a simple story that plays out before the end credits roll.
I will say that I missed such things as Sting, Captain Picard, and "My name is a killing word," however. ~_^