The Mission (DVD)

It is said, history repeats itself. "The Mission" covers the specific period during the expansion of European colonialism in South America, with Spain and Portugal agreeing on how to carve-up territory for their own imperial and economic ends. While times have changed and there are new masters, the story is much the same. Today, tribes living in the Amazon Basin find themselves disinherited and exploited by a new expansion, farming and logging.
There are powerful performances by Jeremy Irons as Gabriel and Robert De Niro as the repentant soldier joining forces to protect a tribe threatened with extinction. Accompanied by a haunting theme (Gabriel's Oboe) and sound track by Ennio Morricone, this really is a superb film and deserves the "Best Picture Award" at the Cannes Film Festival 1986.

A brand new sealed item excellent quality and far cheaper than in the high street if you are lucky enough to find it.

The Mission is a superb film, with fine performances by the two main actors, Jeremy Irons and Robert De Niro. It is an unusual story, concerning Jesuit Missions in South America in the 18th century, which you may not think is obvious material for an enjoyable film. You would be wrong, because this film brings out the conflict between Church and State, Westernised civilisation and the lives led by native South American tribes, and is quite gripping. Jeremy Irons as the priest, Father Gabriel, and Robert De Niro as a mercenary and slave trader Mendoza give give this film quality and passion. Together with a haunting music score by Ennio Morricone, and stunning locations in South America, make it a memorable experience.