The Omega Code

In this Christian-right thriller, the Bible is decoded into a three-dimensional computer matrix that contains keys to forecast the path of history. Unlocked codes foretell (à la Nostradamus) of Hitler's misdeeds and even Princess Di's tragic death. Now, with the "end of days" rapidly approaching, religious factions, scholars, and maniacal opportunists all scramble for the omnipotent final title code. Beefy "Starship Trooper" Casper Van Dien plays Dr. Gillen Lane, a Bible code scholar, talk-show ham, and motivational guru. He and global philanthropist Stone Alexander (Michael York) are using the codes to bring peace to the Middle East, disarm nuclear arsenals, and alleviate world hunger. Of course things get dicy: there's a conspiracy in the air, a pair of prophets pop up in Jerusalem, and everyone wants Lane's ass.

As a thriller, The Omega Code drones on like a turgid made-for-TV-movie. There's no suspense, the acting is wooden, and the plot twists are inane. The Devil rears his head in the final frames, but by that time, only the bejesus of bad filmmaking will seize you.

-- Tom Meek