An educational faith-based film for all ages.
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It’s been awhile since we’ve last seen a faith-based film that isn’t over sentimental or alienates its audience. Writer-director-producer Seong-ho Jang seems to have rectified that with his latest animated offering, The King of Kings.
The Christian animation boasts a surprising star-studded voice cast consisting the likes of Kenneth Branagh, Uma Thurman, Mark Hamill, Pierce Brosnan, Roman Griffin Davis, Forest Whitaker, Ben Kingsley, Oscar Isaac, and more.
Loosely inspired by the children's book written by Charles Dickens for his children, The Life of Our Lord, the film follows the author (voiced by Branagh), who narrates the biography of Jesus Christ to his young son Walter (Davis). Together, they embark on an adventure as the skilled storyteller engages the boy's vivid imagination.
What began as a way of a father connecting with his son through a bedtime story, culminated into something more significant for their relationship rooted in wonderment and belief.
The King of Kings serves as a great gateway into the knowledge of Christianity without being too preachy. It doesn’t dive too deep into the history but does a fine job enlightening its audience. It is first and foremost an animated film targeted at kids but the film is bold in not shying away from revealing the darker elements in Jesus’ life and does just enough without being unsuitable for children.
Branagh delivers an exemplary voice work, giving Charles the perfect blend of command and tenderness in his engaging storytelling. A performance most complimented by Davis’ youthful and spritely take on Walter. The rest of the cast have lesser appearances in comparison but still give standout performances nontheless – namely Isaac as Jesus and Hamill’s King Herod – proving the film doesn’t just possess a cast of big names but also showcases their talents.
The King of Kings is a a delightful and educational film that is both delicate and entertaining despite it’s heavy subject matter. It’s also a great conversation starter for curious kids to have with their parents.
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