Mel Gibson’s upcoming two-part “The Resurrection of the Christ” looks set to cost a lot more than a few pieces of silver.
Deadline reports that the two-part project is coming in at a budget of approximately $200 million, with $100 million for each part.
That’s even after the recasting of roles to avoid costly de-aging effects that would’ve been required if they’d used original actor Jim Caviezel.
They are, by far, Gibson’s most expensive films to date as a director. In comparison, the original “The Passion of the Christ” came in at a cost of $30 million, while his most expensive film to date was around $70 million spent on 1995’s “Braveheart”.
The films are expected to pick up after Christ’s crucifixion, with the resurrection coming three days later, according to the Bible.
Part of the reason for the big budget is that Gibson has promised a highly ambitious project with Christ descending into hell as part of his spiritual journey, along with battles between angels and demons.
Jaakko Ohtonen will play Jesus alongside Kasia Smutniak as Mary, Mariela Garriga as Mary Magdalene, Pier Luigi Pasino as Peter, Riccardo Scamarcio as Pontius Pilate, and Rupert Everett in an undisclosed role.
The first part of “The Resurrection of the Christ” arrives in cinemas on March 26th 2027, while the second part opens on May 6th 2027.
