Former Disney Animator Shares Journey to Create Jesus Film

A former Disney animator recently reflected on his time at the studio, mentioning how differing worldviews influenced his choice to leave the company. This decision ultimately led him to embark on a faith-based project—a new film depicting the life of Jesus.

The Light of the World (PG) was released in theaters on September 5th. The film narrates Jesus’ story from the perspective of the Apostle John. The animator expresses a desire to spread good news, reaching beyond just friends, perhaps even touching those at the ends of the earth. The project is initiated by the Salvation Poem Project, founded by Matt McPherson.

This movie stands out because of its hand-drawn 2D animation, reminiscent of beloved Disney classics from the 1990s like The Lion King, Aladdin, and Mulan.

Co-director Tom Bancroft, who contributed to several Disney masterpieces over the past decade, explained that the film’s release seems to align perfectly with divine timing.

“The world needs light,” Bancroft stated, highlighting the pervasive darkness currently affecting society.

Bancroft was a pivotal animator behind some of Disney’s most acclaimed films, including Beauty and the Beast. He recalls feeling a connection between his faith and his work back then. He elaborated, saying, “For years, I worked on films that included elements of faith.” He noted how characters in films like Mulan and Pocahontas naturally prayed as part of their cultural contexts.

“When I worked on a short about John Henry, I began to rethink my experiences at Disney,” he said. “I noticed the animators included several Christian symbols, like a chapel cross, reflecting the beliefs of many enslaved individuals.”

However, Bancroft felt the need to make some edits to the film when it was shown to the president of Feature Animation. “It hit me hard,” he remarked, acknowledging the tension he felt.

After leaving Disney, Bancroft focused on projects like VeggieTales and later collaborated with John J. Schafer on Superbook.

Schafer, who now shares co-directorship of The Light of the World, commented, “If Disney had made a film about Jesus back in the 90s, this would be it.”

The film begins in the Garden of Eden and concludes with Jesus’ death, resurrection, and ascension. Its post-release aim is to be a resource in mission fields worldwide. Notably, Christian artists Shane and Shane contributed their music to the film.

“This is a tool that many parents have been craving,” Bancroft noted. “They’ve been waiting for family films that showcase faith in a meaningful way. It’s going to make a difference out there.”