I went to see The DaVinci Code last night. And, since I have this platform to say what I think, here goes...
I really liked it. Of course I don't agree with all of the ideas it uncovers in pursuit of the "Holy Grail"...but I am almost certain that none of the people involved in making the movie really believe it either. It is a work of fiction based on a few historical events that are pulled together to make an entertaining drama. It is actually refreshing to see stories of this quality get made in an era where only prequels & sequels of every semi-successful film of the last 100 years seem to make it to the screen. And, on that note, I will also say that the filming on location in Paris and using well-respected French actors (don't get me started on Hollywoods use of English in movies where it makes no historical sense...) made me enjoy it that much more. Also, my parents and I are headed to London on Sunday, which will allow us time to explore both of the famous cities used in this movie.
Back to the film...it is undeniable that The Church* has a dark and bloody history and this is not by any means the first film to bring that to light. It is also pretty clear by the end of the film that they are not trying to "unseat the Holy See*" or disprove the foundations of Christianity. They dialogue about what a remarkable being Jesus was (historically) and Hanks' character, Robert Langdon, even recounts a time in his life when he thinks Jesus helped save him.
Whatever your views on Jesus, if your personal beliefs can be shaken by a Hollywood film, then I suggest you spend some more time searching yourself.
Films like this are exciting because they spark interesting conversations in all realms of pop-culture, take advantage of the opportunities. My prayer is that we take every chance we get, as the church, to show love...and that we could restore the worlds view of the church, not through protesting or forceful behavior modification, but by living genuine lives full of hope, peace, and compassion in the midst of this chaotic age.
(* referencing The Vatican)
