More than two decades after becoming one of the most talked-about faith films ever made, Mel Gibson's The Passion of the Christ is heading back to the big screen-and this time, it comes with an exclusive surprise.
Lionsgate and Fathom Entertainment have announced that the biblical blockbuster will return to theaters nationwide from September 10-17 in a newly restored 4K presentation with Dolby Atmos sound. But that's not all. Moviegoers will also receive an exclusive behind-the-scenes sneak peek at Gibson's long-awaited sequel, The Resurrection of the Christ: Part One, which is set to hit theaters on May 6, 2027.
The re-release serves as the official kickoff to what Lionsgate describes as Gibson's most ambitious filmmaking project yet. The upcoming sequel will continue the story after Christ's crucifixion, focusing on His resurrection and victory over death.
Originally released in 2004, The Passion of the Christ became a global phenomenon, earning more than $600 million worldwide and holding the title of the highest-grossing R-rated film domestically for two decades. Starring Jim Caviezel as Jesus, the film left a lasting impact on both faith audiences and Hollywood, helping reshape the future of faith-based filmmaking.
For this theatrical return, the film has been meticulously restored from the original camera negative. Academy Award-nominated cinematographer Caleb Deschanel supervised a new color grade, while Gibson personally reviewed and approved the new Dolby Atmos audio mix, promising audiences a dramatically enhanced cinematic experience.
Kevin Grayson, president of Worldwide Distribution for Lionsgate Motion Picture Group, called the film "one of the most extraordinary theatrical experiences ever created," saying its return will allow longtime fans to rediscover it while introducing an entirely new generation to the film on the big screen.
Ray Nutt, CEO of Fathom Entertainment, echoed that excitement, noting that The Passion of the Christ remains one of the most influential films of the modern era and helped pave the way for today's thriving faith-based movie industry.
Tickets go on sale July 24, with screenings taking place in participating theaters across the United States before expanding internationally.
