Could it be??? Will Mel put out another movie based on the Bible?



'The Passion' Profits

March 18, 2004
Fueled by controversy, director MEL GIBSON's 'The Passion of the Christ' continues to break records, crossing the $250 million mark in just three weeks of release. Personally financed by Gibson, the inspirational film has sparked gargantuan sales in 'Passion'-related merchandise.

Tonight on ET, find out why 'The Passion' is breaking all the rules in Hollywood -- and how much Mel stands to make!

'The Passion' soundtrack has already sold over 100,000 units and is currently No. 1 on the soundtrack and Christian charts. In fact, the soundtrack is among the top sellers of all time, with more copies sold in its first week (48,700 units) than Star Wars Episode 1: The Phantom Menace and Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones in their first week on the shelf!

Other 'Passion' merchandise is flying off the racks as well. The Passion: Photography from the Movie The Passion of the Christ (retail $24.99) has landed on the bestsellers' list, and jewelry items such as The Passion Nail pendant with Isaiah 53:5 inscribed on the side (which retails for $12.99 and $16.99, depending on the size) have become fashion statements. Other 'Passion' pieces being offered are T-shirts, mugs, key rings, Bible cases and framed art.

Back in 2000, Mel Gibson worked with HEATH LEDGER on 'The Patriot.' In a recent interview, the Aussie star said he has not seen 'The Passion of the Christ,' but remarked, "[Mel's] an incredibly smart man, and I think the joke at the end of the day is on everyone. I think he knew exactly what he was doing and knew the response he was going to get from that movie. And look, he's laughing all the way to the bank."

So how much is Mel making from his high-stakes gamble? Some estimate the Hollywood icon could pull in an estimated $700 million when all is said and done. According to the New York Post, Mel could very well pocket $175 million from the domestic box office; $280 million from the international box office; $200 million from DVD and video sales; plus $50 million from licensing merchandise.

Tonight on ET, get the latest news on 'The Passion' profits!