Hacksaw Ridge

It’s horrifying, brutal and unsettling – but Hacksaw Ridge is likely to be the most powerful film you will see this year.

It’s based on the incredible true story of Desmond Doss (played by Andrew Garfield), the first conscientious objector to receive the Medal of Honour after serving in World War II. Despite his religious beliefs and steadfast refusal to pick up a weapon, Doss heroically rescued 75 men.

Director Mel Gibson has done justice in enshrining Doss’s legacy with strong performances by Garfield, Vince Vaughn and the largely Australian cast including Sam Worthington, Teresa Palmer, Luke Bracey, Hugo Weaving and Rachel Griffiths.

The battle scenes take on a life of their own, frighteningly realistic and unflinching in their blood-and-guts detail. This is war, and Gibson has not shied away from its atrocities, yet somehow balanced messages of its futility with the amazing bravery and courage men are capable of. An absolute must-see. (ASim)

★★★★★

BY ALICIA SIM