Streaming alert: The Passion of the Christ leaves Netflix March 28
With Lent and Holy Week on the horizon, many viewers turn to faith-based films to mark the season. If Mel Gibson’s The Passion of the Christ is part of your viewing plans, note that Netflix’s run of the film ends on March 28. If you want to rewatch Gibson’s depiction of Jesus’ final days on the platform, plan to do so before that date.
What the film is and why it matters
- Title: The Passion of the Christ
- Director: Mel Gibson
- Writers: Benedict Fitzgerald, Mel Gibson
- Release date: February 25, 2004
- Runtime: 127 minutes
- Rating: R
- Leading cast: Jim Caviezel (Jesus), Maia Morgenstern (Mary)
The Passion dramatizes the arrest, trial and crucifixion of Jesus, focusing on the final hours of his life. Since its release, it has been widely recognized as one of the most prominent films in contemporary Christian cinema and, notably, became the highest-grossing R-rated film in the U.S., earning $370.8 million during its domestic box office run.
Where it fits in seasonal viewing
Netflix currently offers a range of Christian-themed titles appropriate for different audiences. Options include family-friendly animated fare like The Star and live-action Biblical dramas such as Paul, Apostle of Christ and Risen. The Passion of the Christ has often been treated as a centerpiece for many viewers observing Lent and Easter, which makes its departure from Netflix particularly timely.
The future of the story on the big screen
Following long-standing interest in a cinematic follow-up, Mel Gibson is directing a two-part continuation titled The Resurrection of the Christ. According to announced plans, the first chapter is scheduled to reach theaters on March 26, 2027, with the second installment set for May 6, 2027. These films aim to dramatize the resurrection narrative that follows the events portrayed in The Passion.
How to make time to watch it
If The Passion of the Christ is on your must-see list this season:
- Stream it on Netflix before March 28.
- Check other digital retailers or physical-disc options if you miss the Netflix window—retail availability can vary.
- Consider pairing it with other seasonal titles on Netflix, like The Star or Paul, Apostle of Christ, to round out an Easter film night for different age groups.
Final note
The Passion of the Christ remains a landmark release in faith-based filmmaking, both commercially and culturally. Its removal from Netflix on March 28 makes now the moment to revisit or introduce the film to friends and family during this Lenten season.