Hacksaw Ridge is a 2016 movie based on the life of Desmond Doss, a conscientious objector. The term conscientious objector refers to a person who rejects the idea of bearing arms or the concept of military service (Corner Law School). The plot of the movie revolves around Doss’ refusal to carry arms during World War II and the personal ordeals that are linked with this decision. Fundamentally, it is a story of determination and resolution in the face of suffering and brutality.
Desmond Doss’s resolution comes from his religious background and strong belief in bringing no harm to others. This notion is challenged throughout the movie in order to emphasize his perseverance. For example, his brother almost dies at his hands in a fight, and it serves as a call for Desmond to understand the dangers of violence. Later, Desmond is tempted to use a firearm against his abusive father but resolves to lay the weapon. These examples show that Doss has had interactions with thoughts of misusing his strength and capabilities. The main reason these challenges are presented in this movie is to display that no matter how legitimate the justification for violence might be, the violence itself is an inherently evil act.
The movie’s plot points, where Desmond saves other soldiers and gets rewarded for his actions, showcase that heroic does not equal combative and distractive. The protagonist maintains his faith and ideology through the terrors of war and is rewarded for it. He is rewarded not only with a Medal of Honor but also with the personal satisfaction of having withstood adversity. It sends an effective message of the importance of standing one’s ground and staying true to one’s core principles.
Work Cited
“Conscientious objector.”Corner Law School, 2021.