Watch Kids' Reviews of
FIRE OF LOVE

A superb film for nature-lovers and a great film to study for budding documentarians, Fire of Love explores a dynamic relationship between volcanologists, with beautiful editing and archival footage; however, its pace somewhat undermines the beauty of the film.

In Fire of Love, we are introduced to Katia and Maurice Krafft, Alsatian French volcanologists and spouses. From the beginning, it is evident that Maurice is the one who jumps in with abandon, and Katia is the one who takes calculated, measured risks. Through footage and some interviews, director Sara Dosa shows the Kraffts in their daring exploits, filming, photographing and recording volcanoes--and getting within feet of lava flows.

The National Geographic documentary team behind this film has evidently spent a sizable portion of time collecting stunning natural footage and archival video and sound to tell the story of this legendary duo. They team successfully assemble a great audiovisual gallery.... But the film needs something more. There are times where inserted music and natural footage seems to take over the storyline and bring things to a halt. We get heartwarming glimpses of the couple's dynamic with one another--for the majority of the Fire of Love, we see the Kraffts at work, discussing their pursuits--but it would have been great to see more of them talking to one another, reflecting one-on-one. The film seems to waver between their relationship and their work, without discussing the intersection of both very clearly. For example, a question I wish was answered better by the film was how the two maintained a work-life balance. The most compelling, moving part of Fire of Love is the couple's blazing end--they died in a 1991 volcanic explosion in Japan--and it was captured with such deep emotion that I was left speechless.

Fire of Love is all about companionship, teamwork, and following your passion. There are of course some daring stunts performed in the film--the Kraffts, after all, are in a dangerous line of work.

I give Fire of Love 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. Fire of Love is available in theaters now.

By Eshaan M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

The film Fire of Love is a documentary full of information about volcanoes and the live story of Maurice and Katia Krafft. It takes the audience through a range of emotions including love, fear and curiosity. You're sure to leave this movie with a new appreciation for volcanoes. Most of all, you will be inspired to follow your dreams.

This documentary follows a couple, Maurice and Katia Krafft, who are volcanologists. Their interest in volcanoes started at an early age, and their love for volcanoes is what brought them together. In the film, we see close-ups of erupting volcanoes and, at times, the devastating aftermath. Maurice and Katia traveled across the globe studying them and, in most cases, risking their lives to do so.

The great thing about this film is that most of the photographs and videos included were actually taken by Katia and Maurice. This gives the film an authentic feel as we get to observe volcanoes through the eyes of volcanologists. From France, Maurice and Katia mostly speak French throughout the film, though Katia speaks some English. However, the film is narrated by Miranda July, which helps the audience better understand what is happening. In the film, we learn about Maurice's peculiar dreams. For example, he wanted to canoe down a river of lava into the water, and he wanted to live on the volcanoes; if only he could eat rock. Something else I really like about the film is the relationship between Katia and Maurice. Even though Maurice wants to do these things that even Katia thinks are crazy, she still wants to be with him. She loves him and doesn't want him to do it alone, even if it means dying together.

The message of Fire of Love is that curiosity is stronger than fear. Even though it is very dangerous to get as close to an active volcano as they do, that doesn't stop them. Some of the videos and photographs in the film may be disturbing to younger viewers, but it is a wonderful documentary to watch with your family.

I give Fire of Love 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it to ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It is available now in in theaters. Be sure to check it out!

Giana N., KIDSFIRST! Film Critic, Age 11

see youth comments

Katia and Maurice Krafft loved two things -- each other and volcanoes. For two decades, the daring French volcanologist couple roamed the planet, chasing eruptions and documenting their discoveries. Ultimately, they lost their lives in a 1991 volcanic explosion, leaving a legacy that forever enriched our knowledge of the natural world. Director Sara Dosa and the filmmaking team fashion a lyrical celebration of the intrepid scientists' spirit of adventure, drawing from the Kraffts' spectacular archive. FIRE OF LOVE tells a story of primordial creation and destruction, following two bold explorers as they venture into the unknown, all for the sake of love.