'Noah' Movie Criticism Moves Paramount to Add Explanatory Note to Film to Reassure Christian Moviegoers

Paramount has added a brief note to its upcoming biblical film 'Noah' explaining the film's intentions, seemingly in response to criticism faced from some religious groups about how much the movie stays faithful to scripture.

The $125 million film, Noah, hits theaters March 28, but has already stirred up some criticism from some following pre-screenings, with comments emerging claiming the film does not stick to biblical texts closely enough, especially in its depiction of Noah, who some have said is portrayed emotionally as too "dark."

Paramount's decision to add the note follows an appeal issued by Dr. Jerry A. Johnson, President & CEO of National Religious Broadcasters. Johnson felt an explanatory statement could help audiences better understand that the feature film is an adaptation of the Biblical account and not a line-by-line retelling of the Bible story.

The statement added to the film states:

"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."

Vice Chairman of Paramount Pictures, Rob Moore, has said that he was more than grateful to Johnson for the support and advice. "We are deeply appreciative of Dr. Johnson's efforts to bring this idea to us. Our goal has been to take every measure we can to ensure moviegoers have the information they need before deciding to buy a ticket to see the film," he said. "We are very proud of Darren Aronofsky's Noah. We think audiences all over the world will enjoy this epic film."

Paramount Pictures reportedly stated in the film's early stages of pre-screening that they were not too worried about the film's criticism because a survey issued by the production company showed 83 percent of religious moviegoers were interested in seeing the film. However, increased and prolonged criticism in recent weeks has led them to move to clarify their motivations behind the film in an attempt to reassure Christian moviegoers that the film is something they would appreciate. 

The film is directed by Darren Aronofsky and written by Aronofsky and Ari Handel. It follows the biblical tale of Noah as he builds an ark to save his family and a shipload of animals from the coming flood judgment. The film features a star-studded cast of Russell Crowe, Emma Watson, Jennifer Connelly, Anthony Hopkins and Logan Lerman.