John Chau was an American Christian zealot, most likely affected by the Messiah Complex. This 26 year old man in his twenties was, pardon the expression, “hellbent” on heading to the North Sentinel Island, an Indian possession, to bring the word of “his” saviour to the heathen and dangerous hunters and gatherers populating the island. Fueled by his evangelical beliefs and his student days at Oral Roberts University he plans and trains for his holy mission.
Through his parents, friends and missionary guidance agencies and armed with a waterproof Bible he lands on the island waving his Bible in the name of Jesus Christ and promptly has an arrow pierce his bible as a warning. He regrouped and heading back to the beach Chau was never seen again. But his trip journal and his diaries were open to the filmmakers.
John Chau was one of the thousands of Christian missionaries meeting their demise attempting to save the souls of the heathen and primitive full well knowing the Indian government prohibits any visits to the island. As one former missionary remarks the inhabitants of North Sentinel Island are no more primitive than those trying to save their souls. The Happy Christian brings deadly diseases and over the past century and some were kidnapped by missionaries so why would the Bible thumpers ever be permitted to destroy their society. Just look to the well meaning if not fanatical Christian army that imprisoned aboriginal children in residential schools in Canada tearing apart families and attempting to eradicate “primitive” aboriginal cultures. Yes who are the savages?
A story of zeal, stupidity, cultural and religious imperialism? Well back at Oral Roberts University they have a new martyr to champion to whip up the fervor of the next John Chau? Donations accepted!
Theatrical release in Canada will be October 20.
“The Mission” was directed by Amanda McBaine and Amanda McBaine .
RKS 2023 Film Rating: 90/100.
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