THE DA VINCI CODE - CHINA DROPS DA VINCI CODE

Chinese cinemas have pulled controversial blockbuster THE DA VINCI CODE off their screens, allegedly to make way for local films. The excuse has been questioned by some media sources, who suspect the religious content of the film has upset some conservative Christian groups. The movie, based on the best-selling novel by DAN BROWN, speculates that JESUS CHRIST and MARY MAGDALENE had children whose descendents are still alive. WU HEHU, spokesman for Shanghai's United Cinema Line Corporation, reveals he is still confused as to why he received the order to stop showing the film, which is becoming one of the most successful foreign movies to be released in China. He says, "This is such a short notice from the film's distributor. "I don't know the reason. We just do what we are told to do." The film, starring TOM HANKS and AUDREY TAUTOU, has already been banned in Fiji, Pakistan and some Indian states.