China Cancels 'Da Vinci' Movie

China Cancels 'Da Vinci' Movie - New York Times: "Removing the film after its strong 22-day run suggested that the authorities had struck a balance between Chinese Catholic leaders and the China Film Corporation, the state-owned company that brought the film here.

China Film was permitted to collect hefty revenues and recoup its investment in importing, advertising and distributing the film. But the state-backed Catholic leadership was also able to claim a victory at a time when it has struggled with the Vatican for the loyalty of Chinese Catholics. The official, who said he could not be identified because he was not authorized to discuss the matter publicly, said the film had earned more than 100 million yuan, or about $13 million, and continued to sell far more tickets than any other movie."