Sci-Fi Short Film "Holy Moses" | DUST | Starring Amanda Seyfried

A peculiar miracle binds together a pregnant nun in 1960s Ireland with a West Texas gas station attendant 25 years later.
"Holy Moses" by Eli Powers
Starring Amanda Seyfried (In Time, Jennifer's Body, Mean Girls)
Connect with the Filmmaker:
www.horsegodproductions.com/
/ elipowersfilm
/ mingey
More About "Holy Moses":
In 1963, the harshest winter of the 20th century rages against Northern Ireland. A pregnant nun at an asylum for fallen women has lost one of her cows. She follows it out into the elements, just in time to witness it vanish into thin air.
Twenty-five years later the cow reappears before a West Texas gas station attendant, named Justice. Justice calls up the Sheriff, the Sheriff calls up the Doctor, and together, the three men discover a strange mystery in the middle of an American nowhere.
"Holy Moses" Credits:
CAST
Mary - Amanda Seyfried
Justice - Philip Ettinger
Sheriff - Thomas Sadoski
Doc Bob - Dan Bakkedahl
The Priest - John Gowans
Nuns - Ruby Wolf, Ino Badanjak, Larosey Burrill
Mother Superior - Joanne Powers
CREW
Executive Producer - Amanda Seyfried
Producer - Thaddeus Bouska
Post-Production Producer - Aidan Sheldon
Associate Producer - Ady Pié
Editor - Colin Smith
Composer - Lydia Parkington
Sound Design & Mix - Jack Goodman
Colorist - Robbie Renfrow
Title Design - Steve Kelly
VFX - Christopher Haney, John Allegretti
NEW YORK UNIT CREW
NY Unit Cinematographer - Jordan Hall
1st AC - Mike Millette
Field Sound Recordist - Nahja Noon
Wardrobe - Ruby Wolf
Animal Wrangler - Erica Brooks
Location Manager - Shannon Hughes
LA UNIT CREW
LA Unit Cinematographer - Cold Aidan Sheldon
CAM OP - Madison McKamey
First AC - Loren Hamilton
First AC - Austin Pedroni
2nd AC - Tucker Prescott
Gaffer - Dimitri Christoforidis
Best Boy Electric - Patrick Mattes
Field Sound - Gray Thomas-Sowers
Wardrobe - Erica McKamey
Production Assistant - Lowell Wilding
Production Assistant - Adam Shalachman
Still Photographer - Alex Bickford
Subscribe to the DUST Newsletter: eepurl.com/gnTIbD
Subscribe to DUST on KZbin: bit.ly/2aqc5vh
#DUST #scifi #shortfilm
About DUST:
DUST presents thought-provoking science fiction content, exploring the future of humanity through the lens of science and technology. From timeless classics to cutting-edge movies, series, short films, and podcasts, DUST acquires, produces and distributes all content types.
DUST is also available on Amazon FireTV, AndroidTV, AppleTV, Fubo, IMDBTV, iOS, Peacock, Roku, Redbox, Samsung TV, Sling, STIRR, Tivo, Vizio, Xumo and 7Plus. On our OTT platforms, we offer cutting-edge and classic feature films, series, podcasts, and our entire shorts library. #TheFutureAwaits
"
Connect with DUST
Website: www.watchdust.com
Sign-up for DUST newsletter: eepurl.com/b_SKAz
Watch DUST on your TV: Available on Roku, Samsung TV, Apple TV, Android TV...and more
Watch more on KZbin: bit.ly/2amTSen
Follow Us on Facebook: bit.ly/2aqYgtZ
Follow Us on Instagram: bit.ly/2amAhRt
Listen to the DUST podcast:
Apple: bit.ly/DUST-Audio
Spotify: bit.ly/DUST-Spotify
Stitcher: bit.ly/DUST-Stitcher
Castbox: bit.ly/DUST-Castbox
iHeart: bit.ly/DUST-iHeart
About Gunpowder + Sky:
Creating content that resonates and impacts pop culture conversation, by empowering creators to take risks and experiment relentlessly in the pursuit of novel stories and formats.
/ watchdust
Subscribe to the DUST and ALTER newsletter: eepurl.com/dChYXb

[@elipowers9831]

Hey, I'm Eli. I wrote and directed HOLY MOSES so happy to discuss anything with you about where this idea came from, as well as miracles, God, time, and cows.

[@ameerzeya5460]

Best example of time travel right here , the video was posted 15 mins ago and your comment was last edited 1 day ago , Miracle !!! Nice short film though . 🙂

[@qzh00k]

The idea came from human imagination and social constructs with a side of CGI. Fun but not real like so many of mans myths

[@Siso00]

I enjoyed your film, great work.

[@carolynnunes3922]

@@qzh00k There is more truth in man’s myths than we realize...

[@qzh00k]

@@carolynnunes3922 fiction has it's role in literature, no argument from here.

[@MyFatherIsTryingToKillMe]

Those people that came with cars were from the future!!! That Lincoln Town Car is a third generation made from 1998-2011 and the scene is in 1989.

[@jeremysears4263]

Amanda is on a an acting/performance tear. She's gonna end with a lot of awards for her craft!

[@paxwallace8324]

Maybe so

[@elipowers9831]

I think she’ll win the Emmy

[@jeremysears4263]

@@elipowers9831 🎯

[@elipowers9831]

@@jeremysears4263 Emmy secured.

[@echospaw899]

She's definitely proving herself to be one of the best.

[@bgsound2721]

Great acting.The priest who really thinks highly of himself, his line really hit home.

[@nobody7817]

Sort of like the Priests in the days of Jesus...

[@tablescissors67]

If he was, indeed, a priest. But then, all men are flawed.

[@Newportioo]

What was the line

[@toweypat]

Yes, indeed. He was the villain, or as much as there was one.

[@daveross7731]

His line doesn't hit home because the priest is assuming men like the store clerk don't miracles. Matter of fact that is exactly the type to get miracles

[@barrymayson2492]

I lived through the winter of 1963 in the UK it was very cold! Frost on the inside of the window and out side. Food was difficult as most homes had deliverys of bread milk none got through for days. The film was a bit out there but enjoyed it greatly. Brought back memories!!

[@clonejones7955]

Don't ever move to Canada that's every winter here.😁

[@barrymayson2492]

@@clonejones7955 The big difference is Canada knows how to deal with it, the UK grinds to a halt if we get more than a couple of inches of snow!

[@clonejones7955]

@@barrymayson2492 We know how to deal but it's still rough.I live in the mountains and my water froze for two months.🤣😱

[@robgabriel8900]

the winter was when sylvia plath killed herself while living in a flat in london...

[@jipsigal]

This was SUPERLATIVE in every way!! I want the WHOLE MOVIE!! Amanda Seyfried has always been an actress I liked, but this catapulted her into so much more, for me! BRAVO! BRAVO! ❤️ And Ettinger as Justice, MARVELOUS!!! I loved the Sheriff, too. 10 on a 10 scale!

[@foreverpinkf.7603]

Have you ever heard of the beauty of short novels or movies? Storys don´t have to have 800 pages to tell a story. The same goes for movie content; they not necessarily take two hours to tell a story.

[@Aurinkohirvi]

Yeah? Explain it to me.

[@KatorNia]

A time-travelling cow & a burning bush are "SUPERLATIVE in every way!!"? How many movies have you watched in your lifetime to have such low standards, like 3 (all bad too)? 😆 I mean ok, it has an interesting (albeit pointless) idea, good casting, fine acting... But "SUPERLATIVE in every way"? Hardly...

[@jipsigal]

@@KatorNia You missed it. I feel sorry for you, but I stand by my comment 100%.

[@asc_missions3080]

@@KatorNia That void you live in must be powerfully painful.

[@Rouge_7]

I remember watching this short months ago and enjoyed it just as much this time as well. It still causes very deep thinking. I can see "special forces" priests employed and sent out by the Vatican to travel around the world to find miracles before "normal" people discover them. And if they are discovered before "special forces" get there then the miracle is poorly explained away and this "normal person" observer is just told that miracles are only for "special" people had he ain't one of 'em. Thank you Eli for an outstanding story that stays strong.

[@joereilly1519]

you have a very small mind if you think that the Catholic Church would act like that..... this is just fiction. In the cases of Fatima and Lourdes miracles appeared to normal ppl like the guy in the show says. The church recognize miracles its the rest of the world that does not.

[@jamess7263]

If that's who the men in hazmat suits are (or who they are with), they are clearly in the wrong. Not that this fictional account would be the first time a church was in the wrong mind you, just sayin' Also if they believed it was an actual miracle, from God, putting out a burning bush (edit) has got to be borderline sacrilegious. Kind of like the only "unforgivable sin" in the bible is the undefined "blasphemy of the Holy Spirit." (I'd have to say shutting down a miracle might just fit that bill) Well done movie short tho, I enjoyed it.

[@diy_nailsby_heidi_r3889]

Actually the Vatican indeed does have a sort of "black ops" cadre, mostly Jesuits; people who track, investigate and hopefully "put to rest" many a miraculous-seeming incident: keeping the flock from discovering too much and ending the stranglehold of the RCC over hundreds of millions all over the world. Edit: Spelling error

[@RomeoWhiskey692]

I find it interesting that you refer to the Vatican’s “ Special Forces “. They are called “The Hundred “, I believe . They have existed since the Inquisition , and are the Pope’s clandestine operations force , made up of ordained priests with military and intelligence training . They carry Papal authority , as his direct representatives , and report only to him . Officially , they do not exist . The Church will deny any knowledge of them or their actions . They are able to perform whatever the Church needs to have done . A special dispensation from the Pope absolves them from all sins they have committed or will commit , and they are guaranteed entrance into heaven , no matter what they do , as long as they do it conducting the Church’s business . They will perform their duty to God and Church with fanatical dedication . Murder is not murder , nor is torture … or any other transgression you can imagine . Yes , silencing or misdirecting witnesses to certain events is included as part of their duties . Can’t have widespread panic or events calling into question accepted religious teachings , now can we ? Not good for business … So … where did you hear of them ?

[@Legna1826]

Loved how justice needed a light for his cigar standing next to the burning bush!!🤣🤣

[@josh_hugo]

No idea what was supposed to be happening in the plot, but interesting characters, and very strong mood.

[@robertjason6885]

Another masterpiece. The writing, acting, locations, direction, score...and the ending that ties you in a knot. perfect. It is an honor to watch your productions.

[@vincemartinez171]

Are you kidding me? A cow walks into a west Texas gas station and dies from stress and the attendant sees a burning bush. And y’all are giving it accolades for each image and spoken word. It’s a mish mash of stupidity wandering in a wasteland. WIERDOS !

[@BaxterTidwell]

Did anyone else notice that even Justice's t-shirt time travelled? It's "Operation Desert Storm", which didn't happen until 1991, two years after the scene was set.

[@keithlightminder3005]

Awesome - the empire of the institution extinguishing the light of the burning bush and muzzling the still small voice.

[@donm5354]

Well produced, great cast - better than most TV shows/movies. I had to laugh when the hazmat suit guys put out THE BURNING BUSH with fire extinguishers.... Would love to see an expanded version of this - solid core for a full length movie.

[@nilo70]

I would have loved it if they couldn’t put it out

[@modelcitizen72]

When they did that I was like NOOO

[@Crowley9393]

Able to stand on its own, but definitely leaves me wanting to know more. Excellently written, produced, directed & executed. Bravo to all involved.

[@carlosidelone8064]

A film, that leaves you wanting more, is a VERY GOOD FILM !

[@brentkaufman1723]

Do you always start sentences with your (dead) brother's name?

[@binderdundit228]

@@brentkaufman1723 Are you German? You seem a little Brent out of shape.

[@oldones59]

Great art leaves itself open to interpretation. Art, as well as life, doesn't always have a neat resolution.

[@Eecheejo]

Absolutely love the fact that there are well know actors involved with 'Dust'. I can only imagine that they too must enjoy working on non-hollywood projects to try different things.

[@MjYoutube78]

It definitely improves the chances of very worthy, ambitious independent films (short or feature length) getting seen, which benefits everyone and is so gratifying to talent and crew doing so much with so little. OTOH, I've seen DUST shorts with actors vaguely recognizable as general *journeymen (*have bounced between theatre, episodic television, small roles in film/streaming productions) and had to IMDB their names to even know if they're from NA, the UK or Europe, because their lead performance blew me away: totally grounded a fantastical story in a believable emotional truth. I imagine it must be hugely gratifying for any actor with chops, especially with a lot of small scene work, the odd line here or there backing up exposition, filling out a crucial plot points - small supporting work to being the equivalent of an onscsreen spear-carrier - to have the opportunity to fully use all they have/are to anchor a production. (Such a showcase is an invaluable addition to their reel, too.) And It's always exciting to see an actor and think: "Who th'he** IS THIS PERSON?" because they're so good and really made the film. 😲 😀

[@zethraelofteldrassil3149]

All I can say is WOW! This was beyond belief. Best Dust I have seen in ages!

[@chrisbentleywalkingandrambling]

I fully agree. Brilliant.

[@deirdreryan6147]

Amanda does a very credible Irish accent. This was a wonderful episode of Dust. Thank you, Eli Powers! Greetings from Ireland.

[@michaelkottler]

Agreed, and is it too early in our relationship for me to declare my total undying love and devotion for the intelligent, well-spoken and beautiful woman you seem to be?

[@michaelkottler]

The Concise Version: Holy Moses is a brilliant, unique and quietly majestic film. An amazing production in every way, Holy Moses is a special, intensely beautiful work that transcends the sci-fi genre to become a cow of another color. Eli Powers, cast and crew deserve a worldwide standing ovation & other accolades + funding for new projects. HM is, in a word, sublime. Bravo!

[@michaelkottler]

Holy Moses is a unique and utterly brilliant film. An amazing short, excellent in so many ways that it's nearly transcendent. It's clear from reading other comments that some viewers seem to "get" it and others feel clueless while still others interpret this film quite differently than I do and, dare I say, incorrectly. The meaning is fairly straightforward and easy to grasp, so if it's been a doozy for you or you're a part of the crew who created this masterpiece and enjoy praise, read on. (SPOILER FOLLOWS) In short, and leaving out many nuances, the young nun gives birth to Justice (whose name hints at his coming role as a neo-Moses) and years later G-d sends the ailing cow (representing several social negatives in one sacrificial ie scapegoat animal) to the now young adult Justice and shortly after its death/sacrifice, Justice et al discover the famous burning bush of Moses or in this case, of Justice. The church swoops in, indicating they've a means to divine when such things occur, douses the holy flame then poo poos Justice as too common for such miracles then depart as Justice muses on a fitting Biblical verse which helps lead the viewer to the ultimate reveal as Justice realizes his true nature as the new Holy Moses or something even more. In either event, he recognizes his true nature and the film ends with him throwing off the vestiges of his former life and hitting the road en route to bringing a new and better covenant between humankind and G-d, rather like what Jesus did (replacing an eye for an eye with love, forgiveness and charity) or some other endeavor worthy of a Holy Moses. In any case, Holy Moses is a very special and quietly majestic production in every way and Eli Powers, the cast and crew deserve a standing ovation and other accolades plus funding for new productions. Amazing work, Powers and friends! Again, Holy Moses is a unique and utterly brilliant not to mention intensely beautiful film that transcends the sci-fi genre completely and is a cow of another color, so to speak.

[@oldones59]

You should have made your post shorter. More people would read the entire text.

[@imbaby5499]

Michael here gatekeeping the interpretation of an art open for interpretation.

[@michaelkottler]

@@imbaby5499 I'm Baby here gatekeeping the right to confidently share a reasonable interpretation. Say, Baby, I'm no gatekeeper or arbiter of ultimate truth. Clearly it's open to interpretation. I offered what seemed like a pretty straightforward framework covering what seemed like the most salient points in the hope of helping others. But I don't claim to be the gatekeeper of truth in art or even just re: Holy Moses. Open to interpretation wins every time so good for you. But I still think I covered the major points. Instead of pointing out my arrogance in daring to speak my piece why not share your own or did my confidence offend you? If so, it's a shame I did not think of prefacing my breakdown with an "Art is to be freely interpreted. What follows is my personal perception of the going-ons in Holy Moses (which is clearly closer to the truth of the narrative than some of yours) and is not the only possible interpretation." In other words ok I was overly confident and yes art is open to interpretation but give me a break. Yes, open to interpretation. But at some point it's reasonable to make a distinction between absolute relativism and a definable narrative. If my tone or content doesn't please, call me on specifics and critique in detail. Labeling me the gatekeeper of truth in art is too easy.

[@imbaby5499]

"others feel clueless while still others interpret this film quite differently than I do and, dare I say, incorrectly." If something is open to interpretation, then,. by definition, it can't be interpreted incorrectly.

[@michaelkottler]

@@imbaby5499 Your point is well taken but as I mentioned earlier, I agree that it's open to interpretation but at the same time at it can be useful to cross the absolute relativism boundary and attempt to come up with a narrative that reflects as accurately as possible the media in question. Now, you made your point, which I already conceded, yet you continue to nitpick despite mt concession which speaks more to your personal motivation to present as the arbiter of accuracy to reiterate a point I already conceded. From whence does this motivation arise? What nerve did I inadvertently touch on? I really want to know. And finally, am I not entitled to express myself re: this short film even if I worded parts of my post in a regrettable manner? Because at the end of the day, it's only my opinion. It doesn't mean other opinions are wrong, but come on, I have a right to throw my personal thoughts out there and even make claims that some people's analysis is incorrect. You make it sound like absolute relativism is the only way and to an extent, I agree. We all perceive differently and may come to different conclusions re: the same input. But at the same time, to move forward through life at some point it's OK and even necessary to articulate an opinion, come to an agreement, make a decision, and do so based on the facts as best we can know them. I offered my best and most concise interpretation of the narrative hoping it might help viewers who felt lost or who IMO way off base, get a better handle on the material. And I daresay I didn't do a bad job. But simply because I threw my two cents out there doesn't make me a bad guy. Again, absolute relativism is fine but at some point we need to find common ground around facts or stories that make sense. It's perfectly ok for me to understand that art is open to interpretation yet still manage to offer an analysis that reflects the story as best as possible and throw it out there. The two are not mutually exclusive in any way but in absolutes and theory. In reality, yes art is open to individual interpretation. Granted. But think back to college art classes including film history and film studies et al. Lots of films (and other forms of art) are open to interpretation and yet our professors had certain expectations in our ability to form cohesive, insightful analysis whether it was of the purely personal reaction to a given piece or as is far more often the case, a thesis, summary, investigation, or reflection and so on including all of the above regarding a given film or parts thereof as standalone material or in relation to other films or movements in film including styles, directors, and any other aspect of film-making. Point being, at some point, narratives are required. The writers and directors are aware of that. Some films are sooooo into the category of "open to interpretation" it's incredible (we can all name several, I am sure), but some linear planning and design went into it. Other films are less unclear and easier to come to a consensus regarding what they're about. A science-based documentary is a good example, but there are others including fiction, historical fiction and on and on And then there's everything in between. But even in the driest, most clear-cut and direct kind of movie, the idea that it's open to interpretation still applies. It's simply that, well, sometimes narratives are useful. I offered my analysis. Looking back, had I known there was going to be a gatekeeper of absolute relativism becoming annoyed with my hubris, I would have added language reflecting the importance of open interpretation, avoided using the term "incorrect" (even though it might darn well be true) and still gone on to offer the same breakdown of Holy Moses. The bottom line is that you had a good point, you made it, good for us all and hooray. But in protecting everyone's right to react as they will you overlook the importance of being able to perceive accurately, think critically, and make distinctions that allow for a cohesive narrative and there definitely was one in Holy Moses. It doesn't belittle your point one bit. But it does suggest that you've made a mountain out of a molehill and are incapable of seeing the forest for the narrative so to speak. The bottom line is simply that you can have both absolute relativism and valid interpretations at the same time. I'll make sure to preface everything I post with that from now on. Ok, probably not. In the end, I concede your point and hope you've got the big brain to recognize the validity of my own.

[@douglaskingsman2565]

Wow, far better a storyline (and theme) than most dead-end "Dust" throwaways (all technology with no sensible plot or ending). Thank you, Eli!!

[@MaNuLaToROfficial]

you really know how to give a compliment

[@FreddieStreeterYT]

You speak the truth my friend. I love Dust, but some of the movies are pointless and baseless and it makes you wonder sometimes. This movie was one of the good ones

[@Richard-ox6zk]

As if this nonsense story has anything. It is as dead-end as all the other "Dust"-crap.

[@wendycohen9038]

This is movie making. The light in all the shots was so perfect. Great direction, shooting, acting - especially loved the sheriff!

[@nilo70]

It’s about the second coming. And good versus evil.

[@Bahrta_sai]

I'll be honest. That burning bush looks like something you could create with an Android app. DUST movies are still so much better than Hollywood (especially Syfy originals).

[@oldones59]

@@nilo70 If that's all you can say about the film, you're a morally and intellectually shallow person.

[@nick92028]

But it makes no sense. It is just a bunch of stuff happening. No order or reason. How on earth do you call that a good movie? Your comment reminds me of "The Emperor's New Clothes" Complementing something just to sound like you know what you are talking about....

[@geraldinevallely]

Really enjoyed how this film looked. For such a short movie I really felt connected with the characters. My only gripe is the 'Oirish' accent. As an Irish person it pains to hear this fake brogue. Amanda is a wonderful actress for sure, not doubting that for a moment. But there are plenty of Irish actors who could have played the part. Although her features blended beautifully with the stark winterscape.

[@studiohq]

Lets talk about the Sheriff and Justice... Wow guys just wow that was some solid work

[@KKConsultingLLC]

Ok, wow. I need another 115 minutes of this story please!

[@carlbrown9082]

That was such a thought-provoking film. The priest in the black car was truly provoking. But quoting 1 Corinthians 1:27-28 at the end was insightful. To quote a story of a rabbi who was asked how it could be that God often showed himself to people in the olden days whereas nowadays nobody ever sees him. The rabbi replied: "Nowadays there is no longer anybody who can bow low enough."

[@richardsteele8161]

My only comment: Who are you, priest, to say for whom a miracle appears?

[@jipsigal]

Amen!

[@mikeheffernan]

Crazy. Beautifully directed and shot. Excellent cast. Top notch.

[@horaceharned761]

Wow! I enjoyed that! Miracles happen. Like the time when I was younger and didn't believe in God. I asked if He was real during a Christian retreat and he said 'YES'- in the most stereophonic sound I have ever witnessed-and that's all I needed. I didn't see God before, then I saw Him everywhere.

[@zebeart8808]

I had a NDA about 29 years ago, and a voice talked to me and said it was okay to go. Outside of my body, their was no physical or emotional pain and I wanted to go. The voice gave me absolute permission to go, but said, "But your work here isn't over yet," and asked me things and I decided to go back into my sick body. I'm so glad I did. By unintentional consequences, I became a teacher of troubled teens, and the voice would help me know what to say to each one to help and reach them. I would have never chosen this profession, ever, but it just happened. Once, when a fellow teacher took me to a meeting at an evangelical church and everyone started screaming so loud it hurt my ears, and the voice said with humor, "They couldn't hear with all that noise if God spoke to them." I thought of that experience when the young man said people wouldn't hear if God spoke to them.

[@ThePyramidone]

My first thought when seeing the burning bush was "Then said the Lord to him, Put off thy shoes from thy feet: for the place where thou standest is holy ground."

[@fordehowes3937]

Hey sheriff you got a match? Lol. This was absolutely wonderful on so many levels. I seldom watch something twice but this I watched several times. Thank you.

[@jipsigal]

I agree! No fancy effects - just a spectacular, thought provoking story, on the ‘everyman’ but wondrous levels of the best Spielbergian craft!

[@williamsstephens]

"Helen prefers it."

[@bigbri4090]

This had my attention from start to finish. An unexpected treat.

[@99bobcain]

Doc Bob says the cow died of stress, because its a common society ailment, Justice's standing in front of a burning bush, and asks the sheriff for a match.. love the humor..

[@thaska6106]

Original, different, unpredictable, dazzling, shocking, brilliant.

[@gort5583]

This was really well done and gave me fond memories of Xfiles, perhaps even a bit better!

[@donmcneal233]

Very, very good...! Says more than one can imagine..... I'm still figuring it all out... Kudos to DUST!

[@DownhillAllTheWay]

Good luck with figuring it out. I sure as hell can't!

[@richardikin]

Imagine being able to work with an actress of the quality of Amanda Seyfried!

[@todddanforth8853]

Wow!!! Destroys spiritual elitism from church hierarchy. Gotta love that!!! 💖💖💖 👏 👏 👏 👏 👏 👏 👏

[@KatorNia]

Honestly the comments are a bigger mystery to me than the point this short is trying to make. _"SUPERLATIVE in every way!!"_ _"All I can say is WOW! This was beyond belief. Best Dust I have seen in ages!"_ _"Powerful piece of work."_ _"Excellent storyline."_ Seriously, *WHAT* storyline? & what the Hell does the time-travelling cow have to do with anything?

[@tomspoors768]

It might be (who can tell with stories) a retelling of the Moses story of the burning bush. Justice (the nun's son) was perhaps saved from the Catholic nuns (who might have sold him for a profit) and the cow - which might or might not be the same cow - is a member of a religious order of 'Holy Cows' tasked with protecting the prophecy. Indeed, Justice's name might represent the 'justice' of the Ten Commandments that Moses brought down from Mt Sinai. Then of course there's the 'Men in Black' cassocks protecting their monopoly on the faith. So that's one possible set of stories. I'm sure you could find others with a little imagination.

[@amisoftau2659]

The "something terrible" that the nun felt was going to happen, was the imminent death/loss of her unborn child. The cow was sacrificed so that the nun's child could live.. in another place and time. The burning bush was the nun's "window" to see her son of the future (Justice) - "my beautiful son".

[@KatorNia]

Although I appreciate you taking the time to share your thoughts on the short itself, neither of you answered my actual question. How is this even remotely "SUPERLATIVE (caps from OP)"? There wasn't even a single "wow" moment, let alone anything that would justify all these enthusiastically praising comments. Idk, something fishy is going on here...

[@tubomanic]

That was incredible and engrossing. I loved the simplicity, the banjo, the perfect amount of dialogue, and the excellent acting. It was powerful. Thank you for making that.

[@YouTubeallowedmynametobestolen]

10:13 -- "Hey sheriff, you have a match?" "No, but there's a damn burnin' bush right there. Light off'n it, why dontcha?"

[@videolabguy]

Thank you, Eli. Complete coherent stories are the exception on Dust. This is one of the best I've seen. It makes one think... assuming one has that skill to begin with.

[@Legna1826]

“Assuming one has the skill to begin with” 🤣🤣🤣Under rated comment!!!🤣🤣

[@RoySATX]

I personally try to avoid assumptions, the odds aren't in my favor.

[@YouTubeallowedmynametobestolen]

I liked the video a lot, but ... a "complete, coherent story"? I guess you might conclude that I am one who does not have "that skill to begin with" because I do not see a complete, coherent story here. Perhaps you would be gracious enough to explain to me the time and geography jump, what the cow symbolized, and why it was sick when Justice encountered it. To start with.

[@robertwalley6692]

I do not comment on these videos very often if ever but this one was awesome, keep it up. My mother has been dead for 20 years now, she loved shows like this and got me hooked on watching them. I have been watching them for a while now.

[@johnbergman2746]

This is my second time watching this short.... Great job... would pay to see this as a series or longer version keep up the good work.

[@billderinbaja3883]

Eli Powers: Mesmerizing storytelling, gripping from the first moment. I can't say I understood the story, too deep for my tiny brain... but I enjoyed it completely.

[@pdcdesign9632]

I'm glad god and miracles are being included in SCIENCE FICTION where they belong.

[@billderinbaja3883]

@@pdcdesign9632: God and miracles?? WTF?

[@patthompson1761]

Hi Eli, I really liked this one. Very well thought out and acted. Looking forward to more from you.

[@steveschnetzler5471]

Love it, Very thought provoking, I will be thinking about it for a while. Thanks.

[@n-da-bunka2650]

I have been down the walk she takes around the 2:20 mark MANY times. It's amazing at how similar the barn milking setup is to what I recall from my childhood right down to the grates for draining things away as well as the bars above the cows. The only thing missing are the milk cans and the mechanical pumps.

[@stonewolf0545]

So Moses was inside his mom back the XV century, then in the finals of the XX century he's a grown man named "justice", attending a gas station located in only-God-knows-where, and then appears the burning bush, interesting movie, but what i didn't got is the purpose of the cow, maybe to proove time displacement. Cool, i like it, you did it again DUST, Glad to meet you long time before, the new concept of Scifi.

[@AmikaofMan]

I figure the cow was some type of offering to the Lord.

[@DaveKraft1]

So -- finally, Justice comes to West Texas. Now THAT'S a miracle!! Excellent short. I first saw it some years back; it was even more powerful this go 'round. Thanks for this wondrous piece.

[@CharlesSmith-io9fp]

How long ago did you see this short, was it this same one? I've sent Eli two messages and got the impression this is a WIP.

[@DaveKraft1]

@@CharlesSmith-io9fp Not sure exactly; but perhaps last year sometime. And it was definitely this one. It's quite unforgettable.

[@CharlesSmith-io9fp]

@@DaveKraft1 Cool, thanks.

[@puca7908]

🤠👍

[@22rjperry1]

Excellent short film! Nice fresh story!!!! And of course the acting was top notch.

[@simonpender8331]

Wonderful. Intriguing. Haunting. Lovely music. Lovely landscapes. Subtle acting. Very nice job.

[@YouTubeallowedmynametobestolen]

I like how the sheriff tells the doctor that Justice is seeing things because he doesn't want to admit that he sees the burning bush too, until the doctor sees it as well.

[@christophers2529]

the only point of the sheriff is "my wife prefers it that way". masons think God is a woman and the sheriff is very womany.

[@Strickalator]

Priest: "Miracles Don't Belong To Men Like You". Me: " I BEG YOUR PARDON"?!? 😮

[@alnewby]

Engaging -- suspenseful -- beautifully executed -- absolutely outstanding! Eli, thank you.--Al Newby

[@pdcdesign9632]

I'm glad god and miracles are being included in SCIENCE FICTION where they belong. 😁

[@carlosidelone8064]

@@pdcdesign9632 You DO KNOW, that science-fiction is the prelude to science-fact ?

[@Charleshawn66]

OMG That was so GOOD!!! would have made a GREAT episode for X Files!

[@MyFatherIsTryingToKillMe]

Holy Cow, this is good 👍😊

[@nobody7817]

1) I actually thoroughly enjoyed this; but more importantly 2) I actually respected this. Not often I can say that about a video or movie.

[@nobody7817]

@@moosenbeans903 LOL I'm not the Karen here. I've never seen a troll named Karen before, you you take the cake...

[@sallybalkin8507]

Is there any role Amanda Seyfried can't play. She is soooo good. She probably played the priest as well. AND the burning bush.

[@elipowers9831]

At one point I wanted her to play the priest with facial scars, sort of like Ed Harris in A History of Violence.

[@beelwillis4025]

I truly ENJOYED this!!! Miracles are For Mankind.

[@johnconroy3078]

Good work - though the cow walking into the petrol station reminded me of when one walked into our sitting room in our house in the West of Ireland (instant panic about what bodily functions might kick in before we got it back out!)

[@Cletus_the_Elder]

I hope this becomes a serial. I would subscribe to it. I got goosebumps when the burning bush showed up, and I laughed at myself.

[@dickdastardly5534]

This really is a powerful piece of work, thank you for making it and sharing 🙏🏻

[@marvinwindsor5896]

Wow, just perfectly done! Had me totally drawn in. Great acting, writing, directing, and score. Made me want much more.

[@daviderwin4705]

This piece said a lot for a short. Was expecting a vignette. Got a whole thought provoking story. Hard to do in a short. Great job.

[@Lucky_Chase]

Big Yay to Amanda Seyfried. She can flat out act when given the right script!! Hell yeah!!

[@tylerking5703]

so ummm.. I have a question. well, more than one. I have A LOT of questions. the cow... was sick, then teleported to Texas, then mutilated? why is Justice covered in blood? why is the bush on fire? who let Bob read about stress?? lmao

[@jipsigal]

Read my comment to George Miller’s comment, for my take… If you want…

[@markhorton3994]

I think God is about to speak from the burning bush but they put it out rejecting the message.

[@danabana8121]

This is perfect. Well done. So very very well done. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[@PaulDaveyJsy]

Just loved this.Stranger things have happened? so deep really.

[@pcatful]

I don't think you'd see wild Joshua Trees like that in West Texas. But this is SciFi and what an awesome shoot and location!

[@PrimitiveInTheExtreme]

What an incredible short film. A true masterpiece. I'm going to watch it again. The title reminded me of a great German thrash metal band, Holy Moses 🔥

[@bradjohnson9671]

That was REALLY good! Left you wanting more for sure.

[@piwackitpepper7558]

Top Notch! Could be a feature - keep all music, cast, general pace. Gosh this was good.

[@neffendi8434]

Loved how Justice had a halo of blue around his head when the priest told him the miracles weren't for. Justice to me could be just us any person who is lowly in the eyes of the hierarchy of any church who has been shown the power and awe of God or he could be Jesus who hears his mother Mary and the end saying "my son". This is storytelling at its finest. Thank you.

[@davidlist7507]

You did a Good Job making this strange flick, thank you!

[@keisskksksksnewso801]

Psychotronic film

[@beautifulfaith9367]

Hello 👋 Eli !!! I want more like this 👏 and please extend this into a movie 🎥 !!! How wonderful to see beyond our everyday lives, and the fantastic things that could happen. Thank you !!! God works in ways of his own. Shirl K - Texas

[@mita6010]

High praise for your movie making abilities and for being able to cast Amanda Seyfried in the two films I have seen. She is brilliant in everything I see her in. I can’t wait to see what you do with a feature film, but please continue with these short films.

[@js7un165]

I liked how the title flashed at the end. It's like "now I get it".

[@zpinkLondonBelow]

This was bloody brilliant, well done, everyone involved!

[@pdcdesign9632]

I'm glad god and miracles are being included in SCIENCE FICTION where they belong. 😁

[@joanmayo3330]

@@pdcdesign9632 Then who answered my thousands of prayers??

[@pdcdesign9632]

@@joanmayo3330 Probably Joe Pesci. Try praying to any celebrity and you'll get the same results. Try a different Greek god every now and then just for fun too.

[@Agnus78]

Well designed, wrote and acted. Climatic and deep, something to think about. Thank you!

[@chonk_fox89]

What did it give younto think about? It made absolutely no sense to me at all, I'm totally lost!

[@williamjanssen3318]

OK, everyone has said what I want to say.... greta job, story and placement!!!! Can't say enough how much I really enjoyed this!!!!

[@irokash420]

The dynamic between sheriff and justice is 20/10 so good

[@unocson9359]

Well done. A production more about the story than the effects. Would like to see more "chapters" of this story line please.

[@DubzCo]

What is the ‘story’ about could you explain it to me please

[@damsjo1401]

@@DubzCo It's about a cow dying without a sickness in 1989 and Amanda knew it was going to happen in 1963. Now you know? lol

[@CharlesSmith-io9fp]

@@damsjo1401 Do you have a theory on how/why Justice is involved? I did ask Eli Powers how old he is in this movie. I feel the answer could be very intriguing.

[@damsjo1401]

@@CharlesSmith-io9fp From what I remember, Amanda was pregnant in 63. With Justin. So he's 29. But, the bigger question is: Who/what is it with the Hazmat suits,, and the 'priest' in the back seat of the limo. They listened in on the police scanner? ORRRR, Amanda told them 26 years ago! Because she left the center that was taking care of her during her pregnancy and she told the 'priest' during confession she was unhappy. Maybe, she went to live in the rectory with the priests and spilled her guts before her untimely demise.

[@CharlesSmith-io9fp]

​@@damsjo1401 I got a response to my original question to Eli. "Eli Powers replied: "Charles Smith he’s 26 years old." I asked him one more question, and told him a yes or no would suffice. I asked if his age was relevant to the story. I received a three letter answer. I want more of this story, it seems that our Amanda is the Executive producer. My only question now, is when.

[@TexasStoryteller]

Fantastic! definitely captured the conversation style from West Texas! 100 percent good!

[@joshua19145]

Beautiful and intriguing.⚡ Coen bros AF, I must say, in it's subtle humor, dialogue and performances, but in a good way. I expect greatness from Eli.

[@gamesturbator]

Make this a movie. I'd watch it for sure.

[@stevevet3652]

Cool. Well done Eli. God's miracles happen every day. The problem is, not everyone chooses to recognize them.

[@YouTubeallowedmynametobestolen]

Oh, perhaps you are imagining miracles where there are none.

[@RoySATX]

Far better than the cost of admission. Even when free I sometimes feel as though I got robbed, this was the exception.

[@carlosidelone8064]

An excellently done mystery. Wonderful locations, acting and production/direction. A wonderful idea/story. Very impressed.

[@frocurl]

Pretty freaking awesome!!! Right up my alley. Can we get the two hour version?

[@HeffnerCoaching]

I liked it. Deep in metaphor and allusion.

[@Roni62]

Outstanding! I just wish it were longer!

[@ogukuo72]

I am impressed. Ms Seyfried is a good actress. I don't think she is taken seriously enough.

[@carljacobs1837]

That was interesting. Thought provoking. Was just having a similar discussion about symbols and faith. Everyone is going to see something different, take away something different.

[@RPRosen-ki2fk]

When I first watched this years ago, I didn't get it but sure LIKED it. I guess nothing has changed.

[@jerzywilus6528]

Really. How many years ago was that?

[@RPRosen-ki2fk]

@@jerzywilus6528 I think is was about 2019. I'm 98% certain it was right here on DUST, but it could've been Omeleto.

[@AbysmalSpy]

@@RPRosen-ki2fk September 2019 on Omeleto

[@rygy82]

So many questions! I'd love to see this as a feature length film!

[@magnetdesignandadver]

This must be the best film I've seen in a very long time. Brilliant. As in award winning calibre. Wow! I wish it could go on

[@isaacwright8274]

I really enjoyed this. Well put together

[@DANSORIA]

Muy buen encuentro entre sci fi y el milagro y la Fé! Primer piloto que me gusta!💝

[@commonsense2680]

One of the most touching Dust short films! Thank you.

[@Neontiger77]

One of the best I have seen since movie Book of Eli :D good work please make a regular movie out of this

[@Chris-sx3he]

Awesome! I want more!