Here is some more info regarding the film.
The entire language of the film will be in Aramaic and Latin. Gibson is ardent about this point, "It will lend even more authenticity and realism to it." For those of you who haven't quite mastered the Aramaic language and assume there will be subtitles, here's the part that requires your faith -- no subtitles. In what could arguably be called either 'career suicide' or 'creative genius', Gibson has once again defied all Hollywood logic.
The obvious question is why? Why would Mel Gibson of all people make a movie about Jesus in a dead language that no one can understand or read? Unabashed, Gibson is confident with his decision. "Hopefully, I'll be able to transcend the language barriers with my visual storytelling; if I fail, I fail, but at least it'll be a monumental failure." And why does he feel so strongly about not using subtitles? "It would somehow spoil the effect that I want to achieve; it would alienate you and you'd be very aware that you were watching a film if you saw lettering coming up on the bottom of it … and I want to present it in a way that is completely real."
"The Passion" stars Jim Caviezel ("The Count of Monte Cristo", "Frequency", "The Thin Red Line") as Jesus, Romanian actress Maia Morgenstern ("Procust's Bed") as his mother Mary, and Italian beauty Monica Bellucci ("Matrix Reloaded", "Tears of the Sun") as Mary Magdalene.
Its interesting to see how people react to it. As far as actor choices, Caviezel has been excellent in his movies. The only questionable movie that comes to my mind is Angel Eyes and his (unmarried) involvement with Jennifer Lopez's character.
I am reminded of the casting for the "Greatest Story Ever Told" where they used Max von Sydow (he wasn't well known at the time) to play Jesus. (Max von Sydow is later known for his role in "The Exorcist") It was decided by the filmaker that audiences wouldn't accept anyone who gained an on-screen reputation for violent or comic portrayals.
I will reserve judgement of the film until I see it. I already know Gibson will do an accurate job with the graphic nature (i.e. Braveheart), I just hope he keeps it in line with scripture in all aspects (He has indicated that he will). He is said to be a devout catholic, I hope he is a catholic that believes the Bible is God inspired.