'The Passion of the Christ,' 21 years on

As Filipinos pause for Holy Week, Mel Gibson's "The Passion of the Christ" once again finds renewed relevance. The film, which stunned global audiences when it premiered 21 years ago, continues to stir profound reflection during this sacred season, reminding viewers of the immense suffering and ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ.

Directed by Gibson and based on Anne Catherine Emmerich's book "The Dolorous Passion of Our Lord Jesus Christ," the film offers a visceral depiction of the final 12 hours of Christ's life — from his agony in the Garden of Gethsemane to his crucifixion. It is a cinematic meditation on betrayal, pain, and the redemptive offering Christ bore for humankind.

Gibson has openly shared that the idea for the film came at a time of personal turmoil, a period he described as "spiritual bankruptcy." Turning to the Bible for guidance during this crisis of faith, he rediscovered the depth of the Gospel and found a renewed sense of purpose — one that ultimately inspired him to bring the story of Christ's passion to the screen.

Mel Gibson’s film, which stunned global audiences when it premiered in 2004, continues to stir profound reflection during this sacred season. PHOTO FROM LIONSGATE PLAY PH

That spiritual awakening is something many Filipinos may relate to. As a predominantly Christian country, the Philippines is steeped in expressions of religious devotion — from cinematic retellings and religious sculptures to neighborhood "pabasa" and full-length stage reenactments of the passion story. And while books and teachings have long told the story, Gibson's film provides a visual and emotional depth that makes the sacrifice of Christ more real and immediate for its viewers.

From Caleb Deschanel's haunting cinematography to John Debney's evocative score and Jim Caviezel's intense portrayal of Christ, "The Passion of the Christ" commands attention at every turn. It doesn't merely recount a narrative — it immerses the viewer in an experience that is theological, artistic, and deeply personal.

In an interview with "Sight Magazine," Gibson shared his hope for how the film would impact audiences: "I hope it spurs them on to investigate the life of Christ for themselves. And I don't think you can't be impacted by it. Some of the images are really strong, and I've decided not to hold back... There will be some people that it will freak out... But there will be other people who can't stop watching it, and even though they are horrified and terrified by it, they will sit through the whole thing."

A sequel, "Resurrection," is currently in the works and expected to explore the events following Christ's death — continuing the filmmaker's deep dive into the foundations of Christian belief.

"The Passion of the Christ" will begin streaming on Lionsgate Play PH via PLDT Home and Smart starting Maundy Thursday, April 17.