I loved the book, which I read a couple of weeks ago. Today I saw the movie and loved it. I think it might be re-watchable, a rare compliment from me for a movie. It was fun to notice the differences between the novel and the screenplay, though the movie stands on its own.
In today's viewing of the film, one of the novel's themes shone through vividly--the need to create. It is truly a love story, but chiefly a mother-daughter love story.
I highly recommend it and even urged my son who is an artist to see it.
Makes me want to re-read the novel.
Oh, and the acting is excellent. Not a false move by anyone.