Mel Gibson's 'The Resurrection of the Christ' Wraps Production, Release Dates Moved to 2027 and 2028

"This is far more than a film to me. It’s a mission I’ve carried for over 20 years to tell what I believe is the most important story in human history."
— Mel Gibson

Production on Mel Gibson's two-part film "The Resurrection of the Christ" has concluded, and Lionsgate has announced new release dates for both installments. Part One is now scheduled for May 6, 2027, and Part Two for May 25, 2028. The film is the sequel to the 2004 film "The Passion of the Christ."

Release Dates

• Part One will be released on May 6, 2027, a date that coincides with Ascension Day. This is a change from the previously announced date of March 26, 2027.
• Part Two will be released on May 25, 2028, which falls on both Ascension Day and Memorial Day Weekend. This is a change from the previously announced date of May 6, 2027.

Lionsgate has scheduled the film "Day Drinker," starring Johnny Depp, for the March 26, 2027 release slot that was originally held by Part One.

Production

Principal photography for the sequel was completed after 134 days of filming in Italy. Locations included Rome, Bari, Ginosa, Craco, Brindisi, and Matera. Production finished ahead of schedule.

Cast

"The Resurrection of the Christ" stars Jaakko Ohtonen as Jesus Christ, taking over the role from Jim Caviezel. Mariela Garriga portrays Mary Magdalene, replacing Monica Bellucci. Other cast members include Pier Luigi Pasino, Kasia Smutniak, Riccardo Scamarcio, and Rupert Everett.

Statements

Mel Gibson stated: "This is far more than a film to me. It’s a mission I’ve carried for over 20 years to tell what I believe is the most important story in human history."

Lionsgate Motion Picture Group chair Adam Fogelson said: "Mel is a true visionary with an artist’s eye for scale and a storyteller’s instinct for emotional truth."

Distribution

Lionsgate will handle the release of the films in North America, the United Kingdom, and Latin America. International distribution partners include:

Background

"The Passion of the Christ" was released in 2004 on a budget of $30 million. It grossed $370 million domestically and over $610 million globally. It received three Academy Award nominations. Lionsgate previously distributed Gibson's films "Hacksaw Ridge" and "Flight Risk," and also distributes the Icon library.