Yes, it was just fine, but left in a 1950's setting, the reaction from a lot of people would be "interesting fantasy - that never happened." By updating it to the near future, the producers made the parallels with our current reality much more obvious, ominous... and chilling.

I like both AS I & II. Each actor in both brought a different dimension to their character. I can't wait for AS III.

I also liked both. There was a bit of 'continuity shock' because of the cast changes, but on consideration, Jason Beghe looks like a man who could have had the history of having worked his way up from miner to become owner
of the mines and mills and factories that made him the top steel producer. Grant Bowler carried the role well, but seemed too young. With an older Hank, we needed a more-mature Dagny: Samantha Mathis. Ether it's incredible acting or incredible makeup, but did anyone else notice that her apparent age changed with the situation - when she was with Hank, or hiding out at her family cabin, she looked at least five years younger than when she was running the railroad and fighting bureaucrats.
I certainly hope the producers manage to get these two back for part 3.

That speech did play well, and overshadowed the impact of Part 1, in my humble opinion.

I'm with you on this one....

I guess I'm just the opposite. I thought Part II was much better than Part I. The speech delivered by Hank Rearden in front of the Judges was worth watching Part II alone.