TV Watch: Tom Hanks on 'Leno' & 'Letterman'

Tom Hanks is pulling double duty tonight and will be on 'The Late Show with David Letterman' and 'The Tonight Show with Jay Leno' at the same time. Mind you both shows are repeats of Tom's latest appearances. If you missed it, it's new to you, if you want to catch them online we have the clips for you here. [Hanks on 'Leno'] [Hanks on 'Letterman']

'X3' Can't Crack 'Code' Overseas

Overseas, The Da Vinci Code kept the X-Men at bay. In its second week, Code declined a moderate 40 percent to gross $90.9 million on 12,038 screens, while the X-Men sequel debuted with $76.1 million at 8,543 screens, according to trade reports, which noted that during the comparable weekend last year the second weekend of Star Wars: Episode III -- Revenge of the Sith led with $61.5 million.

Hanks hires bodyguards over Da Vinci threat

Tom Hanks has employed extra bodyguards over fears for his family's safety. The 49-year-old actor, who is currently starring in the The Da Vinci Code, was forced to hire more security because he fears the controversial film could put his family at risk from disgruntled Christian groups. A source is quoted in Britain's Daily Star newspaper as saying: "Tom and director Ron Howard try to play it all down, but religion is a very sensitive subject. [More]

Dark side of pale

Every bloviator in the discourse biz, from journalists and theologians to political pundits, have poked, prodded and analyzed every teensy aspect of the controversial box office monster ($231.8 million worldwide gross in its first five days) The Da Vinci Code. Or have they? Few, if any, scriveners have dealt with the Albino Factor. Code author Dan Brown and filmmaker Ron Howard have given us a bad guy, Silas, who's not only a sharpshooting, self-flagellating, sadomasochistic assassin and religious fanatic - but an albino one. [More]

Rosslyn priest quits over Da Vinci Code hype

The priest of Rosslyn Chapel has resigned amid widespread speculation that he is no longer prepared to tolerate the worldwide hype generated by The Da Vinci Code. The Rev Michael Fass, who has previously spoken out against the "sensational speculation" surrounding the chapel, will leave his post in July. Ever since the author Dan Brown identified the historic Midlothian church as the hiding place of the Holy Grail in his best-selling book, visitor numbers have soared. It is understood Mr Fass, 61, has told friends all the fuss over the phenomenon of The Da Vinci Code had made his position unbearable. They say the Episcopalian priest found his work among the 300-strong congregation in the village of Roslin was being undermined and the chapel was becoming a "Disneyland" for fans of the novel. [More]

Patriarchate critical of pickets at cinemas running Da Vinci Code

MOSCOW, May 29 (Itar-Tass) -- The Moscow Patriarchate is critical of pickets in front of the cinemas that show the Da Vinci Code film. Such protests create the impression “somebody is very eager to show on television a cruel and vicious image of the Church and clergy calling for pogroms at cinema theaters,” the deputy chief of the Moscow Patriarchate’s external relations department, Archpriest Vsevolod Chaplin, said on Monday. In his opinion irony should be the normal response. “One and all must be aware that we have before us an act of feeble impudence, futile attempts by some people to dictate their own scale of values,” the Moscow Patriarchate’s official said.

Brett Ratner wants Ian Mckellen as 'Rush Hour 3' baddie

Washington, May 29(ANI): Director Brett Ratner is hoping to persuade busy British thespian Sir Ian Mckellen to play the villain in his upcoming sequel 'Rush Hour 3'. Ratner and McKellen have only just finished working together on the much anticipated action sequel 'X-Men 3', in which McKellen plays the notorious role of Magneto. "(He would be) the very bad French villain, who is inspired by (actor) Max Von Sydow in 'Three Days Of The Condor'. Chris Tucker and Jackie Chan will re-team for the follow-up to 2001's Rush Hour 2," Contactmusic quoted Ratner as telling 'The Hollywood Reporter'. (ANI)

Jirkov refuses to screen The Da Vinci Code

Litvinov/Jirkov, North Bohemia, May 24 (CTK) - The operator of the cinema in Jirkov, Milos Kubelka, will not screen the U.S. film The Da Vinci Code that fills cinema coffers, joining the critics of the hit from among the Catholic Church, Deniky Bohemia daily writes today. "I have been a believer since about 30 and I think this film undermines the values on which our democracy is based," Kubelka explained his decision. Jirkov inhabitants who will want to see the story featuring Tom Hanks and Audrey Tautou will have to go to the neighbouring Chomutov, the paper writes. [More]

Submit Your Reviews!

I have added a special 'Review' board on the messageboards section. Feel free to submit your own review of the film, good or bad, for all to read! [REVIEWS]

'Da Vinci Code' breaks Portuguese box office records

LISBON (AFP) - "The Da Vinci Code" has broken box office records in Roman Catholic Portugal as tens of thousands have flocked to see the religious thriller despite a Vatican boycott call, the film's distributor in the country said. The film adaptation of Dan Brown's bestseller by the same name was seen by 215,840 people during its first four days of release in the country of just over 10 million, smashing the previous record, a spokesman for Columbia Pictures told the Lusa news agency. It also pulled in more than one million euros (1.28 million dollars) in box office receipts, the first time that barrier has been broken by a movie during its first four days in theatres, he added. [More]

Da Vinci code nun 'not genuine'

A woman who led protests against the Da Vinci Code dressed in a habit is not a real nun, says the Catholic Church. Sister Mary Michael appeared in the world's media denouncing the controversial book as "blasphemy". The Catholic Church says Sister Mary is not "canonically recognised" even if she does do "good works". She was connected to the Carmelites but left and is now a "maverick" and a "one-woman order", a spokesman told the BBC News website. [More]

'Da Vinci Code' chateau has tangled past

VILLETTE, France - Chateau de Villette, the sumptuous home of Sir Leigh Teabing, the sinfully wealthy character from "The Da Vinci Code," is not just a figment of author Dan Brown's imagination but a real-life chateau with a past as fascinating as its star-struck present. Set on a sprawling, 185-acre estate northwest of Paris, the 17th century chateau was once home to the noble French Marshal Emmanuel de Grouchy, who went into exile in Philadelphia after Napoleon's army lost the Battle of Waterloo. [More]

Mobile Streams Mobilizes The Da Vinci Code

Mobile Streams Inc., the global mobile media specialist, announced today a worldwide deal with Sony Pictures Entertainment (SPE) to mobilize the blockbuster motion picture “The Da Vinci Code,” starring Tom Hanks. Under the terms of the agreement, Mobile Streams, utilizing its proprietary Vuesia technology, has formatted content masters of “The Da Vinci Code” into ‘mobile ready’ video, audio and graphic formats. The clips are approximately two minutes each and offer mobile users glimpses into “The Da Vinci Code” story. [More]

Get To Know Audrey Tautou in the June Issue of Allure on Newsstands Now

NEW YORK, May 24 /PRNewswire/ -- Cover Story: "Audrey Tautou's Big Moment" (Page 204) She may have a cult following after Amelie and A Very Long Engagement, but with the success of The Da Vinci Code, Audrey Tautou is now a star. In the June issue of Allure, get to know Tautou as she talks about how she started in the business, the good fortune and curse of her breakout role in Amelie, and her defects -- "My legs!" she cries in despair. "They are so very strange." [More]

Da Vinci Code: HC refuses to order criminal action

Joseph Dias, the petitioner who had approached the Bombay High Court seeking action against Censor Board and Sony Pictures in 'The Da Vinci Code' row, today moved the vacation bench of the court again, but the court refused to issue any directions to the police in this regard. Dias, general secretary of the Catholic Secular Forum, a city-based Christian organisation, is seeking action against Censor Board and Sony Pictures, for clearing and distributing the controversial English film respectively. [More]

Da Vinci Code tramples on religious tradition - Russian cleric

From interfax.com: MOSCOW. May 25 (Interfax) - The Da Vinci Code movie insults religious tradition under the disguise of freedom of speech, Metropolitan Kirill of Smolensk and Kaliningrad said at a Thursday meeting of experts. About 60 representatives of Orthodox, Christian, Muslim and Jewish organizations are preparing for the World Religious Summit due in Moscow on July 3-5. "True, the Da Vinci Code deeply insults our religious beliefs and feelings. Muslims or Jews do not do that. It is being done by people unaffiliated with any religion, who dare to insult religion under the disguise of freedom of speech," he said. [More]

Da Vinci Code game disappoints

Even before its release, the Da Vinci Code video game had a lot to live up to. Almost 40 million people have bought Dan Brown's best-selling novel and, despite lukewarm reviews, the film looks set to become a summer blockbuster. With that kind of track record it would be difficult to deliver a dud. But the Da Vinci Code game certainly makes an effort to do just that. The game promises players the chance to break the code for themselves, as they try to solve a murder mystery that has its origins more than 2,000 years ago. [More]

French toast

Audrey Tautou knew she was getting into the biggest film of her career. She did not know she was getting into one of the biggest – and most debated – of her generation. The French star, best known previously for the title role in the romantic charmer “Amelie,” was never one to seek Hollywood success, but it has found her with a co-starring role opposite Tom Hanks in “The Da Vinci Code.” [More]

Audrey Tautou says she's not cut-out for stardom

Washington, May 25(ANI): French actress Audrey Tautou admits that being a 'private' person by nature, she has made a wrong career choice, as her introvert personality keeps clashing with her celebrity life. The actress, who shot to international fame with the bittersweet 2001 hit Amelie, insists the frenzied attention she garnered after her success, has left her disillusioned with the job. [More]

Digital makeover knocks 20 years off X-Men Stewart and McKellen

CANNES, France (AP) - What a pair those dashing young mutants Ian McKellen and Patrick Stewart make in X-Men: The Last Stand. The two 60-something actors had 20 years shaved off their features for the opening sequence in the comic-book franchise's latest flick. The filmmakers used digital technology to match their current features to those in old photos. [More]

Trevor Nunn and Ian McKellen Pair Lear with The Seagull

Director Trevor Nunn is to pair his forthcoming Royal Shakespeare Company production of King Lear with a revival of Chekhov’s The Seagull, also for the RSC. The two productions, both cast with the same acting ensemble lead by Ian McKellen, will play in repertory at Stratford-upon-Avon’s new Courtyard Theatre from March 2007 before going on a world tour. McKellen will play the title role in King Lear, which will conclude the RSC’s year-long Complete Works Festival, and also appear as Sorin in The Seagull. [More]

Happy Birthday Ian McKellen!

Today is Ian McKellen's birthday! Ian Murray McKellen was born on May 25th, 1939 in Lancashire, England. That makes him 67 years old today! Happy Birthday Sir Ian!

'The Da Vinci Code' proves hit in Catholic Poland

WARSAW (AFP) - The controversial film "The Da Vinci Code" has proved a hit in Poland despite bishops urging the public in this overwhelmingly Catholic country to boycott the movie, distributors said. Released Friday, the film drew over 341,000 moviegoers during the weekend, with box office sales reaching 5.5 million zlotys (1.4 million euros, 1.8 million dollars), the film's Polish distributor Stanislaw Pytel told AFP. "It's the best opening of the year in Polish cinemas for films intended for adults," Pytel added. [More]

'Da Vinci Code' to be released in India

BOMBAY, India - "The Da Vinci Code" will be released in movie theaters across India on Friday — one week late — after the censor board and its distributor reached an agreement to display statements saying the film is fiction. The movie didn't hit movie theaters in India along with its worldwide release last week due to negotiations over the statement. Many Christians have expressed outrage at the movie's theory that Jesus married Mary Magdalene and had offspring, and that the Vatican and conservative Catholic group Opus Dei tried to cover it up. [More]

'Code' Controversy: "Much Ado About Nothing," Says Vatican Paper

From IMDB: The Vatican newspaper L'Osservatore Romano implied Tuesday that the Church had been maneuvered into contributing to a "gigantic marketing strategy" involving The Da Vinci Code intended to increase ticket sales. In the end, the newspaper said, the film amounts to a dull version of Dan Brown's novel and the controversy "much ado about nothing.". Meanwhile, Sony Pictures Releasing and the Indian Censor Board have reached a compromise, permitting The Da Vinci Code to be released in that country on Friday. Indian censors had demanded that its own disclaimer, stating the the film is "a work of pure fiction and has no correspondence to historical facts of the Christian religion," be inserted at the beginning and at the end of the feature. Sony had agreed to run the standard disclaimer -- that "the characters and incidents portrayed and the names herein are fictitious, and any similarity to the name, character or history of any person is entirely coincidental and unintentional" -- once only. In the end, Sony agreed to run its own disclaimer at both the beginning and end of the film.

"Code" is sign for spinoff producers

CANNES (Hollywood Reporter) - Call it "The Da Vinci Queue." With the film based on Dan Brown's best-selling novel meeting with lukewarm reviews but overwhelmingly enthusiastic box office numbers, there is no shortage of would-be companion films standing in line to cash in on the notoriety and success of "The Da Vinci Code." The film made box office history by raking in a near-record $224 million in worldwide receipts on its opening weekend. [More]

Pirated "Da Vinci Code" hits China streets

SHANGHAI (Reuters) - Bootleg DVDs of "The Da Vinci Code" were on sale all over Shanghai on Monday, days after China pipped Cannes by hours with the world premier of the movie. Pirated DVD versions of both "The Da Vinci Code" and "Mission Impossible 3" were selling for 5 yuan ($0.60) each, but the workmanship was poor, as is usually the case for early pirated copies often made with hand-held camcorders in the cinema. One customer said he could seeing people walking in front of the cinema screen. [More]

Pakistani Islamists get ready to bash Da Vinci Code

KARACHI (Reuters) - Pakistan's Islamist parties will hold nationwide demonstrations against "The Da Vinci Code" later this week, to protest the film's "offensive" alternative take on the story of Jesus Christ, an opposition lawmaker said on Monday. The adaptation of Dan Brown's best-selling novel, the story of a Vatican cover-up involving Christ and his supposed offspring, has recorded a $224 million global opening. "The film is offensive toward a holy figure dear to all religions," Liaquat Balouch, deputy secretary-general of Muttahida Majlis-e-Amal, the main Islamist political alliance, told Reuters. [More]

Samoa bans 'The Da Vinci Code' screenings

WELLINGTON, New Zealand (AFP) - The Samoa Censorship Board has reportedly banned all public showings of the "The Da Vinci Code" after church leaders watched a special screening of the film. The SamoaAlive.com website said the ban came after the government censor's office invited leaders of the Samoa Council of Churches to watch a preview over the weekend at the country's only cinema. "The Da Vinci Code" novel by Dan Brown has been a bestseller in the predominantly Christian South Pacific island nation. [More]

Try A Cryptex Online

From webcryptex.com: A cryptex, featured in Dan Brown's novel, is a cylindrical device used to contain a message or other contents in a concealed way. The cryptex has several "tumblers" or dials with characters used to form a code. When the characters are aligned properly, the device is opened and its contents revealed. Inspired by The Da Vinci Code, webcryptex.com provides a way for you to create your own virtual cryptex online. Enjoy some of the sample cryptexes, or create your own for one of your friends. Let your creativity shine... formulate your clue and conceal your message! [More]

'Da Vinci Code' Debut Is Best of Year

LOS ANGELES - Moviegoers gave their blessing to the "The Da Vinci Code" over the weekend, spending an estimated $77 million to see the Tom Hanks religious thriller. While the film didn't set a domestic box office record, it was the largest weekend opening of the year so far and became the second largest worldwide release after "Star Wars: Episode III." It garnered some $224 million worldwide, according to Sony Pictures. The film also was the best domestic opening for both Hanks and director Ron Howard.[More]

'Da Vinci Code' tourists flock to Scottish chapel

ROSLIN, Scotland (USATODAY.com) — There's no mystical rose line, no hidden vault where the fabled Holy Grail may rest. And the brutal veil of metal scaffolding shrouding the chapel doesn't help either. Reality at Rosslyn Chapel is very different from the portrayal in Dan Brown's hit thriller, The Da Vinci Code, but the novel has been a welcome boost for a church in desperate need of repair. [More]

Read all about Rosslyn Chapel on our 'Film Locations' page here

Tom Hanks' Da Vinci book to raise cash for cancer charity

A copy of the best-selling book The Da Vinci Code signed by actor Tom Hanks was put up for auction for charity yesterday. The copy of the Dan Brown novel is the one Hanks had on set while filming the movie at the Rosslyn Chapel in Roslin, Midlothian, last year. Now it has been put on auction site eBay to raise money for cancer research. Online bidding kicked off yesterday and will run for the next ten days. [More]

‘Sophie Nevue’ for you

Actress Audrey Tautou, the Sophie Neveu, of Ron Howard’s film The Da Vinci Code spills some secrets about the controversial film.


How did you hear about the film?

In a rather surprising way. When I came back from my vacation in Mexico, I went on the promotion tour for “A very long engagement” in the US and Canada. And suddenly in Toronto all the journalists were saying ‘Congratulations on getting picked for The Da Vinci Code directed by Ron Howard!’ I was astonished. I kept telling them the truth – that I didn’t even know the film was in preparation and that I had never met Ron Howard – nobody believed me. [More]

'Da Vinci Code' distorts artwork

HACKENSACK, N.J. - It’s hard to say which is hotter: anticipation of "The Da Vinci Code" movie, which opens Friday, or the impassioned controversy surrounding the portrayal of Catholicism in the novel by Dan Brown. What seems to have escaped notice, however, are the religious and historical fallacies the book presents regarding Leonardo da Vinci’s works - the basis for the "code" on which the story rests. [More]

'Da Vinci Code' opens on record number of screens in Japan

TOKYO (AFP) - "The Da Vinci Code" opened in Japan on a record number of screens, but with little of the controversy seen in other countries over what some have labelled its blasphemous content. The film, based on the best-selling novel by Dan Brown about a conspiracy by the Catholic Church to hide the supposed marriage of Jesus Christ and Mary Magdalene, has sparked off furious protests by Catholic groups. But in Japan, the reaction was more muted and the distributors said the hype had only added to demand at the box office. [More]

'Da Vinci Code' novel publicly burned on Italian piazza

CECCANO, Italy (AFP) - A handful of conservative Italian local councillors and activists were booed as they burned a copy of Dan Brown's novel "The Da Vinci Code," which they called "blasphemous." The book-burning ceremony took place on the main square of the village of Ceccano, 70 kilometres (43 miles) southeast of Rome. It was organized by two municipal councillors representing conservative parties -- one from the Christian Democrats, the other from the National Alliance. Ron Howard's Hollywood film of "The Da Vinci Code" opened on Friday in Italy. [More]

Da Vinci Code breaks Italy box office records

ROME (Reuters) - "The Da Vinci Code" has broken box office records in Roman Catholic Italy as tens of thousands of Italians ignored Vatican calls to boycott the film. The movie adaptation of Dan Brown's bestseller earned 2 million euros ($2.6 million) on its opening night, nearly double the takings of Italy's previous top film, Oscar-winner
Roberto Benigni's 1997 tragi-comic Holocaust drama "Life is Beautiful." The film's distributor, Sony Corp (NYSE:SNE - news).'s Columbia Pictures, will release worldwide sales data on Sunday. "We had an exceptionally strong Friday with sell-out business reported in territories virtually all over the world," said Steve Elzer, the studio's senior vice president of media relations. [More]

"Da Vinci Code" unlocks $224 mln in world sales

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - All the protests and all the bad reviews could not prevent "The Da Vinci Code" from recording a $224 million worldwide opening, the second-biggest debut ever at the global box office, its distributor said on Sunday. The controversial adaptation of Dan Brown's best-selling novel, the story of a Vatican cover-up involving Jesus Christ and his supposed offspring, sold about $77 million worth of tickets at movie theaters in the United States and Canada during its first three days, according to Columbia Pictures. [More]

Jumbled 'Code'

Christians are outraged and albinos are offended and people around the world who haven't even seen the film are angry simply, it seems, in preparation for being angry. But everyone can just take a deep breath and calm down. Because "The Da Vinci Code" is finally coming to theaters, and its biggest sin has nothing to do with the supposedly blasphemous nature of the source material, Dan Brown's blockbuster page turner. [More]

‘Da Vinci’ reviews mixed on if it’s a masterpiece

The stage is set among some of the world’s most famous pieces of art. A cat and mouse game is played out between an elderly man and an albino monk as they run through the halls of the Louvre Art Museum in Paris. History, culture and death are the opening scenes for one of the most anticipated and controversial movies of 2006. [More]

Paul Bettany dons robes as monk assassin in 'Da Vinci'

Geographically, Paul Bettany has just arrived from London and Barcelona, where he was doing press for "The Da Vinci Code," after time in Mozambique and elsewhere in Africa, where wife Jennifer Connelly is shooting a film. Artistically, Bettany has arrived at the role of pop literature's most notorious albino after stints as a bestial gangster, a Napoleonic era ship's surgeon, a lovesick tennis player, Geoffrey Chaucer and an imaginary friend. A renaissance man? An actor with eclectic tastes? An artist determined not to repeat himself? [More]

TV Watch: Hanks on 'Regis' Clip

Tom Hanks was a guest on 'Live! with Regis & Kelly' yesterday (Friday, May 19th) to promote The Da Vinci Code. They showed some photos of Tom's younger days, and spoke about his introduction into acting. Take a look! (48MB MOV) [More]

TV Watch: Today Show talks Da Vinci Part IV

The Today Show is continuing their look at The Da Vinci Code with a trip to St. Peter's Square at the Vatican. They interview a priest about the book and the movie. Take a look! (23MB MOV)[More]

TV Watch: Tom Hanks on 'Regis & Kelly'

Tom Hanks was a guest on 'Live! with Regis & Kelly' this morning. He is there to promote 'The Da Vinci Code' which opens today worldwide. Hanks in winding down a zig-zag tour of the US and France which included a stops in New York, LA, Cannes and back again. Watch this space for a clip soon!

TV Watch: Bettany on 'Johnathan Ross'

Paul Bettany is slated to appear on 'Friday Night with Johnathan Ross' in the UK this evening. He is over there to promote 'The Da Vinci Code' which is out in theatres today (take a look at the 'Theatres & Showtimes' links for one near you). If anyone manages to capture this interview please let me know!

Being green would be easier

Catholics and movie critics aren't the only ones denouncing "The Da Vinci Code." Add albinos to the list of those less than thrilled about the church-based Tom Hanks thriller, which hits theaters today. The villain of all villains in the big-budget instant-blockbuster film? Silas, the albino monk-executioner. Well, it figures. "Yet another evil albino in a big Hollywood movie," Michael McGowan, president of the National Organization for Albinism and Hypopigmentation, sighed yesterday. "By our count, it's the 68th film since 1960 to feature an evil albino." [More]

Manila Bans, India Clears 'Da Vinci Code'

HONG KONG - China's official Catholic Church urged its followers to boycott "The Da Vinci Code" on Thursday, and the City Council in the Philippine capital banned the movie as viewers across Asia got a first glimpse of the film that suggests Jesus married and fathered a child. The Indian censor board cleared the movie without any cuts, but required a disclaimer and insisted that it be shown to adults only. Meanwhile, a small group of protesters in Seoul,
South Korea, marched outside theaters with signs that said "`The Da Vinci Code' is nothing more than fiction." The Columbia Pictures release, based on the best-selling Dan Brown novel, wasn't expected to generate a wide backlash in Asia, where Buddhism, Hinduism and Islam are the dominant faiths. [More]

"Da Vinci Code" opens in Asia despite calls for ban

HONG KONG (AFP) - "The Da Vinci Code" went on general release across much of Asia, despite attempts by some Christian groups and censors to have the controversial film cut or banned. The film's premise -- that Jesus married Mary Magdalene and fathered children whose descendants have survived to this day -- has sparked accusations of blasphemy and a series of legal moves to keep it off the cinema screens. But the hype surrounding the Ron Howard adaptation of Dan Brown's best-selling novel looked set to ensure massive audiences in the region, despite dismal reviews after its
Cannes Film Festival premiere on Wednesday. [More]

'Da Vinci Code' struggles at French box office

CANNES, France (AFP) - After being mauled by Cannes film festival critics, "The Da Vinci Code" was struggling at the French box office just one day after it opened. National figures for Wednesday -- the day it hit cinemas and had its Cannes world premiere -- showed the movie sold 233,000 tickets, a respectable number but disappointing when compared to other Hollywood blockbusters. The last "Star Wars" and "Harry Potter" films did far better, each selling more than 600,000 tickets in their first day. France is one of the first markets to show the 125-million-dollar "The Da Vinci Code" in its cinemas. [More]

Catholic bookstore fights 'Da Vinci Code'

WASHINGTON (AFP) - Visibly preoccupied and weary, William Stetson still squeezes out a smile when asked yet again about the film version of "The Da Vinci Code," which was panned at Cannes. "Did you see how it was laughed at and whistled at?" the priest says of the audience response at the French film festival. First reviews of the film Wednesday brought a measure of satisfaction to the priest who runs the bookstore of the Catholic Information Center, just blocks from the White House in Washington. For weeks he has been overwhelmed by interview requests about the film and author Dan Brown's blockbuster thriller behind it, which weaves the Roman Catholic Church into a spellbinding mystery, which Rome deems an utter fiction and a threat to church dogma. [More]

Paris Milks Da Vinci Code Mania

Paris has gone Da Vinci Code crazy. Everywhere you turn, the city is plastered with posters advertising the highly anticipated May 17 opening of the movie based on the best-selling thriller by Dan Brown. The French press is filled with daily stories on everything from ecclesiastical debate over the book's religious themes to profiles of the two French movie stars, Jean Reno and Audrey Tautou, who will appear (speaking in English) in the film. Then, of course, there's the merchandising. Bookstores and gift shops all over Paris are stocked to the rafters with copies of the novel in French and English -- hardback, paperback, special illustrated editions, you name it. And don't forget Da Vinci Code walking tours, playing cards, calligraphy sets, music CDs, video game, podcasts the list goes on and on. [More]

Success Finds French Star Audrey Tautou

CANNES, France - Audrey Tautou knew she was getting into the biggest film of her career. She did not know she was getting into one of the biggest — and most debated — of her generation. The French star, best known previously for the title role in the romantic charmer "Amelie," was never one to seek Hollywood success, but it has found her with a co-starring role opposite Tom Hanks in "The Da Vinci Code." "I knew that it would be big, of course, because of the success of the book," Tautou told The Associated Press on Thursday, a day after "The Da Vinci Code" premiered at the
Cannes Film Festival and a day before its U.S. debut. [More]

TV Watch: Today Show talks Da Vinci Part III (FIXED)

The Today Show is continuing their look at The Da Vinci Code with a trip to Cannes, France and the Cannes Film Festival. The entire cast of The Da Vinci Code was there for a great interview. Take a look! (49MB MOV)[More]

Cannes Red Carpet & Press Call Images

Here are 100 more images from the press call at the Cannes Film Festival, plus the red carpet premiere from last night. Take a look! [More]

Da Vinci Code -- Unraveling the controversy

JONESBORO -- It combines the hype of "King Kong," the controversy of "Brokeback Mountain" and the star power of "M:I3." Add religion and articles of faith to the mix, and "The Da Vinci Code" has become more than a multimedia behemoth. It's a global debate. Dan Brown's thriller novel comes to the big screen Friday as a Ron Howard-directed, Tom Hanks-starred mega-event. The movie deals with the notion of Christianity's Holy Grail being more than a chalice from which Jesus drank at the Last Supper. [More]

Stars shrug off 'Da Vinci Code' reviews

The Da Vinci Code has shaken off a slew of bad reviews to provide a star-studded opening movie for the 59th Cannes Film Festival. Director Ron Howard and leading actors Tom Hanks and Audrey Tautou were all smiles as they paraded up the red carpet before the festival's opening ceremony. Fellow stars Ian McKellen, Jean Reno, Alfred Molina and Paul Bettany also took to the carpet, as did author Dan Brown. Brown's novel has taken the world by storm, selling some 50 million copies and being translated into 44 languages since it was first published in 2003. [More]

It's just a movie, so don't take it as gospel

THE headmaster of Australia's oldest independent school has written to parents and students to warn them of "inaccurate and damaging" assertions in The Da Vinci Code, which opens in cinemas today. Dr Timothy Hawkes, headmaster at The King's School in Parramatta, says that although Dan Brown's novel is fictional, it wraps grains of truth in fantasy so persuasively that it has shaken the faith of many Christians. While the entertainment quarter at Moore Park was abuzz last night, it was all for the Anthony Mundine and Danny Green fight. [More]

Da Vinci Code is no cracker

We all know that The Da Vinci Code, Dan Brown's popcorn novel about weird signs, wonderful conspiracies and a hunt for buried treasure, has been an unparalleled publishing phenomenon. Can Ron Howard's lumbering, po-faced adaptation of this mumbo-jumbo match its success? Perhaps, but it certainly failed the taste test in Cannes. Critics queued for more than an hour to get into a film that, as everyone grumbled, was obviously too long at 148 minutes. Cannes critics have little time for anything over the 100-minute mark. Even so, the sprinkling of titters that added sparkle to the second half of the film was more derisory than usual. [More]

TV Watch: Today Show talks Da Vinci Part III UPDATE

The Today Show is continuing their look at The Da Vinci Code with a trip to Cannes, France and the Cannes Film Festival. The entire cast of The Da Vinci Code was there for a great interview. Take a look! (20MB MOV)[More]
UPDATE seems the file gets corrupted near the middle of the interview. I will re-upload another version later today, sorry about that!

India may ban 'Da Vinci Code' amid protests

NEW DELHI (AFP) - The Indian government will decide late Thursday whether to permit screening of the "The Da Vinci Code" in theatres amid mounting protests by Christian groups, officials said. Protesters have taken legal action against national censor board officials for clearing the movie which is based on Dan Brown's novel for opening on Friday without cuts. The Mumbai-based Catholic Secular Forum Christian has filed a petition to the court also seeking a ban on releasing in India the movie which suggests Jesus Christ married Mary Magdalene and started a family. [More]

Critics Find 'Da Vinci Code' Lacking

CANNES, France - Early critics seemed happy to try to break "The Da Vinci Code." Reaction ranged from halfhearted admiration to boredom to derision among journalists at the first press screening of the Ron Howard-Tom Hanks blockbuster in waiting, premiering Wednesday at the Cannes Film Festival and opening worldwide through Friday. "`Da Vinci' never rises to the level of a guilty pleasure. Too much guilt. Not enough pleasure," wrote critic Kirk Honeycutt in the trade paper The Hollywood Reporter. [More]

Beijing First to See 'Da Vinci Code'

BEIJING - A Beijing audience became the first to see "The Da Vinci Code" when it was shown here Wednesday, beating the official Cannes premiere by hours in a move that underscored Hollywood's efforts to woo Chinese viewers. "Da Vinci" is being given the widest release yet for a foreign film in China, with some 393 prints sent to theaters, breaking the record of 380 prints set by "King Kong" last year, said Li Chow, general manager in Beijing for distributor Columbia TriStar Film Distributors International and Sony Pictures Entertainment. [More]

"Da Vinci Code" an unwieldy, bloated puzzle

CANNES (Hollywood Reporter) - For those who hate Dan Brown's best-selling symbology thriller "The Da Vinci Code," the eagerly awaited and much-hyped movie version beautifully exposes all its flaws and nightmares of logic. For those who love the book's page-turning intensity, the movie version heightens Brown's mischievous interweaving of genre action, historical facts and utter fictions. In other words, for those who bear witness to the film "The Da Vinci Code," what you see depends on what you believe. Kinda like religion itself. [More]

'Da Vinci Code' Seen As Cursory and Rushed

Christians are outraged and albinos are offended and people around the world who haven't even seen the film are angry simply, it seems, in preparation for being angry. But everyone can just take a deep breath and calm down. Because the "The Da Vinci Code" is finally coming to theaters, and its biggest sin has nothing to do with the supposedly blasphemous nature of the source material, Dan Brown's blockbuster page turner. Rather, its sin is of omission. Even at two and a half hours, director
Ron Howard's adaptation feels cursory and rushed. [More]

Finally, 'Code' revealed: A tame thriller in a teapot

CANNES It seems you can't open a movie these days without provoking some kind of culture war skirmish, at least in the conflict-hungry media. Recent history - "The Passion of the Christ," "The Chronicles of Narnia" - suggests that such controversy, especially if religion is involved, can be very good business. "The Da Vinci Code," Ron Howard's film of Dan Brown's best-selling primer on how not to write an English sentence, arrives trailing more than its share of theological and historical disputation. The arguments about the movie and the book that inspired it have not been going on for millennia - it only feels that way - but part of the ingenious marketing strategy of Columbia Pictures has been to encourage months of debate and speculation while not allowing anyone to see the picture until the very last minute. Thus we have had a flood of think pieces on everything from Jesus and Mary Magdalene's prenuptial agreement to the secret recipes of Opus Dei, and vexed, urgent questions have been raised. Is Christianity a conspiracy? Is "The Da Vinci Code" a dangerous, anti-Christian hoax? What's up with Tom Hanks's hair? [More]

For 'Da Vinci' suspense, read the book

The most startling revelation in the movie version of The Da Vinci Code (two stars out of four) is the way it soft-pedals its provocative premise and borders on tedium. What emerges is a melodramatic, sometimes lifeless film that is missing the suspense of the popular novel. While it retains most of the complex twists and turns of Dan Brown's best seller, some of the elements that have sparked protests among devout Christians — questions about the divinity of Jesus Christ and his lineage — have had their edges smoothed. It doesn't help that the pacing is weighed down in exposition and talkiness. [More]

Step Inside The Da Vinci Code

PARIS, May 12 /PRNewswire/ -- Fans of The Da Vinci Code the world over will have the opportunity to experience the thrill and intrigue of the gripping mystery like never before when they visit The Louvre in Paris. In conjunction with Columbia Pictures and Imagine Entertainment, media firm Soundwalk has created The Da Vinci Code film Soundwalk, the official audio tour based on the film releasing worldwide May 19th.

Soundwalk's latest audio tour gives visitors to The Louvre a new and ingenious way to experience one of the world's most prestigious museums. Through captivating narration by internationally acclaimed actor and The Da Vinci Code film star Jean Reno (The Professional, Mission Impossible), listeners literally re-trace the thrilling storyline through the eyes and footsteps of its central characters.

Reno, who plays Detective Bezu Fache in the film, brings the riveting mystery to life through behind-the-scenes commentary on historical facts and insights to this still-unfolding storyline. Music and sound clips from the film are interlaced throughout, creating a visceral & cinematic experience. [More]

Visit davincicodewalk.com

Uncoded: The Truth About Albinism

In between the mysteries of "The Da Vinci Code there's little secret that the movie's assassin is albino. His name is Silas. As a monk for the Catholic group Opus Dei, he kills others and maims himself with a whip. "Silas isn't the face of albinism," said Madison resident Kelsey Thompson. "He's just a fictional character." She would know. In light of the movie, she and her group, the National Organization for Albinism and Hypopigmentation, wanted to show the face of people with her condition. "It's likely most people will go through their whole lives without ever meeting a person with albinism face to face, without every having a conversation with a person with albinism," she said. [More]

TV Watch: Ron Howard on 'Ellen' Clip

Ron Howard was a guest on 'The Ellen Degeneres Show' today (May 16th) in an obviously pre-taped interview (since he was in Cannes, France today) Ron spoke about filming in France, shooting on the streets of Paris and more. Take a look! (24MB MOV) [More]

TV Watch: Today Show talks Da Vinci Part II

The Today Show is continuing their look at The Da Vinci Code with a trip to Paris, France and the Lourve Museum. They show us the Mona Lisa, The Ritz (where a few scenes from the film was shot) and they speak to Audrey Taoutou, Jean Reno & Ron Howard. Take a look! (57MB MOV)[More]

Da Vinci Code Cast at Cannes

Click on the link above for about 70 images from the Cannes film festival featuring the entire cast of the Da Vinci Code! Dan Brown & Ron Howard are also there in attendance. Take a look! [More]

India Holds Up 'Da Vinci Code' Opening

BOMBAY, India - The government Tuesday temporarily held up the release of the movie "The Da Vinci Code" in India after receiving complaints from Catholic groups, even though the national censor had cleared the film. Information and Broadcasting Minister Priya Ranjan Dasmunshi said he had received more than 200 complaints and has asked for a special screening of the movie. The release of the movie, scheduled for Friday, "may be delayed by a day or two," he said. "We are a secular country. On any sensitive issue, we should take action after we examine every aspect," Dasmunshi told reporters. "We have to be careful." [More]

French 'Da Vinci Code' chateau has real-life tangled past

VILLETTE, France (AP) — Chateau de Villette, the sumptuous home of Sir Leigh Teabing, the sinfully wealthy, polio-afflicted character from The Da Vinci Code, is not just a figment of author Dan Brown's imagination but a real-life chateau with a past as fascinating as its star-struck present. Set on a sprawling, 185-acre estate northwest of Paris, the 17th-century chateau was once home to the noble French Marshal Gen. Emmanuel de Grouchy, exiled to Philadelphia after leading Napoleon's troops to defeat in the Battle of Waterloo. [More]

Beyond black & white

Vail Reese says he's not interested in censoring Hollywood, he just wants Sony and Imagine EntertainmentImagine Entertainment to understand why "The Da Vinci Code" might offend certain groups. Reese isn't from the Catholic Church, or Opus Dei. He's a dermatologist in the Bay Area who wishes the movie bizbiz would stop portraying albinos as vicious killers, as with the albino monk Silas in "Da Vinci," played by Paul BettanyPaul Bettany. [More]

Who Says Evil Albinos Are Such Bad Role Models?

The Da Vinci Code not only marks the big-screen return of mullets but also of an age-old Hollywood stereotype, the evil albino—much to the ire of the National Organization for Albinism and Hypopigmentation (NOAH). Last we checked, though, bad and badass weren’t mutually exclusive. Below, our favorite albino villains. [More]

Da Vinci Code provokes widespread protests ahead of Cannes premiere

CANNES, France (AP) - Christian groups as far away as South Korea, Thailand and India protested the movie The Da Vinci Code ahead of its premiere Wednesday at the Cannes Film Festival, planning boycotts, a hunger strike and attempts to block or shorten screenings. Playing on the opening night at the 59th Cannes festival caps a huge marketing blitz for Ron Howard's adaptation of Dan Brown's best seller. The movie is not competing for prizes at the glitzy two-week film-fest in southern France, which runs through May 28. [More]

Ian McKellen Does Cannes Double Duty

CANNES, France - Ian McKellen's visit to this year's Cannes Film Festival is a little more high-profile than his past trips. McKellen has done Cannes before in unofficial capacities, trying to raise funds for his Shakespeare adaptation "Richard III," publicizing his little-seen movie "Emile," and doing interviews for the premiere of footage from "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy. This time, McKellen gets his first trip up the grand Cannes red carpet — and he gets to do it twice, as a co-star of "The Da Vinci Code," which opens the festival Wednesday, and "X-Men: The Last Stand," which premieres at Cannes on Monday. [More]

'Da Vinci' Stars Take Train to Cannes

Tom Hanks and other stars of "The Da Vinci Code" have set off for the Cannes Film Festival — where the movie will premiere Wednesday — on a high-speed train. The Eurostar train, named The Da Vinci Code, was in pursuit of a world record. Going nonstop over the 883 miles from London to the festival in southern France would put the train into the Guinness World Records book. Hanks, who plays Robert Langdon in the film, posed for pictures Tuesday at Waterloo station with Audrey Tautou, Ian McKellen, Paul Bettany, Jean Reno and Alfred Molina, director Ron Howard and author Dan Brown. [More]

Albinos condemn 'Da Vinci' assassin

LOS ANGELES (AP) — The notion of Christ as a family man is not the only raw nerve The Da Vinci Code has touched. Albinos are bothered that one of their own has yet again been depicted as a villain. Dan Brown's best seller begins its worldwide debut Wednesday with Tom Hanks as the cryptologist pursuing a 2,000-year-old mystery that could reveal Jesus and Mary Magdalene were married and that the Vatican covered it up. Among his co-stars is Paul Bettany, the British actor playing monk-assassin Silas, an albino with red eyes who carries out a series of bloody murders to secure the secret of the Holy Grail, a trove of lost Christian documents that could prove Jesus had wed. [More]

Behind “The Da Vinci Code” Soundtrack

Valentina writes: After my usual cup of tea this morning I checked the online news and opened my music program, Itunes. To my surprise Itunes had as an exclusive the brand new Da Vinci Code soundtrack! I immediately downloaded it and am listening to it as I write this. I also pre-ordered the best cinema hall tickets for the 19 May premiere of the film so check back here for a fresh review of both the movie and the soundtrack. However now I thought it would be fun to decipher so to speak the titles of the tracks on the soundtrack. Some are in latin, some in greek, some are in english but still very obscure! So follow me on this little journey inside the titles of the soundtrack.... [More]

Order 'The Da Vinci Code Score' on Amazon.com today!

Exclusive Interview: Alfred Molina

From Dark Horizons: Alfred Molina can do anything from the villain in Spider Man to Tevye in the Broadway revival of Fiddler on the Roof. Now he joins a stellar casr in Ron Howard's controversial Da Vinci Code, has two other films in the can and is returning to Broadway in the new year. Full of humour and upbeat, Molina talked excusively to Paul Fischer. [More]

TV Watch: Today Show talks Da Vinci

The Today Show is doing a special segment on 'The Da Vinci Code' every day this week. Monday's segment featured Paul Bettany and Ian McKellen in London talking about the film. Previews from this week has the Today team at the Lourve, in London, at Cannes where the film will premiere and Spain (for some reason). Take a look! (23MB MOV)[More]

Da Vinci uproar 'will boost film'

The Da Vinci Code actor Alfred Molina has said church protests against the film will only make it more popular. The British star, who plays Bishop Aringarosa, told BBC Breakfast any controversy surrounding the Hollywood version was "overstated". "You think that religious leaders would know by now that when you say 'don't see that film', it just makes everyone want to," he said. The movie adaptation of Dan Brown's best-selling book is released Friday. [More]

Religious row fuels global 'Da Vinci Code' social phenomenon

LOS ANGELES (AFP) - An explosive religious row over the origins of Christianity has turned "The Da Vinci Code" into a global phenomenon that promises to make the film version of the cult novel a major blockbuster. As Christian churches launch theological attacks on the movie that will premiere Wednesday at the Cannes Film Festival, Dan Brown's best-selling novel is still flying off shelves and generating furious debate across the world as its opponents brand it blasphemous and even "satanic." The depth of passion from the United States to Spain, India and the Philippines over whether Ron Howard's long-awaited film is fiction or based on obscure fact is drawing comparisons with Mel Gibson's highly disputed and ultimately mega-successful 2004 biblical drama "The Passion of the Christ." [More]

CIVILITY, NOT CENSORSHIP, IS ISSUE IN 'DA VINCI CODE' DEBATE

Tom Hanks thinks Christians shouldn't become irate about "The Da Vinci Code." He says it's just a story, "loaded with all sorts of hooey and fun kind of scavenger-hunt-type nonsense." He's right, but so is an official of the Christian Council of Korea, who said, "'The Da Vinci Code' is a movie which belittles and tries to destroy Christianity." Isn't "destroy" too grand a word for a Tom Hanks entertainment? Maybe, but this thriller is mounting the powerful argument that Christianity is rotten to the core, based on lies and political conspiracy. It is surely one of the most effective attacks on Christian faith in generations. One of the cardinals at the Vatican said, in effect, we've had this kind of assault before, but not addressed to such a large audience of religious illiterates and uncritical minds. [More]

Louvre offers Da Vinci Code tour

The Louvre, the Paris gallery at the heart of The Da Vinci Code plot, will offer fans an interactive audio tour to tie in with the film's release. French actor Jean Reno, who plays detective Bezu Fache in the Hollywood adaptation, narrates the guided tour. The museum, backdrop for some of the movie, will charge 10 euros (£6.80) to hire the portable MP3 players. The film version of Dan Brown's best-selling novel is released around the world on Friday. [More]

Filipino hawkers cash in on "Da Vinci Code" fever

MANILA (Reuters) - Philippine hawkers are repackaging a documentary on the "The Da Vinci Code" as an authentic version of the movie, cashing in on public interest in the religious thriller ahead of its release this week. The film, based on the best-selling novel of the same title, has whipped up a storm of controversy in the largely Roman Catholic country and the Philippines' censor has yet to grant it a release permit despite a slated opening date of May 18. [More]

Where's the passion over 'Da Vinci Code'?

When Mel Gibson's The Passion of the Christ was released two years ago, something strange and unprecedented happened. The secular news media could not get enough of the Gospels. Of course, this mass Bible study had a twist and a purpose: to show how Gibson got it wrong. The criticisms began in 2003, well before the film's release, when a committee of scholars obtained a copy of the script. It issued a highly critical 18-page report, the views of which were summarized in a New Republic article by one of the committee members, Paula Fredriksen of Boston University. The article was called "Mad Mel" and centered on the issue of culpability for Jesus' death and purported anti-Semitism in Gibson's version of events. [More]

TV Watch Update

I have posted a TON of new articles tonight so be sure to catch all the latest talk show appearances under the 'Media' heading on the right hand side of the site. Here is an upcoming list of TV show appearances, again if I have missed any drop me a line!

May 15th: Paul Bettany on 'The Today Show' (NBC)
May 16th: Ron Howard on 'The Ellen Degeneres Show' (various)
May 19th: Tom Hanks on 'Live! with Regis and Kelly' (various)
MAy 19th: Paul Bettany on 'Friday Night with Jonathan Ross' (UK)

'Da Vinci Code' to rule the big screen

This week, the Cannes Film Festival. By next week, most of the so-called civilized world. Ron Howard's film version of The Da Vinci Code is ready to rule. Expect more than one nun to have her knickers in a knot over the ascendancy of this film, however. There is already a hornet's nest of controversy, thanks to novelist Dan Brown's best-selling, much-litigated but enormously lucrative book and its extraordinary claims. [More]

PAUL: BEST WIG MAKER IN WORLD MADE ME ALBINO

PAUL BETTANY underwent a huge transformation to play the movie's villain - assassin monk Silas. Long before he stepped in front of the cameras, Paul spent hours doing make-up tests. "Making someone look like an albino is an extraordinary job if you do it properly," says Paul, whose dad is veteran Scots actor Thane Bettany. [More]

Opus Dei uses Da Vinci to spread the word

ULSTER Catholics will not be actively discouraged from going to see the highly controversial 'sects-and-sex' movie The Da Vinci Code. For the film - which opens on Friday - can be used to "spread the word" about Christ, according to the Catholic Opus Dei organisation. Opus Dei is depicted in the best-selling book and upcoming film as a shadowy sect which carries out crime on behalf of the Vatican. Opus Dei Ireland spokesman Michael Kirke dismissed the book's claims as "the flights of fancy of Dan Brown", the author. But he added that the group was NOT calling for a boycott of the movie, which stars Tom Hanks and Ian McKellen. [More]

Actor adds back story to character in ‘Da Vinci’

LOS ANGELES — Forget busy summers. Ian McKellen has more bigscreen action packed into May than most British stage actors could imagine in a career. In the adaptation of the bestseller The Da Vinci Code, to open Friday in theaters, he plays Sir Leigh Teabing, the sinfully wealthy, polio-afflicted aristocrat who joins the quest for the Holy Grail. [More]

Storm around 'Da Vinci' won't keep fans away

Tom Hanks may have two Oscars and Ron Howard on speed-dial, but Dan Brown is the name that's luring Minnesota moviegoers to see "The Da Vinci Code." The movie, which opens Friday with Hanks in the lead role, is based on Brown's controversial novel about a Harvard professor investigating a murder at the Louvre. Clues left at the crime scene lead to a conspiracy to cover up the origins of Christianity, a conspiracy that involves centuries of murders and lies by the Roman Catholic Church. The controversial part is that Brown claims that while his characters are fictional, his far-fetched conspiracy is real. [More]

Consecutive smash hits earn Hanks world record

Those tireless scrutinizers of minutiae over at the Guinness Book of World Records this week unveiled a brand-new record that once again demonstrates we just love the dickens out of that Tom Hanks fellow, regardless of what his hair looks like or whether he spends a whole movie talking to a volleyball. The Guinness Book people announced Wednesday that Hanks is the Actor with Most Consecutive $100 Million-Grossing Movies. We here at the People Column did not know that there was such a world record category, but we do know better than to quibble with folks who do research for a beer company. [More]

Some Catholics hoping to cash in on "Da Vinci Code" bandwagon

PARIS (AFP) - Despite the outcry over "The Da Vinci Code", many Catholics see the frenzy surrounding the upcoming film of the bestselling novel as a chance to explain their faith and get people back into the pews. Last month an aide of Pope Benedict XVI, Angelo Amato, urged the public to boycott the movie of the book by US novelist Dan Brown, describing it as perversely anti-Christian. "If such calumnies, insults and errors had involved the Koran or the Shoah they would have rightly provoked a worldwide outcry," the prelate said. "But when they involve the Church and Christians, they remain unscathed." [More]

AUDREY: I CLICKED WITH TOM AND RON

FABULOUS French star Audrey Tautou did not think she had any chance of winning her lead role in The Da Vinci Code. The 29-year-old was competing with Underworld babe Kate Beckinsale and Braveheart's Sophie Marceau for the part of feisty Sophie Neveu, the cryptologist who helps uncover the mystery of the Grail. Audrey - who shot to fame in Amelie - feared she was too young and had already agreed to be in another film which clashed with The Da Vinci Code's shooting schedule. [More]

TV Watch: Hanks on 'Leno' Clip

Tom Hanks was on 'The Tonight Show with Jay Leno' yesterday (May 12th) on NBC, he was there to promote 'The Da Vinci Code'. Tom shared stories about his short stint on 'Happy Days' and his experiences in London pubs. Jay Leno also goofed on Tom's recent photo shoot for Esquire Magazine. Take a look! (67MB MOV)[More]

TV Watch: Bettany on 'Ferguson' Clip

Paul Bettany was a guest on the hilarious 'Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson' on May 11th, he was there to promote 'The Da Vinci Code'. Besides talking about the film and showing a great clip Bettany told another tale from his recent trip to Africa. Seems some baboons were able to sneak into his room one day and raid his mini-bar...among other things! Take a look! (37MB MOV)[More]

TV Watch: Bettany on 'Leno' Clip

Paul Bettany was a guest on 'The Tonight Show with Jay Leno' on May 10th, he was there to promote 'The Da Vinci Code'. During the interview he told a terrifying story involving a horny African elephant and his Land Rover...I'll let him explain it for you. Take a look! (55MB MOV)[More]

TV Watch: McKellen on 'Carson Daly' Clip

Ian McKellen was a guest on 'Last Call With Carson Daly' earlier this week. Daly, demonstrating his absolute lack of talk show host prowess, fumbles through most of the interview, calling himself a moron (rightly so) at one point. However Sir Ian was as charming as ever. He was there to promote his latest films which are certain to be huge summer blockbusters, 'The Da Vinci Code' and 'X-Men: The Last Stand'. Unfotunately my TV connection did falter at a few points in the video, so it is NOT a computer error. Take a look! (29MB MOV)[More]

Detractors question the secrets of The Da Vinci Code

Darrell Bock already has a date to see The Da Vinci Code, the movie version of the best-selling, controversial novel by Dan Brown. And he's encouraging everyone he knows to see the film. But it's not because he's a fan of Brown or his book; far from it. An evangelical Christian and professor at Dallas Theological Seminary, Bock is one of many Da Vinci Code debunkers and the author of Breaking the Da Vinci Code. [More]

'Da Vinci Code' protests planned

HOUSTON, May 13 (UPI) -- Religious groups plan U.S. theater protests when "The Da Vinci Code" opens next week, but even Texas critics say more talk about spiritual issues is good. A Roman Catholic group, the American Society for the Defense of Tradition, Family and Property, says it plans 1,000 peaceful prayer vigils when the movie based on the controversial book opens Friday in the United States. Authors disputing assertions in "The Da Vinci Code" have been cross-crossing the nation -- speaking to numerous religious groups on the hot subject. Author Darrell Bock, a professor at Dallas Theological Seminary, recommends people see the film based on Dan Brown's book, but also read his own book, "Breaking the Da Vinci Code." [More]

Mystery of the 'Da Vinci Code' Film: Will We Love It?

PARIS, May 12 — So here we go again, still more "Da Vinci Code." And with the screen version of the novel being released on Friday, twin publicity machines are busily at work: Columbia Pictures is plastering the globe with posters of Tom Hanks and Audrey Tautou looking worried, while Christian prelates are drum-beating warnings about the movie's presumed blasphemous content. Not, of course, that there has been much letup in the hype since Dan Brown published his quasimystical thriller in 2003. [More]

"Musical evangelist" sets Da Vinci Code to music

AMSTERDAM (Reuters) - "The Da Vinci Code" is a goldmine not only for its creators but for a host of others producing spinoff merchandise like video games and guided tours that narrowly avoid using the novel's full title. A new addition to the lengthening list is a CD called "Music Inspired by Da Vinci" -- after all, you can't copyright the Renaissance master's name. Dutch songwriter and producer Jan Kisjes said he composed the collection of 14 songs with religiously slanted titles like "Fear of the Unknown" and "Revelation o' the Truth" to get people to re-examine Christianity and their faith. [more]

'Da Vinci Code' Strikes At Christianity's Core

The movie version of The Da Vinci Code opens next week amid high expectations and international reaction. In the Sacramento area, hundreds jammed a recent church study of the worldwide best-seller, which intermingles fact and fantasy. "I don't think there's been a book that's out that has more misinformation about history recently than this book," Sunset Christian Center Pastor Greg Farrington said. It strikes at the core of Christianity -- that Jesus was not a divine savior, that the bible is unreliable and that Jesus was married and had children -- all secrets kept by a Catholic conspiracy. [More]

Tom Hanks answers 'Da Vinci' critics

LONDON, May 12 (UPI) -- "The Da Vinci Code" star Tom Hanks says critics of the film and Dan Brown's best-selling novel are taking "a good story" too seriously. The Vatican has called for Catholics to boycott Ron Howard's Hollywood adaptation of Brown's novel about a secret bloodline created by the marriage and offspring of Jesus and Mary Magdalene. "We always knew there would be a segment of society that would not want this movie to be shown," Hanks told the London Evening Standard. "But the story we tell is loaded with all sorts of hooey and fun kind of scavenger-hunt-type nonsense." [More]

McKellen does 'Da Vinci,' mutates again

LOS ANGELES -- Forget busy summers. Ian McKellen has more big-screen action packed into the month of May than most British stage actors could hope for in a career. In the adaptation of Dan Brown's best seller "The Da Vinci Code," McKellen plays Sir Leigh Teabing, the sinfully wealthy, polio-afflicted aristocrat who joins Tom Hanks and Audrey Tautou's characters on their quest for the Holy Grail. A week later, McKellen reprises his role as Magneto, a villainous mutant who uses his ability to control metals to take on his heroic fellow freaks of nature in "X-Men: The Last Stand," the third film in the franchise. [More]

"Da Vinci Code" leads Hollywood pack to Cannes

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - Last year it was the final installment of "Star Wars." This year it is "The Da Vinci Code." With an eye on the international box office, Hollywood studios are choosing the film festival in Cannes to launch some of their biggest blockbusters, and 2006 is no exception. The studios want in, and, whatever the French may think of U.S. cultural exports, Cannes these days is happy to comply in a bid to get the "A-listers" on its famed red carpet. "The Da Vinci Code," starring Tom Hanks and France's Audrey Tautou, is one of the most eagerly awaited films for years, both because of the success of Dan Brown's novel and the outcry from Christians over the plot. [More]

Cryptic Puzzle Tube Online

Anonymous writes: Have you seen the fantastic Cryptic Puzzle Tube that acts just like a Cryptex and has nearly 2.5 billion seperate combinations. [More]

TV Watch: Paul Bettany on 'Late Late Show'

Paul Bettany will be a guest on 'The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson' tonight on CBS, he is there to promote 'The Da Vinci Code'. 'The Late Late Show' airs on CBS at 12:36AM. Watch this space for a clip!

TV Watch: Ian McKellen on 'Last Call'

Ian McKellen is slated to be a guest on 'Last Call With Carson Daly' tonight on NBC. He is there to promote 'The Da Vinci Code' which opens worldwide on May 19th and 'X-Men: The Last Stand' that opens a week later on the 26th. 'Last Call' airs VERY early in the morning on NBC at 1:36AM. Watch this space for a clip!

Da Vinci Code Film Inspiring City Breakers to Pick Paris

The intense publicity for “The Da Vinci Code” film is helping Paris regain its position as number one European city break choice for UK travellers. Paris has historically been the most visited European city, but the introduction of new routes to cities such as Rome, Prague and Barcelona from airports all around the UK led to a drop in visitors to the French capital.

However, www.citybreaks-direct.co.uk (Citybreaks Dash Direct) have seen a steady rise in bookings for Paris since hype for the film gathered pace at the start of this year. It is thought that clues to “The Da Vinci Code” hidden in the architecture of Paris are inspiring large number of British holidaymakers to choose Paris. [citybreaks-direct.co.uk]

TV Watch Update

Here's the latest list of latest cast appearances promoting 'The Da Vinci Code' this month. If I have missed some, drop me a line!

May 10th: Paul Bettany on 'The Tonight Show with Jay Leno' (NBC)
May 11th: Ian McKellen on 'Last Call with Carson Daily' (NBC)
May 11th: Paul Bettany on 'Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson' (CBS)
May 12th: Paul Bettany on 'Tavis Smiley' (PBS)
May 12th: Tom Hanks on 'The Tonight Show with Jay Leno' (NBC)
May 15th: Paul Bettany on 'The Today Show' (NBC)
May 16th: Ron Howard on 'The Ellen Degeneres Show' (various)
May 19th: Tom Hanks on 'Live! with Regis and Kelly' (various)
MAy 19th: Paul Bettany on 'Friday Night with Jonathan Ross' (UK)

Town's Da Vinci Code tourism hope

Business leaders in Llangollen are hoping for a tourism spin-off from the literary blockbuster turned film, The Da Vinci Code. The big screen version of Dan Brown's best-selling novel is expected to follow it as a global success. One local legend suggests Joseph of Arimathea brought the Holy Grail to nearby Dinas Brân Castle for safe-keeping in the First Century. Llangollen Enterprise said such legends can have positive tourism benefits. Brown's controversial story claims that Jesus Christ had a child with Mary Magdalene and that a conspiracy surrounded the Holy Grail mythology. [More]

Top cardinals bemoan ignorance about "Da Vinci Code"

ROME (Reuters) - Three top Vatican cardinals have bemoaned the religious ignorance they say fuels worldwide interest in the best-selling novel "The Da Vinci Code," whose film premiere is due on May 17. Speaking out amid a publicity countdown to the premiere, the Vatican's culture minister, Cardinal Paul Poupard, said the book seriously twisted Church history but most laymen did not have enough religious knowledge to separate fact from fiction. "The Da Vinci Code" has aroused fierce criticism from Christian churches because it says Jesus Christ married his female disciple Mary Magdalene and fathered a child with her but the Vatican hushed up the truth. [More]

Palace exec backs call to bar 'Da Vinci Code' showing in RP

As a devout Catholic, Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita said the controversial "Da Vinci Code" movie should be barred from exhibition in the country as it is "blasphemous and might imprint wrong ideas on some Catholic members particularly the young". Ermita, in expressing his personal views, said the Movie and Television Regulatory and Classification Board (MTRCB) might like to look at its guidelines in considering the screening of the film. [More]

‘The Albino Code’ unravels ‘evil’ mystery of condition

As Tom Hanks’ “The Da Vinci Code” opening looms May 19, featuring an albino character as a murderous, self-flagellating monk, a Hingham-born albino moviemaker is set to screen his own film tomorrow in Boston that wryly attacks the myth of the “evil albino.” “It’s another kind of evil or outcast depiction of a person with albinism,” said Dennis Hurley, 28, who was angered over the homicidal red-eyed character Silas depicted in the “The Da Vinci Code” best-selling novel. “There are regular people like me who happen to have this condition.” [More]

Visit 'albinocode.com'

TV Watch: Bettany on 'Jay Leno'

Paul Bettany is slated to be a guest tonight on 'The Tonight Show with Jay Leno', he is there to promote 'The Da Vinci Code'. 'The Tonight Show' airs on NBC at 11:35PM EST. Watch this space for a clip!

TV Watch: Ron Howard on 'Leno' Clip

Ron Howard was a guest on 'The Tonight Show with Jay Leno' last night (May 8th). He spoke a bit about his early career, Tom Hanks uncanny imitation of him, and working in Paris. Some rumors were dispelled as well, like how the President of France wanted in on casting and the number of protesters at the film shoots. Follow this link, select 'Click here to proceed', then wait the mandatory 45 seconds..then click 'Download'. (53MB MOV)[More]

Hans Zimmer's score to 'The Da Vinci Code' is out today in storeshelves. Here's a review from Amazon.com: For his adaptation of Dan Brown's megaselling book, director Ron Howard didn't take any risks, he called one of Hollywood's most popular composers, Hans Zimmer. Zimmer is a skilled craftsman, which is good and bad since he adequately delivers in a variety of styles, but usually misses the extra unexpected zing that makes a score truly memorable. His work for The Da Vinci Code is almost entirely muted. This may well be one of the quietest soundtracks to a blockbuster you've ever heard; only bursts of threatening-sounding strings occasionally break the quasi-ambient mood. The strategy is particularly efficient on "L'Esprit des Gabriel," which swells in a pleasantly ominous way. It's the kind of track that benefits greatly from blasting through a movie theater's multiple speakers. As a whole the score is as serious-minded as the movie's plot is preposterous. The most compelling aspect is Zimmer's use of a choir, especially on "Malleus Maleficarum," "Salvete Virgines" (paired with clanging metallic percussion), and "Poisoned Chalice," in which soprano Hila Plitmann takes eerie center stage. Yet overall it's often difficult to tell the cues aside, awash as they are in a sea of somber strings. Once upon a time, Hollywood took artistic risks on some of its bigger offerings. Is that time gone for good? [Order 'The Da Vinci Code Score' on Amazon.com today!]

Italian website badtaste.it have posted this ad from an Italian magazine for 'The Da Vinci Code' it features Ian McKellen, Audrey Toutou, Tom Hanks, Paul Bettany & Jean Reno. Click on the image for a bigger version!

TV Watch: Ron Howard on 'Jay Leno'

Director Ron Howard is slated to be a guest tonight on 'The Tonight Show with Jay Leno', he is there to promote 'The Da Vinci Code'. 'The Tonight Show' airs on NBC at 11:35PM EST. Watch this space for a clip!

TV Watch: Tom Hanks on 'SNL'

Tom Hanks will host 'Saturday Night Live' tonight for the 8th time. You can catch 'SNL' tonight (May 6th) on NBC at 11:30PM EST.

TV Watch: Tom Hanks on 'Conan O'Brien' Clip

Tom Hanks was on 'Late Night with Conan O'Brien' Thursday, May 4th. He was there to promote 'The Da Vinci Code'. Tom showed us his 'good side', as well as his theory that everyone has one. We also got a new clip from the film, it features Hanks from the one of the early scenes in the film discussing symbols and their use and mis-use in history. Follow this link, select 'Click here to proceed', then wait the mandatory 45 seconds..then click 'Download'. (74MB MOV)[More]

English Catholic group opposes Da Vinci film boycott

LONDON (Reuters) - A group of prominent English Roman Catholics is opposing a Vatican call to boycott the film "The Da Vinci Code," saying the movie's release is not a threat but a chance to explain their faith, their spokesman said on Thursday. A top official close to Pope Benedict has blasted Dan Brown's best-selling book as full of anti-Christian lies and urged Catholics to boycott the new film that is based on it. But Austin Ivereigh, press secretary for Britain's top Catholic prelate Cardinal Cormac Murphy-O'Connor, said the English group would propose a different approach in a statement expected shortly. [More]

Da Vinci Code game launches

Web users can win free travel on the Eurostar for the rest of their life, accommodation at the Ritz Hotel in Paris and Claridge's in London over the next five years, and £137,000 in cash, by taking part in a Da Vinci Code-breaking game. 'The Eurostar Quest' features 16 puzzles – all games of knowledge or skill – linked over three levels with a grand prize puzzle at the end of the Quest. The puzzles get harder as the competition progresses before closing on 30 May. [More]

TV Watch: Tom Hanks on 'Conan'

Tom Hanks is slated to be a guest on 'Late Night with Conan O'Brien' tonight on NBC. Hanks is there to promote 'The Da Vinci Code' which opens in May 19th. 'Late Night' airs on NBC at 12:35AM. Watch this space tomorrow for a clip from the show!

TV Watch: McKellen on 'Jimmy Kimmel' Clip

Ian McKellen was a guest on 'Jimmy Kimmel Live' early this morning (May 3rd) on ABC. He was there to promote his latest film 'The Da Vinci Code', they spoke briefly about is knighthood, working on King Lear, and American Idol of all things. They showed a brief clip from the film, it was a scene between himself, Tom Hanks and Audrey Tatou from the middle of the film. They also mentioned his website (McKellen.com) and how Sir Ian is the original 'Blogfather'. Take a look! (37.5MB MOV)[More]

Da Vinci Code Messages On Foods

(PRWEB) - Nesconset, NY (PRWEB) May 3, 2006 -- The fictional prophecies of the Da Vinci Code Messages will be revealed when the world discovers the existence of “edible billboards” and “when foods can talk.” The secrets will be revealed and appear in all languages (including Braille), embossed or impressed onto a plethora of foods when served or presented by those bearing the messages. Consuming and digesting the written word, will leave not a crumb of its secrets...only "Tasty Smiles". “That day is only months away,” says Rich Errera, who miraculously has single handed, just invented the only food embossing and impressing tools in the world. Witness a pivotal, historic prophecy crystallizing. Wisely, he has patent pending protection in 128 countries. “Manufacturing and distribution is anticipated to begin around the Fall time,” says Errera. [More]

Da Vinci Code popularity a sign of trouble for religion: director

TORONTO (AFP) - A new documentary film screened this week in Toronto about author Dan Brown's hugely popular "The Da Vinci Code" reveals a widespread dissatisfaction with organized religion, the director told AFP. "This was a spiritual road trip, a search for meaning," said Emmy award-winning veteran director Jonathan Stack at the packed screening of his film "Secrets of the Code" at Toronto's Hot Docs film festival. Many documentaries have been made about the book, he said, but their aim was to debunk it. [More]

TV Watch: Hanks on 'Letterman' Clip

Tom Hanks was a guest on 'David Letterman' last night (May 1st). He was on for almost 20 minutes and the jokes were flying a mile a minute. After two commercial breaks they finally showed a clip from 'The Da Vinci Code', it featured Tom Hanks and Audrey Tautou driving through the streets of Paris near the beginning of the film. Follow this link, select 'Click here to proceed', then wait the mandatory 45 seconds..then click 'Download'. (74.4MB MOV File). [More]

Hans Zimmer's Official Site Has Da Vinci Clips!

Siryori writes: Have you noticed that there is extracts from The Da Vinci Code's Original Soundtrack on Hans Zimmer's official website? [More]

THE DA VINCI CODE Extracts
(Real Player Needed)

1. Dies Mercurii I Martus / Extrait 2
2. L'esprit Des Gabriel
3. The Paschal Spiral
4. Fructus Gravis
5. Ad Arcana
6. Malleus Maleficarum
7. Salvete Virgines
8. Daniel's 9th Cipher
9. Poisoned Chalice
10. The Citrine Cross
11. Ross Of Arimathea
12. Beneath Alrischa
13. Chevaliers De Sangreal / Extrait 2
14. Kyrie For The Magdalene / Extrait 2

"Da Vinci Code" author avoids talk of his book's controversies

Though he's been hit with lawsuits and rebuffed by the Vatican, author Dan Brown said last week it's not his responsibility to address controversies stirred up by his book, "The Da Vinci Code." He said he's happy his best-selling novel about hidden religious history, secret societies and code-breaking has captured popular interest, but leaves the deliberations to others. "Let the biblical scholars and historians battle it out," Brown told about 850 people at a sold-out writers talk. [more]

The WatchWORD Bible, the Christian Response to The Da Vinci Code Movie, Is Released on DVD Today

SHERMAN OAKS, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 2, 2006--The WatchWORD Bible, The New Testament on DVD, arrives today as a Christian response to the theatrical release of The Da Vinci Code. The new 10-disc DVD boxed set allows viewers to "See the Word Come Alive" in the world's first video book of the New Testament. "The DaVinci Code will stir lots of conversation about the Bible, Jesus Christ, and the history of the Christian Church," said George Barna. "The WatchWORD Bible provides answers to many of those questions in the same movie-like format that raised them in the first place." [More]

Book Which Counters Errors in 'The Da Vinci Code' Receives Official Approval from the Catholic Church

WEST CHESTER, Penn., May 1 /Christian Wire Service/ -- The Catholic Church has given its imprimatur to an American publisher’s book that counters allegations made by The Da Vinci Code, a novel and soon-to-be-released movie. The imprimatur was granted to The Da Vinci Deception: 100 Questions and Answers About the Facts and Fiction of The Da Vinci Code. An official declaration that a literary work is free from errors in Catholic doctrine and morals, the imprimatur was granted by Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia, and will appear in all future editions of the book. The 144-page companion guide, published by Ascension Press, is for Catholics and others concerned about the doctrinal and historical misrepresentations about the Catholic Church and Jesus Christ found in The Da Vinci Code. [More]

Pre-Order 'The Da Vinci Deception' on Amazon.com today!

TV Watch: McKellen on 'Jimmy Kimmel Live'

Ian McKellen is slated to be a guest on 'Jimmy Kimmel Live' tonight on ABC. Sir Ian is there to promote 'The Da Vinci Code' which opens in May 19th. 'Jimmy Kimmel Live' airs on ABC at 12:06AM. Watch this space tomorrow for a clip from the show!

Visit the Places From Da Vinci Code

You've read the book and you're probably thinking of seeing the movie. So, why not combine a vacation in Europe with a personal visit to some of the real landmarks that figure so prominently in "The Da Vinci Code"? A little time on the Web will lead you to guide books and companies that will take you on tours to some or all of the big scenes in the story, but with a little more time you could plan your own tour. It all starts with a violent, perplexing death in the Louvre which should be on your itinerary even if you're not following the book. Look for "English" in barely noticeable pale gray letters in the upper right corner of the Web site. Then use the search function to look for everything the museum Web site has on Da Vinci. If you want to try to follow the characters' paths, you'll need to click on "Visit" and then "Interactive Floor Plans" to learn the layout of the museum. [More]

'Da Vinci Code' TV Blitz Begins

With 'The Da Vinci Code' release only 18 days away the promotions department is going into high gear and sending the cast out on all the TV chat shows this month. I will try as best as possible to give you updates when the guest listings are sent in to me. I will hopefully also be able to capture, digitize and post all the clips for people who don't have access to them via TV. Here is a short rundown of the latest, if you see something I've missed drop me a line!

May 2nd: Ian McKellen on 'Jimmy Kimmel Live' (ABC) [Link]
May 4th: Tom Hanks on 'Late Night with Conan O'Brien' (NBC) [Link]
May 8th: Ron Howard on 'The Tonight Show with Jay Leno' (NBC) [More]
May 10th: Pau Bettany on 'The Tonight Show with Jay Leno' (NBC) [Link]
May 11th: Ian McKellen on 'Last Call With Carson Daly' (NBC) [Link]
May 11th: Paul Bettany on 'The Late Late Show With Craig Ferguson' (CBS) [Link]
May 12th: Tom Hanks on 'The Tonight Show with Jay Leno' (NBC) [Link]

TV Watch: Tom Hanks on 'Letterman'

Tom Hanks is slated to be a guest on 'The Late Show with David Letterman' tonight on CBS. Tom is there to promote 'The Da Vinci Code' which opens in May 19th. 'The Late Show' airs on CBS at 11:35PM. Watch this space tomorrow for a clip from the show!