“David” redefines animated Bible epics by placing faith and worship at the narrative center rather than treating them as background elements. Unlike “The Prince of Egypt,” which emphasized interpersonal drama, this 2025 release from Sunrise Animation Studios and Angel Studios focuses directly on David’s relationship with God through original songs and unfiltered spiritual content. Early reviewers praise its scriptural authenticity and spiritual boldness, noting how it balances entertainment with biblical teaching. The film’s record-breaking $10 million in pre-sales suggests audiences welcome this approach, and further exploration reveals how its unique creative choices set new standards.
A new animated film is aiming to bring the story of David to theaters with the kind of spiritual boldness rarely seen in modern biblical adaptations. “David,” an animated musical adventure based on the Book of Samuel, arrives in theaters December 19, 2025, produced by Sunrise Animation Studios and Slingshot USA and distributed by Angel Studios.
The project was conceived by director Phil Cunningham, who drew inspiration from childhood readings of David’s biblical story. Co-directed with Brent Dawes, the film was crowdfunded and gained support from Kirk Cameron through YouTube promotion.
Director Phil Cunningham’s childhood fascination with David’s biblical story inspired this crowdfunded film, later supported by Kirk Cameron’s YouTube promotion.
The narrative follows David from his early days as a shepherd defending his flock against a lion through his anointing by Prophet Samuel, his service to King Saul, and his legendary confrontation with Goliath.
Brandon Engman voices young David, while Christian musician Phil Wickham provides the voice for the adult version. Brian Stivale portrays Prophet Samuel, and the cast includes Lauren Daigle and Miri Mesika, who perform in a reprise of “Follow The Light.” Additional voice actors include Asim Chaudhry, Mick Wingert, and Will de Renzy-Martin.
Music forms a central component of the film, with original songs like “Adventure Song,” “Shalom,” and “Follow The Light” performed by Wickham and Engman. The soundtrack, available from Angel Film, features tracks that emphasize faith without reservation, including a rousing number during a climactic Amalekite raid sequence at Ziklag. Grammy winner Jonas Myrin contributed songs to the film’s soundtrack.
Early reviews suggest the film represents the strongest animated biblical adaptation since “Prince of Egypt.” Critics have praised its willingness to portray faith directly rather than diluting spiritual content. The film has already achieved record-breaking pre-sales exceeding $10 million for Angel Studios.
The film balances entertainment with scriptural teaching through humor and music, maintaining appeal for both children and adults.
Thematically, “David” emphasizes the protagonist as a humble servant and passionate worshiper, described as a man after God’s heart. The narrative focuses on worship and divine relationship over interpersonal drama, with subtle references pointing toward Jesus. The film also touches on themes like identification with Christ that are central to biblical rites.
