Mel Gibson and screenwriter Randall Wallace are collaborating on the upcoming sequel to the 2004 blockbuster The Passion of the Christ, titled The Resurrection of the Christ. According to Wallace, the project originated from a conversation during the 2016 promotional tour for Hacksaw Ridge, where Gibson warned that the production could invite “spiritual warfare” and insisted the film must not be driven by profit or retribution.
The Origins of The Resurrection of the Christ
The partnership between Gibson and Wallace, who previously worked together on Braveheart and We Were Soldiers, began after Wallace approached the director with the idea. While Gibson had considered the subject for years, Wallace noted that the original 2004 film—which grossed over $610 million worldwide against a $30 million budget—only included a brief epilogue of the Resurrection at the request of audiences.
According to Wallace’s appearance on the podcast Arroyo Grande, Gibson’s reaction to the pitch was immediate and serious. Gibson stated, “If we do this, it can’t be for the money, and it can’t be to get back at people that have hated us or wronged us.” The two began a writing process that spanned roughly six to eight years, involving Gibson’s brother, Donal Gibson, to refine the two-part screenplay.
Did you know?
The original The Passion of the Christ was a significant financial success, earning Academy Award nominations for makeup, score, and cinematography despite its controversial, graphic depiction of the final 12 hours of Jesus’ life.
Production Timeline and Release Schedule
Gibson confirmed in May that production on the sequel has concluded. The project is split into two distinct feature-length films:
- Part One: Scheduled for release on May 6, 2027, coinciding with Ascension Day.
- Part Two: Set to debut on May 25, 2028, over the Memorial Day weekend.
In a press release, Gibson described the project as a “mission I’ve carried for over 20 years” and stated that the final product matches his original vision. Jaakko Ohtonen has been cast as Jesus for the production.
Creative Direction and Spiritual Themes
Wallace indicated that the films will attempt to depict the spiritual realm in ways that have not been seen on screen before. While he maintained secrecy regarding specific plot points, he described the approach as an attempt to create the “most orthodox telling” of the event, balancing the awe and mystery central to Christian belief.
The collaboration involved a fluid writing process. Wallace told host Raymond Arroyo that he and Gibson would often work independently on drafts before meeting to “tear it up” and refine the narrative together. The discussions, according to Wallace, focused heavily on the concept of grace, setting the tone for the production’s development.
Wallace suggests this sequel aims to bridge both by using unique imagery to support traditional theological themes.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will The Resurrection of the Christ be released?
Part One is scheduled for release on May 6, 2027, with Part Two following on May 25, 2028.
Who wrote the screenplay for the sequel?
The screenplay was written by Mel Gibson, Randall Wallace, and Donal Gibson.
Is the film a direct continuation of the 2004 movie?
Yes, it serves as a sequel to The Passion of the Christ, focusing on the events following the crucifixion.
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