The Mission

A 1986 British historical drama set in 18th-century South America, directed by Roland Joffé with a screenplay by Robert Bolt. The film centers on the efforts of Jesuit missionaries among indigenous populations. Father Gabriel (Jeremy Irons) ventures into the jungle to convert the Guaraní to Christianity. He earns their trust by playing the oboe and establishes a mission where he educates and protects the natives. Rodrigo Mendoza (Robert De Niro), a former mercenary and slave trader, kills his brother in a duel out of jealousy and, overwhelmed by guilt, joins the mission seeking redemption. He becomes a Jesuit and aids in defending the Guaraní. When the mission's territory is transferred to Portugal under the 1750 Treaty of Madrid, the indigenous people face the threat of enslavement, as the Portuguese permit slavery. Papal emissary Cardinal Altamirano (Ray McAnally) arrives to decide the fate of the missions. Despite the mission's success, he succumbs to pressure from Spanish and Portuguese authorities and orders its closure. Father Gabriel and Mendoza differ in their responses: Gabriel insists on non-violent protest, while Mendoza takes up arms to defend the Guaraní. Ultimately, the mission is attacked by combined Spanish-Portuguese forces. Mendoza and most defenders are killed in battle, and Father Gabriel and his followers are massacred during a religious procession. The film received critical acclaim, winning the Palme d'Or at the 1986 Cannes Film Festival. At the 59th Academy Awards, it was nominated in seven categories, including Best Picture and Best Director, and won for Best Cinematography. Ennio Morricone's score, particularly the piece "Gabriel's Oboe," was also highly praised and gained popularity beyond the film's context.