On Wednesday, Nov. 2,  students in Mr. Hare’s AP United States History (APUSH) class went to a special screening of the World War II movie Hacksaw Ridge at the Phoenix Theater in Bridgeville, PA.  These students were invited by Congressman Tim Murphy in hopes to get the conversation going about the divided America and respecting one’s country.

Hacksaw Ridge is a true story about Desmond Doss, a conscientious objector, who refuses to carry a gun into battle. He ended up saving over 75 lives in the Battle of Okinawa.   

This movie shows incredible bravery and faith in war.  It displays the real gruesomeness and grittiness of war and does not overly glorify war.

Hacksaw Ridge is directed by Mel Gibson who is known for his work on Braveheart and The Passion of Christ.  Andrew Garfield plays Desmond Doss and his costar, Teresa Palmer, plays Dorothy Schutte, Desmond Doss’s wife.  The cast also includes Vince Vaughn as Sergeant Howell, Luke Bracey as Smitty, and Hugo Weaving as Tom Doss.

This movie was released on Friday, Nov. 4 and is rated R for intense scenes of warfare and violence.

This movie has gotten rave reviews and sophomores Lori Gatz and Sarah Pellis cannot help but praise it in all aspects.

Q: What did you think of the movie?

Gatz: “I thought it was a very good movie.  It shined a light on what happens during war.”

Pellis: “I thought it was really good but really sad.  I’d see it again.”

Q: Why do you think it’s an important movie to see?

Gatz: “It showed the true meaning of patriotism, courage, and faith.”

Pellis: “People need to be way more informed about history besides reading it.  You have no idea what happens until you experience it so when you watch the movie you get a whole picture.”

Q: Are there any lessons to be learned from it?

Gatz: “Take respect for your country.  Take respect for the lives lost that gave you your freedom.”

Pellis: “I took in a lot of lessons.  I went home and hugged my family because you never know when it will be the last time you see them and you should appreciate everything you have.”

Q: What was your favorite part?

Gatz: “I liked it when he just kept saying ‘God help me save one more’ and then he just kept going back to get more people even though he was so worn down, both mentally and physically.  It was very awe-inspiring.”

Pellis: “When the head officer came into the bunks and made fun of the troops.”

Q: Would you recommend seeing it to others?

Gatz: “Absolutely.”

Pellis: “Yes! It was very informational and it gave a reality check.”

Q: Anything else you would like to add about the movie?

Gatz: “Younger people should see this movie because it shines the light on what truly happened during the wars. It will make people understand what our soldiers went through and did for us so we can remain free!”

Pellis: “It hits you hard but in a good way. You will sob and laugh hysterically and sometimes be a little scared but it is a really good movie that will affect me for the rest of my life like how I view people and how I take things for granted.”

According to Congressman Tim Murphy, the goal of this movie is to get people talking about what they believe courage and faith are.  He believes that this movie will remind people that we are all in it together and that we shouldn’t be divided.  He says that we should work together to overcome our differences and appreciate the sacrifices people have made for our country.  Hacksaw Ridge is a movie that will make you think.