Jack Efthimiou’s take on “David”

Angel Studios, Inc. released the animated film “David” on December 19, 2025. It features a cast that includes Phil Wickham, Asim Chaudhry, Miri Mesika, and Mark Wingert. The movie’s vibrant animation and Christian musical numbers tell a story of the young King David, whom Christians know from the Bible.

“‘David’ was produced on a $60.9 million budget, most of which Angel Studios says was crowdfunded,” according to Forbes. Angel Studios wanted to distribute one million tickets to children. Their film made over $82 million dollars worldwide, bringing in over $11 million in profit.

However, “David” did not release without conflict. According to Forbes, the company Slingshot, who produced the movie, sued Angel over a “hostile takeover,” also terminating an agreement on distribution. Afterwards, Angel bought back the rights to “David” and “Young David” for $78 million, releasing the former in December.

Credit: IMDB

The film begins in the countryside of the Kingdom of Israel, where a young David (Phil Wickham) tends to his flock of sheep. David then returns to his village after an encounter with a lion and he is anointed by the prophet Samuel to become the next king. Soldiers then take him to play his harp for King Saul (Adam Gold), who is tormented by an evil spirit. When the Philistines arrive to fight, Saul and his army face them. As most Christians know, Goliath (Karahm Nikhad) and David square off in a field, and David wins using a sling and a rock. 

Saul grows increasingly frustrated with David’s popularity, eventually ordering his guards to kill him, forcing David to flee into the wilderness with his followers. After the Philistines defeat Saul’s army, and the Amalekites capture David’s people, the young king must take a stand to save them.

With 76% critic feedback and 98% audience feedback on Rotten Tomatoes, “David” seems to be acclaimed among movie reviewers and casuals alike. Reviewers praised the film’s “beautiful animation” and writing, but also remarked that the movie touches upon darker themes, such as executions, not typically found in Disney-style animation. Both rooted Christians and casual believers will enjoy the production’s animation, writing, choreography. Children will especially love the songs and dance numbers featured throughout the 115 minute long film.