I thought it was a more-involved film than the first one, and the ending was certainly more easily interpreted (and didn't involve
somebody finding a dove, magically).
Visually, it was a treat; it was packed with visual moments that the first movie could only achieve in spots, due to the technology of the day. I was quite awed by both the cinematography and the handling of color and form in places; there have been many movies since the original that tried to get that feel right, but the sequel not only got it, it surpassed it in many ways. My favorite younger person quite enjoyed seeing how the visual tricks of light and sharp contrasts to establish forms was employed in both films.
As a film, I felt like it was a little too long; there were several parts I would've left on the cutting-room floor, because they really weren't that important to the story. The ending was also a bit too pat about making the circle's ends connect for my tastes, but explaining why would involve major spoilers, so I'll refrain.