My review is an encompassment of what I think in relation to the film and to what I have read in other "Tales From Earthsea" reviews.
1. A fantastic film to watch. For regular Studio Ghibli watchers, this is not disappointing and I think we have much to look forward to from Goro Miyazaki. Although I didn't enjoy it as much as say Howl's Moving Castle or Princess Mononoke, I would definitely put it somewhere in the top 5 Studio Ghibli films.
2. I have not read the book, so I cannot judge how close the film was to the novel. However, from looking at other reviews, it appears that the film was not as loyal as it could have been. I know how irritating this can be due to the Harry Potter films, but I think it is important to step back from the novel, and think of the film by itself. It does have a fascinating story, with my only complaint being that dragons did not feature as heavily as I would have hoped!
3. Like most of the Studio Ghibli films, things are left unanswered which can be annoying for eager fans, and the rather abrupt finish can increase your feeling that there is still a little more to tell. Having said that, we are left with a satisfying conclusion to the main plot.
In summary: An essential for Studio Ghibli lovers. Perhaps a little disappointing for fans of the book, but all in all, a good film that I would definitely recommend.