The Conscientious Objector

2004

Documentary / War

3
Rotten Tomatoes Critics - Certified Fresh 91% · 4 reviews
Rotten Tomatoes Audience - Upright 91% · 100 ratings
IMDb Rating 8.0/10 10 391 391

Plot summary

It's 1945, World War II. The Place, Okinawa. The Scene, an impregnable 400-foot high cliff-AKA Hacksaw Ridge. The Engagement, a battle so fierce the odds of survival were 1 in 10. The Act, Medic Pfc. Desmond T. Doss braved intense enemy fire to rescue 75 wounded GI's over the precipice. The Story, Infantrymen who once ridiculed and scoffed at Desmond's simple faith and refusal to carry a weapon-now owed their lives to him. Director Terry Benedict tells Desmond's incredible story through the eyes of the men who witnessed this humble man's heroic acts. Winning the respect of his fellow soldiers, they recommended him for the highest honor America can bestow on one of her sons-The Medal of Honor.

Director

Terry Benedict Photo
Terry Benedict

Top cast

Elwyn Gaines Photo
Elwyn Gaines as Self - Browning Automatic Rifleman
Henry Haverlock Photo
Henry Haverlock as Self - Mortar Squad
Ken Lafond Photo
Ken Lafond as Self - Battalion Scout
Max Cleland Photo
Max Cleland as Self
720p.WEB 1080p.WEB
935.68 MB
1280*720
English 2.0
NR
Subtitles us  
24 fps
1 hr 41 min
Seeds 6
1.69 GB
1920*1080
English 2.0
NR
Subtitles us  
24 fps
1 hr 41 min
Seeds 6

Movie Reviews

Reviewed by runamokprods 8 / 10

Proof that sometimes substance is simply more important than style

This documentary about the only conscientious objector to ever win the Congressional Medal of Honor is a touching and powerful tale of faith and courage. While the approach is simple and rough around the edges, the story of Desmond Doss, - at first a hated outcast for his refusal to carry or use a weapon, later a hero among heroes for his saving of over 75 men as a medic in what seemed all but impossible circumstances – is so unique, and almost hard to believe that it pulls you in completely, whatever its budgetary or stylistic limitations. I was surprised to see a few critics attack it as being an ad for Christianity, or for Seventh Day Adventists in the specific. I'm neither Christian nor religious, yet I never felt I was being preached at. It's simply the case that for this man his faith is what helped give him his courage and convictions. Would I want a documentary about Martin Luther King to not deal with how he drew his inspiration from his faith? Or Gandhi or the Dali Llama from theirs?Told by the men who were there, including Doss himself, this is a film that speaks of the grace of refusing to conform, and being driven to do good, even at great personal risk and sacrifice. A truly inspiring story of an amazing yet humble individual. It has flaws, but in this case, it doesn't really matter.
Reviewed by comedyismyreligion 8 / 10

Simple yet moving story of one man who had faith in his beliefs and the consequences resulting from that faith.

What you will learn in the first minutes is that the Army wanted Desmond Doss out, because of his unwillingness to touch a gun. But he knew he could and would be of service to his country and his fellow men. I think with good intentions his fellow privates and commanding officers, couldn't see what he could possibly contribute. They did their best to get rid of him. He could have taken the easy way out, but he was not to be shaken. Instead he served above and beyond and was awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor--probably deserving the award as much as a man can deserve it. The story is incredible. The telling of it is more than competent. I'm recommending this documentary to everyone I know.
Reviewed by randall-jones 10 / 10

Superb film of faith and perseverance

I first saw this film at the 2004 Heartland Film festival in Indianapolis, Indiana. It is a story about Desmond Doss the first conscientious objector to win the Congressional Medal of Honor. His faith and perseverance in the face of overwhelming stresses from both ally and foe, is a lesson to all. It is a must-see for anyone searching for the meaning of faith and love for all mankind.In these days of hype about war and bravery (or otherwise) it is refreshing to see a story of true heroism; a story that reflects true sacrifice and faith exercised over and over again.You must see it for yourself and get others to see it! Encourage your bookstores, libraries, and video rental facilities to get copies of this video. Failing that, buy one yourself!!! Many kudos to Terry Benedict for recognizing this great story and bringing it to the screen!
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