The Mission (1986 film)

The Mission is a 1986 British drama film about the experiences of a Jesuit missionary in 18th century South America. The film was written by Robert Bolt and directed by Roland Joff. The movie stars Robert De Niro, Jeremy Irons, Ray McAnally, Aidan Quinn, Cherie Lunghi and Liam Neeson. It won the Palme dOr and the Academy Award for Best Cinematography. In April 2007, it was elected number one on the Church Times Top 50 Religious Films list. Furthermore, it is one of fifteen films listed in the category Religion on the Vatican film list. The music, scored by Italian composer Ennio Morricone, ranked 1st on the Australian Broadcasting Corporations ABC Classic 100 Music in the Movies.

Mercenary and slaver Rodrigo Mendoza Robert De Niro makes his living kidnapping natives such as the Guarani community and selling them to nearby plantations, including the plantation of the Spanish Governor Don Cabeza Chuck Low. After returning from another kidnapping trip Mendoza is told by his assumed fianc, Carlotta Cherie Lunghi, that she loves his younger halfbrother Felipe Aidan Quinn. Mendoza later finds them in bed together and in a fit of rage kills Felipe in a duel. Although he is acquitted of the killing by Cabeza, Mendoza spirals into depression and seeks absolution for his actions. Father Gabriel visits and challenges Mendoza to undertake a suitable penance. Mendoza accompanies the Jesuits on their return to the Guaranis, scaling a cliff while dragging a heavy bundle containing his armour and sword. Upon reaching the outskirts of the natives territory, there are a few tense moments when the natives recognise him, but after seeing him in his humbled state, they cut away his heavy bundle and forgive him.Father Gabriels mission is depicted as a place of sanctuary and education for the Guaran. Moved by the Guarans acceptance, Mendoza wishes to help at the mission and Father Gabriel gives him a Bible. In time, Mendoza takes vows and becomes a Jesuit under Father Gabriel and his colleague Father Fielding Liam Neeson. ........

Source: Wikipedia