The movie is stylized and fast paced but it can't stand up against the book.

I read the book before the movie came out and predicted it would make a good film story. (Likewise, a few months later I predicted the same for another new book - "Jaws").

Shaw was superb in this flick. It was, IMO, his second best film role (only behind his portrayal of Grant in "From Russia With Love"). Likewise, it was fun seeing Walter Matthau in a non-comedic role. A special shout-out to Hector Elizondo's portrayal of one of the hijackers - his character was noted in the book as getting him kicked out of the Mafia because he played too rough.

I think your 4½ stars is a little generous, though.