Parents' Guide to

The Volcano: Rescue from Whakaari

By Sabrina McFarland, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 13+

Survivors share stories in natural disaster docu; peril.

Movie PG-13 2022 98 minutes
The Volcano: Rescue From Whakaai movie poster image.

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this movie.

  • Aerial image of Whakaari/White Island volcano in New Zealand.
  • Passengers on boat photograph Whakaari/White Island volcano eruption.
  • Image of Whakaari/White Island volcano emitting smoke and steam.
  • Australian tourist Jesse Langford shows image of injuries from Whakaari/White Island volcano eruption.
  • Whakatāne, New Zealand resident Mark Linman views Whakaari/White Island from a boat.

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What's the Story?

In THE VOLCANO: RESCUE FROM WHAKAARI, there's a sudden eruption on December 9, 2019, by the Māori-named tourist destination also known as White Island, located in New Zealand's Bay of Plenty. The region's active volcano releases ash and smoke, and people seek shelter. Through actual footage, photos, and firsthand interviews, the film focuses on the quick actions taken by tour guides, rescue and recovery teams, and visitors to help locate any survivors.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say: Not yet rated
Kids say: Not yet rated

This insightful documentary shows how an unexpected act can unintentionally bring out the best in people. In The Volcano: Rescue from Whakaari, 19-year-old Jesse Langford and other tourists travel to the New Zealand island. A surprise eruption of the area's active volcano, however, causes citizens and visitors to offer unconditional support to others without giving the situation a second thought. "In the face of Mother Nature and all that she can throw at us," says Whakatāne, New Zealand, resident Mark Inman, "remember as humans, we'll always have each other."

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about the communication of the cast in The Volcano: Rescue from Whakaari. How do they also demonstrate compassion, courage, and perseverance? Why are these important character strengths?

  • Commercial helicopter pilot Brian DePauw and others discuss their teamwork as rescuers. Would you ever put your life at risk to help someone in need? Why, or why not?

  • What do you think about the film's conclusion? Should any individuals or authorities be held accountable for the disaster? Why, or why not?

Movie Details

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