The film The Kite Runner (German: Drachenläufer) is adapted from the book with the same title. I have read the book and it is very enjoyable. The film is, however, something different. It is obvious that it is not possible to include every single scene from the book, and thus the film can not touch the major characters in the same depth as the book. I would say, read first the book before going to watch it and then try to fill out the missing episodes in your own mind.
I also find it is pity to see that not so many are interested in this film. I can’t claim I was the youngest in the cinema, but it was clear that most of people are at least thirty something. On the other hand, it is indeed a bit hard to catch some attention when it must compete head to head against blockbusters e.g. I Am Legend. I hope the DVD will be better received.