Cognitive
“What if growing up in the church led you to believe you weren't going to grow up at all?”
Synopsis
The story follows a gay man as he confronts the psychological trauma and homophobic conditioning inflicted by his strict religious upbringing. Through painful self-reckoning, he fights to overcome spiritual abuse, dismantle ingrained guilt, and reclaim his identity and mind.
Trailers, Teasers & Extra Featurettes
Official promotional previews, behind-the-scenes footage, and exclusive clips.
COGNITIVE: Growing Up Gay in the Church 🏆 LGBT Short Film - AWARD WINNING
Type: Featurette • Published 2025-10-17
Top Cast
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Financials & Box Office Performance
Production Budget
$15K
Filming & production cost
Worldwide Gross
Pending
Total global ticket sales
Key Information & Fast Facts
- Director
- Mat Hayes
- Screenplay & Story
- Mat Hayes
- Original Title
- Cognitive
- Country of Origin
- United States of America
- Spoken Languages
- English
- Runtime
- 14m
- Production Budget
- $15K
- Production Studios
- Mark Hayes Productions
Creative Leadership & Key Crew
Mat Hayes
Mat Hayes
Mat Hayes, Brie Cubelic
Department Leadership Roster
Mat Hayes
Director
Mat Hayes
Screenplay
Mat Hayes
Producer
Brie Cubelic
Producer
Production Stills & Gallery
Official cinematic photography and background stills for Cognitive.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Cognitive
Quick factual answers about cast, synopsis, director, box office, and release information.
What is Cognitive about?
The story follows a gay man as he confronts the psychological trauma and homophobic conditioning inflicted by his strict religious upbringing. Through painful self-reckoning, he fights to overcome spiritual abuse, dismantle ingrained guilt, and reclaim his identity and mind.
Who directed Cognitive?
Cognitive was directed by Mat Hayes.
Who stars in Cognitive?
The principal cast of Cognitive includes Mat Hayes, Daniel Robaire, Jessalyn Gilsig, Erica Tazel, Del Shores.
When was Cognitive released and how long is it?
Cognitive was released in 2019 with a total runtime of 14m.