IMO, books are always better than movies because there is room for character development and richness of detail that movies can't have due to time constraints. They stick to a single, primary story arch without the extra richness of secondary/supporting plot lines. Often comes out "thin."

That said, Whale Rider did a good job of conveying the intent and emotion of the book--thanks to the actress who played Pikea. LOTR also did, I think. They did a fine job of realizing Middle Earth on the screen, and the epic feel of the book, while doing their best not to trim too much from the story.

I agree with Quill. Though I've yet to read Whale Rider, (it's now on my list)
LOTR was beautifully done. Though I always recommend reading the book first, LOTR could stand on it's own.

S~N~K

I also want to read Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

Denis Leary was on Conan O'Brien last night and he promoted A Very Long Engagement too! It actually was pretty funny. He said it was a chick movie, but had WWI stuff for the men and Jodie Foster speaking French and in Sex scenes!
He really was on to promote his TV show Rescue Me. It is on the F/X channel (which I don't have cable and can't see) but the DVD's are out at the video stores. I highly recommend Rescue Me! Great show.

-Amanda