A critically acclaimed war drama that stunned audiences on release is now finding a fresh wave of viewers on Netflix – and many are calling it one of the most powerful films they’ve ever seen.
Hacksaw Ridge (2016), directed by Mel Gibson, tells the extraordinary true story of Desmond Doss, a combat medic who served in the Second World War.
Unlike his fellow soldiers, Doss – a devout Seventh-day Adventist – refused to carry or use a weapon, yet he still managed to save 75 men during the brutal Battle of Okinawa.
His remarkable courage earned him the Medal of Honor, making him the first conscientious objector in US history to receive the prestigious award.
Starring Andrew Garfield in what many consider a career-defining role, the film has been praised for its combination of harrowing battle scenes and deeply human storytelling.
Garfield’s performance as Doss has been singled out repeatedly by viewers, with one fan writing on Rotten Tomatoes: “This is just a masterpiece of film. The performance of Andrew Garfield as Soldier Doss made a perfect combination on this film”.
“The narrative of it is also very impressive for me because I don’t usually watch war or combat movies but this one is different in the best way possible. If I had to rate it from 1 to 10 I would give it an 11 – no joking.”
The film, which earned six Oscar nominations including Best Picture and Best Director, doesn’t shy away from depicting the grim realities of battle.
Its open and raw portrayal of war has left audiences deeply moved. As another viewer put it: “I would never have said that a historical film based on facts would captivate me so much. Really, I watched it throughout with chills all over my body. It’s quite deep and addresses serious issues, showing what the hell of war looks like.”
Part of what makes Hacksaw Ridge so compelling is its unusual approach to the war genre. Doss never fires a shot, yet his quiet determination and steadfast moral code anchor the film, offering a perspective rarely seen in combat movies: “The approach of a war movie where the main character doesn’t even shoot a gun, and it still keeps my attention the whole time is crazy!”
Upon release, the film was widely celebrated by critics, though some viewers still express surprise it didn’t take home an Academy Award. As one fan summed up: “Absolutely the best movie I’ve ever watched! Shocked when I found out it didn’t win an Oscar – incredible acting, incredible story, everything was amazing. 10/10 would recommend!”
Hacksaw Ridge has been added to Netflix and is also streaming on Apple TV and ITVX.