Resurrecting the Epic: Mel Gibson Scouts Europe for Sequel to The Passion of the Christ

The long-awaited sequel to Mel Gibson’s 2004 blockbuster, The Passion of the Christ, appears to be gaining momentum as the famed director was spotted location scouting in Europe this week. Reports have surfaced that Gibson explored Malta and ventured to the ancient towns of Ginosa and Altamura in southern Italy, sparking renewed interest in The Passion of the Christ: Resurrection—a film that has been in development for several years.

Antonio Parente, director of the Puglia Film Commission, confirmed Gibson’s visits to potential filming sites, indicating that serious strides are being made toward the sequel’s production. However, in keeping with the project’s secrecy, Gibson’s publicist, Alan Nierob, played down the speculation, stating: “All we can confirm is they were scouting locations recently … not a lot to discuss at this early stage.”

Nevertheless, Gibson’s collaboration with Braveheart screenwriter Randall Wallace has fueled excitement. Wallace and Gibson have reportedly been crafting the script for years, intending to follow up on the story of Jesus’ miraculous resurrection. According to Gibson, two scripts have been developed—one being a more traditional narrative, and the other described by the director as an “acid trip” that delves into realms of hell and the fall of angels.

The Passion of the Christ, which focused on the final hours of Jesus’ life, shocked the world in 2004 with its intense, unflinching portrayal of Christ’s crucifixion. The film grossed a staggering $612 million worldwide and held the record for the highest-grossing R-rated film for two decades. Despite its financial success, it drew mixed reviews—praised for its visceral impact but criticized for its graphic violence and allegations of anti-Semitism.

Jim Caviezel, who portrayed Jesus in the original, is set to reprise his iconic role in the sequel. Fans have long speculated about the next chapter in the biblical epic, and with Gibson now actively scouting filming locations, the dream of The Passion of the Christ: Resurrection seems closer than ever to becoming a reality.

If the film proceeds, it will mark Gibson’s seventh directorial project, following his upcoming action-thriller Flight Risk, which is set for release on January 24, 2025. For now, the resurrection of this cinematic phenomenon remains on the horizon, with audiences eagerly awaiting the next chapter in Gibson’s bold and controversial vision.