I decided to bring this thread back up. 
I loved the movie but after reading so many of your saying the books were hard to get into I just didnt get around to buying one to try. 
Then I found a hardbound book on the world and picked it up with the first book. 
I can not put Master and Commander down.... It is a great book, yes the description of the ships and sailing is a bit much but it is very interesting, and Aubry is much like many great combat commanders you read about, great in combat, or doing his duty but causes a huge amount of trouble for himself when he is not. 
If you liked the movie go grab the first book, it atleast is very entertaining, and I can't wait for book 2. 
Anyone know if they are doing anymore movies?
I found out the Frigate they used in the Filming is now a  museum ship in San diego.  Used to be named the Rose before the Movie.