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The Fires review – volcanoes and passions erupt in Iceland disaster-romance
The Guardian's review covers The Fires, a new Icelandic disaster-romance film directed by Ugla Hauksdóttir in her feature debut. The story follows volcanologist Anna (Vigdís Hrefna Pálsdóttir), who suspects Iceland's separate volcanic systems are connected to one vast underground magma lake, putting Reykjavik at risk, while officials downplay the threat for fear of harming tourism. Alongside the disaster plot, Anna begins an affair with a Danish photographer, Thomas (Pilou Asbaek), complicating both her marriage and her efforts to be taken seriously.
The reviewer praises the film as scientifically plausible and visually impressive, with strong chemistry between Pálsdóttir and Asbaek and a striking, eerie orchestral score by composer Herdís Stefánsdóttir. Despite leaning on familiar clichés from both the disaster and romance genres, the combination of committed performances, atmospheric music and dramatic Icelandic landscapes make it an engaging and well-crafted overall package.
In short
- Icelandic disaster-romance film The Fires reviewed by The Guardian
- Volcanologist uncovers hidden threat to Reykjavik while having an affair
- Praised for acting, score and visuals despite genre clichés
Explained simply
The Fires is a new Icelandic film that merges disaster and romance storytelling. It centres on Anna, a volcanologist who suspects that Iceland's separate volcanic systems are connected to one vast underground magma chamber that could threaten Reykjavik. The film marks the feature debut of Icelandic director Ugla Hauksdóttir.
At the heart of the narrative is a clash between scientific concern and political considerations. Anna believes the volcanic threat is significant, whilst Iceland's officials are reluctant to publicise the danger, fearing its impact on tourism and the economy. Her personal life adds further complexity when she begins an affair with a Danish photographer, which strains her marriage and affects her professional credibility.
The film stars Vigdís Hrefna Pálsdóttir as Anna and Danish actor Pilou Asbaek as Thomas, the photographer. It is set against Iceland's distinctive volcanic landscape.
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