Watched the movie of this for the third time today... I first watched it when I was about 7 (my mum, cousin and aunt wanted to see it, so I had no choice) and read the book when I was 9. Probably too early both times- I didn't understand the movie at all, and understood the book only a little more. However,in a way, I'm pleased I did, as both book and film are brilliant, and rank highly in my favourites!!
Lost track of how many times I've read the book; something I like is that each time I read it I understand a little more of Cassandra's character, and how she reacts and feels.
The book, of course, is superior to the film, but the film isn't too bad. My main complaint is that Cassandra and Thomas look far too young! However, a lot of the pertinent feeling is still there. And the actress who plays Cassandra is pretty beautiful, which helps ;)