I’ve always had an interest in the history of religion, particularly that of the Roman Catholic Church. It is one of the most powerful unifying and at the same time one of the most divisive forces known to mankind. Empires had risen and fallen. Wars had been fought, won, and lost. All because of religion.
Something as powerful as that would be a natural subject for writers of both fiction and non-fiction. I got started on the latter through the encyclopedia where I got my fill of the Church, the Crusades, the Knight Templars, etc. I got started on the former through David Morrell’s Fraternity of the Stone and Covenant of the Flame. The books, with their with shadowy militant religious orders, captured my imagination. Thus, when Dan Brown’s The Da Vinci Code came out, I immediately read it and found it reasonably good. It was also controversial because of its subject.
Of course, it’s just a matter of time when movie version comes out. But when it did, I was reluctant about watching it for two reasons: it has Tom Hanks (don’t ask me why) and I’ve already read the book. But I eventually relented for the sake of camaraderie :P
From what I’ve seen, it seems the movie would be a little confusing for those who did not read the book. On the flipside, it is too like the book. So much so that it got a bit dragging and somehow succeeded in becoming boring. Hank’s wooden performance didn’t help either.
Notwithstanding those who always compare the movies to the book and how the movie should be completely faithful to the book, this movie is an argument for keeping the two distinct. The book is a book, the movie is a movie.
One good thing about watching the movie though is that you get to see the things and places in Paris and London mentioned in the book. But that’s about it.
Rating: 2/5
I’ve been listening to the car stereo while driving more often these days. I’ve realized how frustrating the experience can often be. First there’s the ads. These aren’t exactly the world’s best radio ads so it’s really not worth listening to. Then there’s the less-than-entertaining DJs. No matter what station you switch to, they all talk and sound the same. Then there’s the crap they force you to listen to. And it’s the same no matter where you go. Case in point, lately they’ve been always playing Barbie Almalbis’ stupid Summer Day. I switch to another station and it’s also the song being played!!! And worse, it is inevitably followed by Kamikazee’s equally stupid First Day High! Argh!!! I need control on what I’m listening to! I need an iPod!
Coming from the maker of the Sandman series I was a bit apprehensive about 
Yesterday, as I was driving out from the basement parking at work, I kind of noticed something amiss with my headlights. I couldn’t place it until later when I noticed from my headlights’ reflection on the car in front of me that my left headlight was dim. The bulb was busted. Thankfully, I was able to get home without any incident (mulcting cops come to mind).