Very neat and clean. I have the same camera. If you're wanting to start and learn you should read up on the manual (if you don't have one search for a pdf on it). Reading and putting it into practice is what I'm still doing, I have the same 50/1.8 lens along with a couple others.

As far as film goes, for B/W start with TMAX 100 or 400 speeds, and color stay within the same region. This film is very versatile and widely used. As you learn more and stumble upon new things you'll learn that this camera is great and a strong platform to follow up on. If interested you should look into flickr's groups and boards where you can see what other people are doing with the equipment.

Flickr: AE-1 discussion topics