Phil Cunningham: Creating an Epic Biblical Animation 37 Years in the Making

Phil Cunningham, founder of Sunrise Animation Studios and director of the animated musical film "David," shares how a vision 37 years ago while canoeing down Africa's Zambezi River inspired an epic retelling of the biblical hero's story. Surrounded by thunderstorms, elephants, buffalo, and charging lions while reading David's story, Cunningham was struck by God's declaration that David was "a man after my own heart" and realized that telling David's story could give audiences a glimpse of God's expansive, adventurous heart. He explains why David resonates so deeply with audiences—because he's flawed like all of us, yet lives wholeheartedly and fearlessly, expressing his fears, questions, and joys openly. Rather than just retelling the familiar David and Goliath story, the film spans from young shepherd David through his battle with Goliath to his coronation as king of Judah, revealing the rich material that exists beyond the giant-slaying moment most people remember. Cunningham describes the monumental challenge of creating what he calls an "Arc de Triomphe" of animated films—something genuinely competing with Pixar, Disney, and DreamWorks rather than just another TV movie shot for cinema. The 10-year production involved 400-500 people working across 32 countries, including veterans with 20 years at Pixar and DreamWorks. He discusses the importance of authenticity, conducting four research trips to Israel to stay true to the source material, and using music as a crucial element since David authentically wrote half the Psalms as a musician and songwriter. Cunningham reveals the casting process that led to Phil Wickham voicing adult David—finding someone who was not only a great singer but also brought genuine acting energy and embodied David's adventurous character—alongside Lauren Daigle in a supporting role. The director emphasizes his hope that the film does more than entertain, inspiring audiences to take on the giants in their own lives while championing mothers, drawing on his own mother's influence who challenged him at 14 to have adventures like the biblical heroes.