The King of Kings (2025) [Movie Review]: Crowning Faith in Animation

A Sacred Tale Retold

“The King of Kings” is an animated retelling of Jesus’s life, framed as Charles Dickens sharing “The Life of Our Lord” with his young son. Directed by Seong-ho Jang and co-written with Rob Edwards and Jamie Thomason, the film traces Christ’s journey from humble beginnings to the crucifixion, aiming to introduce children to this foundational story through a gentle, story-within-a-story approach.

Stellar Voices, Steady Performances

Boasting an all-star cast—Kenneth Branagh as Charles Dickens, Roman Griffin Davis as young Walter, and Oscar Isaac as Jesus—this film relies on its vocal talent to convey depth and warmth. While each actor fulfills their role competently, no single performance soars above the rest; instead, they combine to create a harmonious ensemble that supports the narrative without overshadowing it.

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Narrative Structure and Tone

The decision to weave Dickens and his son into Jesus’s story offers a unique framing device, though at times their direct interactions with biblical figures can feel jarring. This stylistic choice clearly aims to make the material more accessible for younger viewers, requiring adult audiences to embrace a greater suspension of disbelief. Despite this, the core messages of compassion, forgiveness, and faith emerge with sincerity.

Animation Quality

Visually, “The King of Kings” delivers modest, serviceable animation befitting its educational purpose. It doesn’t reach the technical heights of Disney or Pixar, but it remains more polished than many direct-to-video productions. The character designs and backgrounds are colorful and clear, ensuring that children stay engaged throughout without distraction from clunky visuals.

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A Faithful Family Offering

Rated 3 (★★★) out of 5, “The King of Kings” succeeds as a gentle, faith-affirming introduction to the life of Jesus for Christian families and Sunday school classrooms. While it may not challenge the emotional resonance of classics like “The Prince of Egypt,” it provides a respectful, straightforward presentation that will resonate with its intended audience—especially when enjoyed during the Easter season.