Honestly, there are very few adaptations that aren't cheesy or completely removed from the source material in somewhat major ways.
Take the Shining. Great film. Great book. The two should not be compared as if they were the same story.
Dreamcatcher on the other hand, no notes. Perfect in both versions. Especially the fact that the movie kept the shit weasels in.
Like Tolkien, his writing style isn't for everyone. Some are drawn in by the madness and cosmic horror realized, others can't penetrate the veil and tune out. Then again, that's what's great about fiction and story telling. Finding what works best for you.