A conscientious objector becomes a hero in World War II

Rating: 7/10 (8 November 2016)

I could not help but think of the movie SERGEANT YORK when I saw this. Both were based on true stories, both had main characters who were deeply religious. The big difference was that York became a combat soldier and Doss, a conscientious objector and medic. HACKSAW RIDGE was the more touching of the two. Both were Medal of Honor winners, but it surprised me that I had never heard of Desmond Doss before viewing this movie.
I am a fan of war films and I rate HACKSAW RIDGE quite highly, but not in the same category as SAVING PRIVATE RYAN, PATHS OF GLORY, ALL QUIET ON THE WESTERN FRONT and several others. The acting was good and the story well told. I find fault with the overemphasis on violent and gory images. More time should have been devoted to how Doss saved all those lives. A few other things bothered me like the scene showing the sergeant being pulled backward on a blanket mowing down the enemy. Also it was difficult to believe the order could not be given for the company to advance until Doss was finished praying.
Well above average, yes, outstanding no.