Krakatoa: The Great Volcanic Eruption is a feature-length docudrama that brings viewers back to the catastrophic eruption that shook the world in 1883. Through computer generated graphics and reenactments drawn from preserved journal entries, this film tells an incredible story of one of the most important geological events in scientific history.
The Sunda Strait between Java and Sumatra had been dormant for over 200 years when the first tremors were reported by scientists working in nearby areas. Dutch geologists and volcanologists are brought to life by actors, as they recount the months leading up to the explosion that was heard up to 3,000 miles away. As well as destroying itself, the eruption created a massive tsunami that affected 165 villages and killed more than 35,000 people.
The film is broken up with input from modern day researchers and volcanic experts, who explain what we can learn from this great disaster. It also highlights how Krakatoa’s effect on global weather systems was felt around the world – an idea which brings us back to 2004’s Indian Ocean Tsunami, which showed us that even with today’s understanding of seismology it can still be impossible to predict or prevent natural disasters like these from occurring again.
Krakatoa: The Great Volcanic Eruption is both educational and entertaining; offering viewers an insight into Earth science while asking important questions along the way. If you’re looking for an informative experience and want to learn more about Krakatoa’s effects on our planet then this documentary is essential viewing for all ages.
