The Missionary (1982)

In 1905, the Rev. Charles Fortesque, played by Michael Palin, returns to England after a decade of missionary work in Africa, only to find his new assignment a world away from his previous calling. Tasked by his bishop with ministering to London's prostitutes, Fortesque is thrust into the vibrant and often challenging underbelly of Edwardian society. This premise immediately sets up the satirical and comedic potential of "The Missionary," as Fortesque, a man of unwavering faith and rigid principles, navigates the unfamiliar and morally ambiguous landscape of brothels and social reform with hilariously predictable results. The film brilliantly contrasts Fortesque's naivete with the cynicism of his surroundings, creating a delightful fish-out-of-water story ripe with social commentary. Richard Loncraine's direction is pivotal to the film's success, making it a key entry in his filmography. Loncraine expertly balances the comedic elements with the poignant undertones of social injustice and the hypocrisy of the era. His visual style, showcasing the contrast between Fortesque's austere worldview and the opulent world he encounters, is both visually striking and thematically relevant. Furthermore, "The Missionary" exemplifies Loncraine's talent for directing a comedic ensemble, extracting perfect performances from Michael Palin and a cast including Maggie Smith and Trevor Howard. The film's clever script, coupled with Loncraine's directorial finesse, solidifies its place as one of the best examples of his filmmaking prowess.