Sequel to The Passion of the Christ (2004)

CBN.com “Legendary filmmaker Mel Gibson has just unveiled new details about his upcoming two-part film project, “The Resurrection of the Christ” and “The Resurrection of the Christ: Part II.” “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,” Gibson said of the project. “This is far more than a film to me. It’s a mission I’ve carried for over twenty years to tell what I believe is the most important story in human history.” Billy Hallowell and Raj Nair break it all down.

(NewsNation) — Oscar-winning director Mel Gibson is filming the sequel to his epic biblical drama, “The Passion of the Christ,” in Southern Italy, according to Italian media.

Gibson has selected Torre Guaceto, a protected marine reserve and nature park in Puglia, as a key filming location for “The Resurrection of the Christ,” La Repubblica reports. Portions of the area were expected to be closed to visitors during production.

Filming was reportedly take place at Punta Penna Grossa, a renowned sandy beach on the Adriatic Sea within the reserve located in the province of Brindisi. The site is said to serve as the backdrop for the New Testament account of the miraculous catch of fish, in which Jesus enables his disciples to haul in an enormous amount of fish after a night of failed fishing.

Earlier, production also took place in Gravina, a historic town with ancient Greek roots. Scenes filmed there reportedly include the post-Resurrection story on the road to Emmaus, where two discouraged disciples walking from Jerusalem to Emmaus are joined by the risen Christ, as well as the death of Judas Iscariot.

Gibson, the 70-year-old American-born Australian actor, is renowned for action roles in “Mad Max” and “Lethal Weapon,” as well as directing “Braveheart,” which won the 1995 Academy Award for Best Director/Picture.  Gibson took a career hiatus and later returned with “Hacksaw Ridge.”