‘David and Goliath’ Holds Its Own Against Blockbuster Film 'Furious 7' in Box Office

Apr 08, 2015 01:44 PM EDT

David and Goliath
''David and Goliath,'' a film based on the Biblical account found in 2nd Samuel, hits theaters April 3, 2015.

It's no surprise that car-based action film "Fast and the Furious 7" won at the box office at U.S. theaters over the weekend. However, Bible-based independent film "David and Goliath" took second place during that same time period too.

According to a press release posted on Christian Newswire by Carol Edwards and Kris Lightener of Ripple Effect Communications, 'David and Goliath' became the top independent movie at the box office this weekend in per screen average for a specialty bow and managed to hold its own in 25, ranking second behind "Fast and the Furious 7." The film focused on the Bible-based true story of a boy named David, who took out Goliath of the Philistines with the odds stacked against him.

"We're just extremely happy that God was honored at the theaters," a spokesperson for RiverRain Studios said. "We're not trying to compete with Hollywood or other Christian filmmakers."

Edwards and Lightener noted that the film was successful in attracting the faith-based crowd. Film director Tim Chey elaborated on why the movie was made in the first place.

"We risked our lives shooting the film in North Africa to bring a cup of cold water to every Believer around the world," Chey said. "It's about seeking the Lord with all your heart and you find him - Jeremiah 29:13 - that's what David did."

Pastor Darren Jones endorsed the film, given that it mostly stayed true to the story portrayed in the Bible.

"It's a beautiful and majestic film that quotes Scripture and is directed by a sold-out Believer," Jones said. "Of course it will be attacked by atheists, movie critic geniuses, you name it. It will even be attacked by carnal Christians in sheep's clothing. But God has anointed the film most definitely."

People who watched the film chimed in with their thoughts on "David and Goliath."

"First movie that is right on with the Bible," John Locantore said. "Very powerful."

"Faith started to grow like a tiny seed in my heart after I watched this movie," Christine Tabernilla said. "I'm excited to start reading the Book of Psalm now. Thank you 'David'! You made me believed that Faith can move a mountain."

"This movie will lift up the faith of every Believer," Dwayne Harlan said.

According to Edwards and Lightener, actor Miles Sloman plays the role of David in this film, while Goliath is portrayed by Canada's tallest man, the 7'8" Jerry Sokolosky. It is currently playing in theaters in 25 U.S. cities.