The Volcano: Rescue from Whakaari
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The Volcano: Rescue from Whakaari
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this movie.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that The Volcano: Rescue from Whakaari is a documentary about the New Zealand area natural disaster that claimed the lives of 22 people in 2019. References and images include a volcano eruption, dead and dying people, burned skin peeling off people, body scars, and bottles and glasses of beer and wine. Language includes "bastard" and "s--t." The film offers positive messages about people uniting to help others during a time of crisis.
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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?
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
- In theaters: December 14, 2022
- On DVD or streaming: December 16, 2022
- Cast: Mark Inman, Jesse Langford, Lauren Urey
- Director: Rory Kennedy
- Studio: Netflix
- Genre: Documentary
- Topics: Activism, History, Science and Nature
- Character Strengths: Communication, Compassion, Courage, Perseverance, Teamwork
- Run time: 98 minutes
- MPAA rating: PG-13
- MPAA explanation: brief strong language
- Last updated: December 15, 2022
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