The film opening on Friday is supposedly drastically different from the one that played in Los Angeles & New York on Christmas (which I saw). The length has been trimmed about 15 minutes, and from what I've heard the relationships between the characters has been strengthened. I'm betting it's going to be a lot more accessible to the general public, but I'm sure there are many who will still find it boring as all hell.
Personally, the original cut was my #2 film for last year (right behind 2046); I found it to be a breathtaking film, and the kind you don't see too much of anymore. You have to go in with the mindset that you're not seeing a standard plot-driven movie, but rather going on a journey to another time and place. Let the images and narration wash over you, it's magical.