Light of the World — A Heartfelt, Artistic Journey Through the Gospel

This September, a beautiful new animated film is coming to theaters: Light of the World. Opening nationwide September 5 (with special early showings beginning September 4), this movie is a heartfelt, hand-drawn retelling of the Gospel story through the eyes of John the Apostle. As both a believer and a parent, I found it to be more than just a film, it was a spiritual experience that reminded me of the hope, love, and redemption at the heart of the Christian faith.

A Return to Hand-Drawn Beauty

If you grew up during the golden era of 1990s animation, you’re going to love the look and feel of this movie. Light of the World uses traditional, hand-drawn 2D animation with painterly details that make it feel like a storybook come to life. That alone makes it stand out in today’s digital world, but the artistry does more than impress, it sets the perfect tone for telling a story that is timeless and sacred.

It helps that the talent behind the movie is extraordinary. Tom Bancroft, a longtime Disney animator who worked on classics like The Lion King, Mulan, and Beauty and the Beast, brought his expertise to this project. John Schafer, co-director, is also well known as the producer of the beloved Christian series Superbook. With that kind of pedigree, it’s no wonder the film feels both professional and heartfelt.

Rooted in Scripture, Centered on Christ

This film is the very first feature from the Salvation Poem Project, a ministry committed to sharing Jesus with the world. That mission shines through every frame. Unlike some adaptations that take liberties with the biblical narrative, Light of the World is intentionally faithful to Scripture.

In fact, Movieguide praised the film, noting that "it stresses faith, family, and trusting in God’s plan" and called it “beautifully animated and entertaining...based entirely on the Bible.” I couldn’t agree more. From the calling of the disciples to the miracle at Cana, from the crucifixion to the resurrection, the story is portrayed in a way that honors both the Word of God and the imagination of the audience.

Light and Darkness as Theological Themes

The film’s title, Light of the World, draws directly from Scripture. In John 8:12, Jesus says, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life." That theme permeates the entire film, not just in the story itself but also in its visual language. Scenes with Jesus are filled with warmth and light, while moments of doubt, oppression, or grief are framed in darker, cooler tones.

This symbolism makes the movie especially powerful for discussion groups or family conversations. It opens the door to ask: Where do we still see darkness in our world today? How can we reflect Christ’s light in our homes, schools, and communities?

Suitable for the Whole Family

One of my favorite things about Light of the World is that it truly is a family film. It captures the wonder of the Gospel in a way children can understand, but without watering down the truth. The crucifixion is handled with reverence, not graphic violence, so younger audiences can process it without fear. There are even gentle moments of humor among the disciples that keep the tone accessible.

In our house, it sparked some deep and meaningful conversations. My kids wanted to talk about miracles, about why Jesus had to die, and about how the disciples felt when He rose again. For parents and church leaders, this movie is a wonderful springboard into Scripture.

Why This Movie Matters

There are many films you could choose to see this fall, but Light of the World is worth showing up for. It’s not just entertainment, it’s a ministry. Supporting it in theaters helps ensure that more faith-based, biblically sound projects like this one will continue to be made.

Even better, the filmmakers are making it accessible: if you have a group of 10 or more, you can get group tickets for just $7.50 per person. Imagine gathering your small group, Sunday school class, or youth ministry for a night out that combines fellowship with worshipful storytelling.

You can learn more, watch the trailer, and find tickets at lightoftheworld.com.

Final Thoughts

For me, Light of the World was more than a nostalgic return to the artistry of hand-drawn animation. It was a reminder of the core truth of the Gospel: that Jesus is the Light who shines in the darkness, and the darkness cannot overcome it.

This film has everything, stunning artistry, faithful storytelling, and a message that points directly to Christ. It’s the kind of movie you can watch with your children, your parents, your church group, or even friends who may be curious about faith. As Movieguide rightly observed, it’s "based entirely on the Bible" and emphasizes faith, family, and trust in God’s plan.

If you want to see more Christ-centered films in theaters, I encourage you to show your support opening weekend, September 4–7. Bring your family, invite your friends, and prepare to experience the Gospel in a fresh yet faithful way.

For us, this movie was not just a night at the theater, it was an encounter with the beauty of God’s story told through the gift of animation.

Giveaway 🎉

To make this even more fun, I’m giving away a $10 Amazon Gift Card to one lucky reader! Entry is simple, just follow the prompts on the Rafflecopter below. Open US only, must be 18+ to enter. Winner chosen via Random.org through Rafflecopter. All winning entries are verified. Please follow us on Facebook to stay up to date with our current giveaways. Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

I received complimentary products to provide this review and giveaway. All thoughts are my own. If you would like to see your product featured in our Gift Guides, please contact us. This contest will run through September 19, 2025, at 11:59 EST. No purchase necessary. US entries only. Must be 18 years or older to win. This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed, or administered by or associated with, Facebook. You understand that you are providing your information to Nanny to Mommy and not to Facebook. Please note that Nanny to Mommy and other participating bloggers are not responsible for sponsors that do not fulfill their prizes. We have represented each sponsor with the expectation they will fulfill their prize in a timely manner. We will contact the sponsor regarding your prize(s). The sponsors, in most cases, are shipping their items to you directly. I will make every effort to assist you obtaining your prize. If there is an issue with a sponsor, please notify the blog you won a prize from within 4-6 weeks for assistance, after that we may be unable to assist you.

7 comments

Susan Smith9/05/2025 07:26:00 PM
This sounds like a great family movie that I would love to take my daughter to.
Shelly Peterson9/06/2025 02:52:00 PM
This looks like a great movie to see with my grandkids.
Anonymous9/06/2025 09:25:00 PM
This would be a great movie to watch with my 3 grandkids:)
Mikhail Rapoport9/07/2025 04:38:00 AM
We want to see this animated film with the biblical theme.
mami2jcn9/07/2025 07:28:00 AM
I'd like to see this because it's a faith based movie I can watch with my kids.
FrangiePani9/07/2025 08:54:00 AM
I want to see it because it looks like a fun 2D movie that everyone in the family would love. Lisa Brown in widget
Ellie Wright9/07/2025 04:59:00 PM
I want to see this because I can take my 7 and 10 year old. Love movies for the whole family.

Thank you for dropping by! I would love to hear what you thought. :)

Thanks!
♥,
Diana

Nanny to Mommy