The Mission

The Mission

Year: 1986

Runtime: 125 min

Language: English

Director: Roland Joffé

AdventureDramaHistory

In 18th-century South America, Father Gabriel attempts to protect a native Guarani people through peaceful conversion. He encounters Rodrigo Mendoza, a Spanish cavalry officer haunted by his past as a slave trader, who seeks redemption. As Portuguese forces prepare to conquer the region and enslave the natives, the two men find their differing beliefs and approaches to defense lead to a profound clash of conscience and ultimately, sacrifice.

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Timeline & Setting – The Mission (1986)

Explore the full timeline and setting of The Mission (1986). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

1750s

The movie is set in the 1750s during a tumultuous period of colonial expansion in South America. The Treaty of Madrid, which altered land control from the Spanish to the Portuguese, plays a significant role in the story, highlighting the struggles over indigenous rights and the impact of colonial policies. This era was marked by conflict, cultural exchange, and the moral dilemmas faced by those involved.

Location

Jesuit Reductions, South American jungle, Iguazu Falls

The Jesuit Reductions were autonomous missions established by Jesuit missionaries to spread Christianity among indigenous populations. The stunning Iguazu Falls serves as a dramatic backdrop to the narrative, showcasing the breathtaking beauty of the South American jungle. This lush and vibrant environment is central to the story, symbolizing both the challenges and the transformative potential of the mission.

🌿 Nature 🏞️ Historical Site

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:42

Main Characters – The Mission (1986)

Meet the key characters of The Mission (1986), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Father Gabriel (Jeremy Irons)

Father Gabriel is a Spanish Jesuit priest who embodies compassion and determination. His journey to establish a mission for the Guaraní Indians showcases his dedication to faith and education. Gabriel’s character represents the moral compass of the film, as he navigates the complexities of violence, faith, and the fight for indigenous rights.

🧘‍♂️ Spirituality 💖 Compassion

Rodrigo Mendoza (Robert De Niro)

Rodrigo Mendoza is a mercenary whose life spirals into despair after a personal tragedy. His character arc is a powerful narrative of transformation from a ruthless slave trader to a dedicated protector of the Guaraní community. Mendoza's internal struggle with guilt and the search for redemption is a pivotal element in the film's storyline.

🔄 Transformation 🛡️ Protector

Father Fielding (Liam Neeson)

Father Fielding serves as an ally to Father Gabriel and a figure of strength and strategy in the mission. His commitment to the Guaraní people and willingness to sacrifice for their protection underscore his loyalty and resilience. Fielding’s character adds depth to the themes of conflict and devotion in the face of adversity.

⚖️ Justice 🤝 Ally

Cardinal Altamirano (Ray McAnally)

Cardinal Altamirano represents the conflict between the church’s interests and the rights of indigenous peoples. His character grapples with the consequences of colonial policies while also reflecting on the Jesuit order’s place within society. Altamirano's dialogue reveals the tension between morality and the harsh realities of the historical context.

🏰 Authority 💔 Conflict

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:42

Major Themes – The Mission (1986)

Explore the central themes of The Mission (1986), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🕊️ Redemption

The theme of redemption is central to the movie, particularly through the character of Rodrigo Mendoza. His transformation from a mercenary and slave trader to a dedicated Jesuit reflects the power of second chances and personal growth. The struggle for redemption is also mirrored in the mission's fight to protect the Guaraní people and their way of life.

⚔️ Conflict

The film explores the conflict between morality and survival as portrayed by Father Gabriel’s pacifist beliefs and Mendoza’s resort to violence. This theme underscores the complexities of ethical decisions in dire circumstances, particularly in the backdrop of colonial exploitation. The violent clash between the missionaries and the Portuguese soldiers highlights the tragic consequences of such conflicts.

🌍 Colonialism

Colonialism is a critical theme in the movie, showcasing the exploitation of indigenous peoples and the moral quandaries faced by the Jesuits. The encroachment of Portuguese colonizers signifies the broader historical narrative of colonial control jeopardizing native cultures. The film ends with a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggles for indigenous rights, resonating with contemporary global issues.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:42

Unlock the Full Story of The Mission

Don't stop at just watching — explore The Mission in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what The Mission is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

The Mission Summary

Read a complete plot summary of The Mission, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

The Mission Summary

The Mission Timeline

Track the full timeline of The Mission with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

The Mission Timeline

More About The Mission

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about The Mission: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About The Mission

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