Mel Gibson to Discuss 'The Passion'
— -- In an exclusive interview with ABCNEWS' Diane Sawyer on Primetime, actor and filmmaker Mel Gibson will discuss the growing controversy surrounding his new film, The Passion of the Christ.
Gibson's latest directorial effort, which chronicles the last 12 hours in the life of Jesus Christ, has sparked intense debate even before its release.
"Mel Gibson's Passion," a special Monday-night edition of Primetime, will examine all sides of the debate, including charges that it is excessively violent and could incite anti-Semitic sentiments.
The special edition of Primetime will air on Monday, Feb. 16, from 10 p.m. to 11 p.m. ET on the ABC television network.
In the interview, Gibson explains his personal religious beliefs to Sawyer and how his faith helped him overcome struggles with addiction and other personal problems — ultimately inspiring him to make The Passion of the Christ.
He answers charges that the movie's depiction of the Jewish role in the death of Christ will encourage anti-Semitism, and he elaborates on recent comments he made about the Holocaust.
He also explains why he felt it was necessary to put such a bloody depiction of Christ's crucifixion on film, and discusses his decision to tell his story in Aramaic and Latin.
Sawyer also interviews Abraham Foxman, national director of the Anti-Defamation League, who shares his views on the The Passion of the Christ.
In addition, religion scholars, members of the clergy and others weigh in on the film's potential impact.
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