The missionary work of Jesuit priests in 18th-century Brazil is threatened by the activities of unscrupulous colonial merchants and rival factions within the Church, leading to a series of tense confrontations which not only endanger their lives but also their faith. Historical drama, starring Robert De Niro, Jeremy Irons, Cherie Lunghi and Ray McAnally.

When a Spanish Jesuit goes into the South American wilderness to build a mission in the hope of converting the Indians of the region, a slave hunter is converted and joins his mission. When Spain sells the colony to Portugal, they are forced to defend all they have built against the Portuguese aggressors.