The Rise of Biblical Animation
Did you grow up with Superbook or McGee and Me and now wish there was great Biblically based animated content for your kids? Well, it’s happening and this is clearly the year for animated Jesus & friends. With Angel Studios walking away with the Dove Award for Inspirational Film of the Year for King of Kings, beating out a slew of live action hits, a new era of Biblically rooted storytelling is leaping off the pages of Scripture and onto the big screen—often with Disney-level quality (and alumni) and a whole lot of heart.
Before we get to the New Testament, let’s jump back to the start with the long-awaited David animated feature. Years of fundraising and short films, I wasn’t sure when we’d be seeing this ambitious take on the story, but seemingly out of nowhere Angel dropped a bombshell. This Christmas get your sling slick aimed and your popcorn buttered.
“David”: The Animated Epic Christian Music Fans Have Been Waiting For
This December, Angel Studios will release David, a sweeping animated musical telling the life of the shepherd, poet, and warrior king who changed history. The film boasts Pixar-level visuals, thunderous songs moments, and a great cast led by Christian music’s own Phil Wickham as King David himself.
“There are few men that have had a greater impact on my life than King David. His story, his songs, and his faith have shaped me deeply,” said Wickham. “What an honor it has been to help bring this character to life! It truly has been a dream come true that I never saw coming. Finding David’s voice inside of me was both a challenge and a joy—thanks to an amazing team who helped guide the way! I’m so proud to be a part of such a beautiful and life-giving film. I believe it will fill hearts with hope, and lift eyes to Heaven for many years to come.”
Creator Phil Cunningham, who has been developing David for three decades, says Wickham was the perfect fit:
“Phil Wickham embodies everything we hoped to capture in the character of David. His voice carries adventure, energy, strength, and vulnerability—qualities that reflect David’s heart as a warrior and worshiper. From the first moment we heard him perform, we knew he was the perfect choice to bring this beloved story to life.”
David will hit theaters nationwide on December 19, 2025, and it’s already shaping up to be the faith-based event of the year.
The Christian Carol: “King of Kings”
The Korean-produced King of Kings might be one of the most ambitious animated films to ever tell the story of Jesus. Framed through the imagination of Charles Dickens telling his children about Christ, the film combines classic literary charm with breathtaking artistry and deeply Biblical themes. The win for Angel Studios at this year’s Dove Awards wasn’t just a victory for the studio—it was a signal that Christian animation has officially arrived.
It’s available now to rent or own on most streaming platforms.
From Disney to Deitiy: The Bancroft Brothers’ “Light of the World”
You’d be hard-pressed to find two names more synonymous with 90s animation than the Bancroft brothers, Tony and Tom—both former Disney animators with credits on The Lion King, Aladdin, and Mulan. Their latest project, Light of the World, a 2D classic Disney style feature has been shining bright across theaters nationwide.
Created with reverence and cinematic excellence, the film delivers a sweeping visual experience that’s both epic and intimate. The Bancrofts’ knack for character and emotion brings new life to the timeless story of Jesus, inviting families into a cinematic experience that feels as powerful as it does personal.
It’s available now to rent or own on most streaming platforms.
“The Chosen Adventures”: Kids, Jesus, and a Sheep with a Big Appetite
Of course, not all of this action is happening on the big screen. The Chosen—already one of the most-watched faith-based series of all time—has now entered the animation world with The Chosen Adventures, a vibrant new series that just launched on Prime Video.
With returning cast members like Jonathan Roumie reprising his role as Jesus and the ever-charismatic Paul Walter Hauser joining the voice cast, The Chosen Adventures captures the humor, wonder, and wisdom of Scripture in a fresh new format designed for families.
The show’s synopsis says it best:
“Kids. Jesus. Adventure. Sheep. You. You’re invited on a new adventure from the creators of The Chosen.
9-year-old Abby is looking for adventure—and she always finds it. Watch her make friends, dodge trouble, and learn from a bold new teacher, Jesus of Nazareth.
A girl with big questions. A boy with big fears. A sheep with a big appetite. What could possibly go wrong?”
It’s playful and powerful—humorous and heartfelt. The Chosen Adventures takes the Gospel’s eternal truths and presents them with color, curiosity, and courage.
Available on Prime Video
The New Golden Age of Faith Animation
From King of Kings’ Dickensian storytelling to The Chosen Adventures’ animated discipleship, and David’s musical grandeur, one thing is clear—animation has become one of the most exciting frontiers in Christian media.
These films don’t just retell old stories; they reimagine them for a new generation, blending artistry with authenticity. It’s a reminder that Biblical storytelling, when done with excellence and heart, can move mountains… even in pixels.
So whether you’re a kid with big questions, a parent looking for hope-filled entertainment, or just a fan of powerful art rooted in truth, faith-based animation is having its moment in a theater near you.
