More than two decades after becoming a global box office phenomenon, “The Passion of the Christ” is returning to theaters in a newly restored format as audiences prepare for the release of director Mel Gibson’s long-awaited sequel.
Lionsgate and Fathom Entertainment announced that Gibson’s 2004 biblical epic will return to theaters nationwide Sept. 10-17 in a newly remastered 4K presentation featuring Dolby Atmos sound.
The limited theatrical re-release comes less than a year before the planned debut of “The Resurrection of the Christ: Part One,” which Lionsgate recently announced will arrive exclusively in theaters on May 6, 2027.
Audiences attending the special screenings will also receive an exclusive behind-the-scenes preview of the upcoming sequel, which explores Christ’s resurrection and the events following His crucifixion.
“‘The Passion of the Christ’ remains one of the most extraordinary theatrical experiences ever created,” Kevin Grayson, president of worldwide distribution for the Lionsgate Motion Picture Group, said in a statement.
“For millions of people, it was far more than a film — it became a powerful shared cultural and faith experience,” Grayson said. “Bringing it back to theatres in a stunning new restoration allows longtime audiences to experience it in an entirely new way while inviting a new generation to discover it in theatres for the very first time.”
Starring Jim Caviezel as Jesus of Nazareth, “The Passion of the Christ” chronicles the final hours of Christ’s life, culminating in His crucifixion and resurrection. Upon its release in 2004, the film became a cultural phenomenon, grossing more than $610 million worldwide against a reported $30 million budget and holding the title of highest-grossing R-rated film domestically for two decades.
The film also received three Academy Award nominations and helped usher in a new era of faith-based filmmaking in Hollywood.