Don't read the book first!

Rating: 8/10 (22 November 2010)

Basically, the first thing you need to know is that the vast majority of people who were disappointed by this movie had read the book before seeing it. Of those who hadn't, most responded favourably. I am of the latter group. This movie is a fast-paced but not overwhelming 'follow the clues to beat the clock' type effort with just enough twists and turns to keep you involved right through. In trying to keep up with the book, they didn't really have time to develop the characters but other than Tom Hanks' Robert Langdon, who is successfully developed in The DaVinci Code, this is not a character driven story. While it requires thought to watch and keep up with the story-line, it is not a thought provoking movie. The DaVinci code challenged one's belief in the Catholic church and its teachings and this one had inklings in that direction (most notably the science vs. faith argument) but didn't lean nearly as hard on the viewer to engage the argument as part of the viewing experience.
Also of note, the special features included a segment on the creation of the set. Considering the size and historical significance of the locations and the inability to use the actual sites, making this movie was quite a feat.
Seriously, though, how can you possibly go wrong with a Tom Hanks and Ron Howard collaboration?
But that's just my two scents. ;)