The Book Of Daniel Comes To Life On The Big Screen
Filmmaker Daniel Kooman is bringing the biblical story of Daniel to life in a new film project centered on faith and spiritual authenticity. Rather than highlighting the $1.2 million raised through crowdfunding or the exotic filming location in India, Kooman emphasizes the central role of the Holy Spirit in the filmmaking process. According to him, it’s not possible to faithfully portray biblical narratives without divine guidance. He and his brothers, co-founders of UnveilTV and Unveil Studios, rely heavily on Scripture and spiritual discernment to shape the script and direction of the movie, ensuring the story remains faithful to the biblical account.
The film will focus on the early period of the Jewish exile in Babylon, chronicling the trials faced by Daniel and his companions, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. These young men, placed in the court of King Nebuchadnezzar, rise in prominence while also facing intense opposition. The plot culminates in the dramatic episode of the fiery furnace, where the characters must choose between survival and standing firm in their faith. Kooman notes that this narrative resonates deeply because it portrays unwavering trust in God amid overwhelming adversity.
The film’s success in fundraising reflects a growing hunger for faith-based entertainment, Kooman says. He points to the popularity of productions like The Chosen as evidence that audiences are eager for biblically faithful content. He believes the lack of mainstream biblical films presents a missed opportunity and hopes Daniel will meet this demand. Drawing inspiration from epic classics, Kooman aims to deliver a film that combines grandeur with scriptural integrity. The production is grounded in detailed research and has been reviewed by scholars and theologians to ensure its accuracy.
Filming will take place in India, a location chosen for its affordability, accessibility, and resemblance to ancient Babylon. The team will shoot in converted royal compounds with rich architectural detail, lending authenticity to the visuals. The soundtrack will feature a new rendition of “Awesome God,” involving composer Tyler Michael Smith and his father, Michael W. Smith, adding another layer of emotional and spiritual impact to the project.
Looking ahead, Kooman envisions Daniel as the first in a series of films, each covering different sections of the Book of Daniel. He hopes the project will inspire viewers to explore Scripture more deeply. With plans to involve churches and communities in the film’s release, he stresses that continued support is vital. Ultimately, Kooman sees film as a powerful medium to share God’s Word with a generation immersed in digital content and visual storytelling.