In filmmaking, pushing boundaries is essential, but failing to weigh risks can result in serious harm. Whether actors are pulling off their own daring stunts to get the perfect shot or working on a set with a lot of intricate machinery, Hollywood’s magic does not happen without a few mishaps. Yes, just like what happened to Jim Caviezel in 2004 Mel Gibson’s epic biblical drama, The Passion of the Christ.
Jim Caviezel’s career is shining in Hollywood with his leading role as Tim Ballard in his latest movie, Sound of Freedom. New admirers of the actor might be shocked to learn that 19 years ago while filming a different movie, the actor experienced a near-fatal incident.
The actor’s experience during the production of Gibson’s contentious film The Passion of the Christ in 2004 was dangerous.
Caviezel played the titular Jesus, which is arguably his most important role to date. In fact, he experienced a lightning strike while filming the movie.
Jim Caviezel Played Jesus Christ In The Passion Of The Christ
As implied by the title, the 2004 film focused primarily on “The Passion,” the last twelve hours before Jesus Christ died. It took viewers through a graphic portrayal of the crucifixion. Jesus, who naturally served as the focal point of this narrative, presented a challenging role for Jim Caviezel.
His prior appearances included G.I. Jane (1997), Pay it Forward (2000), and Angel Eyes (2001), in which he co-starred with Jennifer Lopez.
Caviezel’s portrayal of Jesus Christ in The Passion of the Christ is one of his most well-known roles to date. And it has been reported that he will reprise the part for a sequel, which will once again be directed by Mel Gibson. And this time, the main focus will be on the resurrection of Jesus.
Speaking of the actor’s experience during the production of Gibson’s contentious film The Passion of the Christ in 2004 was not that easy. While the movie was being filmed, Caviezel actually got struck by lightning.
Despite the criticism and controversy, Caviezel stood by his performance in the film, and he now explained why he thinks it is crucial to talk openly about his faith. He revealed to Fox News last month:
“I had no choice but to defend my faith at that point. And I was called antisemitic and everything.”
He also questioned:
“When you see what your country is doing and the world is going through, what can be the only remedy? Not to talk about your faith? I don’t see another remedy outside of God. And I’m talking about the Jesus God.”
When Jim Caviezel Was Hit By A Lightning Bolt
Jim Caviezel, who last appeared in Sound of Freedom, was struck by lightning while working on Mel Gibson‘s 2004 film. The actor, who is now 54, was also struck in the head by a cross that weighed more than 150 pounds.
In a recent interview with Fox News, Caviezel claimed that he was struck by lightning “on the last shot of the movie.” Due to the lightning strike, he had to face two heart surgeries, including an open heart surgery, and “lots of medication”.
But he also assured that in 2014, the problem was “finally corrected”.
The 54-year-old actor further recalled:
“It fell on my head, and I bit through my tongue and my cheek.”
The Frequency actor also added:
“And it was actually in the film. You see blood streaming out of my mouth” during the scene.
There are reports that the sequel, tentatively titled The Passion of the Christ: Resurrection, will start filming soon with a 2024 release date. In the meantime, Caviezel told Fox News that he has spoken to Mel Gibson about the upcoming movie. He explained:
“It’s happening on the writing side. I asked him about three dates, and he gave me a maybe on all three of them. So, I have to see where he’s at. I know he’s going to do it.”
Well, the movie was divisive and received mixed reviews from critics. Many people saw the film as a spiritual and religious experience, and it received praise for the cast’s performances. While others thought the graphic violence was excessive and emotionally taxing.
Anyway, you can stream The Passion of the Christ on Amazon Prime Video.
Source- Fox News
