The Passion of the Christ

Play trailer

The Passion of the Christ

R

Released Feb 25, 2004

2h 6m

Drama

Play Trailer

Watchlist

Watchlist

Tomatometer

Popcornmeter

49%

Tomatometer

277 Reviews

81%

Popcornmeter

250,000+ Ratings

In this version of Christ's crucifixion, based on the New Testament, Judas expedites the downfall of Jesus (Jim Caviezel) by handing him over to the Roman Empire's handpicked officials. To the horror of his mother, Mary (Maia Morgenstern), Magdalen (Monica Bellucci), whom he saved from damnation, and his disciples, Jesus is condemned to death. He is tortured as he drags a crucifix to nearby Calvary, where he is nailed to the cross. He dies, but not before a last act of grace.

Watch on Fandango at Home

Buy Now

Critics Consensus

Director Mel Gibson's zeal is unmistakable, but The Passion of the Christ will leave many viewers emotionally drained rather than spiritually uplifted.

Read Critics Reviews

Will Self

London Evening Standard

If I believed in life eternal with access to a heavenly multiplex I still wouldn't advise you to see this film, but, as things stand, if thou goest anywhere this week, be it to see an honest piece of graven imagery, not this religiose rubbish.

Jan 9, 2018

Full Review

Nell Minow

Common Sense Media

Extremely violent, and powerful; for mature teens.

Rated: 3/5

Dec 28, 2010

Full Review

Jonathan Rosenbaum

Chicago Reader

If I were a Christian, I'd be appalled to have this primitive and pornographic bloodbath presume to speak for me.

Mar 5, 2008

Full Review

Alan French

Sunshine State Cineplex

While other films about Jesus of Nazareth opted to focus on his struggles as a man of faith, Gibson focuses on the intensity of what he was forced to endure. While Gibson touches on something profoundly nihilistic, it’s ultimately a vapid experience.

Rated: 4/10

Apr 20, 2025

Full Review

Mark Johnson

Awards Daily

While the scenes we are witnessing are graphic and difficult to watch, there’s no denying the immersive experience that Passion brought to the screen. It’s as valid and visceral as any biblical story that’s ever been captured on film.

Jun 27, 2023

Full Review

Sean Axmaker

Seanax.com

It is perhaps testament to the material that the film can be read both as a literal illustration of the story of Christ’s suffering at the hands of the Romans... an anti-authoritarian tract that questions the very assumptions of guilt and blame...

May 6, 2023

Full Review

Read all reviews

R. C. H

Probably the most important and shocking film of all time.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

06/17/25

Full Review

Elizabeth B

What a load of trollop. Seriously! Mel Gibson has lost my respect. Continuity was lacking, believability totally lacking. Hype and that's about it. Ex professional film crew member. So disappointed 😔

Rated 1 out of 5 stars

06/15/25

Full Review

carpe d

I am grateful for this film. It deserves its colors.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

05/31/25

Full Review

Toshiro M

One of the Greatest Films of All Time The Passion of the Christ, directed by Mel Gibson, is a bold and deeply personal cinematic masterpiece. Overcoming immense challenges, Gibson financed the film himself after being rejected by studios, choosing to film in Aramaic, Latin, and Hebrew to preserve authenticity—a risk that became one of its greatest strengths. The courage behind this production is extraordinary. Jim Caviezel's portrayal of Jesus is physically and emotionally intense, marked by real suffering during filming. His performance, along with the unwavering commitment of the cast and crew, brings unparalleled depth to the story. Visually stunning, Caleb Deschanel’s cinematography balances brutality with moments of grace. The production design, John Debney’s haunting score, and period-accurate details create a sacred atmosphere that fully immerses the viewer. More than just technically excellent, the film is emotionally powerful. It does not aim to shock, but to reflect—to move its audience spiritually. In every aspect—acting, direction, authenticity, and craft—The Passion of the Christ is a landmark in cinema and a profound expression of faith.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

05/11/25

Full Review

Dean S

Wow! Very hard work to watch but an accurate depiction of Christ in his final hours! Breathtaking.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

04/28/25

Full Review

David G

La película demuestra el gran sacrificio de Jesús de una manera muy cruda!!.. pero muy valida

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

04/27/25

Full Review

Read all reviews

Read More

Read Less

POST RATING

WRITE A REVIEW

EDIT REVIEW

Mel Gibson

Director

Jim Caviezel

Jesus

Monica Bellucci

Mary Magdalene

Maia Morgenstern

Mary

Claudia Gerini

Claudia Procles, Pilate's Wife

Sergio Rubini

Dismas

The Million Dollar Hotel

25%

67%

The Million Dollar Hotel

Watchlist

One Eight Seven

30%

67%

One Eight Seven

Watchlist

Pierrepoint: The Last Hangman

79%

85%

Pierrepoint: The Last Hangman

Watchlist

The Assassination of Richard Nixon

67%

69%

The Assassination of Richard Nixon

Watchlist

I'm Not Scared

90%

87%

I'm Not Scared

Watchlist

Discover more movies and TV shows.

View More

Know Your Critic: Leonard Maltin, Film Critic and Historian

View more photos

Synopsis

In this version of Christ's crucifixion, based on the New Testament, Judas expedites the downfall of Jesus (Jim Caviezel) by handing him over to the Roman Empire's handpicked officials. To the horror of his mother, Mary (Maia Morgenstern), Magdalen (Monica Bellucci), whom he saved from damnation, and his disciples, Jesus is condemned to death. He is tortured as he drags a crucifix to nearby Calvary, where he is nailed to the cross. He dies, but not before a last act of grace.

Director: Mel Gibson
Producer: Bruce Davey, Mel Gibson, Stephen McEveety
Screenwriter: Benedict Fitzgerald, Mel Gibson
Distributor: Newmarket Film Group
Production Co: Icon Entertainment International
Rating: R
Genre: Drama
Original Language: Aramaic
Release Date (Theaters): Feb 25, 2004, Wide
Release Date (Streaming): Nov 25, 2015
Box Office (Gross USA): $371.4M
Runtime: 2h 6m
Sound Mix: DTS, SDDS, Dolby SRD, Surround
Aspect Ratio: Digital 2.39:1

Most Popular at Home Now