Golden Compass Boycott

One movie that hasnt even hit theaters yet is causing quite a stir nationally among Christian groups. The Golden Compass is hitting theaters Friday. And many Christian groups, like the Catholic League, are boycotting the movie, claiming its atheistic. But Showplace Cinemas East employee, Ben Knapp, who screened the movie, says he didnt see it that way. "I can see how they would say that based on the novel. It was adapted from the novel but not by the author" Author, Phillip Pullman, is well known for his anti-organized religion views and this is why the controversy began. Minister, Brad Ferris says he started getting emails from church members asking about the movies message. After looking into Christian movie reviews, he says the church felt the need to alert members. He says he isnt sure what impact it would have on children, but isnt willing to let his own kids see it. "I dont know that they walk away saying oh thats atheism, but i think theres a danger there to ask some questions and maybe lose God" All this hype and the movie isnt even out yet. Knapp believes that people wont feel the same once they see the film. But whether people will give it a chance, is still uncertain. Some even speculate that the boycott is only bringing more publicity and interest to the film. Knapp says the movie wasnt as good as movies its being compared to, like Lord Of The Rings or the Chronicles of Narnia, but it still deserves a chance. Showplace Cinemas Easts manager says he expects a big crowd for the movies opening this Friday.