Seong-ho Jang’s “The King of Kings” emerges as a heartfelt animated retelling of the life of Jesus Christ, filtered through the imaginative lens of Charles Dickens and his son Walter. This film marks Jang’s directorial debut and Mofac Studios’ first foray into feature-length animation. Inspired by Dickens’ lesser-known work “The Life of Our Lord,” the movie blends historical reverence with a tender father-son story, making it a unique addition to faith-based cinema. With a star-studded voice cast and a visually striking presentation, it aims to captivate both young audiences and their families.
The story unfolds as Charles Dickens, voiced by Kenneth Branagh, seeks to bridge the emotional gap with his youngest son Walter, brought to life by Roman Griffin Davis. Frustrated by Walter’s preference for tales of knights and dragons over his own literary pursuits, Dickens introduces him to the story of Jesus. What begins as a bedtime tale transforms into an immersive journey, with the Dickens family—including their mischievous cat Willa—stepping into the biblical world. This meta-narrative device, penned by Jang and co-writer Rob Edwards, cleverly frames the familiar gospel story as a personal adventure, offering a fresh perspective that resonates with children.
Visually, The King of Kings is a triumph of animation, courtesy of Mofac Studios and cinematographer Woo-hyung Kim. The film’s CGI renders a vibrant ancient Jerusalem, with fluid character movements that shine in both quiet moments and dynamic sequences. The color palette is warm and inviting, evoking a storybook quality that complements the film’s tone.
The voice cast is a standout, elevating the film beyond a simple children’s tale. Oscar Isaac’s Jesus is gentle yet commanding, infusing the character with a quiet strength that feels accessible to all ages. Pierce Brosnan’s Pontius Pilate and Mark Hamill’s King Herod bring depth to their villainous roles, with Brosnan’s measured delivery contrasting Hamill’s theatrical menace. Uma Thurman as Catherine Dickens and Forest Whitaker as Peter round out the ensemble, their performances adding emotional weight to the family dynamics and biblical events alike.
The film doesn’t shy away from the heavier moments of Jesus’ life—his trials and crucifixion are depicted with sensitivity—but it tempers these with a focus on hope and redemption. This approach makes it suitable for younger viewers while still offering substance for adults.
The film’s greatest strength lies in its emotional core: the evolving bond between Charles and Walter. As they witness Jesus’ miracles and sacrifices, their relationship deepens, reflecting themes of understanding and love that parallel the gospel message. These personal stakes elevate The King of Kings beyond a mere retelling, making it a story about family as much as faith.
The King of Kings succeeds as a heartfelt Easter offering that blends faith, history, and imagination. Seong-ho Jang crafts a film that honors its source material while making it relatable through a child’s eyes, bolstered by stunning visuals and a powerhouse cast. For families seeking a meaningful cinematic experience this Easter, this tale is well worth a watch.
Email:neill@outloudculture.com
Socials: @neill_frazer
