Staff Reports
Hollywood’s elite are getting a wake-up call this week as “King of Kings,” the new animated biblical epic from Angel Studios, smashes box office expectations and rewrites the rules for faith-based cinema. With a staggering $14.6 million in pre-sale tickets and a projected $19 million opening weekend, this film isn’t just making headlines—it’s making history. For years, the entertainment industry has dismissed the appetite for well-made, values-driven content, but “King of Kings” proves families are hungry for more than recycled superhero sequels and tired remakes.
The numbers don’t lie. “King of Kings” has already overtaken DreamWorks’ “The Prince of Egypt” for the biggest animated biblical opening of all time, and it’s not just the ticket sales that are impressive. The film boasts a near-perfect 97% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes and an A+ CinemaScore, a rare feat that places it alongside cultural juggernauts like “Titanic” and “Avengers: Endgame.” Families are flocking to theaters, many making the film a new Easter tradition, and children are leaving the cinema moved by the timeless story of Jesus, finally told in a way that’s accessible and inspiring for young viewers.
Yet, despite this overwhelming success, Hollywood’s gatekeepers remain stubbornly resistant to faith-based storytelling. Instead of embracing the rich, dramatic narratives found in the Bible, the industry continues to churn out bland, formulaic content that fails to resonate with everyday Americans. It’s almost comical to watch the same executives who greenlight endless fairy tale reboots scratch their heads at the runaway success of a film that dares to take faith seriously. The disconnect between Hollywood decision-makers and their audience has never been more obvious.
Angel Studios is leading the charge to change that. By leveraging a grassroots, audience-driven approach, they’re bypassing the Hollywood old guard and delivering stories that reflect the values and hopes of real people, not just the whims of coastal elites. Their “Kids Go Free” initiative and innovative crowdfunding model have empowered families to vote with their wallets and support content that uplifts and inspires. It’s a model that’s not only working, but thriving, sending a powerful message to the industry: ignore middle America at your own peril.
As “King of Kings” continues its box office ascent, it’s clear that the hunger for faith-based, family-friendly entertainment is stronger than ever. Hollywood would do well to take note. Instead of doubling down on soulless blockbusters and woke messaging, perhaps it’s time to return to the stories that have stood the test of time—stories of faith, sacrifice, and redemption. If “King of Kings” is any indication, that’s exactly what audiences want, and it’s about time the industry listened.
