This summer, the long-awaited sequel to Mel Gibson’s iconic 2004 film The Passion of the Christ will begin production, bringing the resurrection of Jesus Christ to the big screen. Titled The Resurrection of the Christ, the film is set to explore the pivotal moment in Christian faith—the resurrection—and will begin shooting in August at Rome’s renowned Cinecittà Studios, according to CEO Manuela Cacciamani. The film will be produced by Icon Productions, with filming expected to continue in various ancient Southern Italian towns, including Matera, Ginosa, Gravina Laterza, and Altamura. These locations, which also served as the backdrop for The Passion, will help create an authentic atmosphere for the film’s depiction of Jesus’ resurrection.
The original The Passion of the Christ became a groundbreaking success, grossing nearly $612 million worldwide and becoming the highest-grossing independent film of all time. Despite its controversies, particularly regarding accusations of antisemitism, the film sparked significant interest and was embraced by many Christian communities. Churches across the globe organized viewings, further fueling its success and cultural impact. The sequel hopes to build on that success, exploring the aftermath of Jesus’ death and focusing on the profound significance of His resurrection.
Jim Caviezel will reprise his role as Jesus, with Maia Morgenstern returning as His mother, Mary, and Francesco De Vito as Peter, according to IMDB. These familiar faces will help anchor the film’s powerful narrative as it delves into the mystery of the resurrection and the hope it brings to all believers.
In a January interview on Joe Rogan’s podcast, Gibson described the sequel’s script as “an acid trip,” emphasizing its distinct and unconventional approach to storytelling. “I’ve never read anything like [it],” he shared. This unconventional style may come as no surprise to those familiar with Gibson’s creative vision. According to the director, The Resurrection of the Christ will not follow a linear narrative. Instead, it will juxtapose the central event of Jesus’ resurrection with other significant moments in the past, present, and future. “You have to juxtapose the central event that I’m trying to tell with everything else around it in the future, in the past, and in other realms,” Gibson explained in a 2022 interview with National Catholic Register. “That’s kind of getting a little sci-fi out there,” he added, hinting at the film’s potential to venture into otherworldly dimensions.
One of the most intriguing aspects of The Resurrection of the Christ is Gibson’s decision to incorporate spiritual and supernatural elements into the narrative. The film will explore themes beyond the resurrection itself, including the fall of the angels and the existence of hell. “I think in order to really tell the story properly you have to really start with the fall of the angels, which means you’re in another place, you’re in another realm. You need to go to hell,” Gibson stated in his interview with National Catholic Register. This ambitious approach promises to provide a deeper understanding of the theological significance of Jesus’ resurrection, inviting viewers into a broader spiritual journey.
For Catholics, the resurrection of Christ is the foundation of our faith. It represents victory over sin and death, offering believers eternal hope. As Gibson’s sequel prepares to bring this powerful story to the big screen, it offers an opportunity to reflect on the profound mystery of Christ’s triumph and the eternal life He offers to all who believe in Him.
As The Resurrection of the Christ gears up for its summer 2025 production, it promises to bring the message of the resurrection to a global audience once again, highlighting the relevance and timeless power of Christ’s victory over death. With Gibson’s unique vision and the return of familiar cast members, this sequel is sure to continue the legacy of its predecessor, inspiring faith and awe in the hearts of many.
