THE PASSION OF CHRIST:
Mel Gibson allegedly cautioned Jim Caviezel that portraying the character of Jesus could be detrimental to his career, potentially leading to marginalization in Hollywood. Caviezel pondered the offer for a day, ultimately deciding, “I think we have to do it, even if it’s hard.” He then added, “And one more thing, my initials are J. C. and I’m 33 years old. “I hadn’t realized it until now.”
Mel’s response was, “You’re scaring me.”
During filming, Jim Caviezel, portraying Jesus, endured significant physical challenges, including a 45-pound weight loss, being struck by lightning, accidental lashings that left a 14-inch scar, a dislocated shoulder, and contracting pneumonia and hypothermia from the extended time spent nearly naked on the cross.
The role took such a toll that he required two open-heart surgeries post-production. The crucifixion scene alone consumed five weeks of the two-month filming schedule.
Caviezel stated, “I don’t want people to see me. I just want them to see Jesus. Through that conversions will happen.” Seemingly mirroring this sentiment, extraordinary occurrences were reported. Pedro Sarubbi, who played Barrabas, felt he was being looked at by Jesus Christ, not Caviezel, during filming. “His eyes had no hatred or resentment towards me, only mercy and love.”
Luca Lionello, the actor who played Judas, converted to Christianity, confessed, and baptized his children after being a declared atheist before filming. A Muslim technician also converted.
Some producers claimed to have received advice from individuals in white attire who vanished after the recordings.
“The Passion of the Christ” became the highest-grossing U.S. film ever, earning $370.8 million domestically and $611 million worldwide. More importantly, it touched countless lives globally. Mel Gibson financed the $30 million production himself because no studio would take on the project.
Jim Caviezel openly professes his faith in Christ despite Hollywood’s environment. He, along with others, are willing to embrace challenging roles that communicate God’s message and the narrative of salvation to humanity.
Very interesting trivia.
