The movie just hardly, if not barely, stayed true to the books. Anyone claiming otherwise is simply being deceitful. Books aside, the movie was entertaining enough although the plot was dashed and lacked fair character development. As for the die-hard fans: The main focus on Jace's heroic image left a couple roles missing credit where due, especially the role of Simon. Don't expect too much from our beloved and comical Magnus Bane.. He lacks a sense of humor along with his typical air of confidence.

I couldn't tell if the acting was bad or just the writing. The incredibly bad dialogue made a film which seemed a serious fantasy/exploration piece into a mockery of itself. Based upon the previews, I was expecting to see a well produced version of Constantine meets Underworld. Instead I got a hodgepodge of Harry Potter, Twilight and the Babysitter's Club. This sold itself as a visually stunning adaptation of a book. Instead it reeked of Tween Girl angst making me wonder if Justin Bieber was going to make a cameo. The action seemed to create unnecessary plot devices, like when a human friend ends up being taken captive by vampires. This served absolutely NO purpose save to show off yet another dungeon-like set. Further, while the ending is predictable, it left at least 7 plot points open (yes I counted.) These weren't necessary to leave open for the next installment. If this series is to have any hope, they need a new writing/directing staff.

I thought this was one of the best book to film adaptations. Yes there were a few things that were different, and things taken out, but it was great. It really was just a wonderful experience. It was beautifully made definitely. I'm ready for the City of Ashes. I think all the actors chosen for the film screamed the characters, and I'd really go again! I'll also be buying the DVD whenever it comes out. I'm a big fan of the books, and just seeing things come to life made me happy.

Bummed out. I love the book series and re-read City of Bones before going to see the movie. The hype surrounding the movie was tremendous and exciting. Unfortunately the movie just seemed to jump from one exciting scene of the story to the next with little or no connection or explanation. There was little to no character development and that caused very little investment from me, the audience, and I just didn't really connect or care about the characters because of it. If I had not read the book, the movie would have made NO SENSE AT ALL. And because I read the book, I knew what was missing but at least I could understand what they were trying to do. This book just jumped off the page when read and is such a stunningly visual story that I cannot figure out why they couldn't get it translated well in movie form. So very disappointed!

The first part of the movie went along with the book. But I wondered how anyone could follow it if he/she hadn't read it. The second part was all over the place. Completely scattered story and I found myself looking at the time wondering when it would be over. SIGH. I really wanted this to be great.