Mel Gibson vs. Diane Sawyer: the interview that ignited a holy war of words.
In this special edition of Primetime, ABC News' Diane Sawyer interviews filmmaker Mel Gibson about his highly controversial movie, ""The Passion of the Christ."" He responds to charges that the movie's portrayal of the Jewish role in the death of Christ will encourage anti-Semitism. He also elaborates on comments he's made about the Holocaust. In addition, Gibson tells why he felt it necessary to exhibit such a graphic depiction of Christ's crucifixion on film and discusses his decision to tell the story in Aramaic and Latin.
Acting
Gibson's tight-jawed defensiveness is performance art.
Director
George Paul
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
This interview aired February 2004, two weeks before The Passion's release, making it deliberate controversy management disguised as journalism.
Amy-Jill Levine, the Jewish scholar present, later criticized the special for letting Gibson control the narrative; her barely-contained frustration is the real star.
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Hello! I was wondering if you (or someone you know) would be able to find the PAX TV special broadcast premiere to the making of “The Passion” when it first aired??? I remember seeing it on YouTube a number of years back. But now, I cannot find it anywhere! It’s one of my favorite ‘behind-the-scenes’ features on this film. I remember when PAX TV was still around and this was first broadcasted during my high school freshman year!
@benjaminestep0327 2
Mr. Gibson thank you and you are in our prayers!
@coachshort8940 5
God Bless Mel Gibson 💯
@johnbatziolas780 5
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