Masters Dissertation Research: Hacksaw Ridge (2016)

This biographical film tells the story of Desmond Doss (portrayed here by Andrew Garfield) who was a pacifist combat medic during the Second World War. Doss refused to carry a firearm in the field and was deemed a coward by many of the higher-ups in the American army. He was the first conscientious objector to win a Medal of Honor during service, having saved 75 soldiers lives on Hacksaw Ridge.

Doss' story is an interesting and seemingly unknown one. For the most part, anyone who was a conscientious objector would never have been considered a hero. For this reason, this movie is significant in changing the perception of anti-war/anti-violence activists during World War Two.

The acting in the movie is phenomenal, though Garfield's accent leaves a little to be desired, and it is thoroughly enjoyable and easy to watch. The film is fast paced, but also gives the audience time to witness the dark side of the story without rushing us through it, when it is important.

Personally, I really like this film. It is not only a fantastic biopic, but also a wonderful war film which really gets you invested in all of its characters. This is one of those films you can wholeheartedly recommend.