The Da Vinci Code is a American mystery film directed by Ron Howard, which is based on the bestselling 2003 novel of the same name by Dan Brown. It was one of the most anticipated films of 2006, and was previewed at the opening night of the 2006 Cannes Film Festival on May 17. The Da Vinci Code then entered major release in many other countries on May 18, 2006 and was released in the United States by Columbia Pictures on May 19, 2006.

Because of some controversial interpretations and factual inaccuracies of Christian history in both the book and film, they were criticized by the Catholic Church. Some bishops urged members to boycott the film.BBC News: Cardinal urges Da Vinci action Many of the early showings were accompanied by protesters outside the movie theaters, and early critical reviews were decidedly negative. However, the film earned over US$230 million worldwide in its opening weekend, which at the time was the third biggest opening in history (it is currently ranked as the seventh biggest opening). It was the second highest grossing movie of 2006 worldwide — having reached US$758,239,851 as of November 2, 2006, making it both Tom Hanks' and Ron Howard's most successful film when not adjusting for inflation.Boxofficemojo.com: The Da Vinci Code The film's soundtrack, composed by Hans Zimmer, was nominated for the 2007 Golden Globe Award for Best Original Score.

Plot

A man revealed to be Jacques Saunière is being pursued by a mysterious hooded character known as Silas through the Grand Gallery in the Louvre in Paris. Silas demands the location of the Priory's clef de voûte or "keystone." Under threat of death, Saunière finally confesses the keystone is kept in the sacristy of Church of Saint-Sulpice, "beneath the Rose." Silas thanks him, and then shoots him in the stomach.