The Passion of the Christ, which was released in 2004, is widely considered to be among the most influential and contentious films of the early 2000s. Having been directed by Mel Gibson, the picture was a tremendous commercial success, bringing in more than $600 million worldwide. It also earned a spot in the Guinness Book of World Records as the highest-grossing religious film of all time. Despite these achievements, a number of obstacles stood in the way of the movie’s unprecedented popularity.
Caviezel, who played the role of Jesus, recently came forward to discuss the enormous personal and professional sacrifices he made to play the character and the director’s warning.
Jim Caviezel says Mel Gibson warned that his portrayal of Jesus could end his career
Speaking with Fox News contributor Raymond Arroyo during an appearance on a Wednesday episode of the Arroyo Grande podcast, Caviezel revealed that when he first met the director Mel Gibson, the discussion was moving towards a different dimension entirely until the director spoke about making a Jesus movie. He explained need that upon offering him the role of Jesus, Gibson warned him, noting that if he accepted the role, it might affect his budding Hollywood career negatively with claims that he may be blacklisted totally.
However, Caviezel noted that he took the role despite the threats of a possible backlash because he believed he was to play the part by divine directives.
Jim Caviezel says the pain he experienced awakened his spiritual mind
The 56-year-old also detailed the series of pains he went through during the production of the movie. The actor stated that he contracted pneumonia and hypothermia and was even struck by lightning while filming the crucifixion scene.
Caviezel further stated that the pains he experienced were very excruciating, and it turned into a form of spiritual awakening for him. He noted that the pain made him realize how much Jesus endured on the cross and which is the essence of the easter celebration.