Watch The Least of These
- NR
- 2009
- 1 hr 2 min
The Least of These is a 2019 biographical drama film based on the life of Graham Staines, an Australian Christian missionary who worked with leprosy patients in India. The movie was directed by Aneesh Daniel and stars Stephen Baldwin, Shari Rigby, and Sharman Joshi in lead roles. Set in rural India in the late 1990s, the film begins with the arrival of a journalist named Manav Banerjee (played by Sharman Joshi) to cover the story of Graham Staines (played by Stephen Baldwin), who has devoted his life to helping the leprosy patients in the region. Manav, who is a self-proclaimed atheist, is initially skeptical of Staines' mission and is suspicious of his motives. However, as he spends more time with Staines and gets to know the people he has helped, Manav begins to understand the depth of Staines' compassion and is touched by his selfless devotion to the cause.
As Manav delves deeper into Staines' work, he encounters opposition from several quarters. Local politicians and religious leaders try to obstruct his efforts to report on Staines, and there is growing tension between the Christian missionaries and the conservative Hindu groups in the region. As Manav uncovers more about Staines' life and work, he begins to realize that the missionary's commitment to the leprosy patients has put him in danger. In the climactic sequence of the film, the audience is left on the edge of their seat as a tragic event unfolds.
The movie is structured as a series of flashbacks interspersed with present-day scenes of Manav's investigation. The flashbacks reveal Staines' gradual realization of the extent of the leprosy patients' plight and his increasing commitment to their welfare. The film also explores the bond between Staines and his wife, Gladys (played by Shari Rigby), who is also a committed Christian and shares her husband's passion for helping the sick and marginalized.
Stephen Baldwin delivers a powerful performance as the selfless Graham Staines, who demonstrates that even in the face of adversity, one can continue to serve and make a meaningful impact. Sharman Joshi, as the skeptical journalist, convincingly portrays the transformation of his character from a cynical outsider to a compassionate ally.
The Least of These is a poignant and heartfelt portrayal of the power of kindness, compassion, and faith in the midst of challenging circumstances. The film sheds light on the importance of standing up for what is right, even when faced with opposition and danger. It also highlights the need for greater understanding and tolerance across cultures and religions.
Overall, The Least of These is a thought-provoking and deeply moving film that is sure to leave a lasting impression on its viewers. It is a tribute to the legacy of Graham Staines and a reminder of the importance of the work that he started. The movie's message of compassion and selflessness is universal and applicable to people of all faiths and backgrounds. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in exploring the complexities of faith, culture, and society in modern-day India.