Quentin Tarantino offered a provocative analysis of Mel Gibson’s film, The Passion of the Christ, during an episode of the Bret Easton Ellis Podcast. His take on the film’s extreme depictions of violence drew attention, particularly regarding the intense sequences featuring torment against Jesus.
The director highlighted a notable scene where Roman soldiers unleash brutality on Jesus, remarking, “You’re just seeing this guy getting as f*ed up as you’ve ever seen a lead character in a movie get f*ed up before.” He specifically focused on the whipping scene, where the tension builds to an almost unbearable degree, amplifying the film’s violent imagery.
Interestingly, Tarantino expressed a semblance of sympathy towards the Roman soldiers in the film, stating, “I started getting kind of turned on by the beating.” This admission hints at the controversial nature of his feelings, with Tarantino noting that he finds extreme violence to be “just funny.”
Bret Easton Ellis, who hosted the discussion, reflected on their differing perspectives on violence. When Tarantino mentioned his reaction to Gibson, he noted that the director seemed incredulous, underscoring the complexity of Tarantino’s viewpoint that many may find difficult to relate to.
As Tarantino contemplates his response to the film, Mel Gibson is currently in the process of creating a sequel titled The Resurrection of the Christ. This follow-up is set to be released in two parts, with Part One scheduled for March 26, 2027 (Good Friday), and Part Two for May 6, 2027 (Ascension Day). While Jim Caviezel was initially set to reprise his role as Jesus through digital de-aging technology, the production will now feature Jaakko Ohtonen in the role, alongside Mariela Garriga playing Mary Magdalene.
With the sequel on the horizon, speculation abounds regarding Tarantino’s reactions and the continued exploration of violence and its representation in cinema. His unique engagement with these themes ensures ongoing discussions within the film community as fans eagerly await the next chapter of this controversial narrative.