Mel Gibson's "The Passion of the Christ" was his absolute best and well made movie. IMO because of that movie he also found himself rejected from Hollywood (perhaps truly not a bad thing).
We went to the theater to watch it when it first came out and there was absolutely complete silence during the entire movie. I have seen it several times since and always pick up a little more from the movie then I did the very first time as there is so much that goes on in the background in addition to the focus on Jesus.
Yes there is no question that it is an absolutely very graphic and daunting movie. Certainly much more than I expected. It truly gave me a deeper feeling for the suffering Jesus went through. The longest Saturday for the Apostles is something that I hadn't considered or reflected upon either.
The reality of the suffering was front and center and there was no denying, escaping that reality or looking away. Jesus Christ suffered so that my sins would be forgiven. That suffering took on a whole new spiritual and very profound meaning.
Every time I pray, especially when I say a devotional/chaplet or pray the rosary I reflect back on those images of Christ's suffering.
This was one of the best movies ever made, regardless of Hollywood's opinions.
If you haven't seen this movie, I highly recommend it, whether or not you Believe.