Young Washington
Covers Washington's military experience before he became the famous Revolutionary War leader
The brief
Jon Erwin tackles Washington's pre-Revolutionary military career with the earnest, faith-forward approach you'd expect from the guy behind *I Can Only Imagine*, which means solid craftsmanship but zero cynicism about American mythology. William Franklyn-Miller does his best carrying the lead against heavy hitters like Kingsley and Serkis, though the script feels more interested in moral lessons than messy historical complexity. The battle sequences have weight, but this plays more like premium cable prestige than theatrical epic. Perfect for anyone who wanted *The Patriot* with less Mel Gibson and more Sunday school.
The verdict
If you want earnest, faith-friendly historical drama that treats Washington's early military career with reverence and solid battle sequences, this is a worthy watch anchored by strong supporting performances from Kingsley and Serkis. If you prefer your historical epics with moral complexity and cynical edges rather than Sunday school lessons, you'll find this too sanitized and mythologizing.
Watch with
- 👨👩👧👦 History buffs and families with teens
- ⚠️ Those seeking nuanced historical complexity
Heads up
- Battle violence and combat scenes (moderate)
- Wartime peril and soldier deaths (moderate)
Credits
- Director
- Jon Erwin
- Cast
- William Franklyn-Miller, Ben Kingsley, Andy Serkis, Kelsey Grammer, Joel Smallbone, Mary-Louise Parker, Mia Rodgers
Official synopsis
Before he led a nation, George Washington was a young soldier thrown into a global conflict. With alliances crumbling and war closing in, he must choose who to trust and confront the leader he's becoming.
The Double
Make a night of it
Pair this with Hamlet (2026)
Both explore young leaders grappling with duty and moral choices.
