Mel Gibson developing movie about Jewish hero

(CBS) Mel Gibson is teaming up with Warner Bros. to develop a film about the life of Jewish hero Judah Maccabee.

Entertainment Weekly confirms that the Oscar-winner is working with screenwriter Joe Eszterhas to write a script about the warrior, who teamed up with his father and four brothers to lead the Jewish revolt against the Greek-Syrian armies that had conquered Judea in the second century B.C.

The film will be produced through Gibson's Icon Productions, and he will have the option to direct the film if he chooses.

Gibson has long wanted to make this film, according to Deadline, and it was discussed even before the actor came under fire for unleashing an anti-Semitic rant during his 2006 drunken driving arrest.

The actor has faced accusations of anti-Semitism, and came under fire for unleashing an anti-Semitic tirade during his drunken driving arrest in 2006. Gibson apologized after the incident, admitting at the time that he said "despicable" things to authorities. 

The Anti-Defamation League has condemned Gibson's involvement with the film. ADL's national director Abraham H. Foxman said in an official statement:

"We would have hoped that Warner Bros. could have found someone better than Mel Gibson to direct or perhaps even star in a film on the life of the Jewish historical icon Judah Maccabee. As a hero of the Jewish people and a universal hero in the struggle for religious liberty, Judah Maccabee deserves better. It would be a travesty to have the story of the Maccabees told by one who has no respect and sensitivity for other people's religious views.

Not only has Mel Gibson shown outward antagonism toward Jews and Judaism in his public statements and actions, but his previous attempt to bring biblical history to life on the screen was marred by anti-Semitism. Rather than listen to respected religious leaders, both Christian and Jewish, who voiced concerns then about the insensitive elements of his depiction of the last hours and crucifixion of Jesus, Gibson showed contempt for those voices and refused to make changes that might have helped turn his passion of hate into a passion of love.

While we do not argue with Mel Gibson's right to make this film, we still strongly believe that Warner Bros. should reconsider Gibson's involvement in this project."