Anna Daniels
After much delay, Mel Gibson has officially announced that the sequel to The Passion of the Christ is progressing. Tentatively named The Resurrection of Christ, the film is set to start production in 2026, although a specific date has not yet been released.
In a recent episode of The Joe Rogan Experience, Gibson shared that the screenplay, co-written with his brother Donal Gibson and Braveheart writer Randall Wallace, has been revised multiple times—at least six drafts. The final version will combine two different approaches, merging philosophical themes with poetic insights, which Gibson has intriguingly referred to as an “acid trip” through different realms.
A Long-Awaited Sequel
The original Passion of the Christ (2004) was a controversial yet impactful film. Gibson’s depiction of Jesus’ final 12 hours was both intense and heart-wrenching. It transcended typical cinema, achieving cultural significance and grossing over $612 million globally, thereby becoming the highest-grossing R-rated film of its era.
However, Gibson’s sequel aims to explore new dimensions. Unlike the straightforward storytelling of its predecessor, The Resurrection of Christ will delve into mystical and metaphysical themes. The film will reportedly focus on the 24 hours leading up to Jesus’ resurrection and the three days following his crucifixion, with Jim Caviezel returning as Jesus.
Gibson hinted at the possibility of dividing the film into two parts, covering Jesus’ descent into hell—offering a unique, surreal perspective on the biblical story. “It’s going to unfold in its own time,” said Gibson, reflecting on how the extended development period has helped refine the narrative.
Merging Philosophy and Violence
Gibson’s works have consistently embraced intense storytelling, often crossing the line between artistic expression and graphic content. From the brutal battles in Braveheart to the harrowing experiences in Apocalypto, his directing style showcases his bold vision.
With The Resurrection of Christ, Gibson plans to push these limits even further. He has described the film as both “poetic” and “philosophical,” indicating a desire to explore the intricate spiritual themes of resurrection and redemption.
This approach could alienate audiences expecting a direct sequel to The Passion, but it also has the potential to elevate the film beyond its predecessor’s raw severity. The idea of a cinematic “acid trip” with Jesus traversing different realms suggests a daring, almost avant-garde direction for Gibson.
Thoughts and Concerns
As a reviewer, I feel both excited and skeptical. On one hand, the ambitious nature of The Resurrection of Christ is undeniably appealing. Few directors would dare to tackle such a grand project that seeks to reinterpret one of history’s most significant events.
Nevertheless, ambition alone doesn’t ensure success. The original Passion was rooted in its emotional intensity and stark realism. Will this sequel, with its philosophical and surreal elements, resonate with audiences as profoundly? Or could it risk distancing viewers through an overly complex narrative?
That said, Gibson’s history suggests he welcomes risks, even if it means dividing opinion among critics and viewers. If he successfully balances visceral impact with philosophical depth, The Resurrection of Christ could prove to be not only a worthy follow-up but also a redefinition of the religious epic for contemporary audiences.
Are you intrigued by the concept of The Resurrection of Christ, or do you think Mel Gibson is straying too far from such a sacred narrative? What are your thoughts on the idea of a more “philosophical” storytelling approach to this iconic story?
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