Director: Tom Bancroft, John J. Schafer
Cast: Ian Hanlin, Benjamin Jacobson, Vincent Tong, Michael Benyaer, David Kaye
Light of the World is a 2025 American-Irish animated family drama co-directed by Tom Bancroft and John J. Schafer, retelling the story of Jesus through the eyes of the young Apostle John. Running 84 minutes, the film blends faith, friendship, and vivid hand-crafted animation in an accessible, family-oriented format.
What is Light of the World about?
Set in 30 AD, the film follows a group of ordinary fishermen and young companions who encounter an extraordinary man whose words and actions defy easy explanation. John, the youngest among them, becomes a close companion of Jesus, witnessing moments of kindness, healing, and moral courage that upend the expectations of everyone around them. James, Andrew, and Peter each bring their own doubts and hopes to the journey, making the story feel personal and grounded rather than distant or mythic. The narrative stays close to John's perspective, letting younger viewers experience the events of the Gospels through a relatable, curious gaze — one full of wonder rather than theological weight.
Cast & crew
The voice cast brings warmth and distinctness to the ensemble. Ian Hanlin leads as a central figure, joined by Benjamin Jacobson, Vincent Tong, and Michael Benyaer, who collectively voice the circle of disciples. David Kaye, Peter New, Richard Newman, and Sam Darkoh round out supporting roles, giving each character a clear, memorable voice. The production is US-Irish and draws on a seasoned pool of North American voice talent.
Context & significance
For Persian-speaking viewers in the diaspora, faith-based animation occupies a rare space: it presents Christian scripture in an accessible, non-confrontational way that many families — Muslim, Christian, Jewish, Bahai, or secular — can watch together without tension. Iran has a significant Christian minority including Armenian and Assyrian communities, and the figure of Jesus (Hazrat Isa) holds deep respect across Persian cultural traditions. This film, available with a Persian dub, means families can engage with the story entirely in their native language, making it especially suitable for children growing up in the diaspora who may be navigating multiple cultural and spiritual identities at once.
Where & how to watch
Light of the World is available on K-Time with a full Persian dub, so the whole family can follow along in Farsi. Stream it on the web, on your TV, or on your phone — no VPN required, no geo-blocking, and no extra download needed. Cancel anytime.