Passion Of The Christ: Resurrection - What We Know So Far

The Passion of the Christ remains one of the highest-grossing R-rated movies of all time. Similar to other R-rated films that gain mainstream appeal, however, the film wasn't without its controversies. Directed by Mel Gibson and starring Jim Caviezel, it was accused of antisemitism, and even film critic Roger Ebert called it, "the most violent film I have ever seen."

Despite starring in the lead role of Jesus Christ in a massively-grossing hit film, Jim Caviezel had trouble finding work in the years since The Passion of the Christ. He's made appearances on several TV shows and in several movies over the years, staying prominently in the world of religious entertainment. His filmography includes such religious projects as Paul, Apostle of Christ and Onyx: Kings of the Grail. 

It looks like Caviezel could be returning to his most prominent role, however, as the actor confirmed in a September 2020 interview with Breitbart that a sequel to The Passion of the Christ is, indeed, coming. The sequel will focus on Christ's resurrection. Here's what we know about the upcoming project that Caviezal insists is "going to be the biggest film in world history." 

In the interview, Caviezel stated that Mel Gibson is currently working on the script. According to the actor, "Mel Gibson just sent me the third picture, the third draft. It's coming."

So, it's clear Gibson is presently working on the script and is on the third draft. Who knows how many different iterations the script will go through before Gibson is ready to start filming? 

If you go to the IMDb page for The Passion of the Christ: Resurrection, a release date of 2022 is stated. Of course, those kinds of vague dates are subject to change, and with the COVID-19 pandemic delaying numerous movie and television productions, it could be a while until filming can resume on anything. Until at least a script is finished, we probably won't have a firmer release date, so keep your eyes peeled for any new developments as they arise. 

Jim Caviezel is expected to reprise his role as Jesus Christ in the sequel (via Droid Journal). Other cast members from the original 2004 film are expected to return, but no official confirmations have been made as of this writing. 

It wouldn't be surprising to see Maia Morgenstern reprise her role as Mary, Mother of Jesus from the original film. Audiences should also expect Francesco DeVito and Christo Jivkov to return to the roles of Peter and John, respectively.

Still, cast details are still heavily under wraps, and with Gibson still working on the screenplay, it's possible for some characters to be added or taken away as time goes on. Other potential cast members who could return for Resurrection include Monica Bellucci as Mary Magdalene, Luca Lionello as Judas Iscariot, and Hristo Naumov Shopov as Pontius Pilate. Since the film will deal with the aftermath of Jesus' death, it would make sense to see at least a few of the characters who interacted with Jesus during his final days.

As of right now, there's only speculation as to what a sequel to The Passion of the Christ will be about. Considering the subtitle Resurrection, however, we can assume it will follow Jesus' return from the dead three days after his crucifixion. 

The first film sees Jesus Christ being betrayed by Judas during the Last Supper and condemned to death by Pontius Pilate, with much of the proceedings focusing on Jesus' journey as he carries his cross to his final resting place. Jesus is later taken down from the cross and entombed, with the film's ending showing Jesus exiting the tomb. 

It's possible the sequel will show what Jesus did in an otherworldly realm during those three days before he returned from the dead. It's also possible part of the film will focus on the earthly ramifications of the events of Jesus' death and resurrection, and showcase what Jesus' apostles did in the immediate aftermath of his crucifixion. It's all just speculation for the time being, though, until we hear from Mel Gibson himself about what the sequel entails.