Programme of talks to calm Gibson's 'Passion'

Jews and Christians who fear Mel Gibson’s epic on the crucifixion of Jesus will fuel anti-semitism are planning lecture series, interfaith talks and other programmes to try to subdue the film’s impact.

Gibson has insisted that “The Passion of the Christ,” set to be released on Ash Wednesday, February 25, does not malign Jews.

However, the Anti-Defamation League and the American Jewish Committee, whose representatives saw a version the movie last week, said it contained destructive stereotypes about the Jewish role in Christ’s death.