Reviews

The Davinci Code (Andy)

I never read the book. From what I knew about The Da Vinci Code it sounded like another soccer mom page-turner or Oprah book of the month. Then when claims of plagiarism and religious scandal hit, the media gave key points of the book away. So on top of not being interested I felt like the book was spoiled for me. Fast forward several years later and it’s announced The Da Vinci Code is being made into a movie. So what. Then I heard Audrey Tautou was going to costar. Now I’m interested. To tell you the truth I would watch farm animals on fire if Audrey Tautou was involved. Scorched livestock and dismissed restraining orders aside, I’ve got a movie to review.

Tom Hanks does his best Tom Hanks impression but with less hair this time. The guy is not a bad actor but he lacks range. I’m sure many will disagree with me but whether he’s dying from AIDS, stranded on an island, or crackin’ da code… he’s just Tom Hanks. Audrey Tautou’s accent is thick at times. Someone could ask, “What did she say?” I didn’t know but I also didn’t give a shit. The rest of the cast does ok: McKellan and Reno do passable work. The only real standout performer was Paul Bettany. Man, that is one creepy albino. He seemed to be the only character in the film conveying any real emotion. What Bettany does to himself is accomplished through special effects yet his reactions to everything would lead you to believe it’s actually happening

Let’s get down to what everyone wants to know. Is The Da Vinci Code any good? Cannes would say no. I would say yes. However The Code isn’t going to be fully sanctioned by this church. Scene after scene plays out just like I would imagine the book to read. The Da Vinci Code makes an interesting story but not an ideal movie. Lot’s of talking, lots of theorizing, and lots of brain storming to crack one code after another. I’m not saying the movie is in need of an avalanche or two. I’m saying it might not be your cup of tea if you don’t like seeing a two and half hour conversation. There is some action and suspense but it seemed few and far between in this films runtime.
Furthermore, because of the media, the advertising, and the trailer, all key points are given away. Twists fizzled. Double crossings were solved before being revealed to the audience. No matter what happened I was one step ahead of the movie. I also don’t understand the controversy behind the film. I kept waiting for someone to say Jesus wore a dress. Da Vinci Code does nothing more than what has already been speculated time and time again. What, is Opus Dei concerned moviegoers will think their religion is evil? Grow up. Everyone loves a good villain until it’s their turn. Get over yourself. It’s just a movie. By this line of thinking Schwarzenegger would never work again

Let’s not forget all involved have recognized The Da Vinci Code as fiction. Nothing more than an Indiana Jones Esq. flick. This is not theology. Seriously, get over yourself. It’s like religious groups protesting violence in movies then running out in droves to see the ultra violent Passion of the Christ. Yeah, my heart goes out to you

Trying to bring up The Code without mentioning the controversy is tough. Frankly I think the movie company is egging it on for free publicity. If you’ve got a free afternoon and you want to see what all the fuss is about, check it out. If you read the book and loved it, chances are you’ll love this too. Will it make you question where you stand with your religion? I doubt it. I can’t help but think the book has got to be better. Sometimes dull but ultimately fulfilling. More fulfilling than a communion wafer anyway. I would give Da Vinci Code a stronger rating but, as earlier stated, it held no surprises or shock for that matter.
6.5/10

Don't forget to drink your Ovaltine

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