Disney’s Magic: A Shift in Perspective

Tom Bancroft recalls the moment when he felt the enchantment of Disney starting to fade. As a seasoned animator, he contributed to the creation of iconic characters from memorable films in the 90s, like Mulan’s dragon and Simba from The Lion King. It was the dream life for many aspiring animators.

“It hit me so hard… When the kids pray before that point, this might be the Jesus they see in their heads.”

He also spoke out against claims that Disney was dismissive or even hostile toward Christianity, emphasizing that the company was committed to the story, no matter where it led.

An “Unpleasant” Reality

While working on a short film called “John Henry” in 2000, Bancroft noted that faith was a crucial element of the narrative, reflecting the storyboards he developed. However, executives at Disney saw things differently.

He remembers the animation president expressing discomfort with the film’s spiritual overtones. “This makes me uncomfortable,” he recalled. It was a jolt. “I’d always believed we just needed to stay true to the story… We pray to Mulan and her ancestors, but now, with Christianity, you’re not okay with it? It was the first time I thought, ‘There’s another layer to this story,'” he explained.

Six months later, Bancroft realized he needed to leverage his skills for a higher purpose and departed from Disney.

Finding a New Light

After leaving, Bancroft went on to work on the successful “Veggie Tales” series and has appeared on Christian television networks. He also authored a well-received book about animation and co-hosts an animation podcast with his twin brother, Tony.

Currently, he’s channeling his Disney experience into a 2D animated film exploring the life of Jesus in a fresh and engaging way.

The film, titled “Light of the World,” depicts Christ’s story through the eyes of the youngest apostle, John, voiced by Benjamin Jacobson. This approach aims to resonate with younger viewers, offering a unique lens on Christ’s mission.

While it may not spring from Disney’s classic studio, critics have lauded the film for its sensitive storytelling and stunning animation. Bancroft applied insights gained from Disney’s legendary animators, the “Nine Old Men,” who contributed to the studio’s artistic legacy.

“We’re infusing that essence and knowledge into the film. They were always passing their wisdom to people like my brother and me back in the 80s,” he noted.

Portraying Jesus

Bancroft faced a significant challenge in bringing his beloved Disney character to life on screen. Representing Jesus brought an even bigger responsibility.

“I’d often wake up abruptly, feeling the weight of it. When kids pray, perhaps this image is the Jesus they envision,” he said, explaining that the film portrays Jesus with a darker skin tone than traditionally seen.

However, presenting Jesus as a narrator introduced complications. Bancroft pointed out, “As a character in a film, [Jesus] doesn’t quite fit. You want an arc… a journey of questions, struggles, and victories. But you don’t have that with Jesus.”

Resources and Opportunities

Through his connection with Disney, Bancroft gained access to significant funding and resources.

“We had at least ten chances… In independent films, you need to nail it on the first or second attempt. There aren’t many opportunities,” he expressed.

It seems the advantages are considerable.

“I can make the film I want to create,” he mentioned, highlighting how the lead investor, Matt McPherson, provided direction while allowing the team to remain true to Biblical texts.

“In my 35 years, I haven’t had that creative freedom. We embraced the race wholeheartedly,” he shared.

A New Wave of Faith-Based Films

Bancroft believes that films like “Light of the World” are just the beginning. The genre has expanded from titles like “Chosen” to “Sound of Freedom” slated for 2024. Major streaming platforms like Amazon Prime and Netflix are increasingly open to spiritual stories, driven by favorable audience reactions.

It’s a work—a continuous evolution, really.

He noted that a key difference today is financial backing. Talented storytellers like Bancroft, who once felt sidelined in Hollywood, are now returning on their own terms.

“Honestly, financial resources to reach the right audience have been the biggest game-changer. People may not like discussing it openly, but that’s how to effect change in Christian filmmaking,” he concluded.