Hype Can't Make It Any Better

Rating: 6/10 (20 May 2006)

It's going to be a sad day for Dan Brown fans when they go to see his, "The DaVinci Code". Not only does the film not live up to the novel, or to the hype, but it also doesn't even breach the surface of all the potential the movie had going for it with some good actors, such a Hanks, Tatou, Reno, Molina and McKellen. Although there were good performances from Tatou and McKellen, the cast in general performed rather poorly. When I see a film adaptation of a novel or a book, I prepare myself for the usual disappointment that parts of the story will be changed and edited for the sake of time. In "The DaVinvi Code" however, I was more than surprised to see that not only were some parts missing and altered, but there were many things added as well. There were many instances where the story was rushed, leaving many questions unanswered. This will also leave anyone who hasn't read the book somewhat lost. WARNING to those who have not read the book; watch the movie with someone who has so they can fill in the many gaps. I love the novel and my love for it had not been altered after watching the film. Yet I don't believe Ron Howard did any justice to the book with his direction. In summary, the movie is still worth while to watch, although maybe not in theaters. For those who have read the book, prepare yourselves for some disappointment. As for those who have not read the book, prepare yourselves to discover the "greatest story ever told".