The Color Purple? Do you love or hate it?

I grew up with the movie. Its one of my first memories of movies. I used to watch it constantly. We moved and I guess somehow over the years it got lost but I've always remembered it. A few days ago I went to the library and checked out the book. Its amazing! The characters, their realtionships, the cirstances. Its a great story. I've heard mostly positive feedback about the book and movie. The only negative comments that I've heard was that it was racist,ist and they didn't approve of Celie and Shug's relationship. I found it quite endearing. I actually see it more as a friendship even though it is ual. They were there for eachother emotionally and that really enpowered Celie- to have love and worth.I just think its a great story!! I LOVE it and trying to get the movie but its not at any local stores so I may try to order it off the internet. I just the think story and characters are awesome and wahted to know your thoughts the book, characters etc.