“Hacksaw Ridge” (2016) is a biographical war film directed by Mel Gibson, based on the true story of Desmond Doss, a conscientious objector who served as a combat medic during World War II. The film stars Andrew Garfield as Desmond Doss, with a supporting cast that includes Sam Worthington, Luke Bracey, Teresa Palmer, Hugo Weaving, and Vince Vaughn. The story begins with Desmond Doss growing up in Virginia, where his upbringing in a devout Seventh-day Adventist family and a violent incident involving his father instill in him a strong aversion to violence and a deep commitment to his faith.

Despite these beliefs, Doss feels a patriotic duty to serve his country during World War II. He enlists in the Army but refuses to carry or use a weapon, intending to serve as a medic instead. Doss faces intense hostility and persecution from his fellow soldiers and commanding officers during basic training due to his refusal to handle a weapon. They view his stance as cowardice, and he endures physical and verbal abuse. Nevertheless, Doss remains steadfast in his convictions, eventually earning the respect of his unit. The film’s climax occurs during the Battle of Okinawa, specifically at Hacksaw Ridge, a perilous cliff-top battlefield.

Despite the horrific combat conditions, Doss demonstrates extraordinary bravery and selflessness. Over the course of the battle, he single-handedly saves 75 wounded soldiers, lowering them to safety from the ridge under constant enemy fire. His actions earn him the Medal of Honor, the first ever awarded to a conscientious objector.