Hacksaw Ridge is a 2016 biographical war drama film directed by Mel Gibson based on the life of Desmond Doss, an American pacifist combat medic who served during World War II. The film took a significant amount of time to make, from the initial production work to its eventual release.
The pre-production work on Hacksaw Ridge began in 2002, when Producer David Permut acquired the rights to the story of Desmond Doss. Gibson officially signed on as director in 2014, and the movie started filming in October 2015. Over a period of several months, the cast and crew worked hard to create an authentic depiction of the events that took place during World War II.
The film was shot in various locations including Sydney, Australia, and Virginia, USA.
After the filming process, post-production work such as editing, sound design, and special effects were carried out to ensure a captivating end product. The post-production process took several months, as the crew worked to perfect the film’s scenes and overall presentation. The film premiere was held in Venice, Italy on September 4, 2016, and it was released in theatres across the United States on November 4, 2016.
It took over a decade of planning and production before Hacksaw Ridge was released to audiences worldwide. From acquiring the rights to the movie to the final touches in the post-production, it is clear that a great deal of time, effort, and dedication went into the making of this film. However, the result was well worth it, as Hacksaw Ridge has become a classic in its own right and a favorite among the viewing audience.
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How was Hacksaw Ridge filmed?
Hacksaw Ridge is a critically acclaimed World War II film directed by Mel Gibson and released in 2016. The film tells the true story of Desmond Doss, a conscientious objector who served as a medic in the U.S. Army’s 77th Infantry Division during the Battle of Okinawa. The movie was filmed in various locations in Australia and was praised for its realistic and gritty portrayal of the battle.
The filmmakers employed a combination of traditional filmmaking techniques and modern technology to bring the story of Desmond Doss to the big screen. For example, the battle scenes in the film were shot using handheld cameras, which made the action sequences look more immediate and realistic. Additionally, the filmmakers used CGI to create the explosions and other special effects that occur throughout the movie.
One of the most notable aspects of the film’s production was the attention to detail that the filmmakers paid to the historical context of the story. The costumes and weaponry used in the film were all carefully chosen to accurately reflect the time period, and the battle scenes were choreographed to match the actual movements and tactics used during the Battle of Okinawa.
Another important aspect of the film’s production was the use of practical effects. For example, the filmmakers built a full-scale replica of the ridge where the battle took place, which allowed them to shoot the scenes in a more immersive and realistic way. Additionally, the film’s sound design was carefully crafted to create an immersive audio experience that made the audience feel like they were right in the middle of the battle.
The production of Hacksaw Ridge was a formidable task that required a wide range of skills and expertise. The filmmakers balanced the use of traditional techniques with modern technology to create a film that was both realistic and engaging. The attention to detail and the use of practical effects helped to create a vivid and immersive experience, while the historical accuracy of the film added to its overall impact.
Did Hacksaw Ridge make money?
Hacksaw Ridge is a 2016 American biographical war drama film directed by Mel Gibson and written by Andrew Knight and Robert Schenkkan. The film is based on the story of Desmond Doss, a US Army medic who became the first conscientious objector to be awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions during the Battle of Okinawa in World War II.
The movie was produced by Cross Creek Pictures, Demarest Media, Argent Pictures, Pandemonium, and IM Global, and was distributed by Lionsgate.
Hacksaw Ridge had a budget of around $40 million, and it grossed over $180 million worldwide at the box office. The film was released in November 2016, and it received critical acclaim for its performances, direction, and screenplay. The movie was also nominated for numerous awards, including six Academy Awards, where it won two, Best Sound Mixing and Best Film Editing.
The film was also nominated for three Golden Globe Awards, where it won Best Actor in a Drama for Andrew Garfield.
Hacksaw Ridge was a commercial success, as it not only made a profit but also received positive reviews and accolades. The movie’s success can be attributed to its compelling story, powerful performances, and well-crafted direction. The movie’s success also shows that there is a demand for war dramas that tell the stories of individual soldiers and their heroic actions in the face of danger.
Hacksaw Ridge is a movie that will be remembered for its emotional impact and its affirmation of human dignity and bravery.
Why did Hacksaw Ridge not use a gun?
Hacksaw Ridge is a war film that tells the story of a conscientious objector named Desmond Doss, who served as a medic during World War II. Doss was a devout Christian who believed in the commandment “Thou shalt not kill.” Therefore, he refused to carry a gun or any weapon during his service.
Doss had a strong conviction that his duty was to save lives, not to take them. He believed that he could best serve his country and fellow soldiers by providing medical aid to wounded soldiers on the frontline. Despite facing immense pressure from his peers and superiors to carry a weapon, Doss remained steadfast in his beliefs.
The film portrays Doss’s struggle to be recognized as a valuable member of the army, even without a weapon. He faced ridicule and contempt from his fellow soldiers, who saw him as a liability on the battlefield. However, Doss’s unwavering commitment to his beliefs and his bravery in saving the lives of his comrades ultimately earned him respect and recognition.
The decision not to use a gun was not only significant to Doss’s character but was also central to the film’s message. Hacksaw Ridge is a testament to the power of faith, courage, and compassion in the face of adversity. It showcases the heroism and bravery of a man who defied convention and risked his life to save others, without resorting to violence.
Hacksaw Ridge did not use a gun because it was faithful to the true story of Desmond Doss, who made the bold decision to serve his country as a medic without compromising his beliefs. The film’s message and themes of faith, courage, and compassion were brought to life through Doss’s non-violent stance and selflessness in the face of war.
How many Japanese soldiers were on Hacksaw Ridge?
The Battle of Hacksaw Ridge took place during the Pacific campaign of World War II, specifically on the island of Okinawa from April 1 to June 22, 1945. During this intense and grueling battle, the exact number of Japanese soldiers present on Hacksaw Ridge is not known with absolute certainty.
However, it is estimated that there were thousands of Japanese soldiers located in various positions across the island, including on Hacksaw Ridge. The Japanese forces entrenched themselves in a complex network of tunnels and underground forts, making it difficult for the Allied forces to advance.
The battle for Hacksaw Ridge was particularly brutal, with both sides suffering heavy casualties. The Japanese soldiers were fiercely committed to their cause and fought with great determination, often resorting to kamikaze tactics and suicide missions.
Towards the end of the battle, the Japanese soldiers began to run low on supplies and ammunition, and many were forced to retreat or surrender. The exact number of Japanese soldiers present on Hacksaw Ridge during the battle is difficult to determine, but estimates range from several hundred to several thousand.
Despite the intense fighting and difficult conditions, the Allied forces were eventually able to secure victory on Hacksaw Ridge and push back the Japanese forces. The battle remains as a testament to the incredible bravery and sacrifice shown by soldiers on both sides during one of the most significant conflicts of the 20th century.
How many people did Doss actually save?
Desmond Doss, a World War II hero, is estimated to have saved around 75 soldiers during the battle of Okinawa. However, the exact number of people he saved can never be accurately determined as the chaos and intensity of the battle made it difficult to keep track of each and every life that he saved.
Doss was a combat medic who served as a conscientious objector due to his personal religious beliefs, but he was still dispatched to the front lines without any weapons. For months, Doss stayed on the battlefield, rendering medical aid to the injured soldiers, and risking his own life to rescue many of them from harm’s way.
One of Doss’s most remarkable attributes was his courage and bravery in performing his duties in the face of extreme danger. He repeatedly ran into the line of fire to save wounded soldiers, often crawling on the ground under heavy fire to pull injured soldiers behind cover. He also carried wounded soldiers on his back, while dodging bullets and bombs around him.
Doss showed exceptional bravery, even in the face of imminent danger, and this went above and beyond what anyone could have expected of him.
Doss saved many soldiers from their injuries, and his selflessness and bravery earned him the Medal of Honor, which is the highest military honor that a US Army Soldier can receive. He remains a symbol of hope, inspiration, and sacrifice for generations to come, and his legacy will never be forgotten.
Did Desmond Doss ever carry a weapon?
Desmond Doss was a World War II veteran who is recognized for his courageous acts as a medic during the Battle of Okinawa in 1945. Doss was a devout Seventh-day Adventist who was a conscientious objector to violence and refused to carry a weapon. This decision was based on his personal belief that taking another person’s life was against his religious principles.
Despite not carrying a weapon, Doss’s bravery and selflessness in the battlefield were exemplary. He worked tirelessly to rescue wounded soldiers, even at great personal risk. Doss was known to have run into enemy fire without any protection to rescue his fellow soldiers. He was said to have saved the lives of at least 75 soldiers during the battle.
It is important to note that Doss’s refusal to carry a weapon did not hinder his ability as a medic. In fact, his lack of weapons allowed him to focus entirely on providing medical aid to wounded soldiers. He carried a basic medical kit with him, which included bandages, morphine, and plasma. He was also known to improvise medical supplies when they were not available.
Doss’s heroic acts earned him the Medal of Honor, which is the highest military honor in the United States. He was the first conscientious objector to receive this award. His story was later turned into a movie titled Hacksaw Ridge, which depicted his bravery and commitment to saving lives without using a weapon.
Desmond Doss did not carry a weapon during his time as a medic in the Battle of Okinawa. Instead, he relied on his medical training and supplies to save the lives of his fellow soldiers. His selflessness and bravery earned him the highest military honor and serve as an inspiration for generations to come.
Did the Japanese surrender at Hacksaw Ridge?
No, the Japanese did not surrender at Hacksaw Ridge. The Battle of Okinawa, in which Hacksaw Ridge was a key battleground, lasted from April to June of 1945 and marked one of the deadliest battles of the Pacific theater in World War II. The United States military launched a massive amphibious assault on the island of Okinawa, which is part of Japan’s Ryukyu Islands chain.
The battle was extremely brutal, with both sides suffering heavy casualties.
Hacksaw Ridge, which was located on the southern end of the island, was a critical point in the battle. It was a steep, rocky escarpment that the Japanese had fortified with bunkers and tunnels, making it very difficult for Allied troops to take. The ridge was the site of intense fighting, with American troops attempting to dislodge the well-entrenched Japanese forces.
Despite heroic efforts by the American soldiers, the battle for Hacksaw Ridge was protracted and bloody. Many American soldiers lost their lives or were badly wounded trying to take the ridge. the United States military was able to gain control of the ridge, but it came at a high cost.
The Japanese forces did not surrender at Hacksaw Ridge or anywhere else during the Battle of Okinawa. Instead, they fought to the bitter end, with many soldiers preferring to die rather than surrender. The battle ended with the United States military emerging victorious, but at tremendous costs. The battle resulted in an estimated 14,000 American casualties and close to 100,000 Japanese casualties, including both military personnel and civilians.
While the American military succeeded in taking control of Hacksaw Ridge during the Battle of Okinawa, the Japanese forces did not surrender at that location or at any other point during the battle. The Battle of Okinawa marked a significant turning point in the Pacific theater of World War II and was a harrowing and deadly conflict for all involved.
How much money did 1917 make?
1917 is a critically acclaimed war film directed by Sam Mendes, which was released in 2019. The film tells a powerful story of two young British soldiers, Schofield and Blake, who were given a mission to deliver a message deep behind enemy lines during World War I. The message was to stop an impending attack that can potentially massacre hundreds of British soldiers, including Blake’s own brother.
When it comes to box office success, 1917 was one of the biggest hits of 2019, grossing a huge amount of money globally. According to Box Office Mojo, the film made $159.2 million in the United States and Canada, and $225.5 million in other territories. This brings the film’s worldwide gross to an impressive $384.8 million.
It’s worth noting that the film’s success is not surprising due to its positive critical reception and the numerous awards the film has won, such as the Golden Globe Award for Best Motion Picture – Drama, and the Academy Award for Best Cinematography. Additionally, the film’s impressive shot structure and seemingly continuous shot technique has brought in more audiences, as many have been captivated by the stunning cinematography and the immersive experience it provides.
1917 has made an impressive amount of money, grossing $384.8 million worldwide since its release. This achievement is a testament to the film’s spectacular storytelling, powerful performances, and breathtaking visuals that continue to mesmerize audiences around the world.
Did Desmond Doss save a Japanese soldier?
Yes, Desmond Doss, an American World War II veteran and Medal of Honor recipient, did save a Japanese soldier during the Battle of Okinawa. Doss was a devout Seventh-day Adventist who refused to carry a weapon due to his religious beliefs but still wanted to serve his country as a medic. He was assigned to 2nd Platoon of B Company, 1st Battalion of the 307th Infantry, 77th Infantry Division.
During the battle on May 5, 1945, Doss and his company faced fierce resistance from the Japanese defenders. The platoon advanced up a steep escarpment nicknamed Hacksaw Ridge, which was heavily fortified and covered with booby traps. The Americans suffered heavy casualties, and Doss repeatedly risked his own life to rescue wounded soldiers under enemy fire.
He dragged them to the cliff edge and lowered them to safety with a rope, using his own body as a shield.
At one point, Doss saw a Japanese soldier who had been wounded by a grenade and left for dead by his comrades. Despite the hostility and danger around him, Doss felt compelled to help the enemy soldier. He treated his wounds and carried him to safety, even as the Japanese soldiers fired at him. Doss later said that the experience made him realize that “all men are brothers.”
Doss’s heroic actions saved the lives of at least 75 American soldiers during the Battle of Okinawa. He was awarded the Medal of Honor by President Harry Truman on October 12, 1945, for his extraordinary bravery and selflessness. He is one of only three Medal of Honor recipients to never have fired a shot in combat.
Doss’s story was later depicted in the 2016 film Hacksaw Ridge, directed by Mel Gibson and starring Andrew Garfield as Doss.
Was Desmond Doss really court martialed?
Yes, Desmond Doss was indeed court-martialed by the U.S. Army during World War II. This occurred in May 1945, after Doss had served as a conscientious objector and field medic on the front lines of the Pacific Theater, including the Battle of Okinawa.
On May 21, 1945, Doss was charged with two counts of willfully disobeying orders and one count of neglecting his duty as a soldier. The charges stemmed from incidents in which Doss refused to carry a weapon or engage in combat, and instead continued to tend to wounded soldiers on the battlefield.
Despite facing serious charges, Doss remained steadfast in his beliefs and refused to compromise his faith or values. He defended his actions in court, stating that his refusal to carry a weapon was not an act of disobedience or cowardice, but rather a deeply held conviction that he could not kill another human being.
Doss’s defense was supported by the fact that he had saved countless lives as a medic, and had even gone above and beyond his duties by risking his own life to rescue injured soldiers under enemy fire.
In the end, Doss was acquitted of all charges and went on to become a hero and inspiration to millions of people around the world. His story was later immortalized in the Hollywood film “Hacksaw Ridge,” which showcased his remarkable courage and devotion to his fellow soldiers, even in the face of unimaginable hardship and danger.
The fact that Desmond Doss was court-martialed speaks to the challenges and complexities of war, as well as the power of individual conscience and conviction. His story is a testament to the courage and bravery of all soldiers, regardless of their beliefs or backgrounds.
Did Doss really kick a grenade?
Desmond Doss was an American Army medic who served during World War II, and he was known for his extraordinary bravery and heroism. During the Battle of Okinawa, Doss was credited with saving the lives of at least 75 American soldiers, and he was the first conscientious objector to receive the Medal of Honor.
One of the most widely circulated stories about Doss is that he kicked a live grenade away from his fellow soldiers during the Battle of Okinawa. This story is often used as an example of Doss’s courage and quick thinking under pressure, but many people question whether or not it is true.
There are several accounts of the incident in question, and they vary in their details. Some versions of the story state that Doss kicked the grenade away from himself, while others claim that he kicked it away from his unit. Some versions suggest that the grenade was thrown by a Japanese soldier, while others state that it was accidentally dropped.
Despite the differences in the various accounts, most historians agree that Doss did, in fact, kick a live grenade away from his fellow soldiers. However, it is important to note that this act was just one of many incredible feats of bravery that Doss performed during the Battle of Okinawa.
Doss’s actions during the war earned him a reputation as a true hero, and he is still celebrated today for his selflessness and bravery. While the story of the grenade may be just one small part of Doss’s legacy, it is nonetheless a powerful reminder of the incredible sacrifices made by countless soldiers during World War II.
Why was the IJA so brutal?
The Imperial Japanese Army (IJA) was known for its brutality during World War II, especially towards prisoners of war and civilians in the areas they occupied. The reasons behind this brutality can be attributed to a number of factors.
Firstly, Japan’s militaristic culture and ideology played a major role in shaping the behavior of the IJA. The Japanese military, which held a dominant position in the country’s political and social life, emphasized the importance of loyalty, obedience, discipline, and sacrifice. These values were instilled in soldiers through rigorous training that aimed to turn them into obedient and fanatical warriors who were willing to die for their country.
As a result, the soldiers were indoctrinated to believe that it was their duty to conquer and subjugate other countries in the name of the Japanese emperor.
Secondly, the IJA’s brutal tactics can be traced back to Japan’s own experiences with colonialism and imperialism. Japan had been one of the victims of Western imperialism, which had led to its own drive for expansion and conquest in Asia. The Japanese believed that they were superior to other Asian peoples and that they had a right to rule over them.
This belief was further reinforced by the idea of the “Greater East Asia Co-prosperity Sphere”, which saw Japan as the leader of an Asian alliance that would drive out the Western colonial powers and create a new order in which Japan would be the dominant power.
Thirdly, the IJA’s brutal behavior was also the result of strategic considerations. In the early stages of the war, the IJA defeated its opponents with relative ease, but as the war spread across Asia, the Japanese forces faced mounting resistance. In response, the IJA adopted a policy of “kill-all, burn-all, loot-all,” whereby they would kill civilians, burn villages, destroy crops, and confiscate resources to deprive their enemies of support.
These tactics were meant to create a “shock and awe” effect that would intimidate the enemy and undermine their will to fight.
Lastly, it is important to mention that the brutal behavior of the IJA was not universal. While some units were known for their cruelty, others were relatively humane. Factors such as the quality of leadership, the circumstances of the battle, and the cultural context of the soldiers’ upbringing all played a role in shaping the behavior of individual soldiers and units.
The reasons behind the IJA’s brutality were complex and multi-faceted, ranging from Japan’s militaristic and imperialistic ideology, to strategic considerations, and individual factors. Nevertheless, the legacy of the IJA’s brutal behavior continues to be felt today, and serves as a reminder of the dangers of nationalism, militarism, and extreme forms of ideology.
How long did it take Desmond Doss to save 75 people?
Desmond Doss, an American army corporal, was a World War II veteran and a Medal of Honor recipient. His heroic act during the Battle of Okinawa, where he single-handedly rescued 75 injured soldiers from the battlefield, is an inspiring tale of bravery and selflessness.
Desmond Doss was a conscientious objector and refused to carry a weapon due to his religious beliefs as a Seventh-day Adventist. However, he wanted to serve his country and joined the army as a medic. It was during the Battle of Okinawa that he showed his true mettle.
Doss and his fellow soldiers were tasked with capturing a steep and treacherous cliff known as the Maeda Escarpment, also called Hacksaw Ridge. The battle proved to be a bloody and brutal affair, with both sides suffering heavy losses.
As the fighting intensified, Doss saw several injured soldiers lying wounded and helpless on the battlefield. Without any regard for his safety, he went about rescuing his wounded comrades by dragging them to safety, one by one. He did this all night long, working tirelessly and with complete disregard for his own safety, until he had successfully rescued 75 people.
It is difficult to determine exactly how long it took Desmond Doss to save 75 people, as the battle itself lasted for several days. However, accounts of his heroic actions suggest that he worked through the night, until he had rescued every last person he could find.
Desmond Doss’s act of bravery and compassion earned him the nickname “the angel of Hacksaw Ridge.” He was awarded the Medal of Honor for his outstanding service to the country, becoming the only conscientious objector to ever receive the award. His story has since become the subject of books and movies, inspiring generations to come to put others before themselves and to stand up for what they believe in.
How did Desmond Doss lose his hearing?
Desmond Doss was a renowned combat medic and conscientious objector who served in the United States Army during World War II. During his service, he earned the Medal of Honor for his acts of bravery during the Battle of Okinawa. However, before his heroic acts on the battlefield, Doss faced a significant challenge during his training.
Doss lost his hearing during a training accident while serving in Fort Jackson, South Carolina. On April 1, 1944, Doss was serving as a Private First Class and was involved in a mishap while he was using a grenade launcher. Doss was using the weapon for the first time while his platoon was undergoing a training exercise.
He had not received proper training and was not aware of the maximum range of the weapon.
During the training exercise, Doss underestimated the range of the grenade launcher and as a result, fired the grenade, causing it to explode near his face. The blast severely injured his chest, broke his arm, and shattered his left ear. It was said that the blast was so powerful that it blew a silver dollar-sized hole in his ear, completely destroying his eardrum.
After the incident, Doss was rushed to the hospital, where he underwent several surgeries to repair the damage caused by the blast. Despite the medical intervention, Doss’s hearing never fully recovered, and he became permanently deaf in his left ear.
Remarkably, the loss of his hearing did not deter Doss from serving his country. Instead, he continued to serve as a medic in the United States Army and went on to earn the Medal of Honor for his heroic acts on the battlefield. Desmond Doss’s story is one of courage, conviction, and unwavering dedication to his country, and his hearing loss is just one of the many challenges he faced along the way.
