cmort666 is correct, the slide isn't big and ugly because of the material it's made from, it's a necessity due to the blowback design.
Every one I have encountered has been extremely reliable, but you have to remember that any semi auto has to be kept clean and regularly maintained to expect that.
Although they are fairly accurate they weren't intended to be a target pistol. They weren't designed to be a showpiece or win any beauty contests either. Anyone that thinks they won't work as a self defense weapon needs a little dose of reality. I think the main reason they are held in such low regard is because of the gun snobs that think you have to have certain brand names, or pay a lot for what you shoot. I have pulled them, and other "junk" guns, out on the range and heard the comments from other shooters using guns that cost a whole lot more, only to have them pack their gear and leave after I started shooting. It's a great feeling by the way.
There are plenty of handguns now that look like a "chip off the old block", and to me they are all about the same. Except some cost more than others.
One bit of warning, if you do ever get a good used S&W revolver, you'll never look at autos the same way.