Mel Gibson has released the first look at 'The Resurrection of the Christ,' the highly anticipated sequel to his 2004 film 'The Passion of the Christ.' Filming for the two-part epic wrapped after 134 days on location across Italy, including Rome, Bari, and Matera. Despite finishing ahead of schedule, the release dates have been delayed—Part One now set for May 6, 2027, and Part Two pushed to May 25, 2028, both aligning with Ascension Day. Gibson described the project as a 20-year mission and a deeply personal artistic endeavor.

Starring Jaakko Ohtonen as Jesus and Mariela Garriga as Mary Magdalene, the sequel continues the story from 'The Passion,' focusing on the resurrection. The original film, made on a $30 million budget, earned $610 million globally and was once the highest-grossing R-rated film domestically. Lionsgate will distribute the new films in North America and the UK, with a network of international partners handling other regions.

Gibson, who returned to studio filmmaking with 2025's 'Flight Risk,' has called this project his most significant. Lionsgate’s Adam Fogelson praised Gibson’s vision, calling the footage 'masterwork paintings brought to life.' The films mark a major moment in religious cinema and Gibson’s career resurgence.