Mel Gibson Starts Production on “The Resurrection of the Christ,” 20 Years after ‘The Passion’

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Twenty-one years ago, an independent film grossed $610 million worldwide and became one of the highest-earning independent films in history. What was that film? Mel Gibson’s The Passion of the Christ.

As of October 15th, 2025, filming for the long-awaited sequel, The Resurrection of the Christ, has begun production in the same location as the original 2004 film: Rome’s Cinecittà Studios. Shocking to many, however, the film will include two parts and an entirely new cast. When asked about these decisions, Variety notes that such conclusions were made because “they would have had to do all this CGI stuff—de-aging and all that—that would’ve been very costly.”

In this new project produced by Bruce and Gibson Davey (Icon Productions, with Lionsgate as a studio partner), part one will arrive on Good Friday, March 26, 2027, and part two will follow on Ascension Day, May 6, 2027. While the original film depicted Jesus' final 12 hours on earth, the parts one and two sequels will take place three days after Christ’s crucifixion. 

Although the film is overtly Christian, it has everyone talking, according to reports from Yahoo Entertainment. Many are furious over Gibson’s decision to replace Jim Caviezel, the man who portrayed Jesus, with Jaakko Ohtonen; others are calling his shots blasphemous work. Despite backlash, Gibson promises an ambitious and rewarding sequel. One that stays true to the theme of the Gospel without being cheesy, and encourages viewers to stick to their convictions amidst an ever-evolving society. 

Though the Passion of the Christ has been both acclaimed and marked for controversy for its graphic depiction of the crucifixion, followers anticipate The Resurrection of the Christ that has been in development for years. In an interview with Greg Laurie, Gibson noted that the film isn’t just going to be about three days—“the time between Jesus’ death and resurrection." "It’s not just about the event; it’s about what was happening spiritually.” 

Will this film be the biggest in history? Only time will tell. Regardless of its ratings, one fact is certain: Jesus’ death and resurrection alike are important and impact the lives we live today. Nearly two decades after The Passion, believers await a cinematic retelling of the moment that defines the Christian faith—the resurrection. But more than that, we can remember this film points to our future reality: “He is not here; He has risen, just as He said” (Matthew 28:6, NIV). And someday soon, He’s coming back again. 

Let John 14:2-3 be our prayer today: "My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am" (NIV).

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Amber Ginter is a teacher-turned-author who loves Jesus, her husband Ben, and granola. Growing up Amber looked for faith and mental health resources and found none. Today, she offers hope for young Christians struggling with mental illness that goes beyond simply reading your Bible and praying more. Because you can love Jesus and still suffer from anxiety. You can download her top faith and mental health resources for free to help navigate books, podcasts, videos, and influencers from a faith lens perspective. Visit her website at amberginter.com.