Renowned filmmaker Mel Gibson is set to begin production on "The Resurrection of the Christ," the long-awaited sequel to his 2004 blockbuster "The Passion of the Christ." The filming is scheduled to start in August 2025 in Italy, with Cinecittà Studios in Rome serving as a major production hub.
Manuela Cacciamani, CEO of Cinecittà Studios, confirmed that the film will be shot entirely in Italy, featuring extensive stage constructions. Gibson has described the project as "very ambitious," revealing that the film will explore a vast timeline, spanning from "the fall of the angels to the death of the last apostle." The storyline will delve into spiritual and metaphysical themes, aiming to portray various realms, including Sheol and hell, to authentically capture the resurrection narrative.
Jim Caviezel will reprise his role as Jesus Christ, while Maia Morgenstern returns as Mary, and Francesco De Vito will once again play Peter. The screenplay, co-written by Gibson and Randall Wallace, has gone through multiple revisions to ensure a profound and compelling portrayal of the resurrection.
In addition to Cinecittà Studios, filming will also take place in scenic locations across Southern Italy, including Altamura, Ginosa, Gravina, Laterza, and Matera. These historic sites were previously used in "The Passion of the Christ" and are expected to bring authenticity to the film’s setting.
Gibson has hinted at a non-linear narrative structure, incorporating events from the past, present, and future. He aims to offer a fresh perspective on the resurrection by blending historical accounts with theological reflections.
"The Passion of the Christ" was a massive success, earning over $600 million worldwide and receiving three Academy Award nominations. With "The Resurrection of the Christ," Gibson seeks to build on that legacy, presenting an intense and thought-provoking depiction of one of the most significant events in Christian faith.
As the production moves forward, audiences eagerly await how Gibson will bring this powerful story to the big screen, offering a deeper exploration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ.