Light of the World (2025) is a 2D animated Christian drama that reimagines the life of Jesus Christ through the perspective of John the Apostle. Directed by Tom Bancroft and John J. Schafer, the film was produced by The Salvation Poem Project and released in U.S. theaters on September 5, 2025.
Set in 30 AD, the narrative follows young John and his brother James as they witness the arrival of Jesus, whom they come to recognize as the Messiah. The story unfolds through John’s eyes, highlighting key events such as Jesus turning water into wine at a wedding and performing miracles like the miraculous catch of fish. The film aims to portray the transformative impact of Jesus’s ministry on individuals and communities during that era.
Animation Studio: The film’s animation was crafted by Lighthouse Studios, an Irish studio known for its work on projects like Goldie and Rick and Morty. The studio brought a blend of traditional 2D animation techniques with modern digital tools to create the film’s visual style. Animation Magazine
Visual Style: The filmmakers sought to achieve a “children’s storybook come to life” aesthetic, incorporating real painting textures into digitally painted backgrounds. This approach aimed to give the film a handcrafted feel, reminiscent of classic animated films. Animation Magazine
Music: The film’s score was composed by Alex McKenzie, contributing to the emotional depth and atmosphere of the narrative.
Production Budget: The film was produced on a budget of $20 million, reflecting its ambitious scope and the quality of animation and storytelling.
For more information, you can visit the official website: lightoftheworld.com
