movies

Why Young Washington Is the Must-See Independence Day Movie of 2026

| Faith and Family Films

This is one of those rare film announcements that makes you stop, reflect — and get genuinely excited about what storytelling can do. Young Washington isn’t just another historical movie; it’s a bold, inspiring story about the early life of George Washington, coming to theaters July 4th weekend, 2026, right in time for America’s 250th birthday.

What makes this project truly special is the partnership between Wonder Project and Angel Studios — two companies committed to uplifting, meaningful cinema that resonates with families and communities across the country.

🎖️ A Story Rooted in Courage and Character

Young Washington explores a side of George Washington few of us have seen on the big screen — his formative years, before he became Commander-in-Chief and the first President of the United States. At 22 years old, Washington makes a choice that ignites the French and Indian War, forcing him to confront failure, grow in character, and discover the courage that would define his legacy.

This is more than a “founding father biopic.” It’s a story of resilience, leadership, and transformation — themes that resonate with audiences today, especially families, educators, and anyone looking for stories with depth and heart.

🎥 Meet the Team Behind the Film

The movie is directed by Jon Erwin, known for powerful films like Jesus Revolution and I Can Only Imagine, co-written by Erwin with Tom Provost and Diederik Hoogstraten, and produced alongside Chip Diggins.

Angel Studios, the distributor, is known for its grassroots approach to storytelling — driven by a community of more than 1.5 million members who champion stories that “amplify light to mainstream audiences.”

On the Wonder Project side, the collaboration reflects their mission to entertain the world with courageous stories that inspire hope and restore faith in things worth believing in.

🎭 A Cast Bringing History to Life

The film’s cast includes rising star William Franklyn-Miller as Young George Washington, joined by memorable talents like Mary-Louise Parker, Kelsey Grammer, Andy Serkis, and Sir Ben Kingsley. These actors bring depth and gravitas to the story, ensuring this isn’t just educational — it’s emotionally engaging and cinematic in scale.

🎟️ A New Model for Fan Engagement

In a bold and unprecedented move, tickets for Young Washington went on sale a full year before its theatrical release — even before filming began. This early ticket availability isn’t just about reserving a seat; it’s a way for audiences to show theaters and the industry that there is real demand for thoughtful, values-driven films that celebrate history and human character.

Angel’s ticketing platform even lets fans change the date and time of their ticket closer to release — giving flexibility and empowering early supporters.

📅 Mark Your Calendar

Young Washington opens in theaters over Independence Day Weekend, 2026 — a cinematic holiday celebration timed with America’s 250th anniversary. This film is poised not just to entertain, but to spark conversation in homes, classrooms, and church communities across the nation.

As someone passionate about faith, family, and films that uplift, Young Washington feels like more than a movie — it’s a cultural moment. Makes plans to experience Young Washington in theaters July 4th, 2026 – Click this link for details on how to purchase tickets early.

David Almgren – Two Pastors, Popcorn and a Movie Podcast

Nate is releasing a new movie . . .

| Faith and Family Films

I just watched the trailer for The Breadwinner, and I love it. I honestly don’t think I’ve laughed this much watching a movie trailer in recent memory. From the very first moments, it delivers big, relatable laughs—and if the trailer is any indication, this film is going to be a lot of fun. I’m genuinely looking forward to seeing The Breadwinner in theaters.

That excitement is well-earned, because The Breadwinner stars record-breaking stand-up comedian Nate Bargatze in his first-ever feature film role. Known for his clean, relatable humor and down-to-earth storytelling, Bargatze brings that same authenticity to the big screen in a family comedy many parents will instantly recognize.

Screenshot

A Role Reversal with Real Stakes

In The Breadwinner, Bargatze plays Nate Wilcox, a devoted husband and lifelong provider who has always defined his role by working hard to support his family. But when his wife Katie (played by Mandy Moore) lands a once-in-a-lifetime business deal on Shark Tank, everything changes.

Katie’s success sends her on an extended business trip, leaving Nate at home—full-time—with their three young daughters.

What seems manageable at first quickly becomes overwhelming.

Parenting Is No Punchline

With little experience handling the day-to-day rhythms of parenting, Nate is thrown into the deep end of school schedules, emotional moments, household chaos, and the nonstop demands of raising kids. As the misadventures pile up, Nate learns what countless parents already know: running a household may be the toughest gig there is.

The comedy flows naturally from the situations, but the heart of the story is about growth, humility, and learning to value the unseen work that holds a family together.

Why The Breadwinner Resonates

At its core, The Breadwinner isn’t just about laughs—it’s about family, partnership, and redefining what it means to provide. The film explores:

  • The challenges and dignity of stay-at-home parenting
  • Mutual respect between spouses
  • The importance of teamwork in marriage
  • Finding purpose beyond traditional roles

These themes make The Breadwinner especially meaningful for families looking for entertainment that reflects real life—with humor and heart.

A Comedy for the Whole Family

With Nate Bargatze’s signature clean comedy and Mandy Moore’s warmth and strength, The Breadwinner promises to be a refreshing, family-friendly film that parents and kids can enjoy together.

Sometimes the biggest lessons come when life flips the script—and reminds us that love, sacrifice, and faithfulness at home matter more than any title or paycheck.

The Breadwinner is one to watch—and one I can’t wait to see on the big screen.

Dave Almgren – Two Pastors, Popcorn and a Movie Podcast

What I Didn’t Expect to Find in Man vs. Baby

| Faith and Family Films

When people sit down to watch a Rowan Atkinson comedy, they expect slapstick, chaos, and wonderfully awkward moments. Netflix’s Man vs. Baby certainly delivers all of that—but on a closer look, the series also holds surprising Christian themes woven beneath the humor.

While the premise is simple—a man unexpectedly caring for a baby faces escalating challenges—the show uses its comedic structure to highlight deeper truths about compassion, humility, and redemption.

1. Caring for Others: A Modern Parable of Compassion

Throughout the series, Trevor (Rowan Atkinson) repeatedly tries—though imperfectly—to do what is right. Even when everything spirals out of control, his intentions remain rooted in care, especially for the vulnerable child placed in his hands.

This reflects a deeply Christian principle: love is demonstrated not through perfection but through self-giving compassion, especially toward those who cannot repay us. Trevor’s clumsy, heartfelt efforts mirror the biblical call to care for “the least of these.”

2. Hospitality: Welcoming Strangers From the Cold

Another meaningful theme in the show is hospitality. Despite his own struggles, Trevor repeatedly chooses generosity:

  • inviting strangers inside
  • offering warmth and food
  • showing care even when it inconveniences him

These moments echo Scripture’s teachings on welcoming the stranger, reminding viewers that hospitality is a holy act—an outward sign of inward kindness.

3. The Nativity-Like Climax: How the True Meaning of Christmas Shines Through

The closing scene of Man vs. Baby—featuring a life-size nativity—is far more than a comedic flourish. It becomes the emotional and spiritual anchor of the series.

At its core, the true meaning of Christmas is this:

  • God entering the world in humility
  • hope arriving through a child
  • light breaking into ordinary, messy life
  • love choosing vulnerability

The nativity scene in the finale captures these themes beautifully. Trevor, exhausted and humbled, stands amid figures representing Mary, Joseph, and the newborn Jesus—a symbolic reminder that grace often comes in the middle of chaos, not in spite of it.

Here, the comedy of the series gives way to a moment of stillness and reflection. The baby he has spent the entire show trying to protect suddenly becomes a symbol of the very heart of Christmas: that every life has value, that love shows up quietly, and that redemption often begins in the simplest acts of care.

This visual parallel doesn’t just conclude the story—it re-frames it.
The series becomes a modern parable about how unexpectedly holy the everyday moments of compassion can be.

4. Comedy as a Vessel for Spiritual Reflection

What makes Man vs. Baby so effective is that it doesn’t preach. Instead, it uses humor to explore:

  • how compassion grows through trial
  • how humility leads to transformation
  • how caring for others—even clumsily—reflects divine love

In the end, comedy becomes a bridge to spiritual truth.

Conclusion: A Lighthearted Story With a Christmas Heart

Man vs. Baby may look like a simple comedic series about a man caring for a baby in chaotic circumstances, but beneath the laughter lies a tender moral core. Themes of care, hospitality, humility, and redemption shape the story, culminating in a finale that quietly but clearly points to the true meaning of Christmas.

In the life-size nativity scene, the show reminds us that grace often appears in the most unexpected places—and sometimes, as Trevor learns, caring for someone small and fragile can reveal the deepest truths of the season. Man vs. Baby is playing NOW on Netflix.

David Almgren – Two Pastors, Popcorn and A Movie Podcast

Faith Films. Fresh Stories. One Site.

| Faith and Family Films

🎬 Welcome to the New Faith and Family Films Hub — Your Home for All Things Faith-Based Entertainment!

Big news from Faith and Family Films News and Notes! We’ve launched our brand-new media website — faithandfamilyfilms.net

We’ve also brought together all of our favorite content under one roof, including the Two Pastors, Popcorn and a Movie podcast and Sharing Movies Worthy Reviews. Now, you can explore trusted movie reviews, our Faith and Family Films Blog, behind-the-scenes interviews with filmmakers and actors, red carpet moments, and even thoughtful discussions about the themes that make faith films so impactful.

Our goal is simple: to create a space where those who love faith-driven storytelling can discover, discuss, and celebrate inspiring movies and TV shows.

👉 Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed and up to date on everything happening in Christian entertainment — from new series and feature films to exclusive interviews and previews.

And don’t forget to browse our growing library of movie trailers. You might just uncover a few hidden gems that deserve a second look.

Welcome to the new Faith and Family Films News and Notes— where stories of hope, redemption, and purpose shine on screen.

David Almgren – Faith and Family Films News and Notes

Harnessing the Power of Animated Faith Films to Impact Your Community

| Faith and Family Films

There’s nothing quite like gathering together to watch an animated film on the big screen. The excitement, the adventure, and the ability to be transported into another realm make movies a powerful experience that captivates children and those that are kids at heart. But beyond the entertainment, animated films have the potential to serve as an special tool for ministry, bringing biblical truths to life in an engaging and meaningful way.

As we step into 2025, there is an unprecedented wave of animated faith-based content hitting theaters and streaming platforms. This is a remarkable opportunity for family and children’s pastors to harness these films as a means of teaching, disciplining, and uniting their communities around biblical values.

An Exciting Line Up of Faith-based Animated Content.

Here are some a few releases to mark on your calendar:

• The Dead Sea Squirrels Series – An engaging series that introduces kids to biblical truths through the adventures of animated squirrels. Check out the new animated series from VeggieTales Co-Creator, Mike Nawrocki, streaming exclusively on Minno! Featuring performances and songs by Beth Moore, Ellie Holcomb, Mike Nawrocki, Steve Taylor, Newsboys, Matthew West, & more! Available Now on Mino streaming platform.

The King of Kings Movie – A father tells his son the greatest story ever told, and what begins as a bedtime tale becomes a life-changing journey. Through vivid imagination, the boy walks alongside Jesus, witnessing His miracles, facing His trials, and understanding His ultimate sacrifice. The King of Kings invites us to rediscover the enduring power of hope, love, and redemption through the eyes of a child. In theaters starting April 11th, 2025.

The Chosen: Animated Adventure Series –Creator of The Chosen Dallas Jenkins’ new independent studio 5&2 Studios is currently working on a New Children’s Animated Series called The Chosen Adventures. The Chosen Adventures follows nine-year-old Abby in the Galilean city of Capernaum, circa 30 CE. Inquisitive young Abby is bursting at the seams with questions and feels she doesn’t have the kinds of answers she’s looking for. When she and her best friend, Joshua, meet Jesus will all that change? Release Fall 2025

The Light of the World Movie – It’s AD 30 and everyone is expectantly awaiting the coming Messiah. While Jesus isn’t exactly what they imagined, there is something special about this man. Soon, John, James, Andrew, Peter, and their new friends begin to follow Jesus on an unexpected adventure. This beautiful, 2D-animated story of Jesus is told through the eyes of his beloved young friend, the Apostle John. From the beginning of Jesus’ ministry through his crucifixion and resurrection, LIGHT OF THE WORLD powerfully illustrates how Jesus of Nazareth changed the world forever and still changes lives today!  In theaters September 5th, 2025.

Young David Movie – David is one of the most inspiring characters in human history. Warrior, poet, shepherd and king, David’s life is one of incredible color and energy. It’s the ultimate underdog story. It’s about much more than a shepherd boy who took on a giant. It’s a story that can inspire a generation to live more courageously, and love more generously. It has the power to change us. ​ David is a major animated feature film that will reach a global audience. Animation is arguably the most powerful medium through which to reach every generation, culture and language. The world’s most beloved animated films are re-watched again and again and David may become one of the classics for generations to come. Release Fall 2025

Why Animated Faith Films Matter

Animated content has a unique way of capturing attention and making complex truths understandable, especially for children. With their colorful visuals, compelling storytelling, and relatable characters, these films provide an accessible way to teach scriptural lessons. In addition, they serve as a catalyst for family discussions, helping parents reinforce biblical principles at home.

How to Leverage This Content for Ministry

1. Host Family Movie Nights – Create a fun and inviting atmosphere where families can watch these films together, followed by a discussion or devotional time.

2. Incorporate Film-Based Curriculum – Use these films as the foundation for your Sunday school or midweek lessons, helping kids connect the stories on screen with biblical truth.

3. Encourage Family Engagement – Provide parents with discussion guides and activities that allow them to continue the conversation at home.

4. Community Outreach – Use these films as a way to invite families from your neighborhood into the church, providing an easy entry point for those who may not regularly attend.

The Time is Now

In all my years working in faith-based films, I have never seen such a rich offering of animated content that aligns with biblical values. This is an giant opportunity to use high-quality, faith- driven entertainment to disciple young people and support the spiritual growth of families in your church.

I challenge you, as a children’s pastor, to plan ahead and make the most of these incredible resources. Organize events, integrate these films into your teaching, and encourage families to use them as tools for faith development. Let’s seize this moment to inspire the next generation with biblical truths through the power of animated storytelling!

David Almgren

Faith and Family Films New and Notes.

Co-host of Two Pastor, Popcorn and a Movie Podcast

The Power of Story – “mo’olelo”

| Faith and Family Films

A few nights ago, I encountered someone whose very presence was a story in itself: a man who is 104 years old, born in 1920. It’s remarkable to think about what this man has lived through. In over a century of life, his story has likely been shaped by historic changes, cultural shifts, and countless personal experiences. His existence sparked a larger contemplation for me—what is his story, and how has it shaped him?

This reflection extended to everyone I saw that night while walking through the park in Waikiki. People passed by, some sitting on the grass, others strolling along the pathways. Each person carried with them their own narrative. Did they grow up in Hawaii, or did they move here? What led them to this specific moment in time? Do they know Jesus? Their stories, though perhaps less known than those of public figures or historical icons, are no less significant. Every person’s life is a mosaic of experiences, decisions, and encounters, and in Hawaiian culture, storytelling plays a crucial role in recognizing this.

In traditional Hawaiian society, storytelling was an oral art form, passed down through generations in the form of “moʻolelo” (narratives) and chants. These stories weren’t just for entertainment; they were the primary way to preserve history, cultural practices, and moral lessons. Storytelling connected people to their ancestors and the land. While the medium of storytelling has expanded —from oral traditions to written word, to digital media —the core purpose remains the same: to communicate, to connect, and to remember.

Today, storytelling often takes place on the big screen. Films have become one of the most powerful mediums for sharing stories on a grand scale. True-to-life narratives, whether they depict historical events or personal struggles, have the ability to deeply move audiences. Films can evoke emotions, challenge perspectives, and inspire change. In many ways, they help individual stories become universal. The films we watch are not only entertainment—Movies like ‘The Best Christmas Pageant Ever’ or the soon to be released animated movies “David” and The King of Kings‘. They are reflections of human experience.

But what is it that makes certain stories land on the big screen? What elevates some narratives to global recognition while others remain untold? It’s worth considering that even though some stories get the spotlight, every narrative holds value. The elderly man in the park, the runner passing by, the quiet onlooker at the café —each story holds meaning. Yet, for some, the stage is larger, and their stories resonate more broadly.

However, it’s not the size of the audience that determines the value of a story—it’s the impact it has on those who hear it. In the realm of faith, storytelling also plays a central role. Churches have long been places where the greatest stories are shared—stories of hope, redemption, and transformation. The story of Christ is a narrative of profound significance, and the ways in which it’s communicated continue to evolve. Just as we use modern media to tell personal stories, we can also use these tools to share messages of faith.

Ultimately, stories are bridges. They connect us to others, allow us to understand different perspectives, and inspire us to think beyond ourselves. Whether told in a park, in a church, or on the big screen, stories have the power to make people feel heard, valued, and part of something larger.

Dave Almgren – The Movie Guy and Co Host of Two Pastors, Popcorn and a Movie Podcast.

First Takes With Fiona

| Faith and Family Films

Two Pastors, Popcorn and a Movie teams up with “First Takes with Fiona”. Check out the audience reactions to the Amazon film “Blue Angels”. This incredible film is available now on Amazon Prime. Check it out this weekend.

Message In Motion

| Faith and Family Films

What do Amiee Semple McPherson, Pine Wood Studios London, World Wide Pictures, the Salvation Army, hippies during the ‘Jesus Revolution,’ and the Erwin Brothers have in common? The answer: They have all utilized ‘the-media-of-the-day’ to reach the masses with the Gospel.

Aimee used ‘illustrated-sermons’ when she preached at Angelus Temple Foursquare Church.

In 1915 a missionary group noticed that the silent films of the day were not wholesome. So they countered by launching Pinewood Studios, London, to create family-friendly content.

Billy Graham made the Gospel come alive via World Wide Pictures. The Salvation Army, Australia, used film to present the Gospel.

During the ’60’s and ‘70’s the hippies of the Jesus Revolution used music and gospel tracks to communicate the love of God and the Gospel message.

The Erwin Brothers have produced motion pictures presenting stories of hope worldwide.

Film, especially motion pictures, is the most powerful ‘media-of-our-day’ for telling stories. And telling stories is a powerful way to communicate ‘Truth.’ There is nothing like a motion picture to engage the senses. We see life-like images on the screen. We hear the music, conversations and sound effects. We feel the emotional connection to the characters. It is a magical mixture that can drive the audience either in a positive or negative direction.

I have been in the faith and family film industry for more than a decade and can say unequivocally that film in the ‘faith space’ moves audiences toward hope and the Good News. This Movie Guy has seen a multitude of Pastors embolden their congregations to attend faith-based films and have seen positive and dramatic life responses. I encourage those of you who have not utilized this powerful tool to try this media-of-our-day very soon.

Movies produced by dedicated, Christian filmmakers like the Erwin’s, move audiences from contemplation and reflection to life-changing actions; films like: October Baby, where some expectant mothers walked out of the movie with changed minds, deciding to have their babies rather than seek an abortion. Mom’s Night Out reinforced that ‘the JOY of the Lord is our strength. Woodlawn brought a message of hope and salvation to high school football teams across the U.S.A. And I Can Only Imagine showed us the hope of Jesus Christ in the middle of tragedy.

Their new film, The Jesus Revolution, will arrive in theaters in February 2023. It’s a true story about the sea of young people who descended on Southern California in the ‘70’s, intent on redefining ‘Truth,’ through Rock and Roll, drugs and newfound love. But by a ‘twist-of-faith,’ the Jesus Revolution became the greatest spiritual awakening in American history and changed the world.

Maybe there are people in your community, Pastor, that desperately need to hear the Gospel. And it just might be presented via the ‘media-of-the-day,’ Faith-Based-Film!

Dave, the Movie Guy- Dave Almgren – FaithandFamilyFilms.info

A Movie, Interview and A Craft Idea

| Faith and Family Films

I know it’s only October. But I am really excited about the holidays and a change of pace from the craziness of 2020.  So, I wanted to let you know about a wonderful movie that from Sony Pictures Animation and Affirm Films that is now available on DVD and streaming services for this Christmas.  The movie tells the story of the first Christmas and is a well done, animated movie, that is fun, funny and full of adventure. The best part is there are no elves. It’s the real story behind the meaning of Christmas – the birth of Jesus.  I believe this is a movie that is going to be a wonderful theatrical experience for the whole family.

The official synopsis from The Star web site describes the story as follows.

” A small but brave donkey named Bo yearns for a life beyond his daily grind at the village mill. One day he finds the courage to break free and finally goes on the adventure of his dreams. On his journey, he teams up with Ruth, a lovable sheep who has lost her flock, and Dave, a dove with lofty aspirations. Along with three wisecracking camels and some eccentric stable animals, Bo and his new friends follow the Star and become accidental heroes in the greatest story ever told – the first Christmas.”

Check out what a few ministry leaders are saying about this new movie.
“Okay – bit of a scoop. Last night me and my 3 boys (6, 10 and 13 y/o) went to a preview of The Star movie. I was pleasantly surprised – it was really good! Each of my boys (who usually prefer Marvel movies to animal movies) loved it, and I did too! it was hilarious – plus I really liked how they portrayed the nativity story. Would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a family friendly movie this coming Christmas season.” Mark Millard The Lads Band 

“The Star is a delightful movie that does an incredible job of portraying the struggles Mary and Joseph went through and the merciful love of God that guided them through it. Just like in the Bible, The Star will point your family towards Christ.” Jeff McClullough JumpStart3

I love that this is a Christmas movie that families can watch in November, because families can see the movie and then spend the Christmas season unpacking the messaging in the movie around the dinner table, during bedtime conversations, at church and spontaneous moments during the Christmas season. The Star represents a gift for humanity in the promise of the Savior Jesus. After seeing the film I would encourage families to come up with a few ways in which they can be a gift at school, work, family members or to complete strangers in their communities.

Here are some suggestions for families:

1- The 12 days of Giving;  Establish 12 days of giving as a family and come up with different ways as a family you can be a gift and a blessing to someone in your community.

2- Make The Star cookies as a family and share them with a neighbor, a retirement center, a homeless shelter as an unexpected gift.

3- As a family, create some memories by making Star ornaments or a star tree topper for the family tree (see the video example below).

4- Continue to talk and discuss the story of Christmas as a family thru out the Christmas season and unpack ideas on how each person can be an example of a gift to their community.

Check out the video below of an interview with the Executive Producer of The Star, Devon Franklin. Devon talks about the movie and why he decided The Star was an important story to share with the world this coming Christmas season.

The Star is now available on DVD and is a wonderful idea as family to see the film to start the celebration of the Christmas Season.

See you at the movies!

David Almgren – The Movie Guy

Just added . . .  Download The Star Movie Family Discussion Guide.

TheStarMovie-FamilyDiscussionGuide-031018(1)

Check out this “How To” Video idea for a family Activity;