Easter weekend 2027 is set to feature a major confrontation at the biblical box office with two of the most popular faith-based franchises releasing new content close together. Mel Gibson’s highly anticipated follow-up to The Passion of the Christ, titled The Resurrection of the Christ, will debut alongside the theatrical finale of Dallas Jenkins’ acclaimed series The Chosen, creating a landmark moment for religious storytelling. This clash between Mel Gibson Resurrection Christ and The Chosen is being dubbed the “battle of the Messiahs” by fans and industry insiders alike.
Mel Gibson Returns with The Resurrection of the Christ
More than two decades after the release of The Passion of the Christ, Mel Gibson’s sequel has finally entered production in Rome. The Resurrection of the Christ will be released in two parts, with the first premiering on Good Friday, March 26, 2027, and the second following on Ascension Day, May 6, 2027. The story continues from the original film’s conclusion, focusing on the events after Jesus’ crucifixion and his resurrection.
This new film features a completely new cast in key roles. Finnish actor Jaakko Ohtonen has taken on the role of Jesus Christ, a part known for frequently changing actors over the years. Mariela Garriga, a Cuban actress, will portray Mary Magdalene, replacing Monica Bellucci from the 2004 production. Filming is currently underway at Italy’s Cinecittà Studios, with additional shooting planned in Ginosa, Matera, and Altamura. Gibson not only directs but also co-wrote the screenplay, signaling a personal investment in bringing this story back to the screen.
The Chosen’s Expanding Reach and Theatrical Debut
In parallel, Dallas Jenkins’ The Chosen is preparing for its most significant release yet. The series will expand its reach with a theatrical debut of its Season 6 finale on March 12, 2027, which dramatizes the crucifixion of Jesus. This cinematic event will arrive just two weeks before Gibson’s film, adding to the competition during Easter weekend. A separate feature episode focusing on the resurrection will follow on March 31, 2028.
Since its beginning as a crowdfunded project in 2017, The Chosen has grown into a global sensation. The first season raised $11 million, making it the most successful crowdfunded TV series ever. Its reach now extends beyond its dedicated app to platforms including Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, Facebook, and YouTube, with over 200 million viewers worldwide. The series’ theatrical releases have earned more than $140 million globally, and lead actor Jonathan Roumie has become a notable figure among Christian audiences, even meeting Pope Francis and speaking at key religious events.
Deepening the Story of Jesus Through The Chosen
The Chosen offers a historical drama centered on Jesus and those close to him, set against the hardship of Roman occupation in first-century Palestine. The show portrays an authentic and intimate view of Jesus’ life and teachings, highlighting his revolutionary impact on those around him. Jonathan Roumie stars as Jesus of Nazareth, with Elizabeth Tabish playing Mary Magdalene, among other key characters who bring the story’s rich narrative to life.
Anticipation Builds for a Biblical Entertainment Showdown
The original 2004 film The Passion of the Christ remains the highest-grossing independent movie ever, having made $612 million on a modest $30 million budget. With Lionsgate acquiring international distribution rights for both Mel Gibson’s The Resurrection of the Christ and The Chosen’s upcoming finale, this competition is set for a worldwide audience. The intersection of these projects could reshape the future of faith-based media, offering a new standard in how the story of Jesus is presented on screen. Fans and observers alike are bracing for this unprecedented cultural moment, where two very different portrayals of Christ’s story converge on a global stage.
