JUST WHAT WE NEED?

From Variety:

Hoping to replicate some of the box office success of "The Passion of the Christ," indie producer Bill McKay is mounting "The Resurrection of the Christ," with a 10-week shoot starting in July.

I don't know about you, but I can't wait.

Scribe Dan Gordan ("The Hurricane," "Murder in the First") is penning the screenplay with a focus on the power, greed and ambition of those involved in the crucifixion -- Pontius Pilate, Herod, Caiaphas and Judas.

"It's as much about the key players as it is about Jesus," McKay said. "We want to bring in the 'Gladiator' dimension of the first century against the political milieu of the time."

Of course! We must have the "'Gladiator' dimension". Cecil B. De Mille all over again.

"We think it's a very commercial film that's targeted at an underserved demographic with a lot of crossover potential," he added.

I'm not quite sure what "underserved demographic" they're talking about, but they must be right.

My question: Can the movie focus on the Resurrection and still have the proper potential for violent scenes? I mean the gladiators have to DO something. Perhaps the title of the movie should be "The Passion of the Christ - Part Deux".

H/T to Athenae at First Draft.