Gibson will receive the trophy Oct. 18 at the festival’s closing-night awards gala, to take place in Beverly Hills, Reuters reported last week.
“Mel Gibson’s career exemplifies extraordinary ability, craftsmanship and determination,” festival founder Carlos de Abreu said. “He is an excellent example of a highly talented filmmaker whose work and creative vision are to be honored.”
Gibson’s “Passion” has earned more than $370 million at the domestic box office.