Let me start by saying--I am not a fan of Mel Gibson's politics or personal behavior, not a person who enjoys violent or gory movies, and I am non-religious to boot. My honest opinion is....this movie was wonderful and inspiring. It makes this critic's review very perplexing. My only thought  is that Mr. Hertz must be young and has not been exposed to the harsh realities of war. I do not think any of the gore was gratuitous, on the other hand, it seemed quite appropriate and justified. It highlights the dichotomy this real person dealt with when faced with the love he felt for his country and the overwhelming need to do his part to protect it, and his devotion to his religious beliefs that prohibited him from killing others. He believed this so deeply that he refused to touch or even carry a gun in his own defence during this bloody battle. He chose instead to serve as a medic with hopes to save as many lives as he possibly could. He was a man of character and conviction. A TRUE hero.