A popular film set in the Second World War that, according to some reviews, is better than the 2017 blockbuster Dunkirk is free to stream this week. Hacksaw Ridge is based on the true story of US Army medic Private Desmond Doss, a conscientious objector who was the first American to be awarded the Medal of Honor without firing a shot.
The 2016 film, directed by Mel Gibson, is currently streaming on ITVX. The award-winning Hacksaw Ridge has a popcorn rating of 92% on movie website Rotten Tomatoes, higher than Dunkirk (81%). It follows Private Doss, a devout Seventh-day Adventist, who enlists in the army with the intention of serving as a medic, refusing to carry or use a weapon.
Portrayed by Andrew Garfield, his commitment to his beliefs does lead to tension with his comrades and commanding officers. However, he goes on to prove his bravery during the Battle of Okinawa in 1945—the bloodiest fighting of the Pacific War.
Pte Doss heroically saved 75 soldiers and was recognised with the Medal of Honor — the US’s highest military decoration.
Hacksaw Ridge received widespread critical acclaim upon release and has been praised for its intense, realistic portrayal of the violence and chaos of war, particularly the Battle of Okinawa.
It was nominated for six Oscars, winning two (Best Film Editing and Best Sound Mixing), while Garfield was nominated for Best Actor.
The film also won a BAFTA and received several nominations, including three at the Golden Globes.
Its screenplay was written by Robert Schenkkan and Andrew Knight, and it was produced by Bill Mechanic, David Permut, and Bruce Davey.
The film, which grossed more than $175 million worldwide against a production budget of $40 million, also delves into themes of faith, moral conviction and the personal costs of war.
Hacksaw Ridge is now available for streaming on ITVX.