Mel Gibson promoting new movie 'Apocalypto'

By Stone Martindale Sep 25, 2006, 3:50 GMT

Mel Gibson\'s project "Apocalypto" which is about in an ancient Mayan civilization some 3,000 years ago. The title is a Greek term which means "an unveiling" or "new beginning." EPA/MARIO GUZMAN

AUSTIN,TX- Actor Mel Gibson has emerged to public life to promote his upcoming movie "Apocalypto," as well as to vent some harsh criticism of the war in Iraq, according to the Hollywood Reporter.

Caught railing against Jews during a Malibu arrest for driving drunk, the actor made an appearance on Friday at Fantastic Fest, an event in Austin, Texas, that celebrates new science fiction, horror and fantasy films.

Gibson presented a work-in-progress screening of his Mayan adventure tale, and fielded questions from the audience.  The Reporter states about one-third of the full house gave him a standing ovation for the film Apocalypto. 

Gibson said, "The precursors to a civilization that's going under are the same, time and time again," illustrating similarities between Mayan civilization on the brink of collapse and America's present military quagmire. "What's human sacrifice," he asked, "if not sending guys off to Iraq for no reason?"

Gibson appeared with actor Rudy Youngblood, an Austin native, and Gibson said he plans to make further trims in the film, which ran more than two hours. The film is still being worked on in post production, and has layers of special effects and sound work still to be added.

"Ain't It Cool News"  founder and producer Harry Knowles orchestrated Gibson's appearance at the festival.