One of the greatest heroes in American history never fired a bullet.|Oct. 07, 2016|Australia | United States|139 Min.|R
Genre: Drama;History;War
Description: Hacksaw Ridge (2016) tells the story of Desmond Doss, a young man from Lynchburg, Virginia, whose life is shaped by a childhood accident where he nearly kills his brother during play. This event, coupled with his Seventh-day Adventist upbringing, strengthens his commitment to the principle “Thou shalt not kill.” Years later, while working as a medical assistant, Doss meets nurse Dorothy Schutte, and the two begin a romantic relationship. He shares his passion for medical work with her, setting the stage for his future.
Following the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, Doss enlists in the U.S. Army as a combat medic, causing distress to his father, Tom, a veteran of the Great War. Before departing for basic training at Fort Jackson, Doss proposes to Dorothy, and she accepts. During training, Doss impresses his superiors physically but becomes an outcast among his peers due to his refusal to carry a weapon and his insistence on observing the Sabbath. Sergeant Howell and Captain Glover attempt to discharge him on psychiatric grounds, but their efforts fail as Doss’s beliefs are deemed legitimate. Despite enduring relentless labor and even a brutal beating from fellow soldiers, Doss perseveres without identifying his attackers.
Assigned to the 77th Infantry Division and sent to the Pacific Theater, Doss’s unit is deployed to the Battle of Okinawa. Tasked with securing the Maeda Escarpment, known as “Hacksaw Ridge,” the unit faces heavy casualties. During the intense fighting, Doss saves the life of a squad mate, Smitty, gaining his respect. That night, Doss confides in Smitty about his refusal to handle firearms, rooted in a traumatic incident where he almost shot his abusive father. Smitty apologizes for doubting Doss’s courage, and the two reconcile. Through his unwavering principles and bravery, Doss becomes a symbol of resilience and heroism in the face of war.
Cast director: Mel Gibson
Cast actor: Andrew Garfield, Sam Worthington, Vince Vaughn, Teresa Palmer, Luke Bracey, Hugo Weaving, Ryan Corr, Rachel Griffiths, Richard Roxburgh, Luke Pegler
Original name: Hacksaw Ridge