Not a good play or a well written book, this is a GREAT movie.

Rating: 10/10 (28 September 2017)

Multiple viewers have stated that they turned-off the movie after the first 30 minutes, the second 30 minutes is where characters start to shine. We really need to get to the third act, that is where the meat is and the actors shine in their roles. I have watched and re- watched this movie over the years since release (sometimes starting at minute 24, the entrance of Dustin Hoffmans character).
It was ahead of its time with the integration of H.U.D.-like CGI elements to explain our main character's inner monologue.
Will Ferrel is evocative as becomes Harold Crick.
The relationships in no way feel forced for developing in under two hours, the characters are real, as are the emotions they feel for us by the actors.
Give the movie a chance it should not disappoint.
*And its a got a great soundtrack that adds to without distracting from the movie.