The Mission

The Mission is a 1986 historical drama directed by Roland Joffé and stars Robert De Niro, Jeremy Irons, and Ray McAnally. Set in the 18th century, the film is a story of the struggle between the Spanish Jesuits and the Portuguese slave traders in South America.

De Niro plays a former slave trader, Rodrigo Mendoza, who has turned to violence and alcoholism after killing his own brother in a fit of jealous rage. Irons plays Father Gabriel, a Jesuit priest who has established a mission in the jungles of South America, where he helps the locals resist the Portuguese slave traders. McAnally plays Cardinal Altamirano, a representative of the Vatican who is sent to investigate the validity of the Jesuit missions.

The film begins with Mendoza's redemption. He has been taken in by Father Gabriel, who takes care of him and tries to show him the way to atone for his sins. Mendoza's story is one of transformation and redemption, and De Niro's powerful portrayal of his character's inner turmoil is one of the film's highlights.

The film also explores the complex relationship between the Jesuits and the colonial powers. The Spanish Jesuits see their mission as a way of converting the natives to Christianity and freeing them from slavery, while the Portuguese see it as a threat to their profits. As tensions rise, the Jesuits are faced with the difficult decision of whether to fight or to try to find a peaceful solution.

The film is beautifully shot, with stunning visuals of the South American jungles and the missions themselves. The score, composed by Ennio Morricone, is also outstanding and adds to the film's emotional impact.

The Mission is a powerful and thought-provoking film that explores themes of colonialism, slavery, redemption, and the struggle between faith and violence. Its cast, including two Oscar-winning actors in De Niro and Irons, deliver exceptional performances, and its stunning visuals and score make it a must-see for fans of historical drama.