Which isn't a real surprise but I don't think it is going to anywhere near as good as they hoped and I bet DVD sales aren't that great.
My daughter and I saw it as she has to do the review for her college paper. The theater at the 1:15 showing was about 3/4 or more full for a Sunday afternoon.
They changed some from the book especially near the ending.
Tom Hanks turned out okay but he was too stiff at the beginning, and I think someone else would have done a better job. After seeing the movie, anyone that doesn't think it is a piece of fiction, doesn't have a clue and their faith is not very strong. It was a good MOVIE, but I have seen better.
A number of "FReepers" were boasting that it was going to be over $100million opening weekend.
. . .they had on Discovery tonight. . .a look at 'Holy Blood/Holy Grail as well as 'The DaVinci Code'. . .read HBHG a long time ago; and really thought it better the DC. . .
. . .that said, Discovery interiews authors of HBHG and others knowledgeable in History/Bible/Christian/Catholic History as well and separates much of the wheat from the chafe. . .so to speak. Good program, actually.
THAT said. . .and I repeat myself. . .think the Cannes critics totally overreacted. . .'protested too much' in attacking everything about this film. . .betraying, I think their own fear and disdain of 'things Christian and matters of Faith'. . .hence their criticism going beyond reasonable to a real mockery. . .
. . .Think these secularists resent this film by it's potential to generate an interest and appreciation of and for, Christianity - no matter which voice one prefers to hear re the issues presented. The film surely gives a 'gravitas' to Christianity. . .by an irony. . .intended or not.
The owners of these critical voices really do not want anyone going there. . .but even to see a film that supposedly could jeopardize a believer's Faith?
The answer I think lies in the 'catch 22' of this movie. . this drama actually challenges one to 'Faith'. . .rather than 'away' from it. . .while setting Christianity and Christian mysticism in the huge scope of historical/biblical history.
Personally think the Christian community should take a deep breath and think about it. . .consider the interest level here and take advantage of a good starting point for additional Christian education. . .and potential enlightenment. . .