Cuban actress Mariela Garriga is set to portray Mary Magdalene in the highly anticipated sequel to "The Passion of the Christ," directed by Oscar-winner Mel Gibson. This role represents a significant milestone in Garriga's international acting career. She will be stepping in for Monica Bellucci, who played Magdalene in the original film, while Finnish actor Jaakko Ohtonen will take on the role of Jesus, replacing Jim Caviezel.
"Let the adventure begin! I'm beyond thrilled to share this news with you. It's going to be epic," Garriga expressed on her social media, announcing her involvement in the project and sharing screenshots from the report by Variety.
The filming commenced on October 15 at the historic Cinecittà Studios in Rome and will continue in Matera and various locations throughout southern Italy. The project, which will be released in two parts, marks Gibson's return to the biblical genre that captivated audiences in 2004. Its release is scheduled for the spring of 2027, with dates symbolically aligning with Good Friday (March 26) and Ascension Day (May 6), according to the magazine.
A New Direction for a Biblical Epic
In this installment, Gibson has chosen to completely revamp the cast and move away from digital de-aging techniques, aiming for a "more human and organic" portrayal of the events following the crucifixion. The film will be produced by Mel Gibson, Bruce Davey, and Icon Productions, in partnership with Lionsgate, and promises an immersive cinematic experience, being shot in Aramaic, Hebrew, and Latin to ensure historical authenticity.
With this role, Garriga cements her status as one of the most internationally promising Cuban figures in cinema, joining a world-class cast in one of the most ambitious film productions of the coming years. The actress recently premiered in "Maleficio, La Regla de Osha," a crime thriller she completed a year ago, now available in theaters. Garriga gained international recognition after appearing in "Mission Impossible: Dead Reckoning" alongside Tom Cruise and Christopher McQuarrie.
Frequently Asked Questions about "The Resurrection of Christ"
Who is directing "The Resurrection of Christ"?
The film is directed by Mel Gibson, who also directed "The Passion of the Christ."
When is the film expected to be released?
The movie is slated for a spring 2027 release, coinciding with Good Friday on March 26 and Ascension Day on May 6.
What languages will the film be shot in?
The film will be filmed in Aramaic, Hebrew, and Latin to ensure historical accuracy.