Full Breakdown
Mel Gibson’s ‘Passion of the Christ’ Returns in 4K, Sequel Plans Ahead
7/6/2026, 2:23:58 AM
4K Re-Release in September 2024
Lionsgate and Fathom Entertainment announced a limited run of the 2004 film from Sept 10-17, 2024, now remastered in 4K with Dolby Atmos. Tickets on sale July 24 online and at theaters.
Original Film Impact
The Passion of the Christ depicted Jesus’ final twelve hours, grossing over $610 million worldwide on a $30 million budget. It was the highest-grossing domestic R-rated film for two decades until 2024’s Deadpool & Wolverine surpassed it. The picture earned Academy Award nominations for makeup, score and cinematography and drew controversy for graphic violence and its religious subject matter.
Key Figures
Kevin Grayson is Lionsgate’s worldwide distribution president; Ray Nutt is Fathom Entertainment’s CEO; and Mel Gibson directs the sequels. Jim Caviezel will not return as Jesus; Finnish actor Jaakko Ohtonen will assume the role, and Mariela Garriga replaces Monica Bellucci as Mary Magdalene.
Official Statements
Grayson said the film is “one of the most extraordinary theatrical experiences ever created” and that the restoration lets longtime audiences see it anew while inviting a new generation. Nutt noted few modern-day films have impacted the cultural landscape as “The Passion of the Christ.” Gibson described the sequels as exploring “the spiritual realms” and “the battle for the soul of mankind,” calling the project “a major part of my life’s work” and a mission he has carried for over twenty years.
Criticism
At the time of its original release, the film drew controversy for its graphic depictions of violence and its handling of religious themes, prompting debate among critics and faith groups about its artistic approach.
Upcoming Sequels
The Resurrection of the Christ: Part One releases May 6 2027; Part Two follows May 25 2028 for Memorial Day weekend. A theatrical trailer is out, and Gibson says the projects are coming to life “exactly as I envisioned them.”
Verbatim Quotes
- “The Passion of the Christ remains one of the most extraordinary theatrical experiences ever created,” — Kevin Grayson, President, Worldwide Distribution, Lionsgate
- “For millions of people, it was far more than a film — it became a powerful shared cultural and faith experience.” — Kevin Grayson, Lionsgate
- “Few modern-day films have made as much of an impact on the cultural landscape as The Passion of the Christ,” — Ray Nutt, CEO, Fathom Entertainment
- “This film represents a major part of my life’s work, and it has demanded everything of me as a filmmaker and as an artist,” — Mel Gibson, Director
- “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, Director
