Story perspectives

Film 'A Great Awakening' Explores Franklin and Whitefield's Friendship

4/3/2026

Summary

Story summary

A Great Awakening, directed by Joshua Enck, portrays the friendship between Benjamin Franklin and Rev. George Whitefield amid the American Protestant revival.
The film opens with Franklin in an overheated 18th-century conference hall, reflecting on childhood teachings about faith.
It underscores Whitefield's influence on the Methodist church and the lasting impact of his sermons.
Sight & Sound produced the film, which is rated PG-13 and runs 2 hours 9 minutes.

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Story summary

A Great Awakening, directed by Joshua Enck, portrays the friendship between Benjamin Franklin and Rev. George Whitefield amid the American Protestant revival.
The film opens with Franklin in an overheated 18th-century conference hall, reflecting on childhood teachings about faith.
It underscores Whitefield's influence on the Methodist church and the lasting impact of his sermons.
Sight & Sound produced the film, which is rated PG-13 and runs 2 hours 9 minutes.