A Great Awakening is a 2026 American historical drama that explores religion, politics, and identity in colonial America. The film is produced by Sight & Sound Films, a studio known for large-scale faith-based productions that adapt historical and biblical stories for the screen.
The story focuses on the surprising relationship between British evangelist George Whitefield and American polymath Benjamin Franklin. The film stars Jonathan Blair as Whitefield and John Paul Sneed as Franklin. Set in the mid-1700s, the narrative portrays a time when the American colonies were divided and struggling with spiritual and political uncertainty.
The plot follows Whitefield as he travels across the colonies delivering powerful open-air sermons. His preaching attracts huge crowds and crosses denominational boundaries. Franklin, a man known for science and reason, becomes intrigued by Whitefield’s ability to influence thousands of people. Through Franklin’s printing press, Whitefield’s sermons spread across the colonies and spark a broader cultural awakening.
The film presents the First Great Awakening as more than a religious movement. It suggests the spiritual revival helped unite people across the colonies and laid emotional groundwork for the American Revolution. A Great Awakening was released on April 3, 2026, and distributed by Sight & Sound Films.
A Great Awakening Age Rating
A Great Awakening is rated PG-13 for brief violence. The rating means some scenes may be unsuitable for children under 13, mainly due to historical tension and mild depictions of violence. Although the film is largely dialogue-driven and focused on religious history, several moments depict unrest and social conflict from colonial America.
Violence & Peril
Violence in the film is mild to moderate and mostly brief. The story includes scenes showing unrest in colonial towns, angry crowds, and tense confrontations between opposing groups. Some moments depict the harsh realities of life in the 1700s, including physical intimidation and minor scuffles during public gatherings. None of the scenes are graphic, and most violence happens quickly or remains implied rather than shown in detail.
The atmosphere can feel intense during certain scenes. Whitefield’s passionate sermons sometimes attract hostile reactions, creating tension among crowds. A few sequences portray the political uncertainty of the time, with arguments about religion and authority escalating into emotional conflicts.
Language
Language in the film is generally mild. Characters speak in period-appropriate dialogue that reflects the formal tone of the 18th century. There are occasional mild insults or heated exchanges during debates about religion and politics, but strong profanity is largely absent. The script relies more on dramatic speeches and philosophical discussions than modern slang or explicit language.
Mature Themes
The movie explores mature themes related to faith, skepticism, and social change. The central conflict involves debates about religion, authority, and the role of personal belief in shaping society. Some conversations address spiritual crisis, doubt, and moral responsibility.
The story also references the broader historical realities of colonial America. These include social divisions, economic struggles, and political tensions that eventually contributed to revolutionary ideas. There is no nudity or explicit sexual content. Smoking and drinking may appear in background scenes as part of historical settings.
Is A Great Awakening Suitable for Teens?
Ages 10–12: With Guidance: Children in this age group may understand parts of the story but could struggle with the film’s slower pace and historical dialogue. Parents may need to explain the historical context and religious debates. The occasional tense scenes and serious themes might also feel heavy for younger viewers.
Ages 13–15: Yes, With Context: Teenagers interested in history, religion, or American culture may find the story engaging. The film contains minimal violence and focuses mostly on conversations and ideas. However, the complex themes about faith and politics may benefit from discussion afterward.
Ages 16 and Up: Yes: Older teens and adults will likely appreciate the historical themes and character relationships. The film’s thoughtful exploration of belief, reason, and social unity may resonate with viewers interested in American history or faith-based storytelling.
Overall age recommendation: The film is best suited for viewers ages 13 and older.
What Parents Can Do
Discuss the historical setting. Explain the First Great Awakening and how religion influenced colonial society and politics.
Talk about faith and reason. The relationship between Whitefield and Franklin offers a good starting point for conversations about different beliefs.
Encourage critical thinking. Ask teens how spiritual movements can influence social or political change.
Official Trailer
FAQs
Q: What is the age rating for A Great Awakening (2026)?
A: A Great Awakening is rated PG-13 for brief violence. This means some scenes may be unsuitable for children under 13.
Q: Is A Great Awakening appropriate for kids?
A: The film is mostly dialogue-driven and historical. Younger children may find the themes and pacing difficult, so it is generally better suited for teens.
Q: Does the movie contain violent scenes?
A: Yes, but the violence is brief and mild. Most scenes involve tense crowds, arguments, and small confrontations typical of historical dramas.
Q: Is there strong language in the film?
A: No. The dialogue uses formal, period-style language, and strong profanity is largely absent.
Q: Does A Great Awakening contain sexual content or nudity?
A: No. The story focuses on historical and religious themes and does not include sexual scenes or nudity.
Q: Where can you watch A Great Awakening?
A: The film was released on April 3, 2026, by Sight & Sound Films and is expected to play in select theaters.
Official Website: A Great Awakening