David

The two seasons of the calendar year that offers the majority of animated films is that of summer and Christmas time. There are so many that if you can't find one to watch, you're clearly not looking. There's a new animated flick on the block, and that's in the form of "David". It's about the life of King David from the books of 1 and 2 Samuel of the bible--how he went from being a meager shepherd to King of Israel and all that happened in between. 

From the songs of his mother's heart to the whispers of a faithful God, young David's (Brandon Engman) journey begins in quiet devotion. When the giant Goliath (Kamran Nikhad) rises to terrorize a nation, this young shepherd's armed with only a sling, a few stones, and unshakable faith steps forward. Pursued by power and driven by purpose, this now adult David (Phil Wickham), the anointed king's journey tests the limits of loyalty, love, and courage--culminating in a battle not just for a crown, but for the soul of a nation. This shows us the remarkable humility and faith this man had and how he wouldn't compromise his faith at all.

Others to round out the cast are Asim Chaudhry as King Achish, Mark Jacobson as Jonathan, Adam Michael Gold as Saul, Brian Stivale as Samuel, Lauren Daigle as Rebecca, Katie Bernstein as Ahinoam and Will de Renzy-Martin as Vaizatha. 

This was directed with such conviction and compassion by Phil Cunningham ("Young David" TV) and Brent Dawes ("Jungle Beat: The Movie" '2020) plus TV and shorts. Even though these filmmakers don't have a tremendous list of work, what they have and the subject matter of their resumes certainly allows them to be able to easily carry out this task as directors. The production's fluidity was incredible when it came to the sequencing. It was wonderfully written by Brent Dawes ("Once Upon a Stable" (TV movie) '04, "The Lion of Judah" '11, "Jungle Beat: The Movie" '2020, "Jungle Beat 2: The Past" (additional writing) '25) plus TV, with additional writing by Kyle Portbury and Sam Wilson.  Again, without a plethora of experience, this was an amazing script and story line leading up to David's pinnacle as King of Israel. The screenplay was tight, cohesive and concise, and an admiral connection with what the scriptures would bring out. 

This is a film all must see--young and old alike for its historical backdrop, for its faith and for its love. If you miss this in the theater (and you shouldn't), then definitely see it on Netflix. It is an awesome film, and the animation by Sunrise Studios is phenomenal. 

Out of 4 Stars: 4                                          Rated: PG                                       111mins.