Animated Film from Angel Studios

The long-awaited faith-based movie, David, by Angel Studios gives us a glimpse into the life of a shepherd boy destined to be King of Israel. In this David Christian Movie Review & Parent Guide, I give you the information you need before viewing this movie with your children.

While there have been many movies about the life of King David throughout the years, David from Angel Studios has been on my list to see because I loved the shorts entitled Young David. Keep in mind, these can be watched on the Angel app or on Minno.

David Christian Movie Review

Studio Synopsis:

From the songs of his mother’s heart to the whispers of a faithful God, David’s story begins in quiet devotion. When the giant Goliath rises to terrorize a nation, a young shepherd armed with only a sling, a few stones, and unshakable faith steps forward. Pursued by power and driven by purpose, his journey tests the limits of loyalty, love, and courage—culminating in a battle not just for a crown, but for the soul of a kingdom.

My Synopsis:

As you watch the story of the life of David from the time he was anointed by the prophet Samuel until he took the throne as King David, you are transported to the land of first Kings of Israel. As a young Israelite shepherd boy, he walks with God, playing music, and defending his sheep. In fact, he continues following God even when it doesn’t make sense.

David Christian Review – What Parents Want to Know

Language:

No extreme language. A few times, people say heck or speak harshly to others.

Violence:

A lion attacks the sheep that David is watching. He uses a slingshot to hit the lion.

Additionally, soldiers are shown stealing from villagers and terrorizing them. Furthermore, frequent battle scenes are shown. However, this is all done with no blood.

In the scene where David kills Goliath, it is tastefully done and does not show a beheaded Goliath. However, later King Saul is shown holding Goliath’s helmet in a symbolic way.

Several scenes depict King Saul as being crazed and angry. He throws people out of the throne room.

There is discussion about killing, and David does talk about being the one that will kill Goliath. Additionally, King Saul attacks David and throws a spear at him.

Spiritual Content:

Obviously, since this is a story from the Bible (specificially 1 Samuel), all of the content is Biblical. David talks and sings about following the light and walking and trusting God.

At one point, David says, “I just don’t understand what God is doing.”

Other Content:

In the beginning of the film, a lamb is giving birth. However, the birth itself is not shown.

Deception:

David does not tell King David who he is and that he was anointed by Samuel. Eventually, he goes into hiding.

Positive Content:

Beautifully made film with wonderful music.

The entire film is about following God’s call on your life and hearing from Him. Furthermore, the film highlights trusting God when things don’t make sense or when the plan isn’t working the way you thought. In fact, the song, Follow the Light, is about following the path that God has laid out for you.

My Viewing Recommendations of David Christian Movie Review

Excellent musical film that explores the life of David. While creative liberties are taken, this movie overall highlights the key points that lead to David taking the throne as King of Israel. Furthermore, it is tastefully done and great for ages 5 and up. David is a film that families will love.

About the Movie David:

Rating: PG for cartoon violence and scary images

Release Date: December 19, 2025

Runtime: 1 hour, 55 minutes

Genre: Family, Faith

Style: Animated

Studio: 2521 Entertainment, Sunrise Animation Studios, Slighshot Productions

Directed by: Brent Dawes, Phil Cunningham

Written by: Brent Dawes, Phil Cunningham

Based on the Book of Samuel

Produced by: Steve Pegram, Tim Keller, Rita Mbanga

Edited by: Tom Scott

Music by: Joseph Trapanese

Distributed by: Angel Studios

The Voice Cast of David (2025)

Phil Wickham as David

Brandon Engman as young David

Brian Stivale as Samuel

Miri Mesika as Nitzevet

Hector as Jesse

Sloan Muldown as Zeruiah

Ashley Boettcher as Zeruiah as a teen

Mark Jacobson as Jonathan

Adam Michael Gold as King Saul

Asim Chaudhry as King Achish (King of Gath)

Mick Wingert as Zaydel

Will de Renzy-Martin as Vaizatha

Lauren Daigle as Rebecca

Kamran Nikhad as Goliath