China approves 'The Da Vinci Code'

BEIJING, April 5 (UPI) -- Ron Howard's "The Da Vinci Code" has cracked China's strict censorship rules and been given the go-ahead to open May 19, it was reported Wednesday.

There were concerns the Tom Hanks vehicle may not make it past China's Film Bureau because of its religious theme, Daily Variety reported.

"The Da Vinci Code" is the second Sony film to make it to China's cinemas, Variety noted. Sony's "When a Stranger Calls" will became the first Hollywood horror movie to play in China later in the summer.

"The Da Vinci Code" will bow at the Cannes Film Festival May 17 and open worldwide two days later.

Officials said 350 reels would be sent to China to ensure it gets seen in all the major cities.