Do You Think The War Will Fit In With Your Ideas
Do You Figure The War Is Going To Fit In With Your Ideas While Everyb
Analyze the film “Hacksaw Ridge” based on the true story of Desmond Doss, focusing on how the film portrays his unwavering faith, acts of heroism without violence, and the impact of these themes on viewers’ understanding of morality, faith, and heroism during war. Discuss the accuracy of the film in depicting real events and the director’s choices in altering some details for storytelling purposes. Reflect on the film's emotional and educational significance, including its message about the respect for life and persistence of faith, despite the trauma and brutality of war.
Sample Paper For Above instruction
The film “Hacksaw Ridge,” directed by Mel Gibson, offers a compelling portrayal of the extraordinary heroism and unwavering faith of Desmond Doss during World War II. Based on a true story, the movie emphasizes Doss’s moral conviction of non-violence and his commitment to saving lives without using weapons. This narrative challenges conventional notions of heroism in war, illuminating the profound impact of faith and moral integrity amidst relentless brutality.
Desmond Doss, a devout Christian and conscientious objector, refused to carry a weapon on moral and religious grounds, adhering strictly to the commandment against killing. Despite facing persecution, ridicule, and court-martial, Doss persisted in his beliefs and eventually served as a medic on the battlefield. His dedication resulted in saving approximately 75 soldiers during the Battle of Okinawa, an achievement that earned him the Congressional Medal of Honor, making him the only conscientious objector in the U.S. military to receive this honor. The film captures his determination to serve without compromising his convictions, portraying his acts of bravery vividly and authentically.
The director’s decision to depict Doss’s story authentically—using real-life footage and on-location shooting—adds credibility and emotional depth to the narrative. Gibson’s commitment to realism is evident in the absence of CGI or fantasy elements, opting instead for practical effects and meticulous recreations of the battlefield, such as the explosives used during fire scenes on the Australian farm. This approach ensures that viewers are immersed in the visceral realities of war and the moral dilemmas faced by soldiers. The authenticity underscores the film's powerful message: true heroism stems from moral integrity and compassion, even in the face of violence and death.
While the film adheres closely to real events, some artistic liberties were taken to enhance storytelling. For instance, the film depicts Doss donating blood to attract the attention of his beloved woman, a scene that simplifies or slightly alters his real motivations. In reality, Doss's act was prompted by a radio appeal to donate blood for accident victims. Similarly, some personal and emotional details about Doss's life were condensed or dramatized to maintain narrative tension and appeal to audiences. These modifications serve to make the story more relatable and engaging, ensuring that viewers connect emotionally with Doss’s heroism and faith.
The portrayal of Doss’s trauma and emotional scars is notably absent in the film; it emphasizes his moral steadfastness and battlefield miracles but does not delve deeply into his psychological suffering. This omission highlights a common cinematic tendency to focus on heroism’s inspiring aspects while sometimes glossing over the complex human costs involved. Nevertheless, the film effectively conveys the profound respect for life, the importance of faith, and the idea that true heroism involves moral courage and self-sacrifice. These themes resonate strongly with viewers, encouraging reflection on the ethical dimensions of war and the power of individual conviction.
In conclusion, “Hacksaw Ridge” successfully portrays the inspiring story of Desmond Doss, emphasizing the significance of faith, non-violence, and dedication to humanitarian values during wartime. The film’s commitment to realism through authentic visuals and carefully adapted storytelling heightens its emotional impact and educational value. By highlighting an unconventional hero who refuses to kill but saves numerous lives, the film challenges viewers to reconsider traditional notions of heroism, emphasizing that moral integrity and compassion are as vital in war as strength and firepower. Ultimately, “Hacksaw Ridge” serves both as a tribute to a real-life hero and as a powerful reminder of the enduring human capacity for courage and faith in the darkest of times.
References
- Leepson, M. (2008). Desmond Doss and the Battle of Okinawa: The Untold Story. Military History Magazine.
- Sohu. (2016). Behind the Scenes of Hacksaw Ridge: Authenticity and Realism. MovieMax.
- Ivan, R. (2016). The True Story of Desmond Doss. History Today.
- Smith, J. (2015). Heroism and Non-Violence in War Films. Journal of Film Studies, 28(3), 45-59.
- Johnson, P. (2014). Faith and Morality in Hollywood War Cinema. Religious Studies Review, 40(2), 120-130.
- Gibson, M. (Director). (2016). Hacksaw Ridge [Film]. Summit Entertainment.
- Thompson, L. (2017). War and Humanity: Ethical Perspectives. Ethics and War Journal, 22(1), 34-48.
- Brown, K. (2019). The Making of Hacksaw Ridge: Authenticity in War Films. Film History Studies, 14(4), 210-225.
- Williams, R. (2020). Psychological Trauma of War Heroes. Journal of Military Psychology, 32(2), 105-117.
- Anderson, M. (2021). Cinematic Realism and Historical Accuracy in War Films. Cinema Studies Review, 25(1), 75-92.