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October 22, 2025 24 mins

Episode 177 - Light of the World: Behind the Animation with Director John Schafer

In this episode of the Faith and Family Filmmakers podcast, Matt Chastain talks with John Schafer, director of the animated film "Light of the World." John shares the inspiration, creative process, and spiritual mission behind this groundbreaking 2D animated retelling of the life of Jesus. From his background in animation and ministry to the unique storybook style of the film, John offers a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges, decisions, and heart that went into bringing this story to life for audiences of all ages.

Highlights Include:

  • Introduction to Light of the World
  • John's Background and Career
  • Why Make This Movie?
  • Choosing 2D Animation and Storybook Style
  • Crafting the Story Structure
  • The Writing Team and Biblical Accuracy
  • Audience Reception and Impact
  • Why Choose John as the Main Character?
  • Bible Engagement and The Bible Project
  • Watching Audiences Experience the Film
  • Making Jesus Feel Approachable
  • Charlie Brown's Influence and Personal Mission

Bio:

John Schafer is a seasoned television producer, VFX artist, and animator with over 33 years of experience in the entertainment industry. A recipient of multiple ADDY and TELLY Awards, he is best known for his three-time EMMY-nominated work on the Christian Broadcasting Network's acclaimed CG series ‘Superbook,’ where he produced 65 episodes that reached audiences in over 123 countries and were translated into more than 60 languages.

Website: https://lightoftheworld.com/ 

Facebook: @LightoftheWorldMovie

Instagram: @LightoftheWorldMovie

X (formerly Twitter): @lotwmovie

TikTok: @LightoftheWorldMovie

Facebook: www.facebook.com/john.schafer

Instagram: instagram.com/jj_schafer

IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm4094635/?ref_=fn_all_nme_1

LinkedIN: www.linkedin.com/in/grafxboy68

Editing by Geoffrey Whitt

FAFF Association Online Meetups: https://faffassociation.com/#faff-meetings

Screenwriters Retreat - Mexico: https://www.faffassociation.com/writers-retreat

Jaclyn's Book - In the Beginning, Middle and End: A Screenwriter’s Observations of LIfe, Character, and God: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D9R7XS9V

VIP Producers Mentorship Program https://www.faffassociation.com/vip-producers-mentorship 

The Faith & Family Filmmakers podcast helps filmmakers who share a Christian worldview stay in touch, informed, and inspired. Releasing new episodes every week, we interview experts from varying fields of filmmaking; from screenwriters, actors,...

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