The Da Vinci Code

Like Dan Brown’s novel, the film version of The Da Vinci Code is a fast-paced thriller with religious truths, or untruths, as the key motivator for all characters. The film is indeed quick, particularly in its first scenes, which might make it more difficult to follow for those that have not read the book. Also like the novel, the film is not stylistically profound and is mostly straightforward in the delivery of dialogue and action. Director Ron Howard does, however, give a clean-cut film with a few style choices that are reminiscent of A Beautiful Mind, such as an interesting choice of sparingly infusing the present moment with history and occasionally allowing the audience to see what a character is imagining. The acting is also strong, especially that of Brits Ian McKellen and Paul Bettany, and I think Tom Hanks’ much talked about hair really suits his Robert Langdon and truly made him more, but not completely, believable as a “Harrison Ford in tweed.” Regardless of religious opinion or historical accuracy, The Da Vinci Code is an entertaining ride with some heartfelt moments and beautiful shots of The Louvre and French and British landscapes, all reasons worthy enough to go see this film and have a good time at the movies.

Starring: Tom Hanks, Audrey Tautou, Ian McKellen, Paul Bettany, Jean Reno
Director: Ron Howard
Runtime: 149 minutes