New Cast, New Era for The Resurrection of the Christ
Mel Gibson’s long-gestating follow‑up to The Passion of the Christ is moving forward with a sweeping recast, including a new lead for the role of Jesus. Finnish actor Jaakko Ohtonen, known for his work in The Last Kingdom, has stepped into the title role, replacing Jim Caviezel. The decision to retool the cast comes as production for The Resurrection of the Christ begins in earnest at Rome’s Cinecittà Studios.
Two-Part Release and Production Shifts
Gibson confirms the plan to split the project into two films, with each part released in 2027. The split reflects the expansive scope the filmmaker has in mind, and it also aligns with a strategy to manage the substantial production demands of a film that centers on the events surrounding Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection. The move to recast the ensemble, a decision described to Variety as a practical step, underscores the realities of shooting a period-piece over a compressed timeline while maintaining high production values.
New Cast for Magdalene, Pilate, and Peter
Alongside the change in Jesus, the cast refreshed several other key roles. Mary Magdalene is now portrayed by Cuban actress Mariela Garriga, who appeared in Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning. Polish-born Kasia Smutniak takes over the role of Mary, while Pier Luigi Pasino from Italy will play Peter. Riccardo Scamarcio will depict Pontius Pilate, following his recent work in high-profile Italian projects. These casting choices reflect Gibson’s intent to assemble a diverse, international ensemble that can carry the film’s religious and historical gravity.
Why Recasting Made Sense on This Timeline
A source close to the production told Variety that the scope of The Resurrection of the Christ—set three days after the crucifixion—made it costlier and less practical to preserve the original cast, especially with potential de‑aging and digital restoration work. Recasting avoids the technical and budgetary hurdles that could otherwise delay the project. The decision also helps the team align the film’s look and feel with Gibson’s ambitious vision for the narrative, which he has described as an “acid trip” that defies easy categorization.
Production Details and Filming Locations
The majority of the principal photography is taking place at Cinecittà Studios in Rome, with Studio 22 in use for the new production. Additional shoots are planned in Matera, a city steeped in ancient history, along with other southern Italian locations such as Ginosa and Altamura. Gibson, along with Icon Productions partners Bruce Davey and Lionsgate, aims to capture the period with authentic set design, costumes, and language choices that mirror Aramaic, Hebrew, and Latin influences from the era.
What Audiences Can Expect
Like The Passion of the Christ, The Resurrection of the Christ is expected to emphasize historical realism and spiritual intensity. While plot specifics remain tightly guarded, the title suggests a focus on Jesus’ resurrection and the events surrounding it. The two-part format promises a deep dive into the theological and human dimensions of the story, offering audiences a definitive, if controversial, cinematic interpretation that Gibson has spent years refining.
Industry and Fan Reactions
Reaction to the casting shifts has been mixed among viewers and industry watchers. Proponents argue that a refreshed ensemble can bring new energy and different cultural perspectives to a sacred narrative. Critics caution that recasting a landmark performance like Caviezel’s could inevitably shape audience expectations. As production continues, observers will be watching how the new cast modalities handle the film’s language, tone, and dramatic pacing across the two-part release plan.
