Founded during the Cold War, the Peace Corps stands as an icon of American idealism. At a time of increasing global political instability, and when the agency itself is under threat, comes A Towering Task, an independent documentary that examines the purpose and legacy of the Peace Corps in the 21st century. Perhaps more important, the film asks how America as a whole engages with the rest of the world.

Annette Bening narrates as historians, journalists, former staff and volunteers, and host country nationals come together to tell a story of many voices—about the enormous challenge of building peace. Notable interviewees are: President Jimmy Carter, President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Representatives Donna Shalala and Joe Kennedy, Maria Shriver, Tim Shriver and Teddy Shriver as well as Peace Corps founders Harris Wofford and Bill Josephson.

The film takes a close look at three countries: Liberia, the Dominican Republic and Ukraine. Producer/director Alana DeJoseph is a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer and directed the environmental documentaries The Greatest Good and Green Fire.