[Yardstick]

Yes, I guess Catholics are more likely to meditate on the Crucifixion and to hold it in more of a mystical reverence. But Protestants place more emphasis on evangelism, and I would have guessed that that would have inspired them to take the Crucifixion to the people in the mass-media form of a Hollywood movie long ago.

Is the Mass as Calvary reenactment a traditional Catholic thing, or is it more of Gibson's own twist?

[ultima ratio]

It is traditionally Catholic--defined by the Council of Trent. But don't forget, Gibson is a real artist. He made Braveheart and won an oscar for his direction. He has a feel for the historical context of an event and also for Renaissance art. He wanted the film to have the feel of a Carravagio painting--dark and mystical, yet realistic. I also believe he was genuinely interested in inspiring all Christians to stronger faith. From the reviews by Christians of all denominations he has succeeded.