Uncovering the Untold Story of Andrew Garfield's Anti-War Masterpiece

Hacksaw Ridge, a film directed by Andrew Garfield and based on a true story, has received positive reviews from World War 2 expert James Holland for its historical accuracy. The movie tells the story of Desmond Doss, a pacifist who refuses to kill despite joining the war effort due to his deeply held religious beliefs. Holland commended the movie's depiction of battle sequences, particularly the accuracy of the Japanese battle tactics and the portrayal of weapons, which were closely aligned with those used during WW2. He also praised the film's cinematography for its realistic representation of the harsh realities of the battles that took place in Japan during that time. To read more about Holland's analysis, and to watch a video on the subject, follow the link below.

The Japanese soldiers were known for their fierce and unyielding tactics during World War II. Their signature banzai charges involved yelling and charging at the enemy with a determination that never wavered. Despite the fact that they never altered their approach, these tactics were effective in driving their enemies back. The Japanese often retreated to mountainous terrain, where their complex bunker systems made it challenging for their opponents to gain a foothold. However, flamethrowers were one of the few ways to force the Japanese out of their dugouts, requiring soldiers to get up close and personal with the enemy. Their uniforms and equipment were always precise and well-maintained, a testament to the discipline and dedication of the Japanese soldiers.

The submachine gun in the clip is reminiscent of the old gangster Tommy gun, and is known as the spud gun. It has a capacity of around 30 rounds and can be fired in about three to four seconds. The Americans were issued with the Tommy gun during the war, but later on, they had access to the smaller and lighter spud gun. The British STEN gun is also similar in its basic design. These guns are effective at close range, up to 20 to 25 yards, beyond which their accuracy diminishes. The use of these weapons in close-quarter combat is highlighted in the clip, depicting the extreme violence of such scenarios.

The heavy naval guns firing in the distance provided a crucial advantage for the allies, especially the Americans, during the invasions. Control of the seas surrounding the landing area was necessary for a successful invasion, as it allowed for immense firepower from the warships stationed offshore. The sheer size and range of the guns, ranging from 8 to 16 inches, allowed for shells of enormous weight to be hurled 12 to 20 miles away. This provided the soldiers on the ground with a significant amount of heavy firepower to supplement their efforts.

Hacksaw Ridge Is Both A Cinematic & Historical Wonder For A World War II Movie

The critical acclaim received by Hacksaw Ridge is well-deserved, as the movie's brutal and violent depiction of war is both realistic and impactful. Director Mel Gibson drew upon his own childhood nightmares, inspired by the horrific accounts of war told to him by his World War II veteran father, to create the intense battle imagery seen in the film. From the soldiers' initial view of the daunting ridge to the climactic battle where Desmond rescues the last survivors, Hacksaw Ridge is a cinematic masterpiece that has earned its place among the most exemplary war films. The attention to detail and technical precision of the production is evident in the well-edited battle sequences, which elicit strong reactions from viewers. It's no surprise that the film won Oscar categories for Best Editing and Best Sound Mixing.

The attention to detail in Hacksaw Ridge, from the costumes to the weapons, enhances its overall quality. The film's realism is integral to its emotional impact, with the graphic violence serving to accurately depict the violent environment of the time period. Rather than relying on shock value, the film remains faithful to historical accuracy. Even years after its release, Hacksaw Ridge continues to impress historians with its commitment to authenticity.