Mel Gibson is getting ready to star on the silver screen for the first time in six years, and ET's Kevin Frazier had the only invite to the set of his new thriller film in Boston!

Acting is "kind of like riding a bike," Mel says, "except time away gives you some time to think and focus."

The star's directing duties on 'Passion of the Christ' and 'Apocalypto' have kept him mostly behind the camera since 2002's 'Signs,' and Mel says it feels good to once again take center stage on-screen in 'Edge of Darkness.'

In the new thriller, he plays a Boston detective determined to catch his daughter's killer -- and he uncovers a chilling conspiracy in the process. Directed by Martin Campbell ('Casino Royale') and produced by Academy award-winning producer Graham King, 'Edge of Darkness' is expected in theaters next year. Click the video for more with Kevin and Mel!