As Angel (NYSE: ANGX) continues the streaming rollout of its record-breaking animated family musical DAVID, audiences are being introduced not only to the epic journey of David but also to the powerful performances behind the film's unforgettable characters - including actor Brian Stivale, who brings the Prophet Samuel to life with depth, authority, and spiritual gravitas. Known for his pastoral background and deep connection to biblical storytelling, Stivale's portrayal of Samuel anchors the film's themes of obedience, calling, and divine purpose, offering viewers a compelling voice at the heart of this modern retelling. As DAVID reaches new audiences through the Angel streaming platform, Stivale will also be engaging with fans and media, sharing insights into his role and the creative journey behind one of the most acclaimed faith-based animated films in recent years.
Q: You give voice to the Prophet Samuel, one of the most spiritually weighty figures in Scripture. How did you approach portraying Samuel's authority, tenderness, and obedience in a story so centered on David's journey?
Being an Ordained Pastor, a teacher of Hebrew Roots, Biblical Archeology and Judaism, the weight of him, his office and his calling (from birth) were already part of my deeper understanding of WHO Samuel was. But the approach that Sunrise Animation took with him opened a view on his 'paternal' side. God, after all, is a FATHER. Samuel, as His Prophet was a direct representation of some of God's greatest attributes. The authority, the tenderness and especially (see the whole Saul debacle) OBEDIENCE to God were clearly portrayed in the writing and in the skillful direction of Brent Dawes and Ned Lott. I leaned heavily into their understanding of where Samuel needed to live and "land" on the screen.
Q: Samuel stands at a crossroads of leadership and transition, anointing a future king while stepping aside himself. What aspects of Samuel's character felt most meaningful or challenging for you in DAVID?
The weight of how Samuel, along with nature, the geography, the animals and the very sky itself communicate the presence of God in this telling of a story so many have heard or seen in one capacity or another. Giving him life and bringing the AWE of God and His presence was the most challenging. This was particularly so with the "Anointing Scene". This was not only an iconic moment in history, but in the scope of our storytelling, it had to be SACRED and moving. It demanded an honesty in performance that is counter-intuitive in most animated circumstances. Thankfully, I am spiritually tied to this material and the prayer (a Psalm later to be re-scribed by David himself) was the Hebrew subject matter of the sung prayer as I poured the Anointing Oil on the new king's head. I believe that moment was magnificently portrayed. Thanks again to great Directors, I believe I added what needed to be present.
Q: This film blends epic storytelling with music and emotion in a way rarely seen in faith-based animation. How did the musical nature of the film shape your vocal performance and your sense of the story's spiritual tone?
David wrote half of the Psalms. He was a SKILLFUL Musician and the Master-Worshipper of all time. The gorgeous and poignant songs and score of DAVID elevated every moment in the perfect way. My material was inherent in plot and scripture as prayer (even cut material), while Young David, Adult David and Nitzeveh (Played by the AMAZING Brandon Engman, Phil Wickham and Miri Mesika) handle dramatically worship-based songs. I am a Musical Theater Veteran who appreciates when song is not "campy" or "outta nowhere" but rather the point at which spoken communication is transcending emotion and spirit into what can ONLY be sung. DAVID accomplishes that in ways that will leave you singing it in your sleep.
Q: DAVID has clearly connected with audiences, from record-breaking theatrical success to its new streaming life on Angel Studios. Why do you think this story, told in this format, is resonating so strongly with families right now?
There is and has been a drought of truly "FAMILY FRIENDLY" or high-quality Faith-Based Animation, let alone EPICS. DAVID came seemingly "out of nowhere" with quality that not only rivaled that of Pixar, Disney, Illumination, Dreamworks and others... It RAISED THE BAR. Exquisite Animation, Cinematography, Music, Scoring, Sound Design and Acting brought a Modern Classic to the fore. I believe this film was ordained by God to succeed. It is a witness to the world and Hollywood that this kind of uplifting and inspiring entertainment is what the people WANT. They have agenda-fatigue and want something they can bring ANY of their family to without fear of propagandist or evil vision-casting. It is a powerful venue to change lives and families are tired of BAD FOOD. Simply put, they showed up for DAVID because it was HEALTHY, NURTURING and NOT POISONOUS.
Q: Samuel often delivers hard truths-anointing kings, confronting failure, and surrendering control when God moves in a new direction. Did voicing Samuel deepen or challenge your own understanding of faith, leadership, or obedience?
Yes. It solidified my prior understanding and commitment to serve God FIRST. To have a "heart after God" like David did is the clarion call to all who experience the film. It impacted me as fully as I believe it will every young man and woman who need affirmation and edification of WHO God IS in our lives- OUR SHEPHERD.
Q: As DAVID reaches a new generation of viewers through streaming, what do you hope audiences-especially children and families-take away from Samuel's role in shaping David's calling?
That God has a plan for their lives. Individually and corporately, He has a plan to prosper, grow and bless them in the great adventure we are gifted with called LIFE. I hope that audiences walk away INSPIRED AND ENTERTAINED.
Watch DAVID now on Angel.com or download the Angel App on iOS, Android, Roku, Apple TV, Fire TV, Vizio, and other major platforms. For more information, please see: https://www.angel.com/movies/david.
