ATHEIST-THEMED 'GOLDEN COMPASS' PRAYING FOR A MIRACLE

The Golden Compass pointed south this weekend, opening with an estimated $26.1 million, significantly less than the $30 million to $40 million New Line Cinema had predicted. The film had been widely criticized by church groups, particularly Catholic organizations, for its supposed anti-religious message, and New Line worldwide distribution and marketing president Rolf Mittweg concedes that might have had an impact.  "All we can do now is pray", said Mittweg, who is hoping that the film's international box office and DVD revenue will make up the difference.  Asked what he thought were the chances of that happening, Mittweg just shook his head.  "I don't know...The Lord works in mysterious ways."

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