Before Martin Scorsese selected Willem Dafoe to star in The Last Temptation of Christ, Mel Gibson reveals that the director initially wanted him for the role. According to Gibson, while he was suffering from food poisoning in a hotel room, Scorsese reached out to discuss the film. Despite Scorsese’s interest in casting him as Jesus in the controversial movie, Gibson politely declined the offer.
Gibson did commend Willem Dafoe for his portrayal of Jesus in the film, acknowledging his unique approach to the character. The Last Temptation of Christ faced backlash from Christian groups upon its release due to its depiction of the biblical figure grappling with various human struggles.
Following his decision not to participate in The Last Temptation of Christ, Gibson went on to direct The Passion of the Christ, a project close to his heart. He is currently in the process of developing a sequel to the film, which he plans to begin shooting next year.
In other news, Gibson is set to release his latest directorial effort, Flight Risk, an action thriller starring Mark Wahlberg. The film follows the story of a pilot transporting an Air Marshal and a fugitive across the Alaskan wilderness, uncovering hidden motives and testing loyalties along the way. Flight Risk is scheduled to hit theaters on January 24th.
Catch a glimpse of Gibson’s upcoming project in the trailer below.
[Video: insert YouTube trailer link here]
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