Hacksaw Ridge Movie Review

Although I can appreciate a war movie, they are not my first pick. However, I'd heard great things about this movie and decided to give it a try with my husband. Overall, I would give this movie a 5/5 stars because it truly is an inspirational story that made you consider the power of war, the strength of identity, and the concept of heroism. 

Synopsis 

This is the true story of Army Medic Desmond Doss, a man who served in the Battle of Okinawa. Because of his beliefs, Desmond does not believe in killing and instead wants to serve as a medic in the army. After facing hatred from sergeants, fellow fighters, and even going to court for his refusal to hold a gun, Desmond makes his way to the war front in the Pacific. Most of the movie focuses on the taking of Hacksaw Ridge, where Desmond becomes a hero.

My Review

This movie made me realize how important it is to stick to your convictions. The beauty of this movie is in the fact that Desmond never gives up his beliefs, even when it would have been easier to just abandon his ideas. It also underscores that a war hero does not equal a killing machine. What Desmond did is so unbelievable and shows his strength of character.

This movie also shows the horrors of war in a deep way. The exhaustion, injuries, and devastation aren't downplayed. I love that it shows the realities of war and makes you realize just how heroic all of the men who fought really were just for stepping foot on the battlefield. 

There is also an underlying love story as Desmond falls in love with Dorothy before going to war. I wish the movie would have focused more on her perspective because I'm sure there would have been extra anxiety about a man going into battle without a gun. 

As a needle phobe, the only thing I didn't like were the constant needles and medical procedures. Dorothy is a nurse, so there is a long blood test scene at the beginning of the movie that had me squirming.

At the end of the movie, you get to see footage of the actual man who lived the story. It saddens me to think his amazing tale hasn't been told until now on a wide scale. He deserved recognition. I wish he would have had the chance to see the movie.

In short, this isn't your typical WWII movie and is definitely worth the watch, even if you don't typically watch war movies. This movie is about identity, loyalty, and the idea that a hero can come in so many forms.