Is Mel Gibson Making a New Movie? Current Projects and Upcoming Releases in 2026

As of 2026, Mel Gibson remains active in Hollywood with several major projects in various stages of completion. He is currently focused on directing and starring in the long-awaited Lethal Weapon 5 and moving forward with the ambitious sequel, The Passion of the Christ: Resurrection. Additionally, Gibson continues to appear in high-octane independent thrillers and dramas.

Lethal Weapon 5: The Final Chapter for Riggs and Murtaugh

For years, the status of a fifth installment in the Lethal Weapon franchise remained a subject of intense speculation. By 2026, the project has transitioned from a development-hell rumor to a concrete reality. Following the passing of the original franchise director, Richard Donner, in 2021, Mel Gibson took the helm to fulfill Donner’s final wish that Gibson should be the one to direct the series' conclusion.

Directorial Transition and Script Development

The transition of directorial duties was not merely a ceremonial gesture; it represented a significant shift in the film's creative direction. Gibson has collaborated with screenwriter Jez Butterworth to refine a script that honors the legacy of the previous four films while acknowledging the significant passage of time since Lethal Weapon 4 was released in 1998. The narrative reportedly focuses on the evolution of Martin Riggs and Roger Murtaugh into their senior years, exploring the psychological toll of a lifetime in law enforcement.

Gibson’s approach to directing the fifth film leans into the "gritty realism" he has become known for in films like Hacksaw Ridge and Apocalypto. While the trademark banter and humor remain a staple of the franchise, the 2026 context of the film suggests a more reflective and perhaps darker tone than its predecessors. The production has faced various logistical hurdles, including coordinating the schedules of its veteran leads, but principal photography has solidified its place in the 2025-2026 release cycle.

Casting and Legacy Continuity

A major question surrounding the new movie was the return of Danny Glover. Throughout the early 2020s, both Gibson and Glover expressed their commitment to the project, emphasizing that the "buddy cop" dynamic is the heartbeat of the series. In the 2026 landscape of the film, the characters are no longer the young rebels of the 1980s; instead, they serve as mentors or retired officers pulled back into a final conflict.

The inclusion of returning cast members, such as Rene Russo or Joe Pesci, has been a topic of heavy industry reporting. Gibson has emphasized that Lethal Weapon 5 is intended to be a "send-off," a final tribute to the characters that helped define the action genre for a generation. This sense of finality has increased the film's profile, making it one of the most anticipated action releases of the current decade.

The Passion of the Christ: Resurrection

Perhaps the most discussed project in Gibson’s current pipeline is the sequel to his 2004 biblical epic, The Passion of the Christ. Titled The Passion of the Christ: Resurrection, the film has been in active development for years and is a primary focus for Gibson in 2026. Unlike the first film, which focused almost exclusively on the twelve hours leading up to the crucifixion, the sequel explores the events between the crucifixion and the resurrection.

A Metaphysical Narrative Shift

Gibson has described the script for Resurrection as a "massive undertaking" that goes beyond a standard historical narrative. Working with screenwriter Randall Wallace, who also wrote Braveheart, Gibson has opted for a non-linear, metaphysical approach. The film is rumored to delve into the "harrowing of hell," depicting the spiritual realm and the supernatural elements of the Resurrection story.

This ambitious scope explains the long delay in production. Moving from the visceral, grounded reality of the first film to a more abstract and spiritual sequel required extensive conceptual work. In 2026, industry reports indicate that the film may even be split into multiple parts to accommodate the density of the theological and historical material Gibson intends to cover. Jim Caviezel returns as Jesus, noting in several interviews that this project is "the biggest film in world history."

Production Scope and Timeline

Filming for Resurrection took Gibson and his crew to various international locations, including Malta and Israel. The production required a blend of practical effects and cutting-edge digital technology to realize the supernatural sequences. As of early 2026, the film is in a complex post-production phase, with Gibson meticulously overseeing the editing and visual effects. The expectation for the film is high, not only among religious audiences but also within the wider cinematic community interested in Gibson’s unique visual style and storytelling techniques.

Mel Gibson as Director vs. Actor in 2026

In 2026, Gibson’s career shows a distinct duality. While his prestige projects as a director (like Resurrection and Flight Risk) draw significant critical attention, he continues to maintain a high output as a character actor. This "working actor" phase has seen him appearing in various genre films, often playing seasoned veterans, grizzled mentors, or complex antagonists.

The Rise of the Indie Thriller Phase

In recent years, Gibson has become a staple of the independent action-thriller market. These films, while often smaller in scale than his directorial efforts, allow him to maintain a consistent screen presence. By 2026, movies like Monster Summer (formerly Boys of Summer) and Desperation Road have showcased his ability to elevate mid-budget features with his screen command.

These roles often serve as a bridge between his larger directorial efforts. They allow him to stay active in the industry and collaborate with a younger generation of filmmakers and actors. For viewers asking "is Mel Gibson making a new movie," the answer is often found in these frequent independent releases that appear on streaming platforms and in limited theatrical runs.

Comparison of Primary Current Projects (2026 Status)

Directorial Style and Technical Evolution

In 2026, Mel Gibson's directorial style has undergone a noticeable evolution. Known for his unflinching portrayal of violence and physical endurance in films like Apocalypto and Hacksaw Ridge, his more recent work shows a sophisticated blend of that classic intensity with a deeper focus on psychological tension.

In Flight Risk, for example, Gibson utilized a confined setting—a small aircraft—to build suspense. This shift from massive, sweeping historical epics to tight, character-driven thrillers demonstrates his versatility. As he works on Lethal Weapon 5 and Resurrection, he is balancing these two extremes: the large-scale metaphysical world of the Bible and the intimate, character-focused world of an aging police duo.

Gibson continues to favor practical effects where possible, believing that the physical weight of a scene translates better to the audience than pure CGI. This commitment to "old-school" filmmaking, even in 2026, makes his new movies stand out in an era dominated by digital artifice.

Why These Projects Matter to the Film Industry

The return of a filmmaker like Gibson to major franchises and high-concept sequels is a significant indicator of Hollywood's current strategy. In 2026, the industry relies heavily on established IPs (Intellectual Properties), but Gibson’s involvement brings a level of "auteur" credibility that is often missing from modern blockbusters.

1. Revitalizing the Action Genre: Lethal Weapon 5 serves as a test case for whether a classic 80s franchise can successfully transition into the mid-2020s without losing its soul.
2. Theological Cinema: With the Passion sequel, Gibson is single-handedly maintaining the viability of high-budget faith-based cinema, a niche that has grown significantly in global markets.
3. Directorial Influence: Gibson's ability to pull veteran actors like Mark Wahlberg into his directorial projects suggests that he remains a "director's director," someone whom high-profile stars are eager to work with despite his past controversies.

How to Stay Updated on Mel Gibson’s New Movies

Given the fluid nature of film production in 2026, release dates and project statuses can shift. For those following Gibson's career, several reliable methods exist for tracking his progress:

• Industry Trade Publications: Sources such as The Hollywood Reporter, Variety, and Deadline remain the gold standard for verified production updates and casting news.
• Official Studio Announcements: Warner Bros. Discovery (for Lethal Weapon) and independent distributors (for Resurrection) often release teaser trailers and press releases 6–12 months before a film's debut.
• Film Festivals: Gibson has historically used major festivals to debut his directorial work. Keep an eye on the schedule for the Venice or Cannes film festivals for potential premieres of his more artistic endeavors.

FAQs About Mel Gibson’s New Movies in 2026

Is Mel Gibson still directing Lethal Weapon 5?

Yes, as of 2026, Mel Gibson is the confirmed director and co-star of Lethal Weapon 5. He took over the role after the death of Richard Donner, intending to close out the franchise with a final installment that honors the original vision while providing a modern conclusion to the story of Riggs and Murtaugh.

When will the Passion of the Christ sequel be released?

While an exact date is subject to studio scheduling, The Passion of the Christ: Resurrection is in its final stages of post-production in 2026. Due to its complex visual effects and Gibson's meticulous editing process, the release has been staggered, with some reports suggesting a multi-part theatrical event.

Does Mel Gibson have any movies currently in theaters?

In early 2026, Gibson may have independent thrillers in limited release or his directed film Flight Risk available on premium streaming services. For the major blockbusters like Lethal Weapon 5, checking local listings for upcoming premiere dates is recommended.

Is Mel Gibson retiring after these new movies?

There has been no official announcement regarding Gibson's retirement. While Lethal Weapon 5 is marketed as a "final" film for that specific franchise, Gibson's active involvement in multiple directorial and acting projects in 2026 suggests he intends to continue working in the industry for the foreseeable future.

Who is starring in Mel Gibson's new movie "Flight Risk"?

Flight Risk, directed by Gibson, stars Mark Wahlberg as a pilot transporting a dangerous informant. This project marks another collaboration between Gibson and Wahlberg, following their work together in Father Stu and Daddy's Home 2.

Practical Recommendation for Fans

If you are looking to see Mel Gibson’s newest work in 2026, the best course of action is to monitor the major streaming platforms for his independent acting roles while preparing for the theatrical releases of his directorial projects. Lethal Weapon 5 and The Passion of the Christ: Resurrection are designed for the big screen, and seeing them in a cinema will likely provide the most impactful experience of Gibson’s signature visual storytelling. Ensure you are following verified industry news to avoid the "fake trailers" and misinformation often found on social media regarding these high-profile sequels.