Film Analysis:

Beyond the battlefield: Exploring Heroism and

Humanity in “Hacksaw Ridge” (23-PEL-011)
1. Director: Mel Gibson
2. Release Year: 2016
3. Genre: War, Drama, Biography
4. Runtime 139 minutes
5. Main Cast:
Andrew Garfield as Desmond Doss
Sam Worthington as Captain Glover
Luke Bracey as Smitty Ryker
Teresa Palmer as Dorothy Schutte
Hugo Weaving as Tom Doss
6.Based On: The film is based on the true story of Desmond Doss, a World War
II medic who served during the Battle of Okinawa without carrying a weapon.
7.Awards: 2 Academy Awards for Best Film Editing and Best Sound Mixing.
8.Critical Reception: Positive Review.
9.Box Office: $175 million worldwide, Budget of $40 million.

Introduction:
“Hacksaw Ridge” is a biographical war film that is based on true story of
Desmond Doss where the compelling story is well depicted and captured by the
famed director Mel Gibson who also has directed the popular movie “The
Passion of Christ”. Desmond Doss is a medic who has this powerful intuition or
a view that not to carry any kind of weapon, where he considered it as an act of
rejecting the moral, ethical and religious rejection of the ideology and societal
view on justice and morality principles. Hacksaw Ridge was released on the 4 th
of November, 2016, the film showcases Gibson's prowess in creating intense
and visceral battle sequences where also incorporating the character’s in-depth
nature of his character. This is also evident in other characters of Gibson films
such has, his directorial work in films like "Braveheart", “The Passion of
Christ” and “Apocalypto”. The themes explored in "Hacksaw Ridge" are
multifaceted, ranging from faith and courage to the morality of war and the
power of individual conviction.
The central theme of “Hacksaw Ridge” is portrayed through the protagonist
named Desmond Doss and the character is well presented by Andrew Garfield.
The film is a mix of separating and incorporating the views and complex nature
of morality, human nature, adversity and the religious battle and humanity. The
mentioned elements could be the character’s background. Desmond Doss's
deeply held religious beliefs as a Seventh-day Adventist inform his refusal to
bear arms, yet he remains steadfast in his commitment to serve his country as a
medic.
The main idea and decision to make and present the film “Hacksaw Ridge” was
driven by the societal consideration and appreciation to honour Desmond Doss,
a real-life hero who showcased bravery and sacrifice and other unexplored
aspects of war. This led to the shedding of light on a lesser – known hero of the
1945’s WW II. By showcasing Doss's remarkable acts of heroism, the film
serves as a tribute to all those who have displayed extraordinary courage in the
midst of conflict. The movie is an exemplary testament to the triumph of the
human spirit over adversity, illustrating how one man's unwavering commitment
to his principles can inspire and uplift others in the darkest of times. The essay
will identify, analyse, interpret, list down the given notions and conceptions
Courage in Conviction, Moral Integrity, Humanitarianism vs. Violence Faith
and Resilience, Selflessness and Sacrifice, Redemption and Forgiveness,
Individual vs. Collective Duty in the face of unimaginable horrors.

Summary of “Hacksaw Ridge”:

"Hacksaw Ridge," released in 2016, follows the remarkable true story of
Desmond Doss, the main protagonist, as he navigates the horrors of World War
II. Set in Okinawa, Japan, during the Battle of Okinawa in 1945, the film
centres on Doss's experiences as a conscientious objector serving as a medic in
the U.S. Army.
From the outset, the film delves into Doss's formative years, highlighting a
pivotal childhood trauma where he nearly kills his brother in a heated
altercation. This traumatic incident profoundly shapes Doss's character,
instilling in him a fervent commitment to nonviolence and compassion that will
define his actions on the battlefield. Central to the narrative is Doss's romance
with Dorothy, his steadfast source of love and support. Their relationship
underscores Doss's compassionate nature and unwavering resolve, serving as a
beacon of hope amidst the chaos and uncertainty of war. A turning point in the
film occurs during Doss's basic training, where he adamantly refuses to handle a
rifle due to his due to his religious beliefs. This principled stand incites intense
conflict with his fellow soldiers and superiors, culminating in a court-martial
that threatens to derail his aspirations of serving as a medic.
Despite facing intense opposition and discrimination for his refusal to carry a
weapon. The events unfold as Doss's unit is deployed to the treacherous
Hacksaw Ridge, a crucial battleground where they face fierce enemy resistance.
In the middle of chaos, Doss's extraordinary courage and selflessness shine
through as he risks his life to rescue wounded soldiers, portraying heroism. His
unwavering courage and conviction are put to the ultimate test during the
climactic Battle of Hacksaw Ridge, where he single-handedly rescues numerous
wounded soldiers amidst relentless enemy fire.
Throughout the film, Doss faces scepticism and opposition from his comrades,
including Sergeant Howell and Private Smitty. However, his selfless actions on
the battlefield ultimately earn him the respect and admiration of his fellow
soldiers, underscoring the transformative power of courage and compassion in
the midst of conflict.

In the aftermath of the battle, Doss is hailed as a hero for his extraordinary acts
of bravery, receiving numerous awards, including the Medal of Honor. His story
serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the
enduring power of conviction in the face of adversity. Through his unwavering
faith, resilience, and dedication to the principles of nonviolence and
compassion, Desmond Doss emerges as a symbol of hope and inspiration,
leaving a lasting impact on all who witness his remarkable deeds.
Analysis:
I personally selected this piece of cinematic brilliance in view, that the film
Hacksaw Ridge left a lasting impression on me and made me link the actions of
Desmond Doss’s presence of mind in War scenario to that of the society and its
people who mostly lack compassion at a larger scale. Having made the above-
mentioned point, the films elements of screenplay and the filming technique
made this rethinking and in-depth analysis for this film. Some of the common,
positive and negative aspects is to be analysed.

Common Point of View:

This movie left a lasting personal impression for me.
The screenplay had logic, interesting, nail-biting scenes, character development
with strong dialogues and exchanges of facial expressions expressing varied
emotions which made to glue my eyes to the screen. Portrayal of Desmond Doss
by Andrew Garfield is effective, sincere and a commitment toward the art. The
standout performance of every character, some to mention are Vince Vaughan,
Teresa Palmer are notable and made to support Andrew on making the character
come to life on screen. Visual elements such as the costumes, special effects,
strong performances, visual effects and the setting for the film contributed to the
overall aspects of the film. To immerse the audience into the ridge and World
War II scenario while capturing the cultural, social which are thought
provoking, relevant and questions the nature of heroism, faith and the complex
nature of war in context of balancing action and maintain and portraying of the
emotional resonance of the film.
The positive and negative aspects of the film is to be given in points:

Positive aspects:
1. The decision of not carrying a weapon in the battle field and the
determination to serve as a medic among the opposition and ridicule of his
fellow soldiers leaves a profound and rebellious impact of his ideology and
belief in War.
2. Mel Gibson and the screenwriters captured the emotional depth and the
complexity of Desmond Doss’s emotional, belief system and physical aspects of
the character and that which supported the film’s base.
3. The convicting acting, the costumes that contributed to the WW II scenario
and the fitting soundtrack that is haunting and emotional core of the scenes.
4. Andrew Garfield's portrayal of Desmond Doss is particularly convincing
during scenes where he expresses his convictions and struggles, such as his
heartfelt plea to his father or his quiet determination amidst the chaos of battle.
5. The targeted audience’s expectation and the unfulfilled space engaged in
presenting a gripping true story depiction of the film.

Negative Aspects:
1 The graphic violence portrayed through depictions of injuries and death may
be distressing for some viewers and overwhelming for some.
2 There are issues in pacing of the film which is to described as not even, rushed
and affects the smooth flow of the film during the first half seemed dragging of
the narrative.
3 The underdeveloped subplots such as the court martial and the relationship
with his father is resolved immediately and the relation crisis could have been
addressed more deeply.
4 There were intense dramatic movements which may be more over exaggerated
and overly dramatic as the saving of the soldiers and the heroic aspects of the
character Doss as it may have survived commercially but failed to be critically.
5 There were stereotypical Characters which were idealized and romanticized,
the film’s reliance on the tropes and cliches in movie analysis made it feel
predictable, routinized and formulaic which lacked originality and expedition in
to the unknown and new perspectives of human nature which the film was
capable of. The antagonist played a simple role as to opposing of the hero which
were pacifist and one- dimensional.

Semiotic Analysis:
1. Symbolism of the Ridge:
The "Hacksaw Ridge" serves as a powerful symbol throughout the film,
representing both the physical battleground and a metaphorical threshold for
Desmond Doss. It symbolizes his convictions and courage, challenge of
rescuing wounded soldiers from this perilous location without compromising
his beliefs.

2. Iconography of Military Uniforms:

 Representing not only their respective ranks and affiliations but also broader
cultural and societal values associated with the military establishment.
Desmond's refusal to carry a weapon and his adherence to his pacifist beliefs
while wearing the same uniform as his fellow soldiers challenge conventional
notions of bravery and heroism, highlighting the tension between individual
conscience and institutional norms.

3. Visual Semiotics of Blood and Mud:

They serve as visceral reminders of the brutality of war, evoking feelings of
horror and revulsion. They symbolize the physical and psychological toll of
combat on the soldiers, as they grapple with the harsh realities of violence and
death. Desmond's unwavering commitment to saving lives amidst this chaos
imbues these symbols with additional meaning, highlighting his compassion and
humanity in the face of adversity.

Mise-en-scene Analysis:
1. Desmond's Training Montage:
In this scene, Desmond Doss undergoes rigorous training as a soldier,
emphasizing his physical and mental preparation for the battlefield.
Setting: The training ground is depicted as harsh and unforgiving, with rugged
terrain and obstacle courses, symbolizing the challenges Desmond must
overcome.
Props: Military equipment such as rifles, helmets, and training obstacles are
prominently featured, reinforcing the militaristic environment and the tools of
warfare.
Costumes: Soldiers wear authentic World War II-era uniforms, further
immersing the audience in the historical setting and emphasizing Desmond's
integration into the military culture despite his pacifist beliefs.
Lighting: Harsh, natural lighting enhances the sense of realism and intensity,
casting deep shadows and highlighting the physical exertion of the soldiers.
Composition: Wide shots capture the expansive training grounds, emphasizing
the scale of Desmond's journey and the daunting task ahead. Close-ups on
Desmond's determined expression convey his inner resolve and commitment to
his principles.
2. Battle of Hacksaw Ridge:
This pivotal scene depicts the intense combat on the ridge as Desmond Doss
heroically saves numerous wounded soldiers without firing a single shot.
Setting: The ridge is portrayed as a chaotic and treacherous battleground, with
steep cliffs, dense vegetation, and constant gunfire, creating a sense of urgency
and danger.
Props: Weapons, ammunition, and medical supplies are scattered amidst the
chaos, emphasizing the juxtaposition of violence and compassion in the midst of
war.
Costumes: Soldiers are covered in dirt, blood, and sweat, reflecting the brutal
reality of combat and the toll it takes on the human body.
Lighting: Low-key lighting enhances the dramatic tension and emphasizes the
stark contrast between light and shadow, heightening the sense of danger and
uncertainty.
Composition: Dynamic camera movements, including tracking shots and
handheld cinematography, immerse the audience in the frenetic action and
convey the immediacy of the battle. Close-ups on Desmond as he tends to the
wounded highlight his bravery and selflessness amidst the chaos.

Conclusion:
‘Hacksaw Ridge’ is a critically acclaimed and the winner of academy award for
the appreciation of war personnels and honouring them through which it
portrayed the courage amidst brutality depicting Desmond Doss’s true story
which is remarkable. Andrew Garfield's portrayal, under Mel Gibson's direction,
creates an emotionally resonant experience. The film challenges viewers to
reflect on sacrifice, bravery, and compassion, emphasizing the importance of
staying true to principles. ‘Hacksaw ridge’ is recommended for it’s true story
narrative, thought provoking themes and emotion-based portrayal and the nature
of humanity and the path of losing it to recapture it through Doss’s redemption
and teaching. The recommendation for not to watch is that it is mostly for
sensitive viewers who are faint of heart while the movie is R rated. The
depiction of war is intense with violence and may be distressing for some
audiences, and its potential oversimplification of complex ethical issues
surrounding war and pacifism.
Tevin Kenneth.A
23-PEL-011