Catholic Church insists on disclaimer in Angels & Demons movie

The Catholic Church albeit demanded a ban on the controversial Angels and Demons movie, now has consented to the release of the movie only if the Censor Board obliterate some of the scenes and show a disclaimer at the start and end of the movie.

The movie based on a book by The Da Vinci Code author Dan Brown, was opposed by the Catholic Church, which called for an outright ban for its distorted and anti-Church depictions.

Consequently, a special screening was organised by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) for Christian representatives, mainly the CBCI (Catholics Bishops Conference of India).

"We decided to put the movie before a revising committee because of concerns raised nationally and internationally about its contents," said Vinayak Azad, a regional officer with the CBFC.

"We wanted to be sure that the certificate we give is absolutely apt ... We usually place a movie before a revising committee if we feel it needs a wider consensus," he added.

The Vatican had also sharply criticised the movie for its portrayal of the community in negative light and even refused the crew permission to shoot in the religious site.

"We have cited reasons why the film should be banned. It deliberately denigrates the Catholic Church and is intended to offend the faithful," said Father Babu Joseph, spokesperson for the CBCI.

On Friday, after reviewing the movie, the CBCI said, "banning the film would only fan the curiosity of the public and therefore recommended a few cuts and a strong disclaimer at its beginning and end."

Meanwhile, Hindus have also criticized the makers of the movie for hurting the sentiments of Christians.

Acclaimed Hindu statesman Rajan Zed, in a statement in Nevada (USA) today, said that faith was something sacred and attempts at belittling it hurts the devotees.

Filmmakers should be more sensitive and careful while handling faith related subjects, as cinema is a very powerful medium, he said.

Zed also called for the insertion of disclaimer in bold letters in the beginning and end of the movie.

The movie directed by Ron Howard with Tom Hanks, Ewan McGregor, Ayelet Zurer - will hit theaters on May 15.

The movie is set in Rome and involves a plot by "the Illuminati," a shadowy Catholic group that wants to blow up the Vatican and install one of its own as pope.