The conclusion of Hacksaw Ridge serves as a powerful resolution to its gripping World War II narrative, leaving audiences with lingering questions. Directed by Mel Gibson, the film features Andrew Garfield in the role of Desmond Doss, a courageous combat medic. The earlier segments of the movie delve into Doss’s formative years, detailing his courtship with his wife, Dorothy, as well as his challenging childhood alongside his family, especially his father, a WWI veteran grappling with PTSD. These early life experiences set the stage for profound themes, particularly Doss’s unwavering religious convictions that prohibit him from taking a life.
This foundation amplifies the intensity of his enlistment in the U.S. Army during World War II, particularly as he faces immense challenges as a conscientious objector on his path to the front lines.
What Happens In Hacksaw Ridge’s Ending
Desmond Doss Stays Behind To Save Lives
The cinematic depiction of Desmond Doss’s true story culminates in the pivotal struggles at Hacksaw Ridge during WWII. Earlier sequences portray American forces first capturing the Ridge before facing a fierce counter-offensive from the Japanese troops, which forced a retreat—except for Doss. The film’s conclusion presents a brutal depiction of the massacre perpetrated by the Japanese Army, while highlighting Doss’s relentless commitment to remaining on the Ridge to rescue wounded soldiers during the chaos that followed.
Central to Hacksaw Ridge’s ending is Desmond’s remarkable decision to stay on the battlefield overnight, amidst bombardments and enemy troops, to rescue the injured from the prior day’s battle. In this tense situation, he ultimately saves 75 soldiers, including some Japanese individuals initially thought to be dead. Desmond’s intimate knowledge of the tunnels utilized by the Japanese facilitates a successful U.S. counter-attack, playing a crucial role in securing the Ridge and contributing to the overall campaign against Japan.
What Happened To Desmond Doss After The Battle Of Okinawa
He Received The Medal Of Honor And Married Dorothy
As Hacksaw Ridge nears its conclusion, it also reveals Desmond’s life following his wartime heroics. After rescuing 75 men and enduring a horrific grenade blast, Desmond is depicted being evacuated from the battlefield, clutching the Bible his wife gifted him. Following the conclusion of the war, it is revealed that he received the Medal of Honor from President Harry S. Truman and eventually married Dorothy after enduring a time in military confinement depicted earlier in the film.
Desmond resided in the United States with Dorothy until her passing in 1991. He himself lived until 2006, when he died following complications from breathing issues. The film concludes with real footage of Desmond Doss, offering a poignant reflection on his experiences at Hacksaw Ridge.
Why The Battle Of Hacksaw Ridge Ended The Invasion Of Japan
Multiple Battles Were Going On In Okinawa
One aspect that the film’s ending does not fully elaborate on is how the battle at Hacksaw Ridge was integral to the larger Okinawa campaign. Hacksaw Ridge was but one front in the broader Battle of Okinawa, which witnessed simultaneous invasions and fierce naval confrontations. This collective effort was pivotal in achieving an Allied victory in the Pacific theater, marking the last significant battle before the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki ultimately compelled Japan’s surrender.
Securing Hacksaw Ridge provided the Allies with a critical stronghold for subsequent operations aimed at the Japanese mainland. However, the introduction of the atomic bomb would redefine the conclusion of the war, occurring just months after the Ridge’s capture.
Did Desmond Actually Kick A Grenade?
Multiple People Witnessed This Feat In The Actual Battle
Why The Japanese Commander Killed Himself
It Is A Traditional Samurai Ritual
Hacksaw Ridge also touches upon the suicide of the Japanese commander—an event steeped in ancient Japanese customs. This act stems from Seppuku, a ritualistic method of dying employed by samurai to preserve personal honor in the face of defeat, ensuring that both the individual and their family retain dignity rather than falling into enemy hands. This practice became emblematic during World War II among Japanese officers facing overwhelming losses.
Why Desmond’s Men Waited For Him To Pray
They Respected Him For Maintaining His Beliefs And Saving Soldiers During The Night
One of the more heartwarming moments in Hacksaw Ridge occurs when Desmond’s platoon pauses to allow him to pray prior to their assault. This gesture stems from mutual respect for Desmond’s steadfast religious convictions as a Seventh-day Adventist Christian, which honors the Sabbath as a day of prayer and reflection. Initially derided by his comrades for his beliefs, the men ultimately come to appreciate them, recognizing the courage he displayed in saving lives amid the chaos of battle.
The culmination of their respect is evident when they delay their assault to honor Desmond’s Sabbath, echoing a real-life incident that reflects the profound bond formed through shared adversity.
What Hacksaw Ridge’s Ending Changed About Desmond’s Real Life
Only A Few Things About His Life After The Battle Are Changed
Although Hacksaw Ridge makes several alterations to Doss’s narrative, it still captures essential elements of his life story. Notably, while the film only acknowledges Desmond’s Medal of Honor, he was actually awarded multiple commendations, including the Purple Heart for his wartime injuries and the Bronze Star Medal for his exemplary service.
The movie also mentions Dorothy’s passing in 1991 but overlooks that Desmond remarried two years later and had a child with Dorothy. Furthermore, he dealt with health issues, including tuberculosis that led to a collapsed lung. Frequently referred to as the “Wonderman of Okinawa,”his extraordinary actions at Hacksaw Ridge earned him widespread recognition. Overall, Hacksaw Ridge’s ending presents a concise version of Desmond’s life story, omitting some details in favor of a tighter dramatic focus.
The Real Meaning Of Hacksaw Ridge’s Ending
Explores The Power Of Belief In Oneself And Something More
The essence of Hacksaw Ridge’s conclusion highlights the importance of respecting individual beliefs. Throughout the film, Desmond faces ridicule and hostility for his refusal to bear arms, often branded a coward by fellow soldiers. Yet, his ultimate act of heroism reveals that true courage lies in one’s convictions and the desire to preserve life rather than take it. This emotional climax imbues the film with a deeper significance, transforming Desmond’s journey into a narrative that resonates profoundly with themes of love, faith, and moral integrity.
The denouement of Hacksaw Ridge serves as a compelling reminder not to judge others by their beliefs—emphasizing that it is these very beliefs that catalyzed Desmond’s elevation to a hero during WWII.
How Hacksaw Ridge’s Ending Was Received
The Film And Its Ending Were A Powerful Hit With Audiences
Despite the graphic depiction of warfare, Hacksaw Ridge emerged as an emotionally charged and impactful film, garnering resounding applause from audiences and critics alike. Andrew Garfield’s compelling portrayal of Desmond Doss was widely lauded, highlighting his character’s profound journey.
The film received six Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture, Best Director (Mel Gibson), and Best Actor (Andrew Garfield), winning two for Film Editing and Sound Mixing. Its success is bolstered not only by a cohesive narrative but also by its concluding scenes, which showcase Doss’s extraordinary choices and unwavering values.
Ultimately, the film’s finale encapsulates the overarching message, sealing Hacksaw Ridge as one of the standout films of 2016, celebrated for its blend of harrowing realism and inspirational storytelling.