According to reports from the Vatican, Pope John Paul II has seen Mel Gibson's controversial film 'The Passion of Christ'.
Directed by Gibson and starring James Caviezel, 'The Passion of Christ' details the final hours and crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
Jewish groups and leaders have warned that the film could promote anti-Semitism by depicting Jews as responsible for the decision to put Jesus to death.
A source in the Vatican confirmed that the 83-year-old pontiff had viewed the film. The pope is said to have commented "It is as it was".
The $25m film is based on the Gospels is entirely in Latin, Hebrew and Aramaic with subtitles.
It is due to open on Ash Wednesday, 25 February 2004.
