Have you ever wished for a modern, family-friendly movie that shows the life of Jesus in a way your children can both understand and enjoy? My family and I finally found it in King of Kings—a film that brought Holy Week alive for our kids and made them appreciate the deeper meaning of Pascha. If you’re wondering whether King of Kings aligns with your faith and is worth watching with the whole family, keep reading!
King of Kings is a family-friendly retelling of Jesus’s life—covering everything from His Nativity to His Resurrection in a way both kids and adults can appreciate. Produced by Angel Studios, a new kind of movie studio that collaborates with independent creators to produce uplifting, faith-based content, the film boasts a star-studded voice cast that includes Oscar Isaac as Jesus Christ and many other celebrities such as Kenneth Branagh, Uma Thurman, Mark Hamill, Pierce Brosnan, Forest Whitaker, Ben Kingsley, etc. Thanks to awe-inspiring visuals and a script that remains true to the spirit of the Gospels, King of Kings stands out as an exceptional film that artfully combines top-tier talent with a deep commitment to Christian values.
1. What Is The King of Kings Movie About?
King of Kings unfolds the life of Jesus in a clear, chronological manner—guiding viewers from His earliest days in Bethlehem right through His resurrection.
Nativity and King Herod’s Persecution
Nativity and King Herod’s Persecution:
The movie begins with the wonder of the Nativity, painting a heartfelt picture of the humble manger scene. It doesn’t shy away from showing King Herod’s brutal intentions, driving home the threat that forced Joseph, Mary, and the infant Jesus to flee.
The Exile to Egypt
The Exile to Egypt:
One element that really stood out to me was the emphasis on the Holy Family’s escape to Egypt. This event is sometimes glossed over in Sunday School, yet King of Kings underscores the gravity of their journey, reminding us that Jesus faced hardship from His earliest days.
Ministry and Teachings
Ministry and Teachings:
As Jesus grows up, the film seamlessly introduces His call to the disciples, the miracles He performed, and the parables He shared with the crowds. My kids had a chance to see how Jesus reached out to people on a deeply personal level—healing the sick and teaching about love and compassion in a way that felt fresh and inviting.
Holy Week
Holy Week:
From Lazarus Saturday and Palm Sunday to the crucifixion and resurrection, King of Kings covers each milestone of Holy Week with thoughtfulness. Our children had heard about these events countless times at home and in church, but watching them unfold on screen helped them connect the dots.
Along the way, the movie constantly points to Jesus’s ultimate sacrifice, illustrating His willingness to endure suffering and death out of love for humanity. My kids were moved to tears during the betrayal and crucifixion scenes—but the respectful portrayal kept it from feeling overwhelmingly intense.
Why Kids Relate So Well?
1. Easy-to-Follow Story: Despite covering a vast timeline, the pacing remains accessible.
2. Kid-Friendly Depictions: The crucifixion and other serious events are shown in a way that highlights their significance without overwhelming children.
3. Familiar Elements: From the manger scene to the resurrection, children who attend Sunday School will spot stories they’ve already learned, now brought to life with vibrant visuals and clear storytelling.
2. Was King of Kings a Good Movie?
My family and I actually watched King of Kings on Friday, April 11th—just before its national release. Even though the new Minecraft movie had opened, finding tickets for King of Kings was surprisingly tough. We had to wait almost a whole week just to snag seats, which was our first clue that Christian families everywhere were buzzing about it. Once we finally settled into those comfy recliners, snacks in hand, we couldn’t help but wonder if the film would live up to our high expectations.
The opening scenes introduce us to Charles Dickens and his family, and to be honest, they felt a bit slow at first. I briefly worried it might be one of those movies with a fantastic trailer but a weak story. Then Dickens began narrating Jesus’s life, and the atmosphere shifted. From that point on, we were immersed in vibrant visuals and a narrative that beautifully captures the heart of the Gospels.
What We Loved Most:
- Kid-Friendly Tone: The film doesn’t shy away from showing crucial events (including Christ’s passion), but it does so in a way that’s appropriate for children. It delivers the depth of the story without overwhelming young viewers.
- Comprehensive Coverage: It walks you through everything—from the Annunciation and the gathering of the disciples to the resurrection—making it easy to grasp the full arc of Jesus’s life.
- Horror with Caution: The crucifixion is portrayed with enough gravity to move your heart, but not so graphically that it scares kids. It’s a delicate balance that the movie handles really well.
- New Insights: My kids learned about parts of Jesus’s life that they’d never really heard of in Sunday School, giving them a broader appreciation for the events leading up to Pascha.
My kids really appreciated finally seeing how the major events leading up to Pascha fit together chronologically. After watching, they attended each Holy Week service with renewed curiosity—recognizing Lazarus Saturday, Palm Sunday, Holy Unction on Holy Wednesday, and more. It was moving to see them tear up during the betrayal and crucifixion, then rejoice in the resurrection. They truly grasped why Pascha is such a joyous celebration.
3. Is The King of Kings Biblically Accurate?
A big question for any movie about Jesus is, “How closely does it stick to the Gospels?” King of Kings stays remarkably true to Scripture, though it does include a few creative touches to engage modern audiences. Let’s take a closer look:
Ways It Aligns with the Gospels:
Before diving into the film’s artistic choices, here are some highlights of its faithfulness:
- Miracles on Point: Major events like raising Lazarus and healing the blind match the accounts in the four Gospels.
- Core Teachings: Christ’s parables and His message of love, repentance, and compassion are front and center, reflecting biblical truths.
- Holy Week Accuracy: The timeline of Palm Sunday, the crucifixion, and the resurrection follows Scripture closely.
Minor Creative Additions:
While the film sticks to the biblical narrative, it still uses some creative elements to keep viewers immersed:
- Expanded Dialogues: Where the Gospels give short exchanges, the movie fleshes out conversations to give characters more depth.
- Charles Dickens as Narrator: His role adds a unique framing device, even though he isn’t a biblical figure.
- Cinematic Interpretations: Certain visual details—like scenery or character expressions—come from the filmmakers’ imagination rather than explicit biblical descriptions.
Overall, King of Kings honors its scriptural foundation while weaving in just enough creativity to bring the story to life for a modern audience—especially children who benefit from engaging visuals and relatable dialogue.
4. Why Is Charles Dickens in King of Kings?
The decision to feature Charles Dickens as the narrator draws on both his passion for storytelling and a lesser-known work he wrote for his children called The Life of Our Lord. Although he penned it years earlier, it stayed unpublished until 1934. In King of Kings, Dickens isn’t simply an iconic author—he’s a devoted father of three who wants to teach his youngest son Walter (an avid King Arthur fan) about a real, everlasting King: Jesus Christ.
By weaving Dickens’s Victorian upbringing with the biblical timeline, the film creates an engaging bridge between past and present. Dickens’s warm storytelling style transforms what could feel like a distant historical account into an intimate narrative. As he speaks, Walter (and the audience) follow him back in time to witness Jesus’s life from childhood through the crucifixion and resurrection. This approach helps children feel the events more personally, as they see the story through another child’s eyes.
Including Dickens not only pays homage to his original unpublished manuscript but also capitalizes on his gift for capturing human emotion. His fatherly love, paired with his knack for weaving compelling tales, makes the Gospel more accessible. It shows how a great storyteller—especially one speaking to his own children—can bring the lessons of Jesus closer to the hearts of modern families.
5. Will The King of Kings Be Available to Stream?
If you’re excited to watch The King of Kings but aren’t sure about seeing it in theaters, you’re not alone. Some families may still have the option to enjoy it on the big screen, while others prefer to wait for streaming or simply find it easier on the budget or more convenient to watch movies at home. Below, we’ll walk you through your options—both now and in the future:
Is King of Kings Out Yet?
Yes! The movie has already been released in theaters since April 11th 2025. If you want that cinematic experience and it’s still showing near you, go for it—just check local listings or the film’s official site for updates. If you’d rather wait, there’s good news: home-viewing options are on the horizon.
Is King of Kings Streaming on Angel Studios?
Not at the time I wrote this post. Angel Studios, known for family-friendly faith content, hasn’t announced a streaming date for The King of Kings yet. They do work with independent creators and may add this film to their lineup in the future, so following their social media or app is the best way to stay informed.
Where Can I Stream The King of Kings?
As soon as the theatrical run ends, you can likely expect digital rental or purchase options on major platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, or Google Play. For those who enjoy physical copies, DVDs or Blu-rays could follow if there’s enough demand. To get the latest scoop, keep an eye on the movie’s official website and social media channels.
No matter your situation—whether you prefer the theater or plan to watch at home—The King of Kings can be a wonderful addition to your family’s faith journey. Stay tuned for more updates on where and how to watch, and enjoy the film in a way that works best for you and your loved ones.
6. Practical Tips for Families Watching King of Kings
I want to share a few personal ideas to help you make the most of King of Kings. These tips work well if you’re fasting or getting ready for Pascha. Adjust them as needed for your own schedule and preferences.
Before the Movie
Before the Movie
- Choose Simple Snacks: If you’re watching during the fast, pick treats that fit your family’s Lenten rules. Even something like plain popcorn can feel festive.
- Give a Quick Holy Week Recap: Remind your children about Lazarus Saturday, Palm Sunday, and Holy Wednesday. Connecting these events to the film helps them recognize details when they watch.
- Set the Tone: Emphasize that this movie isn’t just for fun. It’s a chance to deepen your understanding of Jesus’s life and teachings.
After the Movie
After the Movie
- Share and Reflect with Loved Ones: Invite grandparents or Godparents (or schedule a video call) so your kids can share what they learned. Older relatives can offer their own insights, which might deepen everyone’s appreciation for the story.
- Family Conversation: Ask your kids which parts moved them most. Then discuss how those moments relate to Pascha or upcoming church services. This makes the film feel more personal and meaningful.
- Creative Follow-Ups: Encourage them to draw or write about their favorite scenes. Show icons of those events and talk about any similarities or differences.
Remember, King of Kings can be more than just a movie night. By preparing ahead and reflecting afterward, you can help your family connect these cinematic moments to the real-life beauty of Pascha and your Orthodox faith.
Watch The Trailer
Still not sure if The Kings of Kings is for you? Watch the trailer:
Final Take Away
King of Kings isn’t just another Bible movie—it’s a heartfelt, visually compelling retelling that captures the essence of Jesus’s life in a way children can truly understand. From our personal experience, it seamlessly bridges the gap between what kids hear in Sunday School and what unfolds in the Holy Week services. Dickens’s role as narrator might raise eyebrows at first, but it ultimately offers a creative, engaging way to present the Gospel story.
Whether you’re seeking to enhance your family’s Lenten journey or simply looking for a faith-focused film to watch together, King of Kings is well worth your time. Keep an eye out for streaming announcements, as platforms like Angel Studios may pick it up, making it even more accessible for busy Orthodox families. If you do watch it, I’d love to hear your thoughts—drop a comment, share this post, or mention it to your parish friends.
May this movie, like the liturgical services of Holy Week, draw you and your loved ones closer to Christ’s love and the joy of His resurrection. Christ is Risen!
Frequently Asked Questions
King of Kings (2025) was created by Angel Studios. They’re known as the home of record-shattering stories and award-winning titles. Angel Studios partners with independent creators around every corner of the world to bring faith-based stories to life. Fans of favorite Angel originals often use the Angel app to stream full episodes and learn about official merchandise and future seasons of shows.
Yes, King of Kings is a family-friendly movie perfect for kids. The film gently and clearly tells the story of Jesus—from His birth to His resurrection. Difficult events like the crucifixion are presented sensitively and thoughtfully. It’s designed so children can understand important biblical stories and connect them to Pascha celebrations. This makes it a great choice for parents who want engaging, meaningful movies for their families.
King of Kings received a PG rating mainly because it depicts certain intense biblical scenes, like Jesus’s crucifixion. While these events are presented gently and respectfully for young viewers, the seriousness of Christ’s suffering might require parental guidance for younger children. The PG rating helps parents decide how best to discuss these emotional moments with their kids. It’s a good reminder that while the movie is family-friendly, some scenes might inspire deeper questions about faith and sacrifice.
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