In 2018 a shocking event made headlines around the world: a young American missionary, John Chau, had been killed while attempting to contact one of the world’s most isolated peoples on remote North Sentinel Island. From acclaimed directors Amanda McBaine and Jesse Moss (BOYS STATE), National Geographic Documentary Films’ THE MISSION uncovers the gripping story beyond the headlines. Through exclusive interviews, and with unprecedented access to Chau’s secret plans, personal diaries, and video archives, THE MISSION reveals the mythology of exploration that inspired him, the evangelical community that supported his quest, and his own father’s heartbreak as Chau’s youthful thirst for adventure became a fatal obsession.
Amanda McBaine is a director and producer. Together with her partner Jesse Moss, she produced The Bandit, The Overnighters and Speedo. Her other credits as producer include Ghosts of Attica.