Americans are feeling worn out. Many are frustrated with being labeled by their race or gender. They’re tired of having their political views dismissed. And they’re fed up with content that feels stale and safe, created by corporate executives more worried about being canceled than telling authentic stories.
However, there’s a glimmer of hope: movies are starting to regain their spark. This isn’t the first time Hollywood has faced a downturn. Back in the 1970s, people stopped going to theaters because films had lost their excitement. Studios blamed television and cultural shifts, but the real issue was that audiences craved fresh, engaging stories.
Then came a new generation of filmmakers like Coppola, Scorsese, Spielberg, and Lucas, who brought innovative ideas and characters to the screen. This resurgence led to a thriving film industry where audiences flocked back to theaters.
Fast forward to recent years, and Hollywood has faced another slump. This time, the pandemic, streaming services, and economic challenges were cited as reasons for the decline. Yet, the underlying problem is that many in Hollywood have lost touch with what audiences truly want.
A prime example of this disconnect is the new independent film "Guns & Moses," set to hit theaters on July 18. Directed by Salvador Litvak, this action thriller stars Mark Feuerstein, Neal McDonough, Christopher Lloyd, and Dermot Mulroney. The film tells the story of Mo Zaltzman, a Hasidic rabbi in a small desert town whose synagogue is attacked. When the police arrest a young man with a history of harassment, Rabbi Mo believes he might be innocent and takes it upon himself to investigate.
As the story unfolds, Rabbi Mo learns to use a gun and confronts the real threat, forming an unexpected bond with the accused young man. The film draws inspiration from the 2019 synagogue shooting in Poway, California, highlighting the ongoing relevance of Jewish communities facing violence.
Litvak and his wife, Nina, who co-wrote the film, spent two years preparing by watching thrillers. They completed filming in late 2022 and have been in post-production until recently. Sadly, the film’s themes have become even more pertinent due to rising antisemitism worldwide.
Litvak shared an experience he had when pitching the film to a Hollywood executive. The executive praised the film but suggested it would be better suited for streaming, questioning the audience size for Jewish stories. Litvak argued that the film appeals to a broader audience, including Christians and conservatives. The executive’s response reflected a common attitude in Hollywood that often overlooks the values and interests of many Americans.
This disconnect has led to a decline in successful franchises, as studios prioritize messaging over storytelling. Many films now alienate audiences by mocking faith and traditional values, which can hurt their bottom line. In contrast, independent, faith-based films are thriving, offering compelling narratives that resonate with viewers.
"Guns & Moses" aims to engage diverse audiences across different faiths, ethnic backgrounds, and political beliefs. It promises to deliver an action-packed experience while exploring meaningful themes. Litvak hopes that the film’s release will send a message to Hollywood about the kind of stories people want to see.
As the film gears up for its opening weekend, groups from various backgrounds are planning to attend. They share a common desire for entertainment that aligns with their values. If this sounds appealing, mark your calendars for July 18 and head to the theater to support a film that seeks to reflect the true American experience.