The DaVinci Disclaimer

"It's not theology or history." That statement is from Ron Howard, Director of The DaVinci Code in response to calls for a disclaimer at the start of the movie noting that the film is a work of fiction. Howard went on to tell The Los Angeles Times that "Spy thrillers don't start off with disclaimers" and neither will this new flick.

The controversy comes as the movie, like the book, makes the claim that Jesus married Mary Magdelene and fathered children. A claim that many flakes (one example is here) and almost no reputable historians or theolgians (see link below) hold as true. Making similar claims about the prophet who founded Islam would get you killed, but Christians are more tolerant.

Are Christians tolerant to a fault? Does not standing up for our faith cause some to go astray? Either way, a disclaimer about fiction wouldn't likely change anything.

Here is what will happen disclaimer or no disclaimer. The movie will draw large crowds and then those people will decide for themselves what they think. Most will think about the merits of the movie only—was it entertaining? Many, however, will consider their faith, positively and negatively, in light of what they hear and see in the movie. Some will be drawn back to faith in Christ and some pushed away, most will just find it something to talk about. This is what DaVinci author Dan Brown hoped for the book in a page at his website

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.

If nothing else, the book has done just that and the movie will similarly spark discussion.

A well-reasoned response to the claims of the book are offered from respected Anglican theologian N.T. Wright here online: Decoding The Da Vinci Code.

peace,
Frank+
The Rev. Frank Logue, Pastor + King of Peace Episcopal Church