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Another miracle for Passion!

rediff Entertainment Bureau | September 02, 2004 16:36 IST

A still from Passion Of The ChristIt could be another miracle.

The Passion Of The Christ hasn't finished astonishing the world yet. On its first day of release in the US, the Mel Gibson epic sold a staggering 4.1 million copies on DVD.

Starring Jim Caviezel, it already holds a record for being the best-selling R-rated film of all time. It made $610 million at the global box office and, according to Fox, is also the best-selling non-English language film of all time.

The DVD sales are impressive, of course, but not record-breaking yet.

Pixar's Finding Nemo holds the Number One spot for moving 8 million copies on its first day while, in the live-action category, Spider-Man sold 7million.

Interestingly, consumers are buying 1.8 copies of the Passion DVD on an average -- another first, according to Twentieth Century Fox.

Analysts predict sales may ultimately reach 15 million to 18 million, generating over $400 million. It may also propel sales of DVD players, for viewers who have yet to switch from VHS cassettes.

Massive interest in the controversial movie -- which graphically depicts the last hours of Jesus Christ -- has helped constantly. There was a massive marketing campaign well in place long before the DVD hit shelves, and over 6 million Christian homes in America received e-mail about its release. Churches were also offered deals on bulk orders.

So, do you get anything more? No. Critics point out that, despite his brave attempt at making the film in the first place, Mel Gibson has failed to offer support material, explanations, or intelligent debate on the DVD. You get nothing but the 126-minute film. No behind-the-scenes footage. No commentary. Not even a trailer!

Not that the buyers are stopping to complain.



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