Having watched this movie a few times now, I think it is very close to the movie of the year for me. In fact I honestly cannot think of any movie that was better. I enjoyed the Hobbit and the 2nd Thor movie but not as much as this story. The 1st movie was not as good, but it takes having watched the 1st movie to better enjoy the 2nd one. The acting, the sets, the costumes and the story line were all very well done. It will not happen, but I would not mind at all if this movie were given a nod towards a best picture nomination.
If you have not seen this movie, watch the 1st one before you do. Yes the 1st one is not as good and kind of cheesy, but it has great moments. Then watch the 2nd movie. It is akin to watching the 1st and 2nd Episodes of Sparticus and then watching the rest of the season. The 2nd movie is that much better. 1st movie=6/10, 2nd=9.5/10