Mel Gibson’s ‘Resurrection of the Christ’ Is Already Causing Controversy Over “Blasphemous” Recasting

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Mel Gibson is revisiting the story he began with The Passion of the Christ with a new film, The Resurrection of the Christ, currently being filmed. The original film sparked significant debate, and it appears the sequel is already facing similar criticism, including accusations of blasphemy related to casting changes.

Mel Gibson, a director often at the center of controversy himself, has made some casting changes for his upcoming film. He’s chosen Jaakko Ohtonen, known for his role in The Last Kingdom, to play Jesus instead of Jim Caviezel. Additionally, the role of Mary Magdalene will now be played by Mariela Garriga, who starred in Mission: Impossible, replacing Monica Bellucci.

Many people online expressed disapproval of the casting choices for Jesus, with some calling it disrespectful. Concerns were raised about the continued portrayal of Jesus as white, with one user sarcastically suggesting the casting director specifically sought out a white, even Nordic, actor. Others simply pointed out the lack of diversity in these depictions.

The decision to replace Jim Caviezel has upset some fans, with one saying they’d been eagerly awaiting the film and felt Caviezel’s strong faith was crucial to his portrayal of Jesus, especially as seen in The Passion. However, other viewers are happy Gibson is choosing a new actor instead of trying to make Caviezel appear younger with special effects.

Can Mel Gibson’s Biblical Sequel Survive the Inevitable Controversy?


Newmarket Films

Released in 2004, The Passion of the Christ portrays the events leading to the crucifixion of Jesus Christ as told in the New Testament. The film sparked strong reactions when it came out, with some viewers criticizing its extreme violence and others accusing it of antisemitism. However, many praised the acting, Mel Gibson’s direction, and found the movie to be a powerful and moving religious experience.

The upcoming film, The Resurrection of the Christ, will be released in two parts. The first part will premiere in theaters on March 26, 2027, and the second on May 6, 2027, coinciding with Ascension Day. Though already stirring debate, this controversy could actually benefit the film, much like it did for The Passion of the Christ. That earlier movie faced similar issues, but the resulting discussions helped make it a major event, ultimately earning $612 million globally on a $30 million budget.

Following his detailed depiction of the crucifixion in The Passion of the Christ, director Mel Gibson is now focusing on the return of Jesus in The Resurrection. The film will star Jaakko Ohtonen as Jesus, alongside Mariela Garriga as Mary Magdalene, Pier Luigi Pasino as Peter, Kasia Smutniak as Mary, Jesus’ mother, Riccardo Scamarcio as Pontius Pilate, and Rupert Everett. Given the history of Gibson’s work, it’s expected that this film will also generate significant debate and controversy.

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2025-10-28 15:34