TIFF 2024: Under the Volcano (With Movie Trailer)
TIFF 2024: Under the Volcano – A Tense, Timely Tale of a Family Caught in Crisis
Damian Kocur’s Under the Volcano is set to make its world premiere at TIFF 2024, and it couldn’t come at a more relevant time. This emotionally charged drama captures the harrowing experience of a Ukrainian family on vacation in the Canary Islands who suddenly find themselves trapped as refugees, following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Kocur’s sophomore feature is a must-see, combining personal conflict with global events in a way that’s both gripping and deeply human.
The Story: A Vacation Turned Nightmare
The film follows Roman (Roman Lutskyi), his wife Anastasiia (Anastasiia Karpienko), teenage daughter Sofiia (Sofiia Berezovska), and young son Fedir (Fedir Pugachov) as they enjoy a peaceful vacation in Tenerife, soaking up the sun and enjoying the last moments of their trip. But everything changes on February 24, 2022, when Russia escalates its occupation of Ukraine into a full-scale invasion. Overnight, their flight back to Kyiv is canceled, and they find themselves stranded, their homeland under attack.
Suddenly, this family of tourists is thrust into a new reality—no longer vacationers, but refugees, unsure of where to go or what to do next. As they anxiously await news from home, the stunning beauty of the Canary Islands contrasts sharply with the turmoil they face, adding a layer of surreal tension to the story. The bright sun and serene beaches only heighten the sense of guilt and helplessness the family feels as they watch their country fall into chaos from afar.
A Powerful Exploration of Family Tensions
At its core, Under the Volcano is a story about family dynamics in the face of extreme circumstances. As the days wear on and the situation grows more desperate, long-dormant conflicts within the family begin to bubble up, much like the nearby Mount Teide, a volcano looming in the background. Teenage Sofiia’s perspective provides insight into the generational divide and the emotional strain that being far from home places on the family. While they are technically “the lucky ones” for finding safety, their feelings of guilt, fear, and frustration soon boil over, threatening to erupt in unpredictable ways.
Kocur, along with co-writer Marta Konarzewska, masterfully balances the global and personal, weaving together the political context of the war with the intimate struggles of a family trying to hold itself together. The contrast between the idyllic setting and the family’s internal chaos adds to the film’s emotional depth, making it a standout in the drama genre.
Why You Should Watch It
Under the Volcano is more than just a family drama—it’s a poignant reflection of the current geopolitical landscape. The film’s exploration of how ordinary people are swept up in extraordinary circumstances is both timely and thought-provoking. With a focus on the human cost of war, Kocur brings a fresh, personal perspective to a global crisis that continues to impact millions of lives.
Shot beautifully by Nikita Kuzmienko, the film captures the tension between the peaceful surroundings and the mounting emotional and political conflict. This visually striking contrast, combined with Kocur’s ability to craft complex, relatable characters, makes Under the Volcano a must-watch for anyone looking to understand the personal toll of global events.
Showtimes at TIFF 2024
Catch Under the Volcano at TIFF 2024 during these showtimes:
- Saturday, September 7 – 12:50 pm (Scotiabank Theatre, Press & Industry)
- Sunday, September 8 – 6:45 pm (Scotiabank Theatre)
- Tuesday, September 10 – 2:30 pm (Scotiabank Theatre)
- Thursday, September 12 – 12:15 pm (Scotiabank Theatre)
Under the Volcano is a timely, intense, and beautifully crafted film that shines a light on the human stories behind the headlines. Don’t miss your chance to experience this powerful, resonant drama at TIFF 2024.
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