Courtesy of Touchstone Pictures

The poster for the film “Apocalypto” shows the dark shadow of an indigenous man, dagger in hand, with his back toward three mighty pyramids. The man is a Mayan living in the 16th century. The pyramids behind him are located in what is now Veracruz, Mexico, where indigenous civilizations prospered for centuries before the European conquest of Central America.

“Apocalypto” shows promise because it’s written, directed and produced by Mel Gibson, and is a worthwhile action-packed adventure set in the historic backdrop of a crossroads in human history.

“Apocalypto” focuses on a strong, young warrior named Jaguar Paw (Rudy Youngblood) and his small, unified village. Mayan rulers, portrayed as merciless killers, capture Jaguar Paw and others from his village to become slaves to be sacrificed to the gods. Jaguar Paw’s escape and ensuing chase are set against a tropical jungle in Catemaco, Mexico.

The setting is not the only authentic aspect of “Apocalypto.” Gibson, who made “The Passion of the Christ” in Aramaic with English subtitles, chose “Apocalypto’s” dialogue to be in the Yucatek Maya language.

Gibson recently explained his passion for films with non-traditional English dialogue in an interview with Entertainment Weekly magazine.

“The perfect film is one with no words at all,” Gibson said. “I just love the idea of being minimalist in that way because film is mainly a visual medium. And with this movie, there’s not as much need for dialogue.”

Gibson’s film is not just a visual outlet, it’s a sight for sore eyes tired of experiencing the same monotonous films filled with scenes of dramatic car chases and exaggerated explosions.

Gibson also made sure to cast indigenous people including Youngblood, who is a descendent of the Comanche and Yaqui tribes. Youngblood’s performance is brilliant, and even with minimal dialogue, his face exudes the pain and glory of a Mayan in near peril.

Historical accuracy was important for Gibson, which is why he worked closely with archeologist and Mayan culture expert Richard D. Hansen, Ph.D. However, there are still some details of the film in which the Mayans appear ignorant, especially on astronomical facts. If there’s anything the Mayans are known for, it’s their advanced numerical and astronomical knowledge, so inconsistencies with those facts can cause a bittersweet effect on the scholarly audience member.

One thing Gibson forgot to do for “Apocalypto” was to present a positive public image a few months before its release. His drunken anti-Semitic rant caused quite a scandal during the summer, leaving the box-office success of the film in question.

The numbers are yet to be seen but sure enough, Gibson is still explaining his wrongful doings.

“Those were the ravings of an inebriated, angry person,” Gibson said. “I think publicly I have done enough.”

Regardless of Gibson’s negative behavior, “Apocalypto” is a powerful reminder of why he still makes movies: He’s good at it.

“The movie will stand on its own, regardless of any unfortunate experience I may have stumbled upon,” he said.