Dear Mr. Ron Howard,
I went to see your new movie last night. I am writing to tell you that I am available to consult on your next movie so that you do not get so many things wrong. I am not expensive.
The alarmists who were worried about the portrayal of the Catholic Church in "Angels and Demons" had nothing to worry about. The Churchmen portrayed were, mostly, the good guys. The homilettes about the relationship of science and faith were ridiculous caricatures, of course, but so be it. Movie producers are permitted to indulge silliness if they wish. And, the action was non-stop which is all some of us expect when we go to the movies. I give the movie a B minus.
What made me crazy were the little mistakes. At the very beginning of the movie, the Camerlengo is introduced and he is a simple priest, the recently deceased Pope’s secretary. In fact, the post of Camerlengo is always a Cardinal. A German Cardinal is called "Grand Cardinal Elector," a post that does not exist, at least no in the Roman Church. At the end of the movie, (no, I won’t give away the plot) the newly elected Pontiff is getting robed in what appears to be the "room of tears" which is a small room adjacent to the Sistine Chapel. But, in the movie, the room gave on to the loggia of St. Peter’s Basilica. In fact, behind the loggia doors where a new Pope is proclaimed is the Hall of Benedictions, a large room that overlooks the Basilica itself. Then, just as he prepares to go out and greet the multitudes, the new Pope is given a miter, when in fact, a new Pope appears wearing only a zucchetto on his head.
These simple mistakes are distracting. You, Mr. Howard, must find better books to work with. But, next time, let me help you with the fine print.
Sincerely, Michael Sean Winters
