Hacksaw Ridge

In the same vein as Spielberg's World War II epics Saving Private Ryan, Band of Brothers, and The Pacific this true war story of conscientious objector Desmond Doss is a violent but moving tale of heroism. Garfield's portrayal of Doss is powerful but understated and Gibson's experienced director's hand can be felt throughout. At times, the violence almost detracts from the story itself as it becomes more about witnessing the spectacle rather than observing the atrocities that are required to move the story forward. It's greatest weakness is the visual effects that rob the film of any real believability making it feel more cartoon-like than perhaps it should. However, it is still a powerful work and a great comeback from a seasoned film-maker.

This. Oh this awful awful movie was awful. Can't even begin to find the right words. Was bored through the whole thing and I like war set movies. So many unbelievable cheese ball moment that were really not needed. When Vince came in the movie, I was like thank you it can only get better. You'd think so but you'd be very wrong.

Darn! It's Christ's Second Coming! Even as a true story, this is such a feat of courage in the midst of hell that it becomes, at times, hard to believe. And yet, soldier Doss did save these lives and did receive the honours he richly deserved. But given the injustices he had to endure at the very hands of those he later saved, he also richly deserved to be remembered by the many, and Gibson here gives him his dues.