Hacksaw Ridge – A Tale of Valor with a Dash of Hollywood Exaggeration

Mel Gibson’s WWII Epic Impresses, but Is It Fully Authentic?

Mel Gibson’s Hacksaw Ridge brought the remarkable story of Desmond Doss, the first conscientious objector to receive the Medal of Honor, to the big screen. With Andrew Garfield portraying Doss, the movie captivated audiences with its intense battle scenes during the Battle of Okinawa. However, historian John McManus notes that while the film excels in capturing the ferocity of warfare, certain elements stray from historical accuracy.

McManus acknowledges the film’s intense portrayal of combat, giving special credit to its depiction of soldiers climbing ropes and using machine guns in battle. He rated the realism of these battle scenes at an 8/10, highlighting the physical details of the soldiers’ movements. However, the historian pointed out several exaggerated or inaccurate elements, such as the height of Hacksaw Ridge and the presence of excessive flames during the bombardment.

Additionally, McManus questioned the portrayal of soldiers standing in the open during the bombardment. In reality, they would have been taking cover. Despite these missteps, the film’s accurate representation of close combat, machine gun tactics, and the intensity of the warfare make it stand out.

Where Hacksaw Ridge Misses the Mark

While the film stays true to Doss’ pacifism and heroism, some aspects of his life are altered or omitted. For instance, his father’s portrayal as a World War I veteran and the absence of Doss’ combat experiences in Guam and Leyte, for which he received Bronze Star Medals, are significant departures from history. These changes, however, do not detract from the film’s emotional core and gripping action sequences.

In the end, Gibson’s Hacksaw Ridge may not be entirely historically accurate, but its commitment to showcasing the bravery of Desmond Doss and the brutal reality of war is undeniable. Its powerful storytelling, combined with intense action and strong performances, earned it critical acclaim, including multiple Oscar nominations.