I haven't read the book, but that ending, not just Rutger's monologue, but the paper unicorn was top stuff.
As for the sequel, I don't know man, I just fell in love with it. So, well made. And the pace, which many found slow, I liked it. You are right about 3D, but watching it in IMAX was even better. And the casting of Gosling was perfect.
It also sets up perfectly for a third movie, but I doubt they will make it after incurring a huge loss.