Mel Gibson’s Warning for Passion Sequel

Randall Wallace, Mel Gibson’s longtime collaborator, recently shared a cautionary message he received from the two-time Oscar winner regarding the sequel to “The Passion of the Christ.”

At 76, Wallace has collaborated with the 70-year-old Gibson before, on projects like “Braveheart,” “We Were Soldiers,” and “Hacksaw Ridge,” and he co-wrote the screenplay for “The Resurrection of Christ” with Gibson and his brother, Donal.

In a recent episode of Raymond Arroyo’s podcast, “Arroyo Grande,” Wallace recounted how he encouraged Gibson to tell the story of the Resurrection following the success of the original film.

Interestingly, it was Wallace who approached Gibson about “The Resurrection of Christ.” He mentioned, “This isn’t to say he hasn’t considered returning to it over the years.” In fact, Wallace pointed out that a resurrection scene wasn’t originally cut from “The Passion,” as many viewers expressed a desire to see that part of the story.

Ultimately, Wallace shared that Gibson agreed to include a brief resurrection scene as an epilogue, where Jesus rises from the tomb, revealing the wounds on his hands before the film concludes.

While promoting “Hacksaw Ridge” in 2016, Wallace proposed the idea of focusing on the resurrection. He recalled, “I was really fascinated by it and thought it was a story that needed telling.” He emphasized he hadn’t contributed to “The Passion of the Christ,” but felt strongly about the Resurrection narrative.

Wallace recounted Gibson’s thoughtful reaction to his suggestion, where Gibson expressed that the project should not be motivated by profit or revenge against critics. Instead, they should focus on authenticity. Wallace humorously remarked, “Well, Satan doesn’t really care about Baptists,” sparking laughter from Arroyo. But, perhaps, he pondered, Gibson might be onto something there.

Reflecting on their conversation about grace, Wallace acknowledged it marked the start of their work on “The Resurrection of Christ.” He offered to draft a screenplay for Gibson, suggesting they collaborate while also working independently. They agreed on this approach, spending around six to eight years developing the two-part script.

Recently, Gibson announced that production on the sequel has concluded. “The Resurrection of Christ: Part 1” is slated for release on May 6, 2027, coinciding with Ascension Day, celebrating Jesus’ ascent to heaven, 40 days post-Easter. The second part is planned for a Memorial Day weekend release on May 25, 2028.

In a press release, Gibson expressed his satisfaction with how the story unfolded on screen, stating, “I am incredibly grateful to the talented cast and crew who gave so much to this project.” He highlighted the film as a significant part of his life’s work and a story he’s felt compelled to tell for over two decades.

The original “The Passion of the Christ,” released in February 2004, focuses on the final 12 hours of Jesus before his crucifixion, and it sparked considerable controversy due to its graphic depiction. Nonetheless, it achieved tremendous success, earning over $610 million worldwide against a $30 million budget and receiving several Academy Award nominations.

During his chat with Arroyo, Wallace hinted at what viewers might anticipate from the highly awaited sequel. He praised Gibson’s unique vision, adding that while they aim to keep plot details under wraps, the film will present some unprecedented elements. Wallace suggested that, paradoxically, this story will be both innovative and deeply rooted in Christian orthodoxy, encapsulating the awe and mystery surrounding the Resurrection experience.