Over the Christmas holiday, I was blessed to see the new animated musical David with my family, and I just had to share how incredibly moving this film is. From the very first moments, this movie captured our hearts and reminded us of the beauty of trusting God’s plan.
Like many of you, I grew up watching wonderful animated classics- from Charlie Brown to Superbook to lots of early Disney movies, and this new production from Angel Studios easily stands alongside the best of them. It is beautifully made and filled with inspiration, humor, and heart.
I know animation is often thought of as “just for kids,” but this film is something truly special. My entire family enjoyed it immensely. No matter your age, David is one of those rare, inspiring movies that truly draws you in and gently strengthens your faith along the way. Instantly, I found myself completely engaged in David's story. At times, I was on the edge of my seat, laughing one moment and teary-eyed the next.
We first meet David as a young shepherd faithfully watching over his sheep. In an exciting opening scene, he courageously protects them from a fierce lion, immediately revealing his strength and bravery. Yet what stood out even more was his tenderness and compassion. From the very beginning, we see that David is a young man after God’s own heart… seeking to obey Him, even while struggling to understand why God would choose him to be the future king of Israel.
It is truly awe-inspiring to watch David grow in faith as he follows the path God sets before him, beginning with the moment the prophet Samuel anoints him with oil as God’s chosen replacement for King Saul.
One of the most touching elements of the film is the loving guidance of David’s mother. She is portrayed as a woman of deep faith who believes God is weaving her son into something far greater than he can yet see. Throughout the film, she quietly works on a tapestry, which is symbolic of God’s plan. As each thread is woven, we begin to see important changes unfold in David's life.
There’s even a bit of gentle humor when David asks his mother repeatedly if she’s “stress-weaving,” a fictional comment that is, of course, not found in Scripture, yet one that never detracts from the true heart of the story. Instead, it adds warmth and relatability.
One of the most meaningful exchanges happens when David, as an adult, feels completely defeated:
Mother: “How’s your tapestry working out?”
David: “Oh… way, way worse than I thought. I don’t feel like I’m being woven so much as being stabbed.”
Mother: “Sometimes a thread is pulled so tight, you think it might snap- but trust the Weaver.”
David: “I feel like I snapped a while ago.”
Mother: “Then trust Him to tie you back together.”
What a powerful reminder of trusting God, even when we don’t understand what He’s doing.
Though David is the youngest and often overlooked, God chooses him for his heart. The Spirit of the Lord comes upon him, marking him as Israel’s future king. Throughout the film, we witness David’s relationship with King Saul shift, from admiration and affection to jealousy and fear as Saul realizes David has been chosen to replace him.
Time and again, David’s faith is tested. Through trials, danger, and uncertainty, we see his courage and trust in God deepen and mature.
The adult version of David is voiced by Christian singer Phil Wickham, who also performs several inspirational songs throughout the film. Songs like “I Will Not Be Afraid” and “Follow the Light” are not just entertaining; they minister to the heart. The music was deeply meaningful, speaking right to my spirit, and I found myself instantly humming along.
One line near the end of the film has stayed with me. When David is facing another challenge that seems insurmountable, he courageously says, “I would rather take my chances following the light than choose to live in the dark.” That powerful statement was such a strong reminder that even when we’re scared, choosing God’s light is always better than letting fear hold us back.
I know many are wondering if this is a movie children can see, and my answer is yes, though parents should be aware that there are short battle scenes that may feel intense for very young viewers. Nothing graphic or violent is shown. Even David’s defeat of Goliath with his sling-shot and one stone is handled tastefully, clearly portraying good triumphing over evil.
Please consider taking your family or a friend to see this beautiful film - currently showing in theaters. I truly believe the spiritual depth and heartfelt message of David will encourage your faith, just as it has mine.
Blessings to you all,
Net
Click here for ticket information:
To listen to or purchase songs from the David musical soundtrack, click here for pricing details at Amazon.
I’ve included the trailer for David from Angel Studios, along with one of the film's beautiful songs, below. I hope you enjoy both videos.
*images courtesy: Angel Studios
I don’t have Vid-Angel yet, but glad to see it thriving!! Praise God!!
ReplyDeleteWe were also able to see David the week of Christmas and I absolutely agree Net, we were inspired as adults, such a beautiful movie! As soon as I heard David speak I was like, wait that sounds like Phil Wickham Lol
ReplyDeleteWe went as a group, and while I agree it’s appropriate for children, some parts were scary for our 2 children who are 4 and 7 years old. Mainly the parts where King Saul was dealing with his walk with the Lord, and he was being tormented by some evil spirits, he was getting paranoid, etc. There was also a scene where everyone was standing up in their faith and they were struck down, even a child was struck down and that scared our youngest, he was also a little scared of Goliath. So I would say it’s appropriate for kids but ours were scared a bit and we just had to remind them of the story of David and how God kept David and his people safe. Just wanted to give those details for anyone who might be going with kids our age.
~Paula
Some of my kids went yesterday with their youth group and all the kids, mostly preteen age, enjoyed it. My son has been sharing different things about it today and how it’s made him feel braver.
ReplyDeleteMy husband & I are planning to see it this weekend with our 6 year old twins.
I’ve been wanting to see this, but after reading your review, Net, I know I’ve got to see this now. I’m so glad we have places like Angel Studios & Great American Family, who create faith based movies like this that build our faith. Christie
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