Staff Reports
As Holy Week unfolds, American families are making their voices heard at the box office, flocking to see “The King of Kings,” a new animated film that’s turning heads for all the right reasons. With a staggering $19 million opening weekend, this faith-based epic has set a record for the largest debut of any biblical animated film, outpacing even classics like “The Prince of Egypt.” It’s clear that, despite Hollywood’s usual leanings, there’s a powerful and growing hunger for wholesome, faith-affirming stories that reflect the values held dear by millions of Americans.
What sets “The King of Kings” apart isn’t just its box office triumph, but its roots in a long-forgotten story by Charles Dickens. Dickens, best known for “A Christmas Carol,” wrote “The Life of Our Lord” as a private gift to his children, never intending it for public consumption. Decades after his death, the story finally saw the light of day, and now, through the magic of animation, it’s inspiring a new generation. The film’s narrative, centered on a father sharing the life of Jesus with his son, reminds us of the importance of passing faith and tradition from one generation to the next, a value often overlooked in today’s culture.
The production itself is a testament to creative ingenuity and fiscal responsibility, two traits conservatives can appreciate in an industry notorious for excess. Utilizing innovative motion capture technology, the filmmakers achieved stunning realism without the bloated budgets typical of Hollywood blockbusters. Add to that a stellar voice cast, including Oscar Isaac, Pierce Brosnan, Uma Thurman, and Mark Hamill, and you have a film that entertains without sacrificing substance or stewardship.
But perhaps the most encouraging aspect of “The King of Kings” is the way it’s been embraced by audiences. While critics, as usual, have been lukewarm, the film boasts a phenomenal 97% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes and a rare A+ CinemaScore. This isn’t just a fluke—it’s a resounding endorsement from families who are tired of being sidelined by an entertainment industry that too often mocks or ignores their beliefs. The success of Angel Studios’ unique, community-driven model, where viewers help select the films produced, proves that when you listen to the people, you get results that matter.
In a time when Hollywood seems more interested in pushing divisive agendas than uplifting stories, the triumph of “The King of Kings” sends a clear message: Americans want content that celebrates faith, family, and timeless truths. As we gather this Holy Week, let’s celebrate not just a box office victory, but a cultural moment that reaffirms the enduring power of faith and the importance of telling stories that unite, inspire, and honor our shared heritage.
