Mel Gibson is set to start production on The Resurrection of the Christ this summer, marking the long-awaited sequel to his 2004 biblical epic The Passion of the Christ. According to Manuela Cacciamani, CEO of Rome's Cinecittà Studios, the film will be shot entirely at their facilities, with extensive stage construction required for the production. In an interview with the Italian newspaper Il Sole 24 Ore, Cacciamani confirmed, "The next film directed by Mel Gibson, produced by Icon Productions, will begin filming at Cinecittà in August, utilizing multiple sound stages and large-scale set designs.

A Visionary Script and Unconventional Narrative: The Braveheart actor-director, now 68, has previously described The Resurrection of the Christ as an intense and surreal cinematic experience. Speaking to podcaster Joe Rogan, he likened the script—developed with Randall Wallace—to an "acid trip," emphasizing that it explores profound and otherworldly themes.

Gibson explained, "To tell the story properly, you have to begin with the fall of the angels, which takes you to another place, another realm—you need to go to hell." The film, which has been in development since 2016, will see Jim Caviezel reprising his role as Jesus Christ. Gibson has previously hinted that the sequel will not follow a traditional linear structure. In a 2022 interview with the National Catholic Register, he revealed, "The central event must be juxtaposed with moments from the past, the future, and even other realms—it’s almost sci-fi in its approach."

Balancing Multiple Projects: Lethal Weapon 5 Also in the Works: Gibson has also been attached to direct Lethal Weapon 5, a sequel to the 1998 action film Lethal Weapon 4, following the passing of original director Richard Donner in 2021. Six months ago, when asked by ComicBook.com which project he would prioritize, Gibson admitted the decision was still uncertain. "There are countless factors that determine whether a film moves forward, not just budgetary concerns but many other obstacles. Right now, it’s really unpredictable which project will take off first."

However, in a June 2024 interview on the Inspire Me Podcast, he reaffirmed his commitment to the Lethal Weapon franchise. He shared that the upcoming sequel will retain the series’ signature humor while also addressing "some hard-hitting issues." Reflecting on Donner’s legacy, Gibson said, "He had developed the screenplay quite a bit before he passed, and we’ve built upon that foundation. It’s an honor to carry the project forward, and I’m quite pleased with the direction it’s taking."

Disclaimer: This image is taken from The Professor and the Madman.