Just in time for the holiday season, David arrives in theaters with a fresh retelling of a foundational biblical story. Based on the Book of Samuel in the Old Testament, the film follows David from his youth—when he is brought before King Saul to sing—through his iconic battle with Goliath and his eventual rise to become the King of Israel.
The animation blends traditional stop-motion techniques with digitally enhanced environments, creating a visually distinctive style. At times, the imagery is remarkably lifelike—particularly in moments such as the tree-filled opening sequence—while other scenes, including the confrontation with Goliath, lean more heavily into stylized animation. This artistic choice appears intentional, balancing fidelity to the source material with a gentler portrayal of intense moments for younger viewers.
The film’s musical elements are bright and memorable. Several songs feature catchy choruses that may linger with audiences long after the credits roll. Fortunately, these melodies are written to be uplifting and positive, aligning well with the film’s overall tone.
Clearly aimed at families, David offers content appropriate for a broad range of ages. That said, viewers familiar with the biblical narrative will know that certain scenes may be more intense for very young children. Parents should use their discretion—if needed, a well-timed break may help sensitive viewers navigate the story comfortably.
Ultimately, David is a thoughtfully crafted, well-paced film that delivers an encouraging message. Those who appreciate Christian faith–based storytelling will find much to enjoy in this heartfelt and visually engaging adaptation.
Selig’s Director: Phil Cunningham, Brent Dawes
Cast: Brandon Engman, Phill Wickham, Asim Chaudhry
MPAA Rating: action and violence
Selig Rating: 4 stars
Runtime: 1h 55m
Release Date: December 19, 2025
Genre(s): Animation, Adventure, Drama, Family, Musical, Faith
Trailer: David trailer
Movie Site: David website
The Selig Rating Scale:
5 Stars – Excellent movie/show, well worth the time and price.
4 Stars – Good movie/show
3 Stars – OK movie/show
2 Stars – Well, there was nothing else…
1 Star – Total waste of time.