Written by: Mike Laxton (August 28, 2025)
A Beautiful, Accessible Introduction to the Gospel for All Ages
Light of the World, the latest animated feature from The Salvation Poem Project, is a stunning 2D retelling of the life of Jesus that brings Scripture to life with heart, artistry, and purpose. Aimed at families, kids, and churches, it introduces the Gospel of John through the eyes of a young and wide-eyed John the Apostle, weaving familiar biblical accounts into a deeply personal coming-of-age story.
We had the opportunity to experience Light of the World ahead of its September 5 release, and from the very first scene, it’s clear this is a labor of love. Directed by John Schafer and Tom Bancroft—with animation direction by Mulan’s Tony Bancroft—the film blends hand-drawn artistry with reverence for Scripture, creating a visual and spiritual journey that feels both timeless and timely.
The narrative opens with creation and quickly transitions into the world of first-century Galilee, where young John wrestles with fear, doubt, and curiosity. His interactions with family and peers—especially the tension between his faithful mother and skeptical father—lay a solid foundation for the emotional arc to come. As Jesus begins His public ministry, John finds himself caught up in the movement, reluctantly at first, and then with growing faith.
The movie draws directly from the Gospel of John while skillfully incorporating stories from the synoptic Gospels to enrich the journey. Viewers will recognize familiar moments: Jesus calling the disciples, the miracle at Cana, healings, teachings, and eventually the Passion and Resurrection. There are humorous beats (including a memorable “fish slap” scene), tender moments of healing and discipleship, and a few deeply emotional turns—particularly surrounding John the Baptist, the crucifixion, and the film’s redemptive final act.
One of the film’s strengths is how it presents theological truth in ways that are easy for children to grasp, without watering down the significance. The soundtrack complements the story well, and the end credits feature a powerful closing track by Shane & Shane that leaves a lasting impression. While the film’s PG rating reflects moments of emotional intensity—such as Jesus’ crucifixion—the content is thoughtfully handled. The more graphic elements are toned down visually while retaining their weight, making it appropriate for most elementary-age children and up.
As with many biblical adaptations, the film does take some creative liberties. John is present in scenes where he might not have been in the original text, and characters like Joseph of Arimathea are portrayed with added backstory—including a healing from blindness—which serves the emotional narrative, even if it deviates slightly from the biblical account. These choices feel more like narrative bridges than theological oversteps, but they may prompt further conversations or study, which is a positive outcome for families watching together.
What makes Light of the World truly memorable is how it closes. The resurrection and Ascension are given the reverence and celebration they deserve, and the story comes full circle in John’s personal life. His once-doubting father confesses his faith in Jesus in a deeply moving scene that mirrors the core message of The Salvation Poem itself. It’s not just a film about Jesus—it’s a film about belief, legacy, and the invitation of the Gospel.
In a media landscape often saturated with flashy animation and shallow storytelling, Light of the World stands out for its spiritual depth and sincere craftsmanship. It’s a film that doesn’t just entertain—it teaches, inspires, and invites viewers, young and old, into the story of redemption.
Whether you’re a parent looking for a meaningful way to present the Gospel to your kids, a ministry leader seeking fresh resources, or a fan of classic hand-drawn animation, this film is a must-see. Light of the World releases in theaters nationwide on September 5, 2025, and we believe it has the potential to become a new staple in faith-based family entertainment.
