Hacksaw Ridge

Synopsis:

This is the true story of Pfc. Desmond T. Doss (Andrew Garfield), who won the Congressional Medal of Honor, despite refusing to bear arms during WWII on religious grounds. Doss was drafted and ostracized by fellow soldiers for his pacifist stance but went on to earn respect and adoration for his bravery, selflessness and compassion after he risked his life -- without firing a shot -- to save 75 men in the Battle of Okinawa.

Movie Review:

"Hacksaw Ridge" is directed by Mel Gibson about the true story of war hero PFC. Desmond T. Doss who saved 75 men without carrying a gun during the battle of Okinawa. This is the first war film in a long time that truly captured what war is—pure hell. This is one of the best films I saw last year and in my opinion, it is the best war film since "Saving Private Ryan". Andrew Garfield gives an extraordinary performance and truly transforms into Desmond T. Doss as he displays his humanity on screen revealing a sense of why he never could kill and carry a gun. He shows courage and compassion throughout the film bringing tears to the eyes of all who watch. After seeing Garfield's performance, I understand why he was nominated for best actor. The supporting cast for this movie that includes Teresa Palmer, Vince Vaughn, Luke Bracey and Sam Worthington also give the best performances of all their careers. Vince Vaughn certainly grew as an actor with this role. I can't say enough about Mel Gibson's directing skills; whether you like Gibson or not, he is talented. The most impressive thing about this movie is how Mel Gibson dealt with the two sides of this controversial issue, 'the right to bear arms'. The way Mel Gibson perfectly captures the bloody and tragic battle scenes as he directs the entire sequence in which the U.S Army tries to take Hacksaw Ridge in the pacific is heart-wrenching, exciting and realistic. Then he goes on to enlighten the audience with the compelling reenactment of PFC Doss single-handedly rescuing 75 of his fellow soldiers. Doss's remarkable bravery is something to see. The only problem I had with this film is that it is slow in the first 10 minutes of the movie before it picks up the pace. Other than that, "Hacksaw Ridge" is a perfect war movie and very emotional. I am giving "Hacksaw Ridge" a 5 out of 5 stars.

Director: Mel Gibson

Cast: Andrew Garfield, Teresa Palmer, Vince Vaughn, Luke Bracey, and Sam Worthington

Runtime:136 minutes