Dan SquireThe anticipated release of “The Da Vinci Code” in theaters on May 19 is shaking up the faith, and causing a commotion at dinner table discussions worldwide.
A synopsis of the plot, according to the author, Dan Brown, suggests that the movie is about “A renowned Harvard symbologist [who] is summoned to the Louvre Museum to examine a series of cryptic symbols relating to Da Vinci’s artwork. In decrypting the code, he uncovers the key to one of the greatest mysteries of all time.and he becomes a hunted man.”
Although this is the movie motion picture of a fictional novel, the sudden publicity on such a topic has stimulated many questions of faith and has sparked a historical interest, while also exciting the vast majority of the public with promises of high-quality entertainment.
“Since I haven’t read it, I’d probably go see it because it has Tom Hanks in it and it’s by Ron Howard,” sophomore marketing major Gabriel Valentino said.
While both the novel and movie are based on fictional characters, many aspects depicted in these works are genuine, including the artwork, documents and secret rituals that all exist. According to the official website of Dan Brown, this author states, “My hope in writing this novel was that the story would serve as a catalyst and a springboard for people to discuss the important topics of faith, religion, and history.”
Father Michael Bielecki said, “It’s gotten people talking about Jesus.” He suggested that just like the release of “The Passion of Christ” starring Mel Gibson, “The Da Vinci Code” starring Tom Hanks would bring faith back into family dinner discussions.
Talk of the seemingly secret Catholic group Opus Dei, Knights Church in England and different perspectives on the faith may have stirred up controversy. Campus minister, Laura Gorgol feels that if it is read as a fiction, it can be interpreted according to one’s own beliefs.
“It’s opened up how much we don’t know,” Gorgol said. She added that this “new insight” is a positive thing because it will inspire people to look for the answers to their personal questions of faith.
Dr. Leonard Primiano, a professor of religious studies who has given speeches about the book in churches and schools throughout Philadelphia, said, “It can be used as a tool for learning, just as any novel. According to Primiano, at least 50 million copies of the book have been sold, and he can’t wait to see the movie.
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