North-East film fans in the have given a mixed response to Mel Gibson's controversial film, The Passion of The Christ.
Cinemagoers in the region are flocking to see the epic retelling of the suffering and crucifixion of Jesus.
The opening matinee at the Odeon, Newcastle, on Friday - the day the film went on general release - was sold out, and officials said there had been a steady flow to see the film over the weekend.
While the film was not a sell-out on Teesside, the UGC Cinema, Middlesbrough, had a stream of people to see it, with between 40 and 50 watching Jim Caviezel playing the Son of God yesterday.
The Gala, at Durham, will not be screening the film until April 16, but a spokeswoman said: "We have had quite a few inquiries about it.''
The Odeon, Darlington, will know later today if it is to show the film at all.
A spokesman at the Odeon, in Harrogate, North Yorkshire, said: "We have had a reasonable response, but it is quite quiet."
Published: 29/03/2004
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article