Trailers for the upcoming film "Noah" will now carry a disclaimer after some Christian groups deemed it an inaccurate depiction of the Bible.
"It begins." (Via Paramount Pictures / "Noah")
The Los Angeles Times reports trailers and other marketing material for the film will carry an explanatory message that reads, "The film is inspired by the story of Noah. While artistic license has been taken, we believe that this film is true to the essence, values, and integrity of a story that is a cornerstone of faith for millions of people worldwide. The biblical story of Noah can be found in the book of Genesis."
In the past few months, Paramount Pictures recruited religious screeners worldwide to watch the film and offer feedback. The last thing the studio wants to do is turn away Evangelicals and other Christians who might have interest in the film's Biblical storyline.
Some conservative groups have already launched their criticism. A representative of the right-leaning Media Research Center told the Christian Post, "This is not some attempt to tell the Bible story – they want to make it into an action/adventure. This movie is an insult to anybody who follows the Bible story."
Still, Ben Field, the head of film and television for a Pentecostal megachurch in Australia, told TheHollywood Reporter, "If you're expecting it to be word for word from the Bible, you're in for a shock. There can be an opportunity for Christians to take offense. [But] we were pretty excited that a studio like Paramount would invest in a Bible-themed movie."
The $125 million film hits theaters in the U.S. March 28. "Noah" will eventually trickle out to 65 foreign markets.
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