Boy, am I glad I didn't read the book before I saw the movie

Rating: 8/10 (13 July 2006)

I must say that I enjoyed the movie. Templar and grail lore has always fascinated me, but the popularity and genre of the book had become an obstacle to my reading tastes. I had no preconceived notions or expectations. I was not disappointed. Most of the people that have both seen the movie and read the book are somewhat disappointed, siting that shorter scenes in the book were lengthened and other scenes were slightly altered for dramatic, visual effect.
The performances in the movie were excellent. I always love Audrey Tatou. Paul Bettany as Silas, the murderous, albino monk (how many times will I get to use that phrase in live?) was the stand out character. Every time he appeared on screen, I felt pity for him as a man believing passionately in a work that will end in despair. And Ian McKellen, what more can I say? His portrayal of Leigh left me loving and loathing him all at once.
The only problem I had with the film was in the choice of Tom Hanks as Langdon. Although he does a fine job, I couldn't help but feel that anyone could have played this role. It wasn't that his performance was lack luster; after all, he is Tom Hanks. He was not the person that I left the theater thinking about, and I have not gushed about his character at all. An unknown could have played the part and done just as well.
Despite the controversy and lawsuits that have surrounded both book and movie, I could recommend that everyone see "The DaVinci Code" for the sheer joy of seeing a mesmerizing Paul Bettany and an extremely entertaining Ian McKellen.