Despite early reviews, I went to see the DaVinci Code. The theater was so full there were only single seats available. My friends and I were forced to separate. It is true that it's an extremely long film, but having read the book I recognize the need to stay true to Dan Brown's masterpiece. In reading the story, the involved characters have lives of their own which need explanation and finality. The inspector and his involvement with the Church is a good example. This apparently translates to another hour in MovieLand.
I thoroughly enjoyed the film. To read about the various works of Leonardo DaVinci involved in the story is one thing, but to see them as backdrop, prop and setting was great. There were flashbacks of historical events throughout, one of which (my favorite) being the famous Council of Nicenea. It was portrayed similar to British parlament, with various factions of Christ followers gathered around a central table fiercely debating the issues at hand. Truly marvelous. I even found Tom Hank's hairstyle pleasing once his character took shape.
The movie's producer, Ron Howard, was questioned at the premier about the controversy around the book and thus his film. He assured fans that he was true to the book (and he was). Furthermore, he encouraged people who thought they might find the movie's message offensive to avoid seeing it. He didn't think it was worth it if the person wouldn't enjoy what they saw. I found that a noble sentiment, particularly coming from Hollywood.
Such controversy over a legend that's been around for quite some time. Having seen the story take place before my eyes, I understand fully why there is so much dispute and knee jerking over it. I don't believe it's because Christ is suggested to be mortal. Sure this is offensive to those who see him as a personal savior, but I think it goes deeper. The Church is the villain in this movie, attempting to destroy evidence that would refute its existence in society. Christianity (Catholicism specifically) is seen to take an active role in misleading their congregations. That scares people.
I've said it once, I'll say it again: whatever your opinion of Dan Brown's DaVinci Code, it has truly thrown open a door that can never be closed again. Not only does the book show the Church's failings historically, but it does so in an entertaining way. Portraying historical facts as a scavenger hunt of divine proportions compells the reader (and viewer) to the end, just to know if the characters find what they seek. And since there is mention of contrary ideas such as the Council of Nicenea and Gnostic Gospels, these ideas have no choice but to live on, agreed with or heavily denounced, in our culture. Long live blasphemy god dammit.
I thoroughly enjoyed the film. To read about the various works of Leonardo DaVinci involved in the story is one thing, but to see them as backdrop, prop and setting was great. There were flashbacks of historical events throughout, one of which (my favorite) being the famous Council of Nicenea. It was portrayed similar to British parlament, with various factions of Christ followers gathered around a central table fiercely debating the issues at hand. Truly marvelous. I even found Tom Hank's hairstyle pleasing once his character took shape.
The movie's producer, Ron Howard, was questioned at the premier about the controversy around the book and thus his film. He assured fans that he was true to the book (and he was). Furthermore, he encouraged people who thought they might find the movie's message offensive to avoid seeing it. He didn't think it was worth it if the person wouldn't enjoy what they saw. I found that a noble sentiment, particularly coming from Hollywood.
Such controversy over a legend that's been around for quite some time. Having seen the story take place before my eyes, I understand fully why there is so much dispute and knee jerking over it. I don't believe it's because Christ is suggested to be mortal. Sure this is offensive to those who see him as a personal savior, but I think it goes deeper. The Church is the villain in this movie, attempting to destroy evidence that would refute its existence in society. Christianity (Catholicism specifically) is seen to take an active role in misleading their congregations. That scares people.
I've said it once, I'll say it again: whatever your opinion of Dan Brown's DaVinci Code, it has truly thrown open a door that can never be closed again. Not only does the book show the Church's failings historically, but it does so in an entertaining way. Portraying historical facts as a scavenger hunt of divine proportions compells the reader (and viewer) to the end, just to know if the characters find what they seek. And since there is mention of contrary ideas such as the Council of Nicenea and Gnostic Gospels, these ideas have no choice but to live on, agreed with or heavily denounced, in our culture. Long live blasphemy god dammit.
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