The musical animated movie “David” charts the biblical character’s rise from a shepherd boy tending sheep to a young king over Israel based on 1 and 2 Samuel. 1 Samuel 13:14 serves as the backdrop: “The Lord has sought for himself a man after his own heart.”
Young David doesn’t desire kingship because he realizes Saul is the king, but the prophet Samuel anoints David anyway without telling Saul. Saul finds out because people talk, and he makes David’s life miserable. But David earns huge Israelite points when he takes down the Philistine Goliath who had told David, “I will make you a snack.” Eventually, Saul makes nice with David and realizes God did ordain David as king.
David’s misery isn’t over, however, because an Israelite enemy pins David upright, reminding one of Jesus’ posture on the cross. But the Lord intervenes and David comes home to a hero's welcome. The movie’s language is a combination of biblical language and 2025 references. Actor, dancer, and singer Brandon Engman voices young David, while singer Phil Wickham voices adult David and also sings in the movie. Voice actor Brian Stivale voices Samuel. The visuals are stunning, and the film offers plenty of action and music. This is a hopeful movie that depicts God guiding individuals and history. (Rated PG, Angel Studios)