The King of Kings (2025), a biblical animation from the studio behind Sound of Freedom and The Chosen, offers a fresh take on a story we’ve heard a thousand times: the life of Jesus Christ. This tale has been told in countless ways—epic, tragic, violent—but this movie takes a different approach, seen through the eyes of a child. That narrative choice makes the experience lighter, more accessible, and perfect for family viewing, especially for those still discovering the world.
Plus, it boasts a star-studded voice cast of international and local talent, including Mark Hamill, Pierce Brosnan, and Uma Thurman. Check out our thoughts on The King of Kings below.
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A New Way to Tell the Story of Jesus
Charles Dickens as an Animated Character
Based on the story The Life of Our Lord, written by Charles Dickens for his children, the movie covers key moments in Jesus’ life—from the manger to the resurrection—through a child’s perspective. Written between 1846 and 1849 and published posthumously in 1934, the tale is considered one of Dickens’ most personal works.
In The King of Kings, Dickens himself becomes a character. The film follows the A Christmas Carol author as he narrates the story to his youngest son, Walter, who reimagines it in his own words.
A Child’s Perspective as a Storytelling Tool
The narrative approach is clever: by blending childhood innocence with faith and fantasy, the animation draws parallels between Jesus and King Arthur. This makes the story more relatable for kids and turns the biblical tale into something exciting and engaging for young audiences.
Unlike other biblical adaptations—such as The Passion of the Christ—The King of Kings avoids graphic visuals. Even scenes like the crucifixion are shown without blood, focusing instead on gestures, values, and symbolic impact.
The King of Kings Is a Family-Friendly Animation
With a style reminiscent of indie productions, the animation features soft lines and charming characters. It works well for kids without being overly childish. The movie delivers messages of compassion, forgiveness, and empathy clearly but without oversimplifying—making it meaningful for adults too.
This is a movie for parents who want to introduce Jesus’ story without violence or heavy-handed preaching. It’s also a great conversation starter for families.
From the Studio Behind The Chosen and Sound of Freedom
Box Office Records in the U.S. and Warm Reception in Brazil
Distributed by Angel Studios—the team behind Sound of Freedom and The Chosen—The King of Kings debuted with record-breaking numbers in the U.S., becoming the highest-grossing biblical animation in the country. In Brazil, under Heaven Content and 360 WayUp, it drew over 450,000 moviegoers.
The Angel Studios connection places the movie within an ecosystem of spiritually themed, family-friendly productions—but with a narrative approach that avoids preachiness.
A-List Cast and Stellar Brazilian Voice Talent
Oscar Isaac, Uma Thurman, and Mark Hamill in the Original
The English voice cast is stacked: Oscar Isaac (Star Wars: The Force Awakens, Moon Knight) voices Jesus, alongside Hollywood heavyweights like:
- Kenneth Branagh as Charles Dickens;
- Uma Thurman as Dickens’ wife;
- Pierce Brosnan as Pontius Pilate;
- Roman Griffin Davis (Jojo Rabbit) as Walter Dickens;
- Ben Kingsley as Caiaphas;
- Forest Whitaker as Peter;
- Mark Hamill (the eternal Luke Skywalker) as King Herod.
Is The King of Kings Worth Watching?
Directed by Jang Seong-ho, The King of Kings isn’t a blockbuster—and doesn’t try to be. But it succeeds in its goal: making a timeless story accessible, thoughtful, and free of heavy-handedness.
Whether you’re revisiting Jesus’ story with your kids or starting the conversation in a gentle way, this is a solid pick.
Where to Watch The King of Kings Online?
The movie is now available for rent or purchase on major digital platforms.
