He’s promising an unforgettable retelling of the story.
After the triumph of “His Only Son,” a cinematic reimagining of the Abraham and Isaac narrative, filmmaker David Helling is gearing up to illuminate more figures from the Old Testament on the silver screen. His next project focuses on the intertwined lives of Jacob, Leah, and Rachel, shedding light on their roles in God’s grand plan of redemption.
Helling, a former U.S. Marine with experience in Iraq, is driven by a desire to offer a fresh perspective on Jacob’s saga, exploring the depths of his struggles and transformation. Describing Jacob as a complex and often misunderstood character, Helling aims to unravel the layers of his story, resonating with the challenges faced by believers today. He sees Jacob’s journey as a testament to the transformative power of divine intervention, showcasing the evolution of a man striving in his own strength to one molded by the hand of God.
In contrast to conventional portrayals that emphasize the romantic narrative between Jacob and Rachel, Helling seeks to spotlight Leah’s significance in biblical lineage and her profound impact on Jacob’s legacy. By delving into Leah’s perspective and her pivotal role in God’s plan, Helling hopes to honor her contribution and illuminate her journey of faith.
To bring “Jacob” to fruition, Helling plans to launch a crowdfunding campaign through Angel Studios, the production company behind his previous success, “His Only Son.” The groundbreaking crowdfunding approach for “His Only Son” garnered substantial support, enabling the film to surpass expectations both critically and commercially.
Helling’s passion for biblical storytelling is fueled by his personal experiences, including immersive visits to historical sites in Israel tied to Jacob’s narrative. These encounters with the land and its rich heritage have deeply influenced his creative process, inspiring authenticity and reverence in his portrayal of biblical events.
Central to Helling’s approach is a commitment to contextual accuracy and theological depth, steering clear of modern reinterpretations in favor of immersing viewers in the historical and spiritual reality of biblical characters. He believes that grounding the narrative in its original context offers a deeper understanding of scripture and fosters a genuine connection with its message.
The success of films like “His Only Son” and series such as “The Chosen” underscores a growing appetite for faith-based storytelling. Helling sees this as an opportunity to amplify messages of faith and share the gospel with a global audience, leveraging technology and platforms like Angel Studios to fulfill this mission.
In a world where hostility towards God is prevalent, Helling views the current era as a window of opportunity to spread messages of hope and redemption. He emphasizes the urgency of seizing this moment to proclaim the gospel and make disciples, leveraging the freedom and resources available to advance God’s kingdom.