Da Vinci Code makes $224 million

Despite initial reviews that panned the film, The Da Vinci Code has been welcomed with wideopen arms by moviegoers.

Take a look at these statistics:

It was the second largest worldwide release after Star Wars: Episode III and has, according to producers Sony Pictures, made approximately $224 million in world ticket sales.

In the US, it has netted approximately $77 million to become the film with the largest opening weekend of the year.

The Da Vinci Code also recorded the best US opening for lead actor Tom Hanks and director Ron Howard.

DON'T MISS!
The Da Vinci Code: The complete coverage

According to Sony Pictures, the film set opening weekend records in Italy and Spain, both devoutly Catholic countries.

The film, which kept under a tight wrap until a few days before its release, has been controversy's child for the last few weeks. There have been calls for its ban, with many Christians objecting to its controversial premise.

In India too, the protests against the film have seen its release postponed by a week. Sony Pictures India has been negotiating with the Indian Censor Board over the disclaimer that is to appear with the film.

The Da Vinci Code, which was expected to release in India simultaneously with the rest of the world, is now expected to hit Indian screens next week, where it will do battle with the much awaited Yash Chopra film Fanaa (starring Aamir Khan and Kajol).

What will you watch: Fanaa or Da Vinci?