The Mission (1986)

Directed by: Roland Joffe
Starring: Jeremy Irons, Robert De Niro, Liam Neeson

Overall Rating: 63.7

Overall, I was left quite disappointed by "The Mission".  Prior to watching it, I had known of its awards history and had been referred to as a powerful film.  Unfortunately, I just wasn't as moved as I had hoped to be.

The story follows a Jesuit priest (Irons) who builds a mission in Spanish controlled South America in the mid 18th century. After converting a hostile mercenary (De Niro), all seems to be going well for the mission, until Spain sells their colony to Portugal who plans to turn the colony into a slave settlement.  The priests and tribesmen must then face a moral dilemma as to whether or not to turn to arms or God to fight for their settlement.

The direction and visuals of the South American tribe is very well shot.  It is undoubtedly a beautiful movie, with cascading landscapes and panoramic views.

The story just leaves more to warrant a 2 hour movie.  It's too one dimensional, with not a lot to keep the audience engaged.

Individual Ratings
Enjoyment Factor: 4
Dialogue: 5
Acting: 7
Direction: 8
Audio/Visual: 8