Theo 5
Movie: The Mission
1. How do Father Gabriel and Rodrigo Mendoza represent different paths to redemption?
- Father Gabriel seeks redemption through a life of peaceful service, embodying
Christian values and avoiding violence. Mendoza, after a dark past as a slave
trader and murderer, finds redemption by choosing to defend the people he once
harmed, even though it means taking up arms. Gabriel’s redemption is rooted in
his faith and love of peace, while Mendoza’s is in action and sacrifice, showing
two very different paths toward inner peace.
2. In what ways does the film critique European colonialism and its impact on indigenous
cultures?
- The film highlights the destructive force of colonialism by showing how the
European colonists, motivated by profit, attacked the peaceful Guarani
community. It criticizes the greed and brutality of the colonizers, who disregard
the native’s lives and culture, treating them as property rather than people. The
Jesuits mission contrasts this violence by showing respect for the Guarani and
helping them, emphasizing the negative impact of colonialism.
3. How do the character’s choices reflect the tension between moral ideals and the harsh
realities of their world?
- Father Gabriel’s commitment to non-violence and Mendoza’s choice to fight
represent a clash between idealism and reality. Gabriel’s faith calls him to avoid
violence, but he faces a brutal world where this approach has limits. Mendoza’s
decision to fight reflects a struggle to reconcile Christian ideals with the harsh
reality of oppression and violence, showing how both men wrestle with the gap
between their beliefs and the world’s cruelty.
4. What role does the music, particularly the score by Ennio Morricone, play in conveying
the film's themes?
- The music by Ennio Morricone adds emotional depth to the film, emphasizing the
beauty of the Guarani culture and the tragedy of the Jesuits struggle. The music
reflects both the peace the missionaries brought to the community and the sadness
of their loss, enhancing the story's impact on viewers and highlighting the theme
of sacrifice.
5. How does the clash between the Jesuits and colonial powers illustrate the struggle for
justice and autonomy?
- The conflict shows the Jesuits attempt to protect the Guarani’s freedom against
colonial powers that view the natives only as resources. The Jesuits fight for
justice and self-determination for the Guarani, revealing a broader struggle for
human rights in the face of oppressive forces.
6. What does the film suggest about the nature of sacrifice in the pursuit of a greater good?
- The film portrays sacrifice as a powerful but painful path to protecting others and
standing up for one’s beliefs. Both Gabriel and Mendoza give their lives for the
Guarani, showing that true sacrifice often means putting others' needs above one’s
own survival, even if it does not guarantee success.
7. How do faith and doubt manifest in the characters' actions and decisions throughout the
film?
- Faith and doubt are at the heart of Gabriel and Mendoza’s choices. Gabriel’s faith
leads him to reject violence, even as he doubts if his non-violent stance can
protect the Guarani. Mendoza’s doubt in pacifism drives him to fight, suggesting
his struggle between Christian teachings and his sense of justice. Both men’s
journeys reveal how faith can be tested in extreme situations.
8. In today's situation how can you help and support Mission works?
- In today’s world, we can help and support mission work by donating to
organizations that focus on humanitarian aid, volunteering for community service,
spreading awareness of social injustices, or simply showing kindness and
compassion in our communities. Supporting missions doesn’t always require
direct involvement or even small acts that contribute to other’s well-being can
uphold the spirit of mission work.
