Director Mel Gibson
Genre Biography | Drama | History
Cast Andrew Garfield, Teresa Palmer, Sam Worthington, Luke Bracey
Rating R
Release Date November 4th, 2016
“WWII American Army Medic Desmond T. Doss, who served during the Battle of Okinawa, refuses to kill people and becomes the first Conscientious Objector in American history to be awarded the Medal of Honor.”
Hacksaw Ridge is a war drama based on the inspiring true story of Desmond T. Doss and his heroic actions during WWII and the Battle of Okinawa. The film is directed by the controversial yet very talented actor/director Mel Gibson. The impressive cast includes Andrew Garfield (The Amazing Spider-Man), Teresa Palmer (The Choice), Sam Worthington (Avatar), and Luke Bracey (Point Break).
Hacksaw Ridge is an intensely compelling, finely crafted, and extremely graphic war drama, telling a powerful story of incredible heroism. It not only reminds us of the good old days of Saving Private Ryan and Black Hawk Down, it carves a place of its own as a phenomenal war drama. Rarely is a film able to deliver heartfelt drama as well as just enough humor to tickle its audience, but Hacksaw Ridge answers the call. Regardless of whether you love him or hate him, Mel Gibson yet again proves his ability to tell a story that includes violence at a level many have yet to experience on screen, let alone in real-life. The cinematography is second to none and provides a realistic backdrop for the war-torn battlefield of Okinawa. To avoid Hacksaw Ridge because of the graphic violence would be disappointingly contradictory. War is ugly, violent, and downright traumatizing, but we must face the reality in order to truly appreciate those who fought for us. The story is full of life and immensely engaging from start to finish, ensuring the just under 2 ½ hour runtime glides along smoothly. If I had to try and critique the film I would point out the fact that it does take a bit to get going, but the story is so fascinating and touching, boredom is the last thing you will experience.
Hacksaw Ridge delivers top notch acting from top to bottom. Andrew Garfield is amazing in his portrayal of Desmond T. Doss, expressing the raw emotion of a man with a strong belief system and a unique set of values. Vince Vaughn is incredible in a supporting role, offering a perfect blend of comedy and charisma. I also really enjoyed Sam Worthington's supporting role as one of the many men who misjudged Doss from the very beginning. Teresa Palmer plays a limited yet very effective role as Doss's love interest but she makes a positive impact on the film nonetheless. The strength of the cast was easily one of the best aspects of Hacksaw Ridge and everyone quite simply gave it their all.
Hacksaw Ridge tells an incredible story that is so heroic and selfless, at times I found myself feeling as though it must be fiction. Desmond T. Doss is a real American hero who symbolized the strength of staying true to oneself no matter what. His actions saved lives that almost certainly would have been lost without his strength and determination. The events that took place during WWII changed the lives of many and will forever live on as part of our history. Hacksaw Ridge is a very violent and justifiably realistic portrayal of war so viewer discretion is most certainly advised. With that being said, this is a film that should not be missed. Highly recommended.
