First half, all the way! I honestly didn't mind "corridor simulator" (as I often see others refer to it as...) because like you say, it's where all the good stuff happens. Even the best bit about Pulse was coming back to Cocoon, gate crashing Eden on the Eidolons! I LOVE THAT SCENE SO MUCH. To be fair though the second half does have some good moments, just nothing as stand-out-ish.