Mel Gibson’s ‘The Passion of the Christ’ Returns to Theaters Ahead of Sequel Release Date

Mel Gibson’s ‘The Passion of the Christ’ is making its way back to theaters in anticipation of the release of its long-awaited sequel, ‘The Resurrection of the Christ: Part One.’

Lionsgate and Fathom Entertainment have announced that Gibson’s 2004 biblical drama will be shown in theaters from September 10 through September 17. The film has been restored in 4K with Dolby Atmos sound, allowing audiences to enjoy an enhanced viewing experience with improved picture and audio quality.

This theatrical re-release will also provide fans with an early glimpse of ‘The Resurrection of the Christ: Part One,’ the upcoming sequel that picks up the story after the original film’s events. According to the studios, the preview will showcase what they describe as one of Gibson’s most significant filmmaking projects.

Kevin Grayson, president of worldwide distribution at Lionsgate Motion Picture Group, emphasized the lasting impact of the original movie. “The Passion of the Christ remains one of the most extraordinary theatrical experiences ever created. For millions of people, it was far more than a film — it became a powerful shared cultural and faith experience,” Grayson stated.

He also noted that the new restoration will allow longtime fans to experience the film in a fresh way while introducing it to younger audiences who may not have seen it in theaters.

The sequel will be released in two parts, with ‘The Resurrection of the Christ: Part One’ set to hit theaters on May 6, 2027, followed by Part Two on May 25, 2028. Both films will premiere on Ascension Day, a Christian holiday that celebrates Jesus Christ’s ascension into heaven.

The sequel will explore the events following Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection, continuing the biblical narrative that began in ‘The Passion of the Christ,’ which depicted Jesus’ final hours before his death.

The original film featured Jim Caviezel as Jesus and Monica Bellucci as Mary Magdalene. For the sequel, Jaakko Ohtonen and Mariela Garriga will portray Jesus and Mary Magdalene, respectively. The cast will also include Pier Luigi Pasino, Kasia Smutniak, Riccardo Scamarcio, and Rupert Everett.

‘The Passion of the Christ’ became one of the most successful independent films ever, made on a reported budget of around $30 million and grossing approximately $610 million worldwide. It held the record for the highest-grossing R-rated film in the U.S. for years until it was surpassed by ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’ in 2024.

Ray Nutt, CEO of Fathom Entertainment, remarked on the significant impact the film had upon its initial release.

“Few modern-day films have made as much of an impact on the cultural landscape as ‘The Passion of the Christ,’” Nutt said. He added that the film resonated with both faith-based audiences and the general public, paving the way for more opportunities for religious films. The sequel will be executive produced by Cedar Hill and Mike Ilitch Jr. Productions, which are also investors in the project.

The return of ‘The Passion of the Christ’ coincides with Gibson’s ongoing career as a director. His latest film, ‘Flight Risk,’ marked his return to studio filmmaking after several years. Gibson is known for directing acclaimed films such as ‘Braveheart,’ ‘Apocalypto,’ and ‘Hacksaw Ridge,’ with ‘Braveheart’ winning the Academy Award for Best Picture.

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