Mel Gibson’s Biblical Hit Departs Netflix as Sequel Develops
Mel Gibson’s acclaimed biblical film is set to leave Netflix next month. The Passion of the Christ was released in 2004 and has become a significant title in cinematic history. This R-rated drama is renowned as the highest-grossing independent film of all time.
The Departure from Netflix
The Passion of the Christ will be removed from Netflix on Saturday, March 28, 2026. This announcement comes as the film continues to generate interest, especially with a sequel in the works.
Overview of the Film
Mel Gibson not only directed but also co-wrote the screenplay with Benedict Fitzgerald. The film depicts the final 12 hours leading to Jesus Christ’s crucifixion.
Cast and Characters
- Jim Caviezel as Jesus
- Maia Morgenstern as Mary
- Christo Jivkov as John
- Francesco De Vito as Peter
- Monica Bellucci as Mary Magdalene
- Mattia Sbragia as Caiaphas
Controversies and Reception
The Passion of the Christ faced significant controversy prior to its release. Allegations of anti-Semitism led several Hollywood studios to withdraw support for its production. Ultimately, Gibson chose to finance it through Icon Productions and partnered with Newmarket Films for distribution.
Upon release, the film received mixed-to-negative reviews, currently holding a 49% critic approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. In contrast, audience response has been largely positive, achieving an impressive 81% score based on over 250,000 ratings.
Box Office and Awards
The film’s box office performance was remarkable, amassing over $609 million worldwide. This success solidified its status as the highest-grossing independent film in history. It received three Academy Award nominations, including:
- Best Achievement in Cinematography
- Best Original Score
- Best Achievement in Makeup
Development of the Sequel
In early 2025, Gibson announced plans for a sequel titled Resurrection of the Christ during an episode of The Joe Rogan Experience. He indicated that it aims for a 2026 release. However, an update in August 2025 revealed that the sequel will be released in two parts:
- Part One: Scheduled for Good Friday, March 26, 2027
- Part Two: Planned for Ascension Day, May 6, 2027
As anticipation builds for the sequel, Mel Gibson’s The Passion of the Christ continues to remain a pivotal piece of cinematic history, marking a unique blend of artistic vision and cultural discourse.
