Outstanding war movie from Mel Gibson!

Rating: 10/10 (27 July 2017)

This is intense and gripping film about a man named Desmond Doss who wants to enlist in the U.S. Army as a combat medic, but refuses the requirement to bare arms due to his religious and pacifist views. As a result, he becomes a conscientious objector and joins his fellow soldiers behind enemy lines at the gruesome Battle of Okinawa.
This film explicitly depicts the trials and obstacles Doss went through during his refusal to pick up a firearm, from being tormented by his fellow soldiers to being court-martialed by his superiors. This plot line was depicted with much drama and suspense, which grabs at your attention and was very exciting to watch. This served as a good lead-in to the powerful war-scenes, depicted with bloodshed, fallen comrades, fierce battles and edge-of-your-seat adrenaline. It certainly gives you a gripping feeling as you see the opposing sides fight, and the parts showing the fallen were very emotional; I especially liked the part where a soldier, after getting both of his legs blown off, pleaded with Doss not to leave him on the battlefield, telling him that he has kids.
Mel Gibson's direction made this a fast-paced movie with nonstop suspense and drama, with a good dose of humor and action mixed in. The acting was superb - with every character relating well to the audience. The ups and downs relationships Doss had with his soldiers and superiors throughout the story were well-developed, and the heroic acts of sacrifice and selfless acts of rescue were touching.
I am not a huge fan of war movies due to the gruesome and distressing nature of them; however, I can say this movie is very well made with its historical context and strong message of faith, humility and selflessness. Highly recommended!
Grade A