A Modern Day War Cassic

Rating: 9/10 (21 April 2017)

Hacksaw Ridge chronicles the true story of Desmond Doss, a World War II US Army enlistee who refuses to touch a gun. Doss is a conscientious objector who, nonetheless, feels the responsibility to serve his country as a combat medic overseas. Facing adversity in the service and balancing personal relationships, Doss is determined to live and die by his principles and complete his mission as an American Soldier. This film shows that true heroes do not wear capes, and in this case, do not carry guns.
Mel Gibson's fifth directorial credit is a triumph. Gibson has taken a true story of personal interest and with it created an all around great film. The pacing is excellent, beginning with an element of romance, carefully developing the story and characters, and tactfully builds toward a series of masterfully shot, fast paced yet suspenseful war sequences.
I give this film a 9/10. I believe it is among the top war films of this century and certainly joins the ranks of Apocalypse Now, Full Metal Jacket, etc.
-LM-