The Passion of the Christ: Resurrection appears to be making strides, as Mel Gibson was spotted location scouting in Europe this week for the sequel to his 2004 blockbuster.

Antonio Parente, director of the Puglia Film Commission, reported that Gibson toured Malta before exploring various sites in southern Italy, including the ancient towns of Ginosa and Altamura. However, Gibson's publicist, Alan Nierob, said:"All we can confirm is they were scouting locations recently ... not a lot to discuss at this early stage."

Gibson has reportedly been collaborating for years with Braveheart screenwriter Randall Wallace on the sequel’s script, which is set to focus on the miraculous resurrection of Jesus.

In 2023, Gibson revealed that they had written two scripts for Resurrection, explaining that "one of them is very structured and a very strong script, and kind of more what you'd expect, and the other is like an acid trip. Because you’re going into other realms and stuff. I mean, you’re in hell, and you’re watching the angels fall. It’s like, crazy."

The original film, released in 2004, grossed $612 million worldwide and held the record for the highest-grossing R-rated film for 20 years. Despite its commercial success, it received mixed reviews, with some critics expressing concerns about its graphic content and perceived anti-Semitism.

Jim Caviezel will reprise his role as Jesus. If the sequel proceeds, it will mark Gibson's seventh directorial effort, following his upcoming film Flight Risk, set for release on 24 January 2025.