Animator Finally Brings Story of Jesus to the Big Screen

For more than three decades, animator-director John Schafer carried a quiet conviction: one day, he would make a film about the life of Jesus.

The idea first stirred in the 1990s, when Schafer said he felt a divine prompting to use his talents to share Christ’s story. But he set it aside, waiting for the right moment.

That moment arrived four years ago, over a simple cup of coffee. Brennan McPherson, president of the nonprofit Salvation Poem Project, pitched Schafer and former Disney animator Tom Bancroft the idea of an animated feature on Jesus’ ministry. For Schafer, it was the opportunity he had been waiting for since the ’90s.

Jesus: Light of the World

The result is Light of the World, which opens in theaters this weekend. Schafer directed the film alongside Bancroft, with McPherson producing.

Told through the eyes of John, the youngest apostle, the film follows a coming-of-age journey that seeks to both entertain and remain faithful to Scripture.

“We wanted to make it fun, engaging, and true to the key biblical beats,” Schafer said. “This is a film for everyone—believers and non-believers alike. You’ll see a very human side of Jesus—he laughs, smiles, and even jokes around.”

But the film is just the beginning. Light of the World is the launchpad for a far-reaching vision: a decades-long global ministry through media.

Will Not Line Private Pockets

The $20-million project was solely funded by Matthew McPherson, founder of the Salvation Poem Project. Profits from the theatrical release will not go into private hands, Brennan McPherson emphasized, but will instead fuel future ministry efforts.

“All of the proceeds from the launch will be reinvested into ministry,” McPherson said. “None of it will line private pockets.”

The organization’s goals are ambitious. Beyond theaters, it hopes to translate Light of the World into 500 languages, making the story of Jesus accessible across cultures. Plans also include creating free children’s curriculum, mini games, and producing more films and television shows that carry uplifting messages.

Still, the immediate priority is ensuring the animated feature reaches audiences worldwide.

“Making the movie was tough,” Schafer admitted, “but the real challenge lies ahead: getting it seen across the globe, in hundreds of languages. That’s the big task—and the heart of our mission.”

About The Author

Antonio Manaytay

Antonio Manaytay is a journalist, editor, and pastor reporting for Rappler and leading the Daily Sun Chronicle. A 2024 Klima Fellow, he covers climate, governance, and grassroots resilience in the Zamboanga Peninsula.

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