I liked it a lot. However, I was a bit worried at the beginning when the writing seemed very sketchy and the acting trying to hard for the stereotypes.
BUT! Wow I was impressed the chemistry between Eastwood and those kids. Definitely an awesome movie. See it!
As a character piece, GT was great. And the honesty, with racism and language made it refreshing. But some of the acting, from supporting characters was awkward, to say the least. There were some scenes that looked as though they were rushed and others that just didn't mesh together. I think if Clint had spent a little more time on particular scenes, as well as the editing room, he could have made a better movie.
I definitely give it thumbs up, but it's got issues, that a lot of critics simply ignored.