What You See and What You Don’t: Mel Gibson’s Straight Talk

Raymond Arroyo, a contributor for Fox News, recently discussed significant threats to democracy during a segment that also highlighted some intriguing subjects, including music that honors the recently accused murderer, Luigi Mangione, CEO of United Healthcare.

Randall Wallace, a long-time collaborator of Mel Gibson, shared insights into a serious warning Gibson gave him before writing the sequel to “The Passion of the Christ.” It’s interesting to note that the two have previously worked together on notable films like 1995’s “Braveheart,” 2002’s “We Were Soldiers,” and 2016’s “Hacksaw Ridge.” Wallace co-wrote the screenplay for “The Resurrection of Christ” alongside Gibson and his brother, Donal.

During a recent episode of Arroyo’s podcast, Wallace recalled how, after the immense success of “The Passion of the Christ,” he encouraged Gibson to explore the Resurrection story.

“Actually, I approached him first,” Wallace admitted about their collaboration on “The Resurrection of Christ.” He emphasized that Gibson had, on several occasions, considered revisiting this topic over the years. It wasn’t something that was completely new to them; fans had long been expressing a desire to see a resurrection scene, which was initially cut from the first film.

Ultimately, Gibson included a brief resurrection scene in the original film to serve as an epilogue, where Jesus is depicted stepping out of the tomb and showing his wounded hands.

Wallace mentioned that Arroyo had suggested Gibson work on a feature about the resurrection back in 2016, during a promotional tour for “Hacksaw Ridge.” “I became obsessed with studying the resurrection,” Wallace recalled. “At the time, I said that the real story worth telling is the resurrection.”

The director, Gibson, had some concerns, believing that this film could trigger spiritual warfare. Wallace recounted a fascinating exchange, where Gibson warned him saying, “Satan would be after you.” In jest, Wallace replied that Satan likely wasn’t concerned about Baptists, with Arroyo finding humor in the comment. Still, there was some truth to it, and Wallace couldn’t help but contemplate the implications of Gibson’s warning.

The two men talked deeply about grace, which Wallace found enlightening. He reflected on how this conversation was pivotal in beginning their work on “The Resurrection of Christ.”

Wallace suggested a cooperative effort: he would draft a script for Gibson to review, and together, they would refine it. “So, we started like that,” he said. Gibson had reportedly spent around six to eight years crafting the two-part script for “The Resurrection of Christ” with both Wallace and his brother. Earlier this year, he indicated that production was completed, with “The Resurrection of Christ: Part 1” set to debut on Ascension Day, May 6, 2027, followed by Part 2 on Memorial Day weekend, May 25, 2028.

In a press release, Gibson expressed satisfaction, saying that the story reached the screen as he had envisioned. “I am really thankful to the talented cast and crew who dedicated themselves to this project,” he said, relating this work to a significant part of his life as an artist.

“The Passion of the Christ,” which premiered in February 2004, depicted the final hours of Jesus’ life leading up to his crucifixion. Known for its intense graphic violence, it sparked much debate yet ultimately grossed over $610 million worldwide against a budget of $30 million, even earning several Academy Award nominations.

During their conversation, Wallace teased the audience about what to expect from the upcoming sequel, remarking on Gibson’s unique vision for the spiritual realm. “Interesting that they want to keep many details under wraps, but this film will definitely have some unprecedented elements,” he noted. “In some respects, it may be unlike anything viewers have seen before while still conveying the essence of faith and the mystery surrounding the Resurrection.”