Great movie

Rating: 8/10 (4 February 2007)

I'm picky about historical or even quasi historical movies but I am happy to report that this is a marvelously entertaining movie. A word of caution for anyone who has read extensively on the subject of the Holy Grail, Rennes Le' Château, the Priory of Sion, the St. Clair (or Sinclair) family, and early church history: There are a number of very obvious inaccuracies that could be annoying to a perfectionist! I won't say what they are but in my view they do not detract from the film in any significant way.
The movie incorporates some of the locations and figures associated with Priory myth and even the generally understood significance of the Rose Line is incorporated effectively (this line doesn't just pass through Paris!). Tom Hanks turns in his usual accomplished performance. Audrey Tautou easily holds her own against heavy weight Hanks and further she is in a word gorgeous. Paul Bettany almost steals the movie and offers yet another astonishing performance. This man's acting range is incredible. Jean Reno, Ian McKellen, Alfred Molina also provide strong performances in very important supporting rolls. I almost hesitate to call McKellen's roll supporting since he is integral to the plot but he doesn't make an appearance until the movie is almost half over.
Ron Howard has done it again. This movie is a near perfect blend of complex plot, great characters we come to care about, a nice blend of action and drama, and for once no silly romantic subplot although the attraction between the female and male leads is palpable by the end of the movie and one wonders why they didn't fall into each others arms. The music and cinematography are also wonderful. I recommend it highly.