What can I say? The critics were wrong. The Da Vinci Code was a powerful and moving film. I would even go so far as to say it was better than the book.

The story was engaging. The audience was engrossed throughout. There were no parts in the movie where anyone laughed that were not obviously intended to be humurous. Even Tom Hanks' hair was not an issue. I wouldn't have paid any attention to it had people not made such a fuss over it.

In short, Christians wanting to put down or debate the movie would be wise not to focus on its alleged artistic shortcomings. They'll lose all credibility with anyone who's actually seen it.

Yes, the theological and historical facts are stretched a bit thin at times, but so what? It's fiction. I have yet to see a historical film that doesn't resort to poetic license at some point, even in Christian films about Jesus or the Bible. Sometimes especially in Christian films about Jesus or the Bible, where many film makers insert their own particular theological orientations into the story.

By all means, use the film as an opportunity to open spiritual discussions with people. If you feel strongly enough about about the misuse of facts, go ahead and protest it.

But be sure you speak the truth in love.

If you go about repeating some of the wild claims I've heard about the movie, you're just going to make a fool of yourself.

Now I've seen the movie. In a couple hours I'll head out to catch the protests. Then later on I'll come back and let you know what I think about that.

Maybe I'll even get some juicy pictures.