I haven't encountered a bad port from live-action to cartoon and comic. Since you're not paying actors, film, etc, all the money for production is spent on the artwork... and it works great! From DC, Marvel, Dark Horse, Image, etc... I've never seen a bad port back to print or animation. Batman Begins was ported over recently. I've seen ports of Star Trek (all series).
Of course, it does say something if the comic or cartoon is better than the live-action movie or TV show.
Re: What about the other way?
Of course, it does say something if the comic or cartoon is better than the live-action movie or TV show.