I shoot film almost exclusively, simply because I feel that it simply delivers the best results for ME.
Yes, I'm biased, but I'm also not part of the wealthy(yet, I'm 24) geriatric crowd here who feel that they 'need' to upgrade to the newest and shiniest DB's when the new models get released... I've had the chance to use IQ180's/ Aptus backs of various flavors/MP ratings, and frankly, I see no 'need' to change... I do not shoot for demanding clients time-wise, mostly for myself.
I own my own drum scanner, so yes, I'm biased this way as well
You mentioned EXPOSURE: if its off, its either your issue or your equipments, probably the former unless your equipment is sh*t
Its taken me a few rolls to really get to KNOW how a particular film reacts to certain colors, exposure latitude, etc... I for one still GEL/filter the lens AT EXPOSURE, so that post work is much easier. I don't 'do' Photoshop whiz-bang, layers upon layers, etc... To me, "get it as right as possible in camera" is my mantra... It just makes post that much easier.
I shoot 120/220 6x4.5(Pentax 645), 4x5(mod'd Polaroid 900 rangefinder
www.alpenhause.com ) and 8x10 film. I borrow a friends Linhof 617SIII system when i need a panoramic perspective. Color(transparency and negative) and b/w for all formats, depending on what I feel will capture what I want to see in a photograph.
Lastly, you said your scans were essentially 'worthless':
Sounds like you need a NEW LAB
... Lots of great labs here in the USA, no shame in mail-ordering it to get the best quality if you can't find one in the UK!
Dan