How Accurate Was Hacksaw Ridge?
Hacksaw Ridge, directed by Mel Gibson and released in 2016, is a biographical war drama that tells the story of Desmond Doss, an American combat medic who served during World War II. The film has been praised for its portrayal of Doss’s bravery and dedication, but many viewers have wondered just how accurate it was in depicting the events of Doss’s life. This article aims to explore the accuracy of Hacksaw Ridge, examining both the historical facts and the artistic liberties taken by the filmmakers.
The film’s accuracy begins with its depiction of Desmond Doss’s background. Doss was indeed a Seventh-day Adventist, which influenced his decision to serve as a combat medic rather than engage in direct combat. The film accurately portrays his religious beliefs and the challenges he faced in being accepted by the military due to his pacifist stance. However, some critics argue that the film’s portrayal of Doss’s relationship with his father, Tom Doss, is exaggerated. In reality, the father-son relationship was more complex, with Tom Doss struggling with his own demons and issues.
Moving on to the film’s portrayal of the Battle of Okinawa, where Doss earned the Medal of Honor, Hacksaw Ridge does a fairly accurate job of depicting the intense and brutal nature of the battle. The film captures the chaos and horror of war, with graphic scenes of soldiers being injured and killed. However, some historians have pointed out that the film’s depiction of the battle is not entirely accurate in terms of the timeline and specific events. Despite these discrepancies, the overall atmosphere and intensity of the battle are well-rendered.
One of the most debated aspects of Hacksaw Ridge is the film’s portrayal of Doss’s actions during the battle. The film depicts him saving 75 soldiers, which is a significant achievement. However, some historians have questioned the accuracy of this number, suggesting that it may be an exaggeration. They argue that while Doss was indeed a remarkable medic, his impact on the battlefield may not have been as extensive as the film suggests. Nonetheless, the film does a good job of showcasing Doss’s bravery and selflessness in the face of danger.
Another area where the film takes some artistic liberties is in its portrayal of the Medal of Honor ceremony. While the ceremony itself did occur, the film adds a fictional speech given by President Harry S. Truman, which some viewers feel is an unnecessary embellishment. However, the overall message of the ceremony and the honor bestowed upon Doss are accurately depicted.
In conclusion, Hacksaw Ridge is a compelling and emotionally charged film that captures the essence of Desmond Doss’s life and the events of the Battle of Okinawa. While the film does take some artistic liberties and may not be entirely accurate in every detail, it remains a powerful and inspiring story of bravery and sacrifice. The filmmakers have done a commendable job of balancing historical accuracy with the need to tell a compelling narrative, resulting in a film that will likely continue to be celebrated for years to come.
