Mel Gibson is trying to build an audience and a defense for his project by screening it for evangelical Christians, conservative Catholics, right-wing pundits, Republicans, a few Jewish commentators and Jews who believe that Jesus is the Messiah.Controversy over Gibson’s latest project was first excited when a copy of the script was leaked to a group of Bible scholars. The group voiced concern that the portrayal of Jews in the movie could unintentionally incite anti-Semitic violence.
Gibson has dismissed the criticism saying that it’s based on an early version of the script. However, the controversy has continued and these pre-screenings to key audiences are designed to mobilize support for the movie ahead of its release.
Of course the screenings have also been a real treat for some of Gibson’s biggest fans. Reverend Ted Haggard, the president of the National Association of Evangelicals, said
Mel Gibson is the Michelangelo of this generationSo, if the ceiling in the National Cathedral ever needs painting, we know who to call.
