A new film chronicling the formative years of America’s first president is on its way to the big screen. Angel Studios and Wonder Project announced a partnership to release YOUNG WASHINGTON, a historical drama directed by Jon Erwin, known for his work on Jesus Revolution and I Can Only Imagine. The film is scheduled for a theatrical release on the July 4th weekend of 2026, coinciding with the 250th anniversary of the United States’ founding.
In a move described as an “industry first,” tickets for the film went on sale Wednesday, a full year ahead of its nationwide debut.
YOUNG WASHINGTON will explore the early life of George Washington. The story focuses on the ambitious 22-year-old’s significant mistake that helped ignite the French and Indian War. The film will follow his journey as he confronts his failures and begins to forge the leadership qualities that would one day shape a new nation.
Jon Erwin, who has been developing this story for nearly a decade, expressed his excitement about the project. “YOUNG WASHINGTON isn’t just a film—it’s a celebration of the American spirit and the miracle of the forging of our nation,” Erwin stated. “I’ve dreamed of telling the powerful origin story of George Washington for nearly a decade.”
The collaboration brings together two significant players in faith-based and inspirational storytelling. Angel Studios, the distributor behind hits like Sound of Freedom and the series The Chosen, is known for its unique, community-focused distribution model. Wonder Project, a newer studio co-founded by Erwin, aims to create courageous stories that inspire hope.
“Our shared commitment to inspirational, powerful storytelling made YOUNG WASHINGTON an easy project to partner on with Wonder,” said Jordan Harmon, President of Angel Studios. “There hasn’t been a film that I believe has done justice to George Washington’s legacy. This film will change that.”
Kelly Merryman Hoogstraten, CEO of Wonder Project, highlighted the innovative approach to the film’s release. “We’re proud to partner with Angel Studios in offering tickets for YOUNG WASHINGTON a full year ahead of its release, giving families and communities across the country the opportunity to come together and experience this powerful celebration of America’s first founder,” she said.
The advance tickets are available through Angel Studios’ proprietary platform, which allows moviegoers the flexibility to change the date and time of their tickets after purchase.
Filming is set to begin later this summer. The movie will be produced by Chip Diggins alongside Erwin, with 10 Ton Productions and 2521 Entertainment also involved in production. Further details, including casting announcements, are expected in the coming months.
