We all go through situations that feel bigger than we can handle, and sometimes we feel like we do not have what it takes to overcome them. David reignites the flame of hope and reminds us to stay strong and not give up.
David not only tells a story most of us know—of a young shepherd slaying the giant and becoming king—but watching this animation feels like more than just another biblical adaptation—it sparks lost hope and reminds us that the work in progress doesn’t look as beautiful as the finished tapestry, with every stitch woven together.
Brent Dawes and Phil Wickham were not only telling another story or just making another film; it was about passing a message and restoring hope. In his quest to build Sunrise and make this masterpiece, Phil felt like David facing Goliath, having nothing but hope and faith.
Produced in Cape Town, the animated musical overcame its own giants by having over four million views for its teaser on YouTube and having over $4.5 million in pre-sales ahead of its official premiere in South Africa and the US on Friday, 19 December 2025. With David racking up such huge numbers on the market and having been produced in South Africa, it surely promises to be SA’s biggest international breakout film since District 9 (2009).
David is, I could say, a perfect reenactment of the biblical story found in the books of 1st and 2nd Samuel, following the life of David from the early years of his life as a shepherd. The animated musical infuses humor and biblical truth that brings hope and is engaging to young viewers in every frame, coupled with playful charm that lightens the weight of even the heaviest parts of the film.
Though hearing a bit of a South African accent would have brought David a little closer to home, it sure carries weight not only in South Africa but internationally. I could say this comes from its beautiful depiction of the Bible story, which makes it perfect for the whole family, and the beautiful piecing together of every element—especially sound and music—which I must admit got me looking up every song. The use of upbeat worship music in gloomy moments kept the overall joyful mood and happy tone of the film.
David is surely the best animated film of the year 2025, and what better time to watch it than this festive season with the whole family?
