The film "Guns & Moses," a crime thriller exploring themes of antisemitism and self-defense, is set for a second theatrical release from September 7 to September 11, 2025, via Fathom Events. Social media personality Eyal Yakoby, a vocal advocate against anti-Americanism, has actively promoted the film, urging audiences to see its message. Yakoby stated in a recent post, > "Guns & Moses is a wake-up call. It exposes the danger of extremism, but also the power of basic human decency. In a time when hate feels louder than ever, it’s a reminder: things can change—but only if we actually speak up."
Directed by Salvador Litvak, the movie centers on Rabbi Mo Zaltzman, a beloved Hasidic rabbi in a desert town whose congregation is violently attacked. Despite police quickly arresting a young white nationalist, Rabbi Mo doubts the teen's culpability and embarks on his own investigation. As the body count rises, the rabbi must learn to use a gun, transforming into an unlikely gunfighter to confront the true enemy.
The film, starring Mark Feuerstein as Rabbi Zaltzman alongside Neal McDonough, Dermot Mulroney, and Christopher Lloyd, draws inspiration from real-world incidents, including the 2019 Chabad of Poway synagogue shooting. It delves into the complexities of antisemitism, self-reliance, and the unexpected connection between the rabbi and an alleged antisemite. The narrative shifts from an initial focus on hate crime to a broader conspiracy driven by financial motives.
"Guns & Moses" first premiered at the Los Angeles Jewish Film Festival in June 2024, followed by a limited theatrical release on July 18, 2025. Its unique blend of genres and its controversial subject matter have garnered significant attention. Critics have noted the film's ambition in tackling serious issues, even as some reviews point to tonal inconsistencies and a sometimes heavy-handed approach to its themes.