Prime Video's eagerly awaited new series, House of David, has premiered with the first three episodes, providing audiences with a captivating start to this biblical epic. Produced by the faith-based Wonder Project, the series adapts the famous tale from the Bible, primarily drawn from 1 Samuel 17, where the Israelites face Goliath, the giant Philistine warrior. The series invites viewers to witness the heroic rise of David, played by newcomer Michael Iskander, who triumphs over Goliath using nothing more than a slingshot.
The opening scenes set the stage: the Israelites, under the command of King Saul (Ali Suliman), confront the intimidating Philistine army. David, initially depicted as merely a shepherd boy, rises to the occasion, boldly accepting the challenge posed by Goliath (Martyn Ford). This narrative is beautifully encapsulated in the King James Bible verse: "And David put his hand in his bag, and took thence a stone, and slang it, and smote the Philistine in his forehead; and he fell upon his face to the earth. So David prevailed over the Philistine with a sling and with a stone." The series not only retells the ancient battle but also explores David's evolution from obscurity to distinction as one of Israel's most eminent kings.
Jon Erwin, the series' creator, shares his personal connection to the story, recalling the moment he stood before King David's Tomb at the age of 16, igniting his passion for storytelling. His deep respect for the biblical narrative informs the production, which strives for authenticity. Erwin describes the story as more than just the legendary confrontation, framing it instead as "the quintessential hero's story, which has influenced narratives across cultures, such as the journeys of Luke Skywalker and Frodo Baggins." Through the complex character arcs, viewers are invited to explore the full depth of David's tale.
Executive producers Jon Erwin and Jon Gunn have emphasized their focus on creating content appealing to all audiences, not just those seeking religious programming. "We weren’t intending to make a religious show," Gunn states. "We wanted to create compelling storytelling rooted in human experiences." This approach has helped align the creators with Prime Video, fostering relationships based on artistic freedom and creative integrity.
The series delves deep not only the life of David but also the political tensions between the Houses of David and Saul—elements of which are woven throughout the eight-episode season. This dichotomy between the two families enhances the gripping drama, bringing additional layers to the narrative. Erwin notes, "This is not just about the underdog; it's about dynamics of power, family conflicts, and the struggle for succession. This is clearly depicted as 'a war of houses.'"
Each week, new episodes will air, enticing viewers to engage with the lore and characters, which also includes significant figures such as Queen Ahinoam (Ayelet Zurer), Samuel (Stephen Lang), and Jonathan (Ethan Kai). Their relationships with David echo common themes of love, ambition, and conflict. Understanding these relationships is integral to appreciating the narrative’s complexity.
The casting of Michael Iskander as David was no small feat. The producers conducted thorough searches for the right actor—someone who could convey David’s courage and complexity, embodying the character’s youthful spirit. Despite being relatively inexperienced, Iskander successfully captured the essence of his character, even showcasing his vocal talents throughout the audition process. His experience performing on Broadway, coupled with his dedication, brought the character of David to life. Erwin remarked, "Michael's performance is extraordinary, making you feel every triumph and every struggle of David's unforgettable rise."
Martyn Ford, portraying Goliath, adds depth to the antagonist role, not merely relying on his imposing physique but also injecting humanity and emotional stakes to his character. Described as more than just immense, Goliath is also presented with familial motivations, including seeking revenge for his mother’s death. Ford shared his enthusiasm about the role, describing it as historical and powerful. He emphasized his thorough preparation, both physically through rigorous training and emotionally by exploring the motivations behind Goliath's character.
The show promises to capture the story authentically, with producers drawing on old-world filmmaking techniques reminiscent of classic epics like Gladiator and Braveheart. The decision to shoot primarily in Greece, near Athens, enables the series to highlight breathtaking landscapes, enhancing the narrative's grandiosity. Erwin expressed his desire to choose locations not just for their aesthetic but also for their historical significance, creating scenes where "the locations are as big as the emotions."
While the tale of David and Goliath is well-known, House of David aims to explore the untold nuances of these characters beyond their legendary roles. It reveals their hardships, relationships, and inner conflicts, making them relatable and human. This ambitious project does not shy away from the challenges each character faces, presenting the spectrums of human emotion through David's psalms and struggles.
Overall, House of David is poised to capture the hearts of viewers beyond the confines of religious narratives, emphasizing family, ambition, and the timeless struggle for identity and acceptance. The blend of strong storytelling, dynamic characters, and rich visuals sets the stage for what promises to be one of Prime Video's standout series.