Wow. Just wow.

Have you ever been in a position where you’re so overwhelmed with emotion by something that it leaves you completely speechless, but at the same time you have so much to say? But how do you even say it? I am so affected by this movie. It’s been such a long time since a movie has made this much of an impact that it sat with me for days.

Hacksaw Ridge is a masterpiece directed by the infamous, risk-taking and insanely good, Mel Gibson. It’s a raw perspective of the battle of Okinawa in World War II, where we meet a real life and unexpected hero in Desmond Doss (Andrew Garfield), who’s unwillingness to bare arms in the name of God and all that he believes in, leads him in the path of discouragement and bullying by his fellow man. Determined to serve his country in his own unique way, Doss protects and honours the soldiers he vowed to run into the battlefield alongside, better than any of those with a riffle. ‘Help me get one more,’ Doss says as his faith helps him save the fallen men. Only Gibson would be game enough to take on such an inspirational story, and twist it into an authentic visual display that will smack you right in the face.

Let’s start by saying that every other actors part is belittled by the enormous capacity that is Andrew Garfield. He is superb. He has easily wiped out his most recognised stint as Spiderman and has cemented himself into the big league. The viewer is with his character the entire time, cheering him on, encouraging him and also feeling the need to protect him. A thorough handshake and long standing ovation is well deserved and earned for Mr Garfield.

As the film was created in parts of New South Wales, there is much appreciation for the use of home-grown talent. It was a proud moment to notice that so many faces from Australia’s TV and cinema were a part of such a treasure, instead of a massive bombardment of imports. From the main man that leads the pack, Sam Worthington (as Captain Glover), to smaller parts played by the likes of House Husband star, Firass Dirani (as Vito Rinnelli). The Aussie line up is huge and brings together some of the best. There’s the always pleasure to watch Ryan Corr (as Lieutenant Manville); this being his second war film after Water Diviner. We are also blessed with the short appearances of Hyde and Seek star and Arrow’s Ra’s al Ghul, Matt Nable (as Lt Colonel Cooney), and Richard Roxburgh from Rake, who plays the army’s psychologist, Colonel Stelzer. Also in extras roles, we notice Love Child actor Ben O’Toole (as Corporal Jessop). An impactful protagonist comes from former Home and Away actor, Luke Bracey, who plays the arrogant Smitty Rykar. He is like the popular guy in the class, who is particularly cautious of Doss’ decisions, and the most confident on the frontline.

We are also blessed with the always delightful Rachel Griffith, who plays the mother of Desmond, Bertha Doss. She deals with the aftermath of her husband’s mental state since returning from war. Teresa Palmers southern accent makes you forget she’s an Aussie. She brings to life Doss’ partner Dorothy Schutte, a nurse who Doss is punching little over his weight for. But, it is Hugo Weaving who has the next best performance right after Garfield. He plays Desmond’s father, Tom Doss, whose time at war had scared him psychologically making him abusive and vulnerable.

There are plenty more to mention that were part of the battle especially, some of which are probably unnecessary additions to a vast cast list, but added possibly for the one reason that Doss must save as many of these lives of men we now know of and feel for. Had there not been an attachment with Doss by so many characters, regardless of their influence in the film, his need to save them would not have been as obligatory had he not met so many of his fellow patriots. He is a peoples person, and the more people around, the more his need to be there, the more we understand Desmond as a person. As an Aussie though, who is loyal to local talent, it is important to recognise them and acknowledge their work.

A shout out must be made to Vince Vaughn, essentially the only American in a very American movie. His time on screen as drill Sgt Howell was Vaughn’s best work. I am not a fan of dumb, crude and rude humour that he is usually associated with. However this time, his intelligent sarcasm is seriously entertaining. His entry scene is flawless as he storms in and picks on every soldier in the cabin, coming right into their faces, pacing up and down and giving them insulting nicknames and questioning their manhood. He does it with such poise and professionalism, that that one scene deserves an award.

The actors and their performances are so important to making this movie a lasting legend. But it’s the realness Gibson has put on screen that makes it so damn enthralling. The gruesomeness is not for the light-hearted. The explosions of bombs and missiles in the main battles scenes are artwork that is hard to look away from. The entire film is mesmerising.

As you watch these men fight what is a real battle, fear can be felt for them. The heart is pumping uncontrollably, impatiently wanting the hero to save the men and get out of the crossfire himself. The eyes cannot be peeled from the screen. A lack of blinking is inevitable. It must be seen to be believed but it cannot be believed when seen. You cannot stop watching. Your nails are almost gone. Your seat is almost beside you instead of beneath you. If someone is not moved, touched and grabbed by this film, they must not have a soul, heart or any feelings for that matter.

Yes, there were one or two flaws. One in particular was the lingering questions such as, where did Desmond’s brother go? We meet him right at the beginning, but then he disappears completely. He too enlists in to the army, is told by his father to ‘get out of my face,’ and then we don’t hear from him. But damn it if it matters.

Hacksaw Ridge is emotionally charged and overpowering with movie magic. Gibson has absolutely killed it with yet another powerful and unconventional piece of art, and Garfield has surpassed every expectation and solidly stepped up as an authentic actor. He is the centre of it all.

I am in awe, I am emotionally drained and I am overwhelmingly filled with respect for everything this film embodies and represents. No one can stop me from giving Hacksaw Ridge my second ever 5 out of 5.