Da Vinci bosses veto Opus Dei viewing

The movie adaptation of The Da Vinci Code has sparked further uproar after Sony Pictures denied Catholic group Opus Dei, who are depicted in the film, an advance viewing.

Opus Dei, who are portrayed in the movie in a less than flattering light, were keen to give their comments on Ron Howard's movie based on Dan Brown's best-selling novel.

But the religious group insists it has been ignored by movie bosses.

Opus Dei's UK spokesman Jack Valero says: "We told Sony we would like to see the film in advance but our requests have been ignored.

"Having seen the trailer the film looks pretty horrible, especially the depiction of the Opus Dei monk.

"I hope the film as a whole is mature enough not to offend anyone."