What Happened to Hacksaw Ridge (film)?

Released in 2016, 'Hacksaw Ridge' brought to the screen the extraordinary true story of Desmond Doss, a Seventh-day Adventist combat medic during World War II who, due to his deeply held religious beliefs, refused to carry a weapon. Directed by Mel Gibson, the film stars Andrew Garfield as Doss, depicting his struggles with military command and his heroic actions during the brutal Battle of Okinawa, where he single-handedly saved 75 wounded soldiers.

The film's production, primarily in Australia from September to December 2015, culminated in a world premiere at the 73rd Venice Film Festival on September 4, 2016, where it received a rare 10-minute standing ovation. This early reception signaled a strong critical response, which continued upon its wider release in Australia on November 3, 2016, and in the United States on November 4, 2016. The film was widely seen as a significant return to form for Mel Gibson, whose directorial career had been largely dormant for a decade following personal controversies.

'Hacksaw Ridge' achieved considerable commercial success, grossing over $180.6 million worldwide against a production budget of $40 million. Critics lauded Gibson's direction for its visceral and unflinching portrayal of war, while Andrew Garfield's performance as Desmond Doss earned particular praise for its humility and conviction. The film's impact was further solidified during the 2017 awards season, where it received six Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture, Best Director for Gibson, and Best Actor for Garfield. It ultimately won two Oscars for Best Film Editing and Best Sound Mixing.

Beyond its initial release, 'Hacksaw Ridge' has maintained its cultural relevance as a powerful and inspiring war drama. Its themes of faith, pacifism, and unwavering conviction in the face of extreme violence resonate with audiences. The film's depiction of the Battle of Okinawa, a pivotal and deadly engagement, brought Doss's story to a global audience, challenging traditional notions of heroism.

As of August 24, 2026, 'Hacksaw Ridge' remains readily available for viewers. It recently concluded its run on Netflix on July 31, 2026, but became available on Paramount+ starting August 1, 2026. Furthermore, it is currently streaming for free on Fandango at Home as of August 5, 2026, and is also available on the Angel platform until December 31, 2026. The film continues to be discussed in film circles as a modern masterpiece in the war genre, highlighting its enduring legacy.