Jon Erwin Says ‘Young Washington’ Is a ‘Love Letter to America’ Ahead of Nation’s 250th Anniversary

Award-winning filmmaker Jon Erwin spoke with ChurchLeaders about his latest Angel Studios and Wonder Project film, “Young Washington,” which opens in theaters on July 3. Known for directing films such as “I Can Only Imagine” and “Jesus Revolution,” as well as helping bring “House of David” to the screen, Erwin told ChurchLeaders he has spent the past decade captivated by the story of George Washington and wanted to create a film that honors America’s 250th anniversary. “I’ve learned to just keep it simple as I go on in my career of just [finding] stories that are deeply meaningful and life-changing to me and wanting to tell those stories to audiences everywhere,” Erwin said. “And I wanted to make a film that was a love letter to America on the 250th anniversary of America.” Erwin said his fascination with Washington began nearly 10 years ago as he studied the American Revolution and sought to understand how the nation’s first president became one of history’s most influential leaders. RELATED: ‘Jesus Revolution’ Director Jon Erwin Dreams Big With New Faith-Based Studio, The Wonder Project “I really asked the question, ‘Where was this mythic character carved into Mount Rushmore forged and formed?’” he said. While Washington’s spiritual life continued to mature throughout adulthood, Erwin believes the future president’s younger years were foundational because they taught him what true leadership looks like. “I wanted to make a movie on leadership. What does it mean to lead? Is it important? What’s the bad version of it. What’s the good version of it?” Erwin explained. “I think what the movie shows is that he experiences both. He starts with a level of, as with any story, ‘I want to go make a name for myself.’” According to Erwin, Washington ultimately learns that “to lead is to serve.” “To serve others and to serve a cause higher than yourself, which again no one said it better than Jesus that the greatest among you will be your servants,” he said. “This idea of servant leadership was something that I really wanted to make a movie about.” RELATED: ‘House of David’ Episode Explores Whether Goliath Was Descended From the Nephilim Erwin also said the film explores Washington’s growing belief in what he often referred to as God’s providence.