Light of the World Brings Classic Disney-Style Magic to the Gospel Story

If you grew up watching The Lion King or Mulan, you’ll recognize the magic in Light of the World. Directed by Tom Bancroft, the Disney animator and character designer behind those classics, alongside John J. Schafer, who reimagined Superbook in CGI, this new feature tells the story of Jesus through the wide-eyed perspective of John as a teenager. Where Superbook leaned into modern 3D animation, this project feels like a return to the wonder of classic Disney 2D—lush backgrounds with a hand-drawn feel paired with characters that move in a polished, contemporary way. It’s as close as we may ever come to a Disney-style Jesus film, and that alone makes it something to treasure.

Every great animated film has a breakout character, and here it’s “The Baptizer.” Here he is portrayed as thin, shaggy, countercultural figure who’s as magnetic as he is faithful. He’s a hippie hero, larger than life, and unforgettable. Not to be confused with the John leading our story, he is cleverly just referred to by his title.

The decision to center this movie on young John gives the film its Shakespearean chorus, much like C-3PO and R2-D2 guiding us in Star Wars. We are given the opportunity to live through his eyes and experience the wonder, madness, heartbreak, and salvation on this journey with Jesus.

Though I absolutely loved Angel Studios’ King of Kings, this film flows narratively on a very different path. The film doesn’t play like a greatest-hits compilation; instead, it unfolds more like a linear journey. That choice makes the story flow, but it also means you may want your kids to be familiar with the gospel accounts beforehand.

Families will naturally ask if it’s appropriate for children, and while the crucifixion cannot be ignored, it’s handled with restraint. Shadows do much of the work, a classic Disney device, but the off-screen violence, like the pounding of nails, carries a haunting weight that’s both emotional and powerful. Parents will find themselves in important conversations afterward, and the film even provides thoughtful moments of guidance, especially through Mary, who plays a larger role in Jesus’ adult life here than she often does in other adaptations.

If there’s a place where the film moves a little too fast is in the handling of the resurrection and ascension. Like The Passion or Godspell, the main emphasis leans heavily on suffering and sacrifice. Yes, it’s made clear that Jesus rose again, but it’s treated more as an ethereal afterimage than the joyous return to life. Still, the final moments surprised me. The film closes with something akin to a sinner’s prayer, an invitation that is direct, moving, and likely to stay with viewers long after the credits roll.

Adding to the resonance is a brand-new medley from Shane & Shane, which ties the story back to the world of worship music and roots this fresh animation in the heart of modern faith. The film is beautifully drawn, emotionally rich, and filled with surprises that balance reverence with artistry. Light of the World delivers  a rare, 2D wonder: a heartfelt Disney-style gospel story that feels both timeless and brand-new.

Light of the World is in theaters now.