I loved the book. It wasn't very long - the pacing seemed perfect for the story it told. As a result, I think I went in to AUJ with the mindset that I was already annoyed that it was split up into three movies. I spent most of my time picking it apart pretty good and not trying to enjoy it.
It wasn't until I watched it again with my son on Blu-ray at home( yes, even though I didn't care for it entirely, I still had to have it because it's part of the LOTR and I have all the other movies on disc) I started to enjoy it for what it is. There aren't really any things that bother me anymore like they used to. I enjoy all the action and even all the exposition at the beginning, even the songs they sing.
Well, maybe two things still bother me. Namely, why only a couple dwarfs have "normal" faces and the Goblin King(was that his name?). I can live with the dwarf thing , but what was up with the Goblin King's stupid voice and stupid song?? And why is he the only goblin to speak "English"??
Regardless, the trailer for the new movie looks pretty good so far. As I said, I ultimately enjoyed the first movie so I'm looking forward to the next one.