A Review of Light of the World Animated Film

 

A Radiant Beacon of Faith: A Review of Light of the World

On a crisp September evening in 2025, I had the privilege of attending a screening of Light of the World, a 2D animated Christian drama that retells the life of Jesus Christ through the eyes of a young Apostle John. Accompanied by my nephew and niece, I entered the theater with high expectations, having heard whispers of its stunning animation and heartfelt storytelling. What I experienced was nothing short of transformative—a film that not only captivated our hearts but also left us in awe of its spiritual depth and artistic brilliance. Though the theater was sparsely populated, with only a handful of moviegoers present, the resounding applause that erupted at the film’s conclusion spoke volumes about its impact. Light of the World is a tear-jerker, a powerful testament to the gospel, and a cinematic gem that deserves to shine far brighter than it currently does in a world overshadowed by darker, less meaningful fare.

From the moment the film opens with a title card displaying John 3:16—“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life”—it sets an unapologetically evangelistic tone. Directed by Tom Bancroft and John J. Schafer, Light of the World is a production of The Salvation Poem Project, a nonprofit dedicated to sharing the story of Jesus through creative mediums. The film’s narrative follows John, voiced with youthful exuberance by Benjamin Jacobson, as he navigates life in AD 30 under Roman oppression. John is depicted as a mischievous yet curious youngster, reminiscent of Disney’s Aladdin in his spirited demeanor, working alongside his older brother James and their father Zebedee in their fishing business. This relatable portrayal of John as a naive but eager boy allows audiences, especially younger viewers like my nephew and niece, to connect with the story on a personal level.

The animation is nothing short of breathtaking. Drawing inspiration from classics like The Prince of Egypt, the film employs a vibrant, hand-drawn 2D style that feels both nostalgic and fresh. The landscapes of ancient Judea are rendered with sweeping, sunlit vistas, from the shimmering waters of the Sea of Galilee to the dusty streets of Jerusalem. The character designs are expressive and endearing, with Jesus depicted as a warm, approachable figure whose presence radiates compassion and authority. The doves that accompany him, a nod to John 1:32 (“I saw the Spirit come down from heaven as a dove and remain on him”), are animated with such grace that they seem to embody the Holy Spirit itself. My niece, who is eight, was particularly enchanted by the doves, whispering to me during the film that they “looked like they were glowing.” The score, composed with a grandeur that rivals Disney’s finest, elevates every scene, from quiet moments of reflection to the harrowing intensity of the crucifixion. It’s a testament to the filmmakers’ commitment to excellence that even with a modest budget, the animation and music hold their own against Hollywood’s biggest productions.

What makes Light of the World truly special is its ability to weave the gospel narrative into a story that feels both timeless and accessible. The film doesn’t shy away from the weight of Jesus’ life and sacrifice, yet it presents these events through John’s youthful perspective, making them relatable to audiences of all ages. My nephew, who is twelve, was particularly moved by John’s journey from a carefree boy to a devoted disciple. The film captures John’s initial skepticism and curiosity about Jesus, who is introduced as a humble carpenter with a radical message. Scenes of Jesus performing miracles—turning water into wine, healing the sick, and feeding the multitude—are depicted with a sense of wonder that mirrors John’s awe. These moments are not only visually spectacular but also deeply emotional, grounding the divine in the human experience.

One of the film’s most powerful sequences is the crucifixion, which is handled with a delicate balance of reverence and realism. The animators avoid graphic violence, making it suitable for younger viewers, but they don’t shy away from the emotional weight of the event. As Jesus hangs on the cross, the sky darkens, and John’s tearful expression reflects the anguish of witnessing his beloved teacher’s suffering. My niece clung to my hand during this scene, her eyes welling up, and I found myself choking back tears as well. The film doesn’t sugarcoat the cost of Jesus’ sacrifice, yet it frames it as the ultimate act of love, a light piercing the darkness of human sin. The resurrection scene that follows is equally moving, with a radiant Jesus emerging from the tomb, his face glowing with triumph and grace. The theater, though nearly empty, erupted in applause at this moment, a collective acknowledgment of the story’s power to uplift and inspire.

The film’s evangelistic heart is evident throughout, culminating in a poignant altar call at the end, where John and his father invite viewers to accept Jesus. A QR code appears on screen, linking to a “New Believer Course” and supplementary resources. While some might find this direct approach a bit heavy-handed, I appreciated its sincerity. It’s a bold reminder that Light of the World is not just a movie but a ministry, designed to spark conversations about faith. My nephew and niece, who attend church regularly but sometimes find sermons hard to follow, were captivated by this accessible presentation of the gospel. After the film, we spent the car ride home discussing what it means to follow Jesus, a conversation that felt organic and meaningful.

The performances in Light of the World are another highlight. Benjamin Jacobson’s portrayal of John is both charming and authentic, capturing the character’s growth from a playful youth to a devoted follower. David Pettitt as Zebedee brings a grounded, relatable quality to the role of a father trying to protect his family in a turbulent world. The voice of Jesus, provided by Ian Hanlin, strikes a perfect balance of warmth and authority, making every line feel like a gentle invitation to faith. Supporting characters like Mary, the mother of Jesus, and John the Baptist add depth to the story, with moments of compassion and courage that resonate deeply. Mary’s strength during the crucifixion, in particular, left a lasting impression on me, her quiet resolve a powerful testament to a mother’s love and faith.

The film’s pacing is well-executed, clocking in at just under two hours but never feeling rushed or bloated. Each scene serves a purpose, whether it’s advancing the narrative, developing characters, or reinforcing the film’s spiritual themes. The directors, Bancroft and Schafer, both veterans of the animation industry, bring a level of craftsmanship that elevates Light of the World above many faith-based films. Unlike some Christian media that prioritizes preaching over storytelling, this film strikes a balance, weaving biblical truths into a narrative that feels organic and engaging. The humor, often provided by John’s mischievous antics, adds levity without detracting from the story’s weight. My nephew laughed out loud when John accidentally spills a basket of fish at the market, a moment that humanizes the character and makes his journey all the more relatable.

One of the film’s greatest strengths is its ability to appeal to both children and adults. My niece and nephew, despite their age difference, were equally engrossed, each finding something to connect with. For younger viewers, the vibrant animation and relatable protagonist make the story accessible, while adults will appreciate the theological depth and emotional resonance. The film doesn’t shy away from addressing the harsh realities of Roman oppression or the spiritual darkness that Jesus came to overcome, yet it does so in a way that feels hopeful rather than heavy. The theme of light triumphing over darkness, drawn from John 1:4 (“In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind”), is woven throughout, giving the film a cohesive and uplifting message.

The sparse attendance at our screening was both surprising and disheartening. With only a dozen or so people in the theater, it was clear that Light of the World wasn’t receiving the attention it deserves. Yet, the enthusiasm of those present was palpable. When the credits rolled, every person in the theater clapped, a rare and heartfelt response that underscored the film’s impact. My nephew turned to me and said, “That was the best movie I’ve ever seen,” a sentiment echoed by my niece, who declared she wanted to watch it again. Their reactions reminded me of the power of storytelling to inspire faith and wonder, especially in young hearts.

Light of the World is not without its minor flaws. Some viewers might quibble with the creative liberties taken, such as portraying John as a teenager when the Bible doesn’t specify his age. The voice acting, while strong overall, could have benefited from a few bigger names to add star power, as some Christian films have done in the past. However, these are minor critiques in the face of the film’s overwhelming strengths. The animation, storytelling, and spiritual depth far outweigh any small imperfections, making it a standout in the realm of faith-based cinema.

What makes this film particularly significant is its potential to serve as a tool for churches and Christian communities. The Salvation Poem Project has provided free children’s ministry curriculum and family resources through their Church Connect website, making it easy for congregations to integrate the film into their outreach efforts. I can envision youth groups, Sunday school classes, and entire congregations attending screenings together, using the film as a springboard for discussions about faith, sacrifice, and the transformative power of Jesus’ love. The film’s accessibility and universal appeal make it an ideal resource for evangelism, particularly for reaching younger audiences who may be encountering the gospel for the first time.

It’s unfortunate, however, that Light of the World is being overshadowed by darker, more sensational films like Weapons and The Conjuring: Last Rites. These movies, with their focus on violence, horror, and demonic themes, dominate box office charts and media coverage, while a film like Light of the World, with its message of hope and redemption, struggles to find its audience. This disparity reflects a broader cultural trend that prioritizes spectacle over substance, fear over faith. As a Christian, I find it disheartening that stories celebrating the light of Christ are often drowned out by those glorifying darkness. Light of the World deserves better—not just for its artistic merit but for its ability to inspire and uplift in a world that desperately needs it.

In conclusion, Light of the World is a triumph of faith-based filmmaking, a tear-jerker that moved me and my young relatives to tears while filling us with hope and awe. Its stunning animation, heartfelt storytelling, and unapologetic gospel message make it a must-see for families, churches, and anyone seeking a meaningful cinematic experience. The fact that so few moviegoers were present at our screening only underscores the need for greater awareness of this remarkable film. I urge all churches and Christian denominations to organize group outings to watch Light of the World, to share its message with their communities, and to celebrate a story that reminds us of the light that shines in the darkness. In a world where demonic movies like Weapons and The Conjuring garner more publicity, it’s time for films like Light of the World to take center stage, illuminating hearts and minds with the truth of the gospel.