The Least of These: The Graham Staines Story

The 2019 biographical drama "The Least of These: The Graham Staines Story," directed by Aneesh Daniel, is a compelling narrative that sheds light on the tragic and inspiring real-life story of Australian missionary Graham Staines.

Featuring a respected ensemble of cast members, the film stars Sharman Joshi, Stephen Baldwin, and Shari Rigby. Sharman Joshi is a mainstream Bollywood actor known for his powerful performances, and he brings this intensity to his character in this English-language film. Stephen Baldwin is a familiar face in Hollywood who instills his character with an essence of dedication and heroism, while Shari Rigby does an exemplary job of playing the resilient wife of Graham Staines.

Set in the late 1990s, the movie transports viewers to the rural landscapes of India, primarily Orissa. The plot of the film unravels through the perspective of Manav Banerjee (portrayed by Sharman Joshi), an ambitious and curious journalist desperate to climb the ladder of professional success. In a pursuit of an explosive story, he moves with his pregnant wife to the jungle-ridden and poverty-stricken state, Orissa.

Manav comes to learn about Graham Staines (Stephen Baldwin), an Australian Christian missionary said to save the region's lepers while also illicitly converting local Hindus to Christianity, a major crime in the region. Sensing a breakthrough story that could catapult his career, Manav infiltrates Graham's community under the guise of needing a job, intending to expose these supposed covert conversions.

As Manav delves deeper into his investigative mission, he gets to witness first-hand Graham's selfless efforts to help the suffering leprosy patients who are otherwise shunned by society. Plagued by the ethical dilemma, Manav wrestles with the contrast between the allegations and the benevolence he witnesses, leading him to question his original intent. The character of Graham Staines, played with convincing honesty by Stephen Baldwin, personifies compassion and empathy working tirelessly to support the least of these, the leprosy patients, regardless of their faith.

On the other hand, his devoted wife, Gladys Staines (Shari Rigby), expertly evokes the qualities of faith, love, and sacrifice. Despite the challenges the family faces due to their mission, her character remains a pillar of strength, maintaining the balance between supporting her husband's humanitarian endeavors and caring for her children in a foreign land.

An often overlooked but significant element of the film is its depiction of the social dynamics of India – the dilemmas, the diversities, the disparities. It provides valuable insights into the cultural and religious complexities that circulate within the country. Additionally, the movie creates a vivid portrayal of life in India through its splendid cinematography, capturing the raw beauty of India's rural landscapes and bustling city environments.

"The Least of These: The Graham Staines Story" magnifies the real-life humanitarian work of Graham Staines, as well as an instance of extreme religious intolerance that questions our understanding of humanity. It tells a story of nobility, love, sacrifice, and bonds that transcend religious boundaries. The narrative raises profound questions about tolerance, faith, and the conflict where personal ambition intersects with morality.

Despite its depiction of a tragic event, "The Least of These" also offers a message of hope and forgiveness, embodied in Gladys' response to the tragedy, resonating with viewers even after the film has ended. Shari Rigby's performance in this role adds a layer of emotional resilience and strength to her character.

The film advocates for love, acceptance, and tolerance for all, irrespective of caste, creed, and religion. The story of the Staines family comes across as a beacon of humanity in the face of adversity, prompting viewers to reflect on their perceptions and judgments.

In summary, "The Least of These: The Graham Staines Story" is a compelling and thought-provoking drama unfolding a heart-wrenching reality of the late 90s in rural India. With power-packed performances from the lead actors and an engaging narrative, it imbues the viewers with lasting emotion and introspection. This movie is not just about the life and work of a missionary; it is a broader commentary on the aspects of religious tolerance, compassion, and humanity, themes that resonate universally across all cultures and societies.