What is it about? -- For fans of the book, this film needs no introduction. It bears some resemblance to the Nicholas Cage vehicle, National Treasure; both films are about a bunch of good guys and bad guys racing with one another in search of the mythical Holy Grail but where the latter is a good-natured romp that is flashy and campy (albeit unintentionally), The Da Vinci Code is decidedly too serious for its own good... Who's in it? -- The usually charismatic Tom Hanks is Harvard professor Robert Langdon but he plays his role with so much gravity, he mostly comes across as very stiff and wooden. French ingenue, Audrey Tautou as his female sidekick (sort of), Sophie Nevue, displays a little more warmth and emotion in her delivery but it must be said that she and Hanks have ZERO chemistry together. It makes me wonder what the film would have turned out to be if Harrison Ford (Dan Brown's first choice) and Sophie Marceau (one of several French actresses considered for the part of Sophie) played the leads -- with Ford's natural Indiana-jones' charm and Marceau's sexy pout, I'm sure they would pracically sizzle onscreen. It is such a waste that the talented Paul Bettany wasn't given a more two-dimensional role but as Silas, the albino monk, his manic stares and curl-lipped snarls did send shivers down my spine. Thankfully, the film becomes much more engaging during the second half, after the appearance of Sir Ian McKellen as Sir Leigh Teabing; He seemed to be the only person who seemed to be having a good time onscreen.
Why should/shouldn't you watch it? -- Yes you should if you liked the book or just wanna see what the fuss is all about (like yours truly!). Actually, I haven't read any of Dan Brown's novels but it didn't impair my enjoyment of the film. Perhaps it was to my advantage because I went into the cinema with no expectations at all and therefore, had no obligation to feel disappointed. However, for a film that has generated quite a storm of controversy (this film is even banned in Sri Lanka and Punjab), I was anticipating something more.. er.. dramatc?? LOL
In a nutshell -- Not exactly the kind of film to go for after a long tiring week of work but it's still rather watchable. The Da Vinci Code maybe a bit too wordy for some but the plot-twists and even pacing might be able to sustain your interest throughout.
my ratings --- 3.5/5 stars!!!
