‘House of David’ Screening Highlights TV and Film’s Role in Shaping Perceptions of Faith and Spirituality: ‘The Culture Needs This Right Now’

variety.com:

Cynthia Littleton Business Editor Nearly 70 years ago, Edward R. Murrow famously defined television as being much more than merely wires and lights in a box: “This instrument can teach it can illuminate; yes, and even it can inspire,” he said in a famous 1958 address to the Radio-Television News Directors of Association.

The spirit of Murrow’s vision for the medium was reflected in the conversation held this week at Bel Air Church, which hosted a dinner and screening event for an episode of the Amazon Prime Video series “House of David.” The Biblical-themed series revolves around the story of David and Goliath and the fall of King Saul hails from indie studio the Wonder Project and Amazon MGM Studios. “House of David” bowed Feb.

17 on Prime Video. The show to date has garnered an audience of more than 22 million viewers, which validates Prime Video’s push to add more shows that directly touch on faith and spirituality issues.

The goal is to help expand the boundaries of faith-related programs beyond the traditional stereotype that such shows are G-rated treacle. “House of David” mixes sword-and-sandal costume drama with considerable action and a large cast of supporting characters. “It was a tremendous reminder that this is indeed something that’s important to a lot of people,” said Brooke Zaugg, executive director of the nonprofit Faith and Media Initiative that advocates for more nuanced portrayals of people of faith in TV and film.