Mel Gibson’s Passion of Christ sequel will be presented as two separate films, set to release 40 days apart in 2027. Lionsgate confirmed that The Resurrection of the Christ: Part One will premiere on Good Friday, March 26, 2027, followed by Part Two on Ascension Day, May 6, 2027, emphasizing a strong connection to biblical events.
Background and Success of the Original Film
The follow-up films continue from the 2004 original, which depicted the story of Jesus Christ starring Jim Caviezel and Monica Bellucci as Mary Magdalen. Mel Gibson financed the initial film himself with around $30 million, which proved a major success at the box office, making $83 million in its opening weekend and earning $370 million within North America and over $610 million globally. This made it the top-grossing R-rated film domestically for years and the most successful independent film to date until recently.
Production Insights and Filmmaker’s Vision
Gibson and Bruce Davey of Icon Productions will produce both new installments. Gibson shared details about the ambitious project during an appearance on the Joe Rogan podcast earlier this year, discussing the script’s unique and intense nature. He explained,
“I’m hoping [to start filming] next year sometime,”
before describing the storyline as “an acid trip,” highlighting that the narrative explores realms beyond the earthly, including “the fall of the angels,” “Hell,” and “Sheol.”
When Rogan inquired,
“So you’re going to have Hell? You’re going to have Satan?”
Gibson confirmed,
“You got to have his origin,”
explaining that the film would cover a vast timeline from celestial rebellion through the death of the last apostle. He expressed uncertainty about the challenge ahead but remained determined to realize this ambitious vision without resorting to clichés:
“It’s about trying to find a way in that’s not cheesy or obvious. It’s almost like a magic trick.”
Significance and Expectations for the Upcoming Films
The decision to split the sequel into two distinct films released on symbolically important dates reflects Gibson’s intent to deepen and expand the biblical narrative on an epic scale. By beginning with the origins of evil and extending through key moments in Christian history, the project aims to explore theological themes with a broader and more dramatic scope than the first film. If successful, these installments could reshape how religious epics are portrayed in modern cinema and influence future faith-based storytelling.
