Introduction
The return of the master after a long pause always gives rise to multiple deep and conflicting emotions. In the case of the legendary and most controversial director of Hollywood, namely, Mel Gibson, the return appeared to be, if not triumphant, then worthy. His latest film, titled “Hacksaw Ridge”, about severe trials and the challenging life of private corporal, caused fierce debate, attracting both valid criticisms and deserved compliments, and nobody, who saw it, remained unresponsive. Although the genre is, essentially, historical drama, with apparent elements of brutal thriller, the initial idea of the film is far from a thorough and authentic description of past events and people. This film heightens a more in-depth sense – it tells the viewer about hardline principles and convictions, unshakeable faith and gnawing doubts, the value of real leadership, and a complicated correlation between them.
Main body
After the film was released, critics with a magnifying glass in their hands examined the biography of the real refuser of conscience and events of that time, seeking inconsistencies between the film and the true story. Ultimately, most of them concluded that all the main facts were reproduced with high accuracy, but in the trivia, Gibson and the scriptwriters gave vent to the imagination. Indeed, historical Doss belonged to Seventh-day Adventists and, following the principles of his faith, categorically refused to take up arms, saving 75 people herein. Besides, he earned fame and the Medal of Honor and married a nurse. However, the viewer should not perceive “Hacksaw Ridge” as a biographical film since, for Gibson, the corporal-male nurse is, above all, a symbolic figure, giving occasion to serious and large-scale reflections.
Primarily, it should be highlighted that the director managed to recreate the military and terrifying atmosphere and reveal the conflict between subjective experiences and external temptations and hardships. Due to that, many critics compare “Hacksaw Ridge” to “Saving Private Ryan,” especially regarding battle scenes; however, according to Gibson, he was inspired by an entirely different picture, namely, “Sands of Iwo Jima.” Besides, the cast was also successfully selected since the images and appearance of the characters and actors coincide. The visual and musical effects, production, editing, costume design, as well as makeup, are at the highest levels and convey the spirit of that dramatic period. Especially, it is worth noting special effects and battle scenes that, despite the brutality and excessive violence, reflected the difficulty and responsibility of the hero concerning making decisions and conscious choices.
Among the shortcomings of the film, it is worth emphasizing some stereotyped points, such as a drunkard father and a faithfully waiting bride. In addition, the film lacks humor and unexpected plot twists, which makes it slightly tedious at some moments. This film also should be forbidden for viewing by children and not recommended for teenagers because of the presence of bloody and cruel scenes.
Undoubtedly, the most memorable character is Desmond Dos, played by Andrew Garfield. The actor succeeded in turning into a role and conveying all the fears, feeling, doubts of the protagonist. Primarily, Desmond is distinguished not only by his steadfast, sincere faith and benevolent, quiet disposition but also by the fact that he does not impose his principles and condemn anybody. Moreover, he is not averse to competing in running, agility, endurance with his brothers in arms; this simplicity is captivating. Other actors, such as Luke Bracey as Smitty Ryker, Hugo Weaving as Tom Doss, Desmond’s father, Teresa Palmer as Dorothy Schutte, Desmond’s wife, deserve special attention for their play as well.
Conclusion
Altogether, the film provides enough ideas for reflection and moral rethinking. The director managed to have an unbiased look at the main events and contradictions revolving around the characters, and he does not try to show the advantage of pacifism on violence. Undeniably, the chief merit of this film is in revealing a deep and notional layer, namely: “defeat yourself – and you will conquer the world,” for which it received many enthusiastic reviews.