‘Guns & Moses’ Reminds Us All About the Importance of Faith and the Second Amendment

Heroes are often ordinary people who are propelled to do extraordinary things in the face of danger. The new movie “Guns & Moses” captivates audiences by showcasing such heroes through a gripping character-driven thriller. 

Set in a desert town in California, the narrative centers around Chabad Rabbi Moses Zaltzman, expertly portrayed by Mark Feuerstein (“What Women Want,” “Defiance,” “Royal Pains”). When viewers first encounter Rabbi Mo, he appears to be the quintessential Orthodox leader: wearing a tallit, navigating the town in his minivan, radiating warmth with his smile, and engaging everyone with polite conversation.  

The tranquility of this small desert town was shattered during a charity event at a local synagogue when Rabbi Mo witnessed the brutal murder of his friend. Although the local police quickly arrested a suspect linked to a white nationalist group, Rabbi Mo remained unconvinced of the suspect’s guilt. Frustrated by the police’s lack of interest in exploring other leads, Rabbi Mo decided to take matters into his own hands, embarking on a quest to uncover the true killer.  

As Rabbi Mo’s amateur investigation put him in increasingly dangerous situations, the Chabad security guard, Brenda—played by Gabrielle Ruiz—strongly encouraged him to learn how to handle firearms. Initially, Rabbi Mo resisted, insisting he isn’t one of those “gun people,” and his focus should remain on prayer and community service, leaving the defense against threats up to Brenda. 

However, as the community faced increasing violence and Brenda challenged him on whether he wanted to be a sheep or a shepherd in times of crisis, Rabbi Mo reluctantly began firearm training. Shortly after, his wife, Rebbetzin Hindy Zaltzman, portrayed by Israeli actress Alona Tal (“Cross,” “Veronica Mars,” ”Broken City”), joined him in these lessons, marking the rise of a group of unlikely heroes. 

As the story unfolds, the situation proves to be more complex than a simple hate crime. The narrative evokes comparisons to the classic 1974 film “Chinatown,” which starts with an investigation into infidelity yet spirals into deeper mysteries. While “Chinatown” maintains a gloomy atmosphere, “Guns & Moses” artfully blends humor, touching family moments, and thrilling action scenes. The 90-minute film keeps the audience on edge with unexpected plot twists that will leave viewers surprised and intrigued. It’s astounding to think that this engaging film was shot in just 20 days!  

The film is family-friendly, free from nudity or profanity. Director Salvador Litvak dubs it “the most kosher film out of Hollywood.” Cowritten with his wife, Nina Litvak, the script draws on a poignant real-life event that resonates deeply. On April 27, 2019, a gunman fired a rife inside the Chabad of Poway synagogue in Poway, California, claiming one life and injuring three others, including a rabbi and an eight-year-old girl. The perpetrator received a life sentence without parole in 2021.  

In the aftermath of this tragedy, Salvador, much like the character Rabbi Mo in the film, transformed his views on guns, shifting from resistance to acceptance for self-defense, which included taking lessons. He joined Magen Am USA, a nonprofit organization led by Rabbi Yossi Eilfort, that provides security protections, gun training, and self-defense classes to the Jewish community. The film’s portrayal of gun training is authentic, reflecting the same training Salvador himself underwent. This accurate depiction of gun training is a refreshing and rare find in Hollywood. 

Salvado emphasized in a recent interview, “Jews are in danger … We need to fight back.” This message resonates now more than ever, especially in light of the Oct. 7 Hamas terrorist attack on Israel, and the alarming increase in antisemitic incidents in the U.S., including the tragic murder of two Israeli Embassy staffers outside the Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C. earlier this year.  

It is disheartening that it often takes horrifying events, such as the loss of innocent lives, to highlight the critical role of the Second Amendment in our quest for security and freedom.  

However, it’s crucial to understand that “Guns & Moses” does not call on the Jewish community to replace faith with firearms. This film delves deeply into the significance of faith alongside the discussion of using guns for self-defense. Rabbi Mo’s steadfast belief in God, even in the face of tragedy, serves as a profound source of strength and comfort. He reaches out to those grappling with doubt, reassuring them that “God never makes a mistake.” In moments of imminent danger, Rabbi Mo exemplifies serenity and resolve, turning to prayer as his anchor. 

Of course, Rabbi Mo also carries a loaded gun, and he is well-trained to protect his family and community. He firmly believes that God stands with those who defend the innocent from evil, showcasing an inspiring blend of faith and action.  

Actor Neal McDonough, known for his roles in “The Last Rodeo” and “Band of Brothers,” delivered a stellar performance as Mayor Donovan Kirk in the film. He described it to me as “one of those films that is relevant to the times, especially now. It will make you reflect on how you can make the world a better place.” McDonough praised the film for effectively conveying the message that resilience is essential in standing up for what is right and fulfilling God’s will, all without succumbing to hatred and temptation. 

“Guns & Moses” is an uplifting film that emphasizes the importance of faith, family, resilience, and the Second Amendment. It will be released in theaters nationwide on July 18. Be sure to watch it, and hopefully you will take film’s tagline to heart: “May God and Your Glock Protect You.” 

We publish a variety of perspectives. Nothing written here is to be construed as representing the views of The Daily Signal.

The post ‘Guns & Moses’ Reminds Us All About the Importance of Faith and the Second Amendment appeared first on The Daily Signal.