JOHN HENRY AND THE RAILROAD | Omeleto

[@apathy113]

The actor playing John Henry couldn't be more perfect!

[@dr.robotico8500]

@UMN Mode 10:00 Man vs. Machine!

[@wrlord]

He's great, but I'd have liked to have Seen Michael Clarke Duncan do it.

[@dylanmclez474]

@@wrlord me too he would've been perfect

[@djnaenae102490]

No he doesn't. He's speaking in 3rd person. He said he was a free slave when that sort of thing called slavery was going on. And John Henry looks like a bear compared to this actor.

[@nicholasclaus9695]

facts

[@Laeadern]

John Henry is the kind of man that made America...period.

[@gscbest123]

Ok

[@jjesse8707]

White Americans made America what it is .

[@Laeadern]

My post wasn't to be taken literally, i meant hard working men and women of the day made America.

[@mauricecobbs7112]

@@jjesse8707 - Yeah. They sure did. We need to work to fix that.

[@pubchook3921]

John Henry is the kind of man that made America...period. A slave?

[@strings1586]

If John actually made his hammer from his former chains, this might be the best folk story ever.

[@tedmoss]

Remember, he started out being a blacksmith.

[@stephenbyrne2170]

​@@tedmossIs that why he's strong enough to slam a railspike flat with one swing?

[@ananolastname1605]

​@@stephenbyrne2170yes that's what they said

[@McCarthy1776]

Hard to really know. Hard to know whats myth and whats real. For the longest time historians didnt even think the story was real at all but then some new evidence came out. But we even struggle knowing whats true about people whove had a lot written about him. What we knoe about John isnt much outside of the tall tale. But really he symbolically represents all the free black wortkers of the time. Or deeper than that he represents all poor American workers and human ability, man triumphing over machines. I think thats what really matters

[@JasonKreider-eq8kp]

Don't forget paul and babe

[@hangfried9429]

This version really tore down a common stereotype of the old western story, that is that a man wearing a bowler hat is always a bad guy.

[@nicholasclaus9695]

more like the eastern story because John Henry was born lived and died in Virginia

[@ethanm8756]

I never knew that he survived. I’m glad that he did, too. The story I was taught in school was that he died from over-working himself and I didn’t wanna see that again, because the story of John Henry is one of the best stories I’ve ever heard.

[@duanthomas4114]

Ethan Bruh Moment that’s makes him even stronger he survived going through a mountain beat a machine human are no push overs

[@death_stroke5026]

I did not even know about this story till now but is now my favorite to

[@yungblud9267]

Wrong comment

[@WitchidWitchid]

Now you know the truth. John Henry didn't die that day.

[@natking1u1z99]

Yup same story I read in the book.

[@thefishfin-atic7106]

"How hard we work, when no one's looking, that's who we really are inside" That one line is what I'll take away from this ... I think it just changed my life.

[@kekekeke2200]

"We get dirty so the world stays clean" vibes

[@jenngosline6483]

I have showed this movie to my 5th graders every year for 8 yrs when we get into Tall Tales week! It has the best messages that they need to be successful to get through the rest of this year, as they transition to middle school, and in life! I have former students see me out and about and sometimes they just say, "Grit, Sweat, & Love". We are getting into tall tales next week and I can't wait to show a new group of students!

[@shok771]

I've been doing the same in grade four, so happy to see another educator using this video :)

[@delvindoodles2182]

Your comment made me miss being in school. And I am 32 years old, lol. Thank you for caring as much as you do and loving your job. Your power and influence has encouraged and blossomed many amazing kids into this world, and you could never be thanked enough for that. I mean I don't even know you, but this one comment is really all the proof one would need. As well as all the other teachers that cared.

[@djfatglasses6514]

You are a very attractive lady

[@twinnmann]

Hats off to all you teachers! I'm 37 now and this was one of my favorite books as a child in school. I'm a dad now and have introduced this tale along with Abiyoyo to my daughters.

[@mikeamir9979]

Thank God for teachers like you, I think every kid needs to see this

[@andrewwilson1844]

"How hard you work when no one's looking is the iind of person you really are on the inside" theres not a truer lesson on planet earth

[@denaturner8871]

Andrew Wilson First, I'd like to note that I whole heartedly agree. Second, I'm curious to find out what it says of me; that when I'm needing to do a bunch of work (job work, labor work, house work what have you) I do the most and at my best solo. I have a habbit of literally kicking people out of rooms or buildings so I can complete my tasks thoroughly... even if it is something like cooking, no one is allowed in my kitchen area during major events like holidays or gatherings. I know its odd, but I don't really care. Everyone jokes that I just don't play well with others, but I'm fairly social and agreeable (most of the time). For instance people could sit over at the dining table and chat with me... just don't cross the threshold... I have never really figured out why I need so much space or solitude for project completion.

[@greenhornetkato1568]

Andrew Wilson Are you referring to when he was working for free as a Slave?

[@MyReligionIs2DoGood]

@Mr. & Mrs Smith I like yours MUCH more than the OP's quote. We need to stop defining other people by how much they work, but by how they behave.

[@RangerSpecForDelta]

INTEGRITY. a virtue that will never die

[@houseofm9700]

@@denaturner8871 I mean it's kinda a dick move because your literally kicking people out just so they don't look while your doing stuff.

[@ZInChat]

_"I'm a bad storyteller..."_ Then proceeds to tell us an epic story.

[@Dr.KarlowTheOctoling]

Along with a beyond epic song.

[@davidmcaninch4714]

“Epic” is too small a word for this story!!!! Don’t get me wrong, it fits and everything, but there’s gotta be an even better word to describe this!!!!!!!! I’ll let you know when I come up with it!!! Lol!!!

[@blacklight2488]

Honestly I like this version way better then the mainstream one, because John didn't die.

[@rotzloffel]

Agreed, thought he was gonna die at the end of this one

[@wandalavender2223]

@@rotzloffel correct because he was a real person

[@Jürgen_von_Schumacher]

That literally defeats the whole purpose of the story though

[@mikejackson2228]

I'm very happy about the strong bond and community between the workers of all races. We don't celebrate that enough in our history.

[@josephcaldwell859jc]

I agree 100%

[@samsnead7]

Amen. Preach it.

[@jamie_mkv]

that's because capitalism prefers it when workers fight one another, rather than the system that exploits them all

[@randomviewer7916]

I wish it were the case, but there was much division between races when they were building the railroads. Of course not everyone was like that, but it was common to see racist mentalities among the workers themselves and their employers.

[@randomviewer7916]

@@jamie_mkv not so sure about that one, but okay.

[@josephmyers5057]

John Henry has ALWAYS been my favorite Tall Tale. So inspiring.

[@roderick04]

Facts

[@DamsusRhee]

Same

[@so9812]

So true

[@iamverytired-_-6253]

Same

[@Gentleman_Viking]

John Henry was a real person.

[@ShiningDarknes]

There are all sorts of stories like this one that need telling in America.

[@fightme8859]

Shining Darkness They don’t want you to hear stories of empowered working people. That’s a powerful thing.

[@PMMillard]

@UMN Mode These stories used to be told through families and even in schools when I was quite young, but the new modern indoctrination agenda wants to snuff out these stories of independence and grit. Because that would inspire children to work and fight for a future of their own. Free from relying on anyone else, and you cant have that if you're going to make everyone a good little slave.

[@kishicavali5950]

@@PMMillard Kids are fighting for their future, but older people won't listen or tell them to shut up. So piss off, if you thinks kids are slaves, you're the slave.

[@ShiningDarknes]

@CarFreak did I say this one isn't? No. Go back to school and learn how to read. I said "like this one."

[@Moont706]

Ladies and gentlemen this is what a father figure looks like

[@VinnyMartello]

Amen. If I had a dad like that I would have grown up an entirely different person.

[@voxac30withstrat]

@@VinnyMartello Theres still personal choice. We are born male but we are men by choice.

[@VinnyMartello]

I agree with you. I had to learn how to grow up to be a man. It just took a lot longer that I would have liked it to. I’m proud to say I’ve made some good choices with my life. But it wasn’t until I knew the choices even existed. Being raised to be an ignorant schmuck is a curse. But I got out of it!

[@davejones5640]

If you're black. Just saying.

[@TheDansonT]

My father, all of 5'6" is a giant of a man and the most loving, caring, hardest-working, and honest-to-God patriot whoever I've come across. I only pray I'm half the man he is.

[@hdwarrior8830]

I always adored all the tall tales, Babe the blue ox and Paul Bunyan and some fella who roped a tornado (been so long I can't remember who) but John Henry was my hero. First time I heard it was in a song when I was very little, but he died at the end and my parents had to console me! This presentation brings a wonderful depth to the story. The racing music.... inspiring! I'm so glad to know he actually didn't die and it seems he did a fantastic job raising his boy. I'm sure he's proud looking down from heaven!

[@ricardoantonio5482]

Hi dear

[@tfordham13]

Pesco bill

[@tedmoss]

@@tfordham13 Pecos Bill, we are not paying an electric bill!

[@michaelpottorff2]

The real question that needs to be asked is, can Thor pick up John Henry’s hammer?

[@Arandomperson1327]

No

[@kristopherhasenbuhler5393]

Thor CANNOT lift John Henry's hammer!

[@Arandomperson1327]

He is not worthy

[@Ellis-p8i]

Thor can’t handle the power

[@shaungould6391]

Whether he could or not he still would beat him in a race 😝

[@ered203]

"There's always a bigger hammer." Yup, there it is folks, America in a nutshell.

[@willroges6370]

I’m pretty sure that’s what FDR said when they came up with the nukes

[@cadenhoffman9476]

@ered203 You're mistaken it's a texas saying.

[@natking1u1z99]

Yup built off the back of a Black Man

[@reggaecutter]

@@natking1u1z99 I'm a Hispanic man. I've seen my share of bigotry and hate. We need to see more films on the silver screen, not just short stories which depict incredible, larger than life efforts by minorities! Just like you said ... Who's back breaking work continue to drive this country forward. (Granted this story is based on a "tall tale" ... They do say all legends are based on some sort of factual events!)

[@riumudamc4686]

@@natking1u1z99 Irish and Chinese built most of the trans-continental railroad in America. You will be better served to escape from your race based mind.

[@gitBritt]

He took his chains that made him a slave and used them to crush a mountain. That's an extreme level of when life gives you lemons, make lemonade. Like Cave Johnson said, I'm going to make a lemon that burns your house down (Portal 2 reference)

[@savannahhague4989]

Uh huh. 😯

[@nathanielhunter1795]

Black men know there history can dominate the world

[@FABRIC8TIONUNLIMITE1]

@@nathanielhunter1795 What is "Black" ... We are ADOS.

[@marlomills6800]

EXTREME

[@Unknown_Ooh]

@@nathanielhunter1795 He didn't actually make hammers out of his chains lol

[@cynthiamorales596]

Best Short Film I've ever seen! The actor playing John Henry is superb! And what a soundtrack! BRAVO!

[@samsnead7]

Amen.

[@Karmakatt6]

This film should have a mandatory viewing in schools. Everytime I watch it i weep.

[@jakimisprime2166]

Cool thing is, he makes a cameo in the equalizer

[@littlemrpinkness295]

I love that narrator/singer, Eugene H Russell IV. That was WAY more entertaining than I thought it would be.

[@terrorcop101]

Probably the best iteration of John Henry's story I've ever heard, yes sir. Thank you for making and posting this tale of America's greatest folk hero.

[@tedmoss]

A little more accurate than most.

[@staceymeans134]

"Daddy, those hammers are ludicrously oversized." I also liked the anachronistic glasses of the machine driver. Way to point out the concept of cold, uncaring progress.

[@HeidiSue60]

Stacey Means which is what the John Henry story/song is actually about. Steam power overtaking manpower.

[@codeoptimizationware2803]

@Stacey Means: "cold, uncaring progress." More like "progress" perverted into _regress,_ in the above case by the corporatist regressives perverting technology right out of the gate. Machines are (i.e., _technology_ is) for _people,_ not the other way around, see. This lesson from John Henry is timelessly relevant forevermore.

[@demetriusjohnson3677]

I think the spike driver of thst train was the devil himself. did you noticed he never spoke but had thise cold dark shades on. John Henry knew who he was and made a bet to beat him at his own game and had two oversized weapons( Big Boy hammers) to defeat him with.

[@brennenseibert6708]

The glasses on the guys face is so smoke doesn't get in his eyes

[@codeoptimizationware2803]

@@brennenseibert6708 : Does the devil eat sherbert ice-cream? ???

[@Jack-vp9kl]

The production quality and acting is amazing.

[@punishersoriano2895]

This story hit me hard and I wasn't ready for it. My dad died on the job site working his as off to the bone. Blood sweat and tears baby! Fire video I needed this

[@nycularobinson1496]

That's love baby. A real hero

[@stevegwizzle3560]

I really wish I would've had a strong father figure like ol John Henry here. Time and time again, it's been proven that a strong father figure in a boys and girls life makes a HUGE impact as they get older. Mothers love is most impactful in the beginning early younger years, but father's love is most impactful as they begin to turn into adulthood and what it is to be a productive adult.

[@_offshoremarz7598]

Couldn't agree more, it's sad that some kids don't have that father figure, or they may have the wrong type of father figure with bad influences, the only thing I have to say to other kids who don't have a father figure, become your own figure, a figure better than your father and a figure you want your kids to be proud of.

[@bulldozer8950]

Just remember the teachings of john and other greats like him. He might not be your biological father, but you can still follow him as a father.

[@yungblud9267]

Ste B i dont even have a dad •_•

[@stevegwizzle3560]

@@yungblud9267 did u have a father figure? A man you could look up to for guidance?

[@yungblud9267]

Ste B no he left when i was 2 :/

[@thefanwithoutaface8105]

Even as a kid I thought John Henry was the coolest dude out there. Big, Strong, with a will like Iron. Guy beat a machine with nothing but Grit and Sweat. Pretty sure he was one of the few people I could call my hero, as he's an inspiration to many.

[@ArmoredCricket]

"I had to work from sunrise to sunset, because I had to, for someone else. Now I'm working for something that's mine. I'm working for me." I know he's referring to forced slavery which is way different than what I'm going through. But this struct deep for me as someone whose worked their whole lives for someone else's dream, just so I could earn a paycheck to survive. To now when I'm trying to find that same energy to turn my dreams into a reality.

[@kpopahjussi6379]

Took a LOT of liberties with the story. This has always been my favorite folktale and John Henry has always been a hero of mine. A nice version. And Eugene Russell is excellent. I hope to see more of him.

[@Voucher765]

In fact the railroad he worked for was the Chesapeake & Ohio which is now part of CSX

[@GlowRiderzEntertainment]

Kpopahjussi63 I agreed John Henry was a hero

[@springof-wf8vy]

Same here my friend.. 💪

[@duanecolbert9196]

Raymond greenridge they use call me john henry when i was choppping wood because i was prettty stout and tried real ,but i dont compare myself to john henry ,but it sure was an honor to called that man

[@AzzKicker-bz1cb]

@Raymond greenridge The names are in the credits. Hank Williams did the master work on the recording or Hank Williams Jr. It could be a song that Hank Williams Sr. recorded but never had published.

[@JL-us2dp]

I love this story, all good actors but the man who played John Henry was exceptional! What other acting has he done? I would love watch his work

[@deelooks7223]

Watch "Come back Dad". He plays the lead's Father's brother. He is excellent in it. It is free on KZbin movies.

[@vicariawilliams6585]

I'm looking now I love this man he is awesome

[@Cloud9Series]

He's pretty established actor. Underrated.

[@theherrdark4834]

John Henry was one of my favorite stories as a child and still one of my favorites to this day. This version is amazing.

[@teenecore]

"There's always a bigger hammer" this is one of those legends that every boy should know growing up. gotta move mountains son; your only as strong as your will to succeed. i was privileged to have a father with that morale. My old mans 63 years old only has gr 6 takes any job he can and he keeps going forward, puts anyone younger in their place and then hands them the reigns and confidence to keep moving forward.

[@coryparrish525]

Wow... that quote is one I felt inside. "It's how hard we work when no one's lookin." I love that.😁

[@jbizzle7616]

Integrity

[@silentstryker1590]

My grandfather work the rails in the 50's , no doubt this story influenced him to aspire. He was known as an outstanding worker and was African American. God bless you grandpa! R.I.P.

[@seecha8970]

"How hard we work when no one's looking. That's who we really are, inside." - John Henry

[@Heartofitall9691]

I'm glad to read that they're still teaching the Tall Tales in school. I remember thoroughly enjoying this and other stories 45-50 years ago-they really grab the imagination of children and inspire everyone!!

[@waddy3389]

I HAVENT HEARD THIS SINCE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL SO HAPPY TO HEAR IT AGAIN

[@Beer-can_full_of_toes]

waddy I work maintenance at the school I went to k-12 and I recently found the old film slide projector that my teacher showed us the story of John Henry Paul Bunyan and many others still in the box. I really want to see if it works after watching this more than before.

[@pverks362]

Ive spent 3 hours searching to remember the name of this man

[@dakotaenoch9014]

@@Beer-can_full_of_toes im in k-12

[@heavyhanded1782]

I been swinging a pick and it made me think about it lol

[@jadajarvis5728]

waddy I haven't heard it since... I dont even know its been so long

[@SageBeal]

THATS IT, IM GETTIN ME MALLET

[@robertsoto6157]

I love you

[@direshadowwolf1826]

hahaha I wanna be your friend lol

[@grantshouse9229]

Its a spike maul

[@grantshouse9229]

@@CaptainDrewBlood aight

[@JerrybutTaller]

Bruh. Let's get a beer

[@johnsean8491]

I remember stories about Big John Henry as a kid, even up here in Canada. In Canada,we had a legendary Lumberjack named Big Joe Mufferaw (in French, Montferand), but unlike Paul Bunyon, he actually existed.

[@TheNightWatcher1385]

There are some who argue Paul Bunyan was based on a real man, or a collection of men who grew together into one legend.

[@havokvladimirovichstalinov]

"John Henry, John Henry, John Henry was a powerful man- Born with a hammer, a ten pound hammer, a twenty pound hammer right in his hand"

[@fearlesssolar8474]

Raputin?

[@wiseonwords]

@@fearlesssolar8474 - Umm - your comment would be much wittier if you got the name right! It's Rasputin. :)

[@ToxicChicken69]

1) mighty not powerful 2) aye you saw that Disney short film too!

[@cubichezon377]

@@ToxicChicken69 i too remember it as "powerful" but was shocked when i saw it recently. Mandela Effect is real.

[@fingerfuckinsally]

"I heard John's momma liked to see at night, so he pulled down the moon for a little bit of light. Took a lot of cooking to keep John fed, 10 dozen eggs and 8 loaves of bread."

[@hd591]

Henryson: "Whosoever holds this hammer, if he be worthy, shall possess the power of John." I am John, son of Henry, and I am worthy.

[@rion7088]

harold danny Odin: free real estate.

[@SheepdogSmokey]

Well, Thor moved from a hammer to an axe, John just made his hammers into an axe for his boy.

[@angelicarclark2620]

I like this version so much more than others I've seen. The others, he was the only one trying while everyone just watched on in awe or expectation that he was just supposed to do it all by himself...at least the others had their part to play.

[@guynamedty6168]

I played john henry in second grade and ever since then ive looked up to him.

[@worldsstrongestblacksmith]

I like this

[@VinnyMartello]

He's a great inspiration

[@darkrage1138]

This may be one of the single greatest things on youtube. The acting, the narration, and the great history all put together was just all together fantastic. Absolutely stunning. :D

[@LiveLongArtProsper]

I am not kidding when I say when this film ended I stood UP and clapped. This was absolutely incredible. Like WOW. What an amazing retelling of this man's story. I'm gobsmacked.

[@deathyboi4196]

This was far more wholesome and heart warming than I thought it would be. This touches my heart in a way I haven’t felt in a while. Thank you!

[@zacharyzone5493]

Legend has it John Henry was the first mortal to lift Thor's hammer.

[@thanhool]

He wasn't "worthy" but he had the strength.

[@ohxvvt]

The legends are wrong it was infact odin who came to earth to collect one of John's hammer for his son thor

[@mobslayer211]

Chris Landry what’s wrong with John Henry?

[@rion7088]

Zachary Flynn the top part of his sledge hammer was mjolnir.

[@keithcallen2844]

John Henry forged Thor's hammer.

[@joysmith1213]

So inspiring. Every young man struggling needs to watch this and learn what it really takes to get along in this life. Never accept defeat, never give up when you can. Everyone loves a hero and listens when they command the situation. No one listens to a defeated man.

[@TheBrannagan]

The best version of this story I've ever heard. I like this one best, I always knew, as a kid, that John Henry was a total badass and he didn't pass away after knocking that mountain down. There is a fantastic message here in this story, one that everyone should learn. DON'T QUIT! No matter what your obstacle is, don't let it stop you. Keep on keeping on, never quit.

[@worldsstrongestblacksmith]

I love this story .one of the best iterations I have seen

[@CopperAboriginies]

Isn't that great, I learned to do the same thing from his life to mine. Never quite.

[@JustSomeGoy]

You should watch Tall Tale. Patrick swayse is pecso bill, awesome movie.

[@JasonSmith-cz8yj]

But quitting stuff can also feel great too. Just saying.

[@AzzKicker-bz1cb]

@Lag Swag Pecos Bill!!!

[@erai5595]

🎶 I broke my chains , you can't stop this train , im runnin on grit sweat & love 🎶 woooo! Had me clappin my hands & stompin my feet. I love the story of John Henry ... You guys did an excellent job.

[@clarrisaherrera9287]

I watched this at my daughters school she started singing away 🎶

[@meganstoddard9255]

Love this! So uplifting all the way through. I thought the original tragic ending was going to happen, right up until it didn't, but even if it had ended the usual way, this version would still have been the most touching (what I thought we were going to see was a cut to the son saying, so I got the farm that was promised my daddy, and I worked it for him and always remember him). It's the rare story about a black man that isn't about his suffering, doesn't end tragically, and does make him the kind of hero that everyone can look to. Why are those stories so rare? We need more! In reality, hardly anyone managed to cash in on the "40 acres and a mule" promise. So glad to hear John Henry did!

[@ImperialLegion15]

This brings back memories of my childhood. I loved listening to the stories of Paul Bunyan, Johnny Appleseed, and most importantly John Henry. They did an amazing job with this short!

[@AzzKicker-bz1cb]

@RedbeardTrev How about Big John down in that coal mine??

[@tallpaul8880]

John Henry was a steel driving man! ✌🏼🇺🇸

[@donkeybrainwhoknew933]

I remember that song too.

[@swilliedoo6026]

Who’s still coming back even after 4 years just for that amazing song?

[@kokkinosman9]

not sure if you already knew but its called Grit, Sweat & Love and is very good indeed!

[@swilliedoo6026]

No I know but I just like watching this adaptation of the story too, very nostalgic.

[@draconicraiden1511]

I feel like the song could be played at a turning point in a fight or something- that song is a work of art. A masterpiece

[@josephcaldwell859jc]

Agreed

[@maryharry737]

True the song rocks.

[@karencroy9386]

agreed! I will be looking to see what else Mr. Nicholas Kirk has done. the music is the perfect polish for this tall tale of an amazing man and father.

[@karencroy9386]

I stand corrected. I misread the section listing the artist/singer. they're called The Brothers Bright featuring Eugene H. Russell Iv. like what I heard. wanna hear more!

[@oldmanjohnson69]

John Henry. Paul Bunyan. Pecos Bill. Casey Jones. America...nuff said.

[@jamesgordon1520]

Sho " Nuff " 👏 👏

[@jasona7377]

I heard Pecos Bill caught himself a tornado once

[@biscuitninja]

"Tall Tails" indeed?

[@DetectiveDerpy]

Johnny Appleseed

[@thomasmcginley7944]

What about Casey Jones??

[@jamieroballo746]

This is so beautiful. Never fails to make me cry- my dad showed it to me and he was almost crying, too

[@officalkingkrab1912]

Yup, one of the most powerful true-American stories out there

[@adamamaru4535]

John Henry is the physical manifestation of America's pioneer spirit. God bless!

[@davidsirmons]

If Michael Clarke Duncan were still with us, he'd be freaking perfect for this. God...I miss him. : /

[@ZeyBerlin_Baez]

Agreed 100%

[@blaze5053]

He is still alive. Just on a small island. Tom Hanks told me.

[@zx6rdood]

Should have had Larry Wheels as John Henry.....

[@n2locarz1]

Boss... I tried to take it back, but it was too late.

[@t.hudgens5940]

Yes, he would have... I think, Common could have done a good performance for this version as well. This is a very good production and this version of this song is killing it! 🙌

[@NIGHTOWL-jf9zt]

This is a true inspiration! From one John Henry to another, Rest in peace.

[@abasis.baruti9819]

I really appreciate this; on so many levels. I know the pain of hard labor when everything is on the line; and the pleasure of coming out on the outside. Many times the only options were finish or quit. Those times made me a better man... the kind of man my father's were that I always wanted to be.

[@Archbishop_of_the_Noodle]

Nice that he lived in this retelling. He usually dies from the stress after beating the machine in most.

[@emperorconstantine1.361]

His heart burst, but yeah, he usually died with his wife and newborn son next to him, with his hammer in his hand, just like he said.

[@samuelnajera3440]

You guys are so right

[@sonrouge]

A man deserves to live to celebrate his greatest achievement.

[@purplealice]

Well, he had built his life around never giving up. Dying would have been a way of giving up. Besides, he had to keep going as an example to his son.

[@PhantomBones101]

As much as I like an ending where he lives, I think the ending where he dies is more powerful. Despite knowing he would probably work himself to death he kept going not just for his family, but for every man who worked on that rail road. He knew that if he lost or gave up they would all be replaced by that machine and be put out of work. He swung his hammer for all of them.

[@MatryxMayhem]

I like this version so much more where he doesn’t die at the end of the competition with industrialization.

[@robertalexander7661]

Since I was a kid this has always been my favorite story!!! Determination, hard work, and never giving up!!!! You are who you are by what you make of yourself!!!

[@chrismayberry4387]

As a white man, growing up I loved this story! John Henry is an American badass..

[@rainhnr2580]

As a Black man, growing up I loved this story also. Why did we need to know you were white? I mean what's your point? Does your color make your comment more relevant than anybody else's comment? Weird bro.

[@acidyAc]

@@rainhnr2580 some white people dont like the black American history

[@nickblinko5677]

@@rainhnr2580 He didn't need to say he was white, I could tell from the Gadsen flag profile pic.

[@rainhnr2580]

@@acidyAc So what? Some Black people don't like white American history. What's your point?

[@rainhnr2580]

@@nickblinko5677 lol yup

[@arcingcat]

I never heard this story in my 55 years but I now watch it on Christmas Eve 2021. What a nice unexpected gift!!

[@KGDHMF]

y'all call em John Henry, *I call him 19th century black Thor*

[@CamWooster]

19th century, actually. The 18th century was the 1700s, the 19th century was the 1800s, the 20th century was the 1900s, the 21st century (where we are now) is the 2000s.

[@fartdonkey8290]

@@CamWooster shut up meg

[@politefahrenheit8546]

Well he lived in the late 1800’s so i imagine so it’s the 19th century

[@zhand4117]

I think think Thor is actually 21st century white John Henry

[@MikeyboiYT]

@@CamWooster the rail roads went under construction in the late 19th century not the 18th

[@joet.plumber3771]

What an amazing story. At 61, it was never told to me in that fashion. A true American hero. And a great father figure. Thank you for such a great video sir!!!! Very inspirational.

[@srice8959]

I love Johnny Cash’s Song celebrating John Henry’s life! He was a Great man

[@superluminal89]

I would have loved to see Michael Clarke Duncan play this role in a feature film before he passed away.

[@sonrouge]

Hear hear!

[@RR448]

That would have been great

[@denaturner8871]

Agreed... But, Ving Rhames, Terry Crews, Tyler Perry, Idris Elba, Winston Duke and Forrest Whitaker are still available; though none are as close to Michael Clark Duncan's stature, they are all tall.

[@Adam.Rushing]

@@denaturner8871 Ving is probably the closest. He could do a good job, so long as Hollyweird doesn't want him to "thug it up" at all.

[@denaturner8871]

adam rushing I agree on Ving, that's why I listed him first, I'm lost on the "thug" portion of your comment though.

[@DannyTheDano]

- So when can you start? -It looked like i just did. That made me smile :)

[@ferralrevenant1352]

Every since I was a kid I've always loved this story. Even today I work smarter and harder and when I'm tired I keep going. Not saying I always remember this story but it definitely makes me remember my childhood. Tbh this was the first Hero I'd ever seen on TV, that old Disney cartoon. He's like a character from a comic book I don't care if people say the story isn't true.

[@night_time_enjoyer]

Amazing recreation of the "original" from my younger years. I especially loved how he did not die at the end!!! Left me feeling happy and glad rather than sad and triumphant! Omeleto, by God, you outdo yourself every time.

[@thenut7124]

I thought he fainted not died

[@josephcaldwell859jc]

I wanna know too

[@OblivionKisame]

David Barrientos I like that he lived to.

[@jamalchilders6845]

I always wondered how someone would recreate that old movie I say in elementary school. That was actually quite beautiful. Thank you.

[@Careck2010]

Any chance you can find it? I've been looking, But can't find the oringinal I saw in elementary

[@patrickmcnair1965]

@@Careck2010 the one I saw was the animated Disney short. It’s on KZbin but You have to pay to watch it.

[@darkknight5541]

Ever since I first heard his story, John Henry has been my favorite folk hero. No matter what, he never gave up, and against all odds won the ultimate test of a man's strength, guts, and courage. This is one of only 2 I've ever seen (that weren't parodies) were he survived, and I'm glad he did.

[@thr335ix7]

John Henry, John Henry, John Henry is a mighty man. Born with a hammer, born with a hammer, Born with a hammer right in his hand. He plowed the earth so wide and deep, The seed he sowed the ground had to keep. His hammer hit the earth with such a mighty blow, Everything he planted would jump up and grow. John Henry, John Henry, John Henry is a powerful man. All our lives we've been so poor, John let me show you what we're working for. Canaan Land, Canaan Land, Everybody workin' for the Canaan Land. Home and freedom hand in hand, Workin' for the Canaan Land. Oh, movin' on down the line, John Henry came right on time. Movin' on down the line, John Henry came right on time. Home and freedom hand in hand, Workin' for the Canaan Land. John Henry, John Henry, John Henry is a mighty man. John Henry, John Henry, John Henry is a powerful man. Steel drivin' man, John Henry was. Steel drivin' man, Oh yes he was. So proud, defiant, A gentle giant, A steel drivin' natural man. Well, a-come on, John, You're the one that we're dependin' on. Swing that hammer, bust that rock, Come on, give it everything you've got. John Henry, John Henry, John Henry is a mighty man. Born with a hammer, born with a hammer, Born with a hammer right in his hand. John and the drill made the valley shake, Rumblin' almost caused an earthquake. Thunder and lightning was everywhere, Oh, Lord, that battle was beyond compare. John Henry, John Henry, John Henry is a powerful man. Born with a hammer, born with a hammer, Born with a hammer right in his hand. No mountain too high, No valley too low, No river too wide, No place too far to go. If you believe, you can overcome. The battle is already won, Just keep on keepin' on. Stand tall, just like John. No matter who you are, No matter where you're from, Nothing can stop you, From who you can become. Just keep on keepin' on, Stand tall, just like John. Just keep on keepin' on, Stand tall, just like John. No matter who you are, No matter where you're from, Nothing can stop you, From who you can become. Just keep on keepin' on, Stand tall, just like John. Just keep on keepin' on, Stand tall, just like John. Just keep on keepin' on, Stand tall, just like John. Just keep on keepin' on, Stand tall, just like John.

[@Solar_JD]

kamikaze camel This should be the national anthem

[@mk3ferret]

Who says it not

[@constancegomez351]

This song is long!

[@VinnyMartello]

Whenever I get tired of the daily grind at the chemical plant and feel like I want to give up, I come back to this. John Henry is more than a man, he is a way of life.

[@tjdoyle9780]

I could watch this cast tell this story in a full length feature! These guys were great and the story is even better than what i remember as a kid. This was honestly the best short film i have ever, ever seen!! Amazing job!

[@PrayerPray]

The best version of John Henry... Love the happy and creative ending.

[@alecnewman6052]

i remember hearing this story back when i lived in Fort Worth, TX in like 3rd or 4th grade. good narration, omeleto doesnt know how to disappoint

[@kylewatson6890]

I love this. A man proving himself rather than making excuses about how society is holding him back

[@jenz281]

I'm so proud to see an African American portrayed in a positive light and not a hustler, pimp, drug Lord or what have you.

[@josephcaldwell859jc]

Me too

[@mementocatharsis9372]

Jordan Peele is making movies showing black people doing things black people do. Not gang banging or hustling or any of that pop culture racist depictions. But regular things regular people do regularly.

[@themontephone875]

jennifer valerio . I did not see any race. I saw actual actors playing an actual part that portrays actual characters.

[@Robertahausen]

why not just consider him an American...and what things are you referring to them being a negative light?

[@redneckpyromania6965]

Right this is awesome

[@mpccenturion]

It is a story worth always remembering. Hard work with the hands are a lost art of today's generation. Cheers

[@Sabre912]

John Henry is far and away my most favorite tall tale.... thank you soo much for doing his tale right!!!! and thank the actors for me! lol

[@jakesternberg188]

Same here.

[@bakersmileyface]

Gotta really appreciate the production effort that went into this.

[@wrlord]

5:33 this is one of the best father/son scenes I've ever seen. Amazing.

[@chrisvarner6727]

I respect this man determination and for not quitting

[@davidbelanger9952]

hammer made out of his shackles??? hair just grew on my chest and balls

[@iwal1645]

The drill drove its bit into the rock nine feet. Henry drove his 14 feet. He had won = The American Spirit.

[@vonburen888]

More like the African Spirit.

[@iwal1645]

@@vonburen888 Nice try

[@CEBph5997]

@@vonburen888 He may have African Ancestry. But he's American by True Grit and by Blood, Sweat and Love for his child.

[@lnyawilliamsmoore4380]

Indigenous aboriginal native copper colored people from Turtle Island the Niigi-Dane Calloway channel

[@vonburen888]

@@CEBph5997 that's still African, you think people aren't like that in Africa? people in Africa love their children and have to make their own way, because it's still in a state of a colony even though officially they are all "free"

[@antonivsfortis]

I actually cried happy tears when he came out the other side of the mountain

[@godsgrace94]

I'm glad he survived; I was always said hearing that he died just after beating the machine. He's a hero.

[@lauralai9694]

It's a beautiful and inspiring story! It's a great documentary. The quality of the video is terrific. And the actors played magnificently. Thank you, Allen, for uploading this short film!

[@rebelbelle62]

I really like this man, and the values he was teaching his son. More fathers need to be like him. Imo

[@onlyonemrxonlyonemry306]

I'm having flashbacks back in my third grade Days 😓😢

[@ourDMTexperience]

If only these values were passed down.

[@AscendantStoic]

Yeah, instead of all the gangester crap, the values and heroic character of John are what needs to be spread 💪

[@AscendantStoic]

@InhumanCondition Sadly not anymore in 2018, hardwork, competence and discipline are being demonized as evil things by the cultural marxists and post-modernists who mostly control Academia in many state in the USA.

[@heavystarch100]

Yeah make it required viewing for millennials!!

[@johnhayesjr2806]

And what exactly are you all doing to help😑

[@AscendantStoic]

@@johnhayesjr2806 Sharing it around and telling people to watch it 🤔

[@Mr.Higginbotham]

My favorite of all time telling of the Man, the Legendary John Henry.

[@xbankhead13x]

If that big dude from the green mile was still alive he would probably played the fictional embodiment of John Henry

[@josephcaldwell859jc]

Yes Michael Clarke Duncan would have been perfect

[@CaptWesStarwind]

@Chris Landry lol Beat me to it.

[@kristopherhasenbuhler5393]

Yeah he was a good guy

[@cable02-w6s]

We need more people like john henry. The laziness in this world is unbelievable

[@parkertitle1923]

we don’t need more people like him we need people to act like him.

[@ordenadoysimple2392]

One of the greatest stories on you tube ! Very inspirational ""grit , sweat , and love"" . Should've gotten many academy awards ! ""BOLT BY BOLT"" !

[@HarleyRiderMC]

Beautiful story, wonderful music, inspirational message. Well done!