Sydney Sweeney’s The Housemaid Battles Animated David for Box Office Glory

Moviegoers were in for a wild ride this weekend as two very different films went head-to-head at the box office. Sydney Sweeney ’s steamy thriller The Housemaid found itself in a tight race with Angel Studios’ animated biblical musical David, making for one of the most unpredictable showdowns in recent memory. David managed to edge out The Housemaid, pulling in an estimated $22 million and marking the biggest opening ever for Angel Studios. Meanwhile, The Housemaid followed close behind with a solid $19 million debut. Directed by Paul Feig and based on Freida McFadden’s bestselling novel, The Housemaid stars Sweeney alongside Amanda Seyfried and Brandon Sklenar.

Box Office Showdown: Faith vs. Temptation

Both films drew impressive crowds, but their audiences couldn’t have been more different. David, with its faith-driven story and musical numbers, resonated deeply with religious viewers, earning a near-perfect 98% audience score and a CinemaScore of A. Critics were also kind, giving it a 74% rating. The Housemaid, on the other hand, leaned into suspense and sensuality, and critics responded favorably, awarding it a “certified fresh” 74% on Rotten Tomatoes. The weekend’s numbers proved that whether it’s faith or desire, moviegoers are still eager to buy tickets for stories that move them.

Sydney Sweeney’s Box Office Comeback

This weekend marked a major turning point for Sweeney. After a string of underperforming releases, The Housemaid delivered the kind of box office success she needed. The film ’s $19 million opening was a huge leap from her last leading role in Christy, which wrapped up its entire run with just $2 million. Not only did The Housemaid outpace Christy financially, but it also scored better with critics—holding a 74% rating compared to Christy’s 66%. After disappointments like Eden and Americana, Sweeney finally has a hit that puts her back on solid ground at the box office.

Inside David: Story, Cast, and Production

David brings the ancient story of the shepherd-turned-king to life in a vibrant animated musical adventure. The film picks up in Bethlehem, where young David protects his father’s sheep and soon finds himself anointed by the prophet Samuel. Called to King Saul’s court, David’s music soothes the troubled ruler, but his true test comes when he faces the giant Goliath. Armed with nothing but faith and a stone, David’s victory sets him on a path filled with battles, betrayal, and ultimately, redemption as Israel’s king. Phil Wickham voices the adult David, with Brandon Engman as his younger self. The cast also features Asim Chaudhry, Mick Wingert, Will de Renzy-Martin, and Lauren Daigle.

The filmmakers went all out, researching locations across Israel and working with Grammy-winning songwriter Jonas Myrin, who crafted the score with the Budapest Film Orchestra. The result is a film that blends historical detail with musical storytelling rooted in Hebrew tradition.

Reception and What’s Next

David’s opening weekend brought in $22 million domestically and $26 million worldwide, with audiences and critics alike responding enthusiastically. The Housemaid’s strong debut signals a new chapter for Sweeney, who finally has a box office hit after several misses. With both films now playing in theaters, the question remains: will The Housemaid build on its momentum, or will David continue to draw crowds through the holidays? Movie fans are already picking sides as this box office battle heats up.