Forgive me for adding yet another diary on this relatively ephemeral subject (and for conflating two of Jesus' most controversial starring vehicles) but there's a significant point that seems to be lost in the other discussions I've seen. Naturally, Gibson's defenders won't face it, but I'm shocked at how many of his critics are missing it too.
MEL GIBSON LEARNED NOTHING FROM THE CONTROVERSY OVER "THE PASSION OF THE CHRIST"!
He was already called out publicly for apparent anti-Semitism. He denied it vehemently, his professional collaborators even more vehemently, and his legions of defenders downright belligerently. And he was, for the most part, let off the hook (never underestimate the deodorizing effects of a $700 million worldwide gross.)
And then came last Thursday night.
I've read comments here insisting that everybody deserves a second chance. But Mel Gibson clearly has already had his second chance. HE HAS BLOWN HIS SECOND CHANCE!
Unless he can figure out some concrete way to redeem himself, there is no reason to forgive or forget.