Approved for 12+

David and Bathsheba (1951)

After King David sees the beautiful Bathsheba bathing from the palace roof, he enters into an adulterous affair which has tragic consequences for his family and Israel.
8
Negative Rating
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SexLanguageViolenceDrugsNudityOther
0
Positive Rating
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FaithIntegrity

Dove Review

“David and Bathsheba” features a strong performance by Gregory Peck as King David. The movie features several elements of David’s story taken from 11 Samuel, with the use of some artistic license by the filmmakers. For example, in the biblical text David’s son dies after the prophet Nathan confronts David about his sin with the married Bathsheba, and how David was at fault for the murder of her husband Uriah. In the film, the child dies first and then David is confronted by the prophet. David is portrayed in the movie as being angry at God because Bathsheba was also being punished. In addition, in this version, Bathsheba purposely places herself in a spot to bathe, hoping David would see her because she already has feelings for him.

The film tells the story of David meeting Bathsheba and his love for her, and ends with a flashback when David’s conquering of the giant Goliath is portrayed. In a scene before the conclusion, David’s grieving of his friend Jonathan is dramatized. The film demonstrates the tension and stress of the characters very well, including characters dealing with a powerful sand storm. All of the key elements of David’s story are included and in some cases handled with a twist or placed in a bit of a different order. We give this film our “Faith-Friendly” Seal for ages twelve plus.

Dove Rating Details

0
Faith

None

0
Integrity

Stones are thrown at a woman and some blood is seen on her head; it is said a man died in battle; man touches the Ark of the Covenant and dies; the giant is struck with a stone and dies.

2
Sex

Kissing between couple; adultery is implied but David repents and marries the widowed woman; woman dances sensually.

0
Language

None

2
Violence

Stones are thrown at a woman and some blood is seen on her head; it is said a man died in battle; man touches the Ark of the Covenant and dies; the giant is struck with a stone and dies.

1
Drugs

Drinking of wine.

2
Nudity

Cleavage; woman's bare midriff is seen when she dances.

1
Other

Tension between husband and wife; death and grief.

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