King David

King David is a 1985 American-British co-production historical drama and biographical film. It is a sword-and-sandal epic about the life of David, the second king of the Kingdom of Israel, as told in the Hebrew Bible. Directed by Bruce Beresford, the screenplay was written by Andrew Birkin and James Costigan, and Richard Gere plays the lead role of David.

The film follows David, a young shepherd, as he is anointed king by the prophet Samuel, his victory over the giant warrior Goliath, his tense relationship with King Saul, and the tumultuous events that follow his ascension to the throne, including his passion for Bathsheba and the rebellion of his son Absalom. Set in and around Jerusalem, the narrative is heavily based on the books of Samuel.

Produced by Paramount Pictures and featuring music by Carl Davis, the film was released in 1985. Despite its large cast, it failed to meet expectations in terms of both critical and box office success, becoming one of the most notable box office failures of its time. Years later, director Beresford himself expressed dissatisfaction with the screenplay and certain film choices.