The Volcano: Rescue From Whakaari (2022)

Review Team

4/5

The Volcano: Rescue From Whakaari is a gripping documentary that takes audiences into the heart of a catastrophic event with a raw and unflinching gaze. Directed by Rory Kennedy, the film meticulously recounts the tragic eruption of Whakaari / White Island in 2019, focusing on the harrowing stories ... Show more >> The Volcano: Rescue From Whakaari is a gripping documentary that takes audiences into the heart of a catastrophic event with a raw and unflinching gaze. Directed by Rory Kennedy, the film meticulously recounts the tragic eruption of Whakaari / White Island in 2019, focusing on the harrowing stories of those affected. The film shines in its ability to humanise the statistics, presenting not just the loss but also the remarkable acts of bravery and resilience from ordinary people. The cinematography captures both the beauty and danger of the island, adding a layer of intensity to the narrative. While the emotional weight can be overwhelming, the film serves as a powerful reminder of the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity. It is a must-watch for those interested in real-life stories of survival and heroism. Show less

Editor Team

3.5/5

The Volcano: Rescue From Whakaari offers a profound look at a devastating event, but it may not be for everyone. Rory Kennedy’s documentary dives into the tragic eruption with a focus on the personal stories of those involved, which is both touching and heart-wrenching. The film's tone shifts betwee ... Show more >> The Volcano: Rescue From Whakaari offers a profound look at a devastating event, but it may not be for everyone. Rory Kennedy’s documentary dives into the tragic eruption with a focus on the personal stories of those involved, which is both touching and heart-wrenching. The film's tone shifts between moments of intense suspense and reflective mourning, capturing the chaos and heroism of that fateful day. However, some viewers might find the pacing uneven, with certain segments feeling drawn out. The emotional impact is undeniable, and the visuals of the volcanic landscape are stunning, yet the film occasionally feels like it skims over deeper analyses of the broader implications of such disasters. Overall, it’s a compelling watch for those drawn to real-life dramas and tales of human resilience, but it may leave others wanting a bit more depth. Show less