The Resurrection of the Christ

Mel Gibson’s “The Resurrection‌ of the Christ” Announces New ‍Leads, Production Details

Rome – Mel Gibson‍ is moving forward with the sequel to his 2004 ‌film The Passion of the Christ, titled The Resurrection of the Christ, with⁢ a largely ​recast ensemble and a ‍planned release ⁢spanning‍ key religious dates in 2027. ⁤The films will focus on the events following Jesus’⁢ crucifixion, detailing his ‌resurrection.

Jim ⁣Caviezel, who starred as ‌Jesus in the original, will not reprise his⁣ role. Laetitia Ohtonen has been cast as Jesus,while Kasia Smutniak (“Domina”) will portray Mary Magdalene,replacing Maia⁤ Morgenstern from the first film. Peter will be played by Pier Luigi Pasino (“the ⁤Law According to Lidia Poët”), and pontius Pilate will⁣ be portrayed by Riccardo​ Scamarcio, who recently appeared in the Johnny Depp-directed biopic Modì. Rupert Everett⁣ will also appear in an unspecified, yet critically ‍important, role.

A source close to the production explained the extensive recasting was a practical decision, stating, “They would have had to do ​all this CGI stuff, all this digital stuff-de-aging and all that-that would have been very costly.” The sequel takes place three days after the‍ crucifixion, necessitating‌ a‌ shift in actors to reflect the passage of time.

Despite the recasting, ​Gibson remains heavily involved,​ producing alongside Bruce Davey through their Icon Productions banner, ​with Lionsgate ‌as the studio ‌partner. gibson has described the‍ scripts, co-written with Randall​ Wallace⁢ (“Braveheart”), as an “acid trip,” adding he’d “never read anything like” them.⁢

The films will continue the original’s ​commitment to historical authenticity, being filmed in Aramaic, hebrew, and ⁤latin. Production is ‍slated to begin‍ at Cinecittà Studios in Rome, utilizing the new Studio 22 facility, and will extend ⁤to locations in matera and other ancient towns in Southern Italy, including Ginosa, Gravina Laterza, and Altamura.

The Resurrection ⁢of the Christ Part One is scheduled for release on Good Friday, March 26, 2027, with​ Part Two following 40 days later on Ascension Day, May 6. Lionsgate will release both films theatrically.