Mel Gibson has been spotted mingling with a group of local nuns in Rome while filming his highly anticipated sequel, “Resurrection of the Christ.” The Hollywood star took a break from his project, which has recently stirred up controversy among fans due to casting decisions.
The sequel comes more than two decades after Gibson’s original film, “The Passion of the Christ,” which depicted the last 12 hours of Jesus Christ’s life. With the passage of time since the first film, the casting has undergone significant changes.
Cillian Murphy shares his reluctance to embrace fame, adding an interesting layer to Hollywood discussions, but the focus remains on Gibson’s project. The original film starred Jim Caviezel as Jesus and Monica Bellucci as Mary Magdalene. Due to the long interval between the movies, Gibson made the decision to recast the leading roles instead of relying on costly CGI techniques to create younger versions of the original actors. Sources indicate that it was a practical choice that allows for a fresh take on the iconic characters.
In the new film, Finnish actor Jaakko Ohtonen portrays Jesus Christ, while Cuban actress Mariela Garriga takes on the role of Mary Magdalene. Ohtonen is known for his work in the television series “The Last Kingdom,” and Garriga appeared in the “Mission Impossible: Dead Reckoning” films alongside Tom Cruise.
The casting change has led to mixed reactions from fans on social media, with some expressing unhappiness at the decision to recast iconic roles. Comments ranged from disappointment in not seeing Caviezel reprise his role to concerns that the new cast might not resonate as strongly with audiences. Conversely, some fans expressed understanding of the decision, acknowledging the challenges of digital de-aging and praising Gibson’s directorial capabilities.
Despite the mixed sentiments, the film is expected to release in March 2027. Gibson’s ability to deliver a powerful narrative persists as a strong point of interest, and his interactions with local nuns in Rome provide a glimpse into the filmmaker’s current state of mind amidst the whirlwind of production.
In a climate of both controversy and anticipation, “Resurrection of the Christ” stands as a testament to Gibson’s artistic vision and the enduring impact of the story he seeks to tell. This film promises to reignite conversations around faith, artistry, and cinematic interpretation as it moves closer to release.