Critics are definitely wrong about this one.

Rating: 8/10 (21 May 2006)

The Da Vinci Code has generally been trashed by critics, and after seeing it I cannot comprehend why. Controversy or no, this is one of the best mystery/thrillers I've ever seen, and the 150 minute runtime is exactly as long as it takes. You'll find yourself trying to figure out whose side everyone is on, and the story throws a bunch of wonderful twists at you. There are, perhaps, a few scenes that didn't need to be put in, and the small amount of nudity is completely unnecessary. Personally, I'm surprised that this movie didn't draw an R rating, with the amount of intensity, mildly disturbing scenes, and nudity in it. It does drag at times, but in general the movie has an excellent pace and keeps you moving right along. There are a few moments of humor ("then you'll just have to shoot us...starting with him"), but for the most part it is a dark and engrossing thriller.
In short, go see it subject to these conditions: 1) If you're an easily offended Catholic, don't touch it. It is just as inflammatory as the hype says. 2) Do NOT take children to this. I wouldn't touch this with anyone under 14-15. 3) If you hated National Treasure, don't touch it. The two are very similar movies.