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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 WorldJohn's Background and CareerWhy Make This Movie?Choosing 2D Animation and Storybook StyleCrafting the Story StructureThe Writing Team and Biblical AccuracyAudience Reception and ImpactWhy Choose John as the Main Character?Bible Engagement and The Bible ProjectWatching Audiences Experience the FilmMaking Jesus Feel ApproachableCharlie Brown's Influence and Personal MissionBio: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: @LightoftheWorldMovieInstagram: @LightoftheWorldMovieX (formerly Twitter): @lotwmovieTikTok: @LightoftheWorldMovieFacebook: www.facebook.com/john.schaferInstagram: instagram.com/jj_schaferIMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm4094635/?ref_=fn_all_nme_1LinkedIN: www.linkedin.com/in/grafxboy68Editing by Geoffrey WhittFAFF Association Online Meetups: https://faffassociation.com/#faff-meetingsScreenwriters Retreat - Mexico: https://www.faffassociation.com/writers-retreatJaclyn's Book - In the Beginning, Middle and End: A Screenwriter's Observations of LIfe, Character, and God: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D9R7XS9VVIP 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,...
Episode 178 - The Making and Mission of ‘Light of the World' with John Schafer In this episode of the Faith and Family Filmmakers podcast, Matt welcomes back director John Schafer for a deep dive into the making of "Light of the World." John shares the extraordinary journey behind this ambitious animated feature, from the unique challenges of faith-based filmmaking and the miracle of funding, to the intentional design choices and collaborative spirit that brought the story to life. Together, Matt and John discuss the business realities of Christian filmmaking, the importance of ministry goals, and the lessons learned along the way. Highlights Include:Welcome and IntroductionThe Fairy Tale Funding StoryIntentional Design: Colors, Shapes, and Cultural ConnectionDirecting Animation vs. Live ActionThe Power of Collaboration in AnimationWorking With Non-Believing Crew MembersThe Business Reality of Christian FilmmakingMinistry Goals and Self-DistributionBalancing Money and MinistryThe Challenges of Theatrical Release TimingDefining a Christian FilmmakerWhere to Watch Light of the WorldBio: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: @LightoftheWorldMovieInstagram: @LightoftheWorldMovieX (formerly Twitter): @lotwmovieTikTok: @LightoftheWorldMovieFacebook: www.facebook.com/john.schaferInstagram: instagram.com/jj_schaferIMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm4094635/?ref_=fn_all_nme_1LinkedIN: www.linkedin.com/in/grafxboy68Editing by Geoffrey WhittFAFF Association Online Meetups: https://faffassociation.com/#faff-meetingsScreenwriters Retreat - Mexico: https://www.faffassociation.com/writers-retreatJaclyn's Book - In the Beginning, Middle and End: A Screenwriter's Observations of LIfe, Character, and God: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D9R7XS9VVIP 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...
She watched Superbook and gave her life to Jesus. Her entire family followed-and a miracle unfolded. Watch how one episode of Superbook led not just to salvation, but to a restored and reunited family.
She watched Superbook and gave her life to Jesus. Her entire family followed-and a miracle unfolded. Watch how one episode of Superbook led not just to salvation, but to a restored and reunited family.
She watched Superbook and gave her life to Jesus. Her entire family followed-and a miracle unfolded. Watch how one episode of Superbook led not just to salvation, but to a restored and reunited family.
She watched Superbook and gave her life to Jesus. Her entire family followed-and a miracle unfolded. Watch how one episode of Superbook led not just to salvation, but to a restored and reunited family.
She watched Superbook and gave her life to Jesus. Her entire family followed-and a miracle unfolded. Watch how one episode of Superbook led not just to salvation, but to a restored and reunited family.
She watched Superbook and gave her life to Jesus. Her entire family followed-and a miracle unfolded. Watch how one episode of Superbook led not just to salvation, but to a restored and reunited family.
She watched Superbook and gave her life to Jesus. Her entire family followed-and a miracle unfolded. Watch how one episode of Superbook led not just to salvation, but to a restored and reunited family.
She watched Superbook and gave her life to Jesus. Her entire family followed-and a miracle unfolded. Watch how one episode of Superbook led not just to salvation, but to a restored and reunited family.
She watched Superbook and gave her life to Jesus. Her entire family followed-and a miracle unfolded. Watch how one episode of Superbook led not just to salvation, but to a restored and reunited family.
She watched Superbook and gave her life to Jesus. Her entire family followed-and a miracle unfolded. Watch how one episode of Superbook led not just to salvation, but to a restored and reunited family.
She watched Superbook and gave her life to Jesus. Her entire family followed-and a miracle unfolded. Watch how one episode of Superbook led not just to salvation, but to a restored and reunited family.
When a school bully threatened a younger child, 9-year-old Njabulo, inspired by Superbook, didn't look away-he stood tall and spoke truth. This story of courage will captivate your whole family.
When a school bully threatened a younger child, 9-year-old Njabulo, inspired by Superbook, didn't look away-he stood tall and spoke truth. This story of courage will captivate your whole family.
When a school bully threatened a younger child, 9-year-old Njabulo, inspired by Superbook, didn't look away-he stood tall and spoke truth. This story of courage will captivate your whole family.
When a school bully threatened a younger child, 9-year-old Njabulo, inspired by Superbook, didn't look away-he stood tall and spoke truth. This story of courage will captivate your whole family.
When a school bully threatened a younger child, 9-year-old Njabulo, inspired by Superbook, didn't look away-he stood tall and spoke truth. This story of courage will captivate your whole family.
When a school bully threatened a younger child, 9-year-old Njabulo, inspired by Superbook, didn't look away-he stood tall and spoke truth. This story of courage will captivate your whole family.
When a school bully threatened a younger child, 9-year-old Njabulo, inspired by Superbook, didn't look away-he stood tall and spoke truth. This story of courage will captivate your whole family.
When a school bully threatened a younger child, 9-year-old Njabulo, inspired by Superbook, didn't look away-he stood tall and spoke truth. This story of courage will captivate your whole family.
When a school bully threatened a younger child, 9-year-old Njabulo, inspired by Superbook, didn't look away-he stood tall and spoke truth. This story of courage will captivate your whole family.
When a school bully threatened a younger child, 9-year-old Njabulo, inspired by Superbook, didn't look away-he stood tall and spoke truth. This story of courage will captivate your whole family.
When a school bully threatened a younger child, 9-year-old Njabulo, inspired by Superbook, didn't look away-he stood tall and spoke truth. This story of courage will captivate your whole family.
When a school bully threatened a younger child, 9-year-old Njabulo, inspired by Superbook, didn't look away-he stood tall and spoke truth. This story of courage will captivate your whole family.
Today on the podcast, we're joined by John Schafer, producer of the upcoming animated film The Light of the World, and Tom Bancroft, veteran Disney animator behind classics like Mulan and The Lion King. Together, they're bringing a powerful, faith-filled story to life through stunning 2D animation. Let's dive into the heart and vision behind the film. John Schfer is an innovative storyteller, director, producer, and brand manager. John has produced for television and film productions for over 33 years. His work on the Daytime EMMY® nominated CG series, Superbook (65 episodes), has been seen by millions of people in over 123 countries and is translated in over 56 languages. Tom Bancroft has almost 25 years of experience in the animation industry, most of which was for Walt Disney Feature Animation where he was an animator for 11 years. He has been nominated for Annie and Rueben awards, spoken at the Kennedy Center and awarded an entry into the Chicago Children's Film Festival. While at Disney, Bancroft had the opportunity to contribute his talents to 10 animated feature films, five animated shorts, and numerous special projects and commercials. Among the classic films on which he worked are, "Beauty and the Beast," "The Lion King," "Aladdin," "Mulan" and "Brother Bear." He was also a character designer and director for Big Idea Productions, makers of the family-friendly "Veggietales" video series.
Episode 170 - Meta Story: Story Structure and Divine Narrative In this episode of the Faith and Family Filmmakers podcast, your host Geoffrey Whitt welcomes back Sean Gaffney, an accomplished writer and professor at Asbury University. They discuss Gaffney's new book 'Meta Story, What Marvel and the Messiah Can Teach Us About Great Storytelling,' which explores the theological underpinnings of storytelling. They delve into the importance of subtext, setups and payoffs, and how these elements are reflected in both the Bible and successful screenwriting. Gaffney explains his unique approach to story structure, including his 'Five Part Story' course, and additional educational opportunities through Faith and Family Filmmakers Association. Highlights Include:Sean's Previous Episodes and ContributionsNew Book ReleaseMeta Story: The Intersection of Theology and StorytellingTeaching and WorkshopsThe Five Part Story CourseThe Importance of Story StructureTheological Underpinnings of StorytellingCharacter Development and SubtextSetups and PayoffsBio:Sean Gaffney has authored well over two hundred produced plays, features, videos, animation projects, YouTube series episodes and short films (including for Big Idea and SuperBook). He was the Story Administrator for Warner Bros. Features and the Managing Director of Taproot Theatre (Seattle). Gaffney currently is a Professor in Media Communication and Screenwriting at Asbury University, as well as Associate Dean of the School of Communications. He received his BFA from Drake University, his MFA from Columbia University, and studied with Act One: Writing for Hollywood.Sean's Book: https://www.amazon.com/Meta-Story-Marvel-Messiah-Storytelling/dp/B0F2JJFFFCSean's Online Screenwriting Course: https://www.faffassociation.com/courses-2/the-five-part-storySean's Website: https://gaffneyinkwell.com/Editing by Michael RothContent Christian Media Conference: https://www.christianmediaconference.com/FAFF Association Online Meetups: https://faffassociation.com/#faff-meetingsFAFF July Filmmakers Bootcamp: https://www.faffassociation.com/filmmakers-bootcampScreenwriters Retreat - Mexico: https://www.faffassociation.com/writers-retreatJaclyn's Book - In the Beginning, Middle and End: A Screenwriter's Observations of LIfe, Character, and God: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D9R7XS9VVIP Producers Mentorship Program https://www.faffassociation.com/vip-producers-mentorshipThe Faith & Family Filmmakers podcast helps...