Mel Gibson’s controversial 2004 biblical epic “The Ardour of the Christ” is using excessive on Netflix this Easter season. In line with FlixPatrol, the movie was the fourth most-watched film on Netflix within the U.S. on April 21, 2025, proper behind “iHostage,” “Oklahoma Metropolis Bombing: American Terror,” and “Despicable Me 4.” That choice is a testomony to the varied vary of films obtainable to stream on the platform, however Gibson’s function might be probably the most polarizing of the bunch, as the prickly material of “The Ardour of the Christ” continues to be divisive in any case these years.
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“The Ardour of the Christ” tells the story of Jesus of Nazareth (Jim Caviezel) throughout the ultimate hours of his life, wherein he is betrayed by one in all his disciples, tortured endlessly, and crucified. The movie can be notable for its excessive and surprising violence, which is similar to the so-called “torture porn” craze that was well-liked amongst horror followers when Gibson’s film was launched within the mid-2000s.
Regardless of the entire bloodletting, “The Ardour of the Christ” was a field workplace hit that gained reward in faith-based circles, together with from Pope John Paul II, who appreciated its correct retelling of the biblical story. Evaluations throughout the board have been extra blended, although, with a number of accusing the film of being too grueling to take a seat by means of. Gibson’s movie has additionally been accused of harboring alleged antisemitic themes, which led to the film being blamed for violent assaults in opposition to the Jewish group. Regardless of these severe controversies surrounding his movie, nonetheless, it is not stopping Gibson from returning to the fold.
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A Ardour of the Christ sequel is on the best way
Mel Gibson has been making an attempt to get a “Ardour of the Christ” sequel off the bottom for years, and his dream appears set to return true. Titled “The Ardour of the Christ: Resurrection,” the challenge is slated to start out capturing in Italy this summer time, with a deliberate 2026 launch date on the playing cards.
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Jim Caviezel is anticipated to reprise his function as Jesus, whereas the story will chronicle the occasions that happened within the three days between Jesus’ dying and his return to life. And that is not all; throughout an interview on “The Joe Rogan Expertise” (through Deadline), Gibson revealed that the film may also discover the autumn of the angels and go to Hell, which is a frightening job. In his personal phrases:
“It is not going to be simple, and it is going to require a number of planning, and I am not wholly positive I can pull it off. To let you know the reality, it is tremendous bold. However I will take a crack at it as a result of that is what you bought to do, proper, stroll as much as the plate, proper?”
With the sequel on the horizon, now looks like the right time for “The Ardour of the Chrst” to discover a new lease of life on Netflix. That mentioned, its rejuvenated recognition will in all probability result in extra polarization, as this film has been splitting viewers opinions for over 20 years.
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