Hacksaw Ridge (2016)

“Hacksaw Ridge” is a war drama film directed by Mel Gibson, released in 2016. The film stars Andrew Garfield as Desmond Doss, a conscientious objector who served as a medic during World War II. Doss, a Seventh-day Adventist, refused to carry a weapon or kill an enemy, yet he saved 75 men during the Battle of Okinawa, becoming the first conscientious objector to receive the Medal of Honor.
The film centers on Desmond Doss (played by Andrew Garfield), a young man from Virginia with deeply held religious beliefs that prohibit him from killing or even carrying a weapon. Doss enlists in the army during World War II, determined to serve his country as a medic. His decision to refuse to carry a rifle causes tension and ridicule from his fellow soldiers and commanding officers, who view him as a coward. Despite the backlash, Doss remains steadfast in his beliefs, and his dedication to saving lives rather than taking them becomes the central theme of the film.
Doss is deployed to the brutal Battle of Okinawa, where he demonstrates extraordinary courage and selflessness, saving 75 men during one of the bloodiest conflicts of the war, without ever firing a single shot. His actions, under fire and amid unimaginable danger, earn him the admiration of his comrades and, ultimately, the highest military honor.
The story of Doss’s personal journey, his struggles with both his military superiors and fellow soldiers, and his heroic actions during the battle, makes Hacksaw Ridge a film that highlights the power of conviction and the impact one individual can have even in the most dire circumstances.
Characters and Acting:
Andrew Garfield delivers a remarkable performance as Desmond Doss. His portrayal of the character captures Doss’s quiet strength, moral integrity, and unwavering faith in a way that makes him both relatable and heroic. Garfield’s performance is understated yet powerful, showing Doss’s internal conflict and growth throughout the film. His sincerity and determination create a deeply emotional connection with the audience, making Doss’s ultimate heroism all the more inspiring.
Vera Farmiga plays Doss’s mother, who instills in him his devout beliefs, and Hugo Weaving plays his father, a traumatized World War I veteran who struggles with his own demons. Both performances add a layer of depth to the story, as Doss’s personal life and family history play a crucial role in shaping his character and values.
The supporting cast is also strong, with Sam Worthington, Luke Bracey, and Teresa Palmer providing solid performances as soldiers who eventually come to respect and admire Doss. While the film focuses primarily on Doss’s journey, the interactions with his fellow soldiers, who initially view him as an outsider, provide important emotional beats that highlight his eventual acceptance and admiration.
Hacksaw Ridge is a film about individual heroism, but it also highlights the importance of camaraderie and brotherhood in the face of overwhelming adversity. The relationships that develop between Doss and the other soldiers serve as a poignant reminder of the power of personal integrity and sacrifice.