Little Children

Impressions before seeing it
It's an Oscar movie, and I like Kate Winslet and Jennifer Connelly. Knew nothing about the plot, though.

How was it?
I didn't know Little Children was based on a book, but I could immediately tell because of the way the voiceover narration was written. It had a certain descriptive quality that only books have and movie narration does not. I think it was a great idea to have that aspect though, as one problem with movie adaptations is that you lose insight on character thought processes.

And the characterization is key here. When Brad (Patrick Wilson) and Sarah (Winslet) began an affair, I found myself almost supporting it in spite of their marriages because I liked them and they made each other happy. And even though Ronnie (Jackie Earle Haley) is creepy and disturbed, I felt pity for him because he is also helpless and alone, and whether you deserve it or not it can't feel good to have everyone in town look at you with fear and disgust. This is a movie about characters indulging themselves with the wrong things. Perhaps the title comes from their childlike powerlessness over their vices. Self restraint is something kids need to learn, from their parents and possibly even with physical force, which is what happens to these adults in the injury-filled ending. Lesson learned.

Recommendation
Personally I found it incredibly entertaining. I can't really speak for what other people will find entertaining, but Little Children is an all around solid film with a strong cast, so I can't give a reason not to see it.