Orson Welles presides over biblical intrigue and shepherdly cunning in a sword-and-sandals showdown.
DAVID AND GOLIATH
King Saul of the Israelites is visited in Jerusalem by the Prophet Samuel who foretells him that a war with The Philistines is inevitable and the shepherd David will become king.
David and Goliath is a 1960 Italian action, drama, and family film directed by Ferdinando Baldi and Richard Pottier about the rise of the shepherd David, who is foretold to become king, as he navigates political machinations and challenges from King Saul and the Philistines.
Themes & Keywords
Synopsis
The unsuspecting shepherd David visits Jerusalem where he is identified as the king. Abner decides to test his wisdom by asking how the Israelites can get around the Philistines' imposed edict that the only ones who may lawfully bear arms in defeated Israel are the officers of Saul's court and his palace guard. David replies that the Philistines have set no limit on the number of officers or palace guards.
Meanwhile, King Asrod of the Philistines plots another attack on the riches of Israel, this time accompanied by the fearsome giant Goliath.
Why Cult
See Orson Welles bring gravitas and paranoia to the doomed King Saul, lording over the Israelites with thunderous presence.
A prime slice of Italy's sword-and-sandals cycle, blending biblical lore with widescreen melodrama and lavish sets.
The prophet Samuel’s forecast sets off a chain of royal paranoia, secret tests of wisdom, and crafty maneuvers in Saul’s court.
Certified G and packed with biblical adventure, this one’s safe for all ages—so bring the whole flock.
Questions from the Vault
What is David and Goliath about? +
David and Goliath is a 1960 Italian action, drama, and family film about the shepherd David’s rise after being foretold as king, and the ensuing tensions with King Saul and the Philistines.
Who directed David and Goliath? +
David and Goliath was directed by Ferdinando Baldi and Richard Pottier.
How long is David and Goliath? +
David and Goliath has a runtime of 92 minutes.
What genre is David and Goliath? +
David and Goliath is an action, drama, and family film.
When was David and Goliath released? +
David and Goliath was released in 1960.
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