Joshua Goldman
Joshua Goldman
min read · September 29, 2025 · Entertainment

Mel Gibson's Animated Spectacle at AS Roma: A Glimpse into His Passion Sequel

He's one of Hollywood's most recognisable faces, and on Sunday Mel Gibson stole the spotlight in Rome

Mel Gibson Steals Spotlight in Rome, Preparing for Ambitious Sequel to The Passion of the Christ

It's been a long time coming, but Hollywood legend Mel Gibson is finally back on the big screen with his most ambitious project yet - the sequel to the 2004 movie The Passion of the Christ. And judging by his recent antics in Rome, it's clear that he's got the fire and determination needed to bring this epic tale to life.

Last Sunday, the 69-year-old actor was spotted at the Olympic Stadium in Rome, where he was attending a Serie A clash between AS Roma and Hellas Verona. But it wasn't just the football match that drew attention - Gibson's dramatic reactions and animated expressions were caught on camera, leaving fans and critics alike wondering what he's cooking up next.

The Mad Max legend, 69, was spotted at the Olympic Stadium for the Serie A clash between AS Roma and Hellas Verona, where he was photographed pulling a series of animated expressions

As he mingles with fellow fans wearing AS Roma scarves, soaking up the pre-match atmosphere before kick-off, one can't help but notice Gibson's rugged yet refined appearance. His silver beard is neatly groomed, his tinted aviator-style glasses are tucked into his crisp white button-up shirt (left slightly open at the collar, of course), and a leather bracelet adorns his wrist - it's clear that he means business.

But what's really got everyone talking is Gibson's upcoming movie, The Resurrection of the Christ. The long-awaited sequel to the original film, which grossed over $612 million worldwide and became the highest-grossing independent film of all time, promises to be a game-changer for the industry.

As reported by Variety in March, production on the film will officially begin next month in August at Cinecitta Studios in Rome. Scenes are slated to be shot in various locations across southern Italy, including the towns of Madera, Ginosa, and Altamura. And with Lionsgate set to distribute the sequel worldwide, it's clear that this project is going to be big.

The actor looked wide-eyed and open-mouthed, reaching his hand towards the camera in a dramatic gesture

According to Adam Fogelson, chair of Lionsgate Motion Picture Group, The Resurrection of the Christ is "an awe-inspiring and spectacularly epic theatrical film" that will leave moviegoers "breathless". He also praises Gibson as one of the greatest directors of our time, saying that this project is both deeply personal to him and the perfect showcase for his talents.

Gibson himself has expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating in an appearance on The Joe Rogan Experience earlier this year that it's "very ambitious" and will follow the fall of the angels to the death of the last apostle. He's also hinted at incorporating sci-fi elements into the narrative, saying that he wants to juxtapose the central event with everything else around it in the future, past, and other realms.

But what really sets this project apart is Gibson's willingness to take risks and push boundaries. As he admitted on The Joe Rogan Experience, tackling a film of this scope will require "a lot of planning" and "may not be easy". However, with his reputation as a bold and daring filmmaker, it's clear that he's up for the challenge.

In another, he sported a serious expression as he clutched his phone and cap, while later flashing a huge grin and giving a thumbs-up to fellow fans

When asked about Lionsgate's involvement in the project, Gibson praised their "brave, innovative spirit" and "nimble, can-do attitude", saying that they're the perfect distributor for The Resurrection of the Christ. He also shared his excitement about working with Adam Fogelson and the team, stating that he knows they'll bring everything they can to the release of this movie.

As Gibson prepares to bring this epic tale to life on the big screen, one thing is clear - it's going to be a wild ride. With its ambitious scope, daring narrative, and star-studded cast (Jim Caviezel, Maia Morgenstern, and Francesco De Vito are all set to reprise their roles), The Resurrection of the Christ promises to be the most talked-about movie of the year.

So stay tuned, folks - it's going to be a ride you won't want to miss!

The actor was seen with Orthodox monks and additionally spent some of his time there in solitude and reflection, according to To Vima - a Greek weekly newspaper

Jim Caviezel (seen above) is set to reprise his role as Jesus Christ, with Maia Morgenstern returning as Jesus' mother Mary and Francesco De Vito as Peter

He stated that the upcoming movie is 'very ambitious' and said the premise will follow, 'the fall of the angels to the death of the last apostle'; seen in 2024 in L.A.