Netflix’s latest hit series, La Palma, has quickly become the must-watch disaster drama of the season, having debuted on December 12, 2024, and shooting to third place on the Netflix charts almost immediately. The show, produced by Netflix, is set on the real island of La Palma, known for its volatile Cumbre Vieja volcano, which erupted most recently from September 19 to December 25, 2021, causing massive destruction and prompting discussions about the potential risks of future eruptions.
La Palma follows the story of a Norwegian family vacationing on the island, who find themselves caught up in chaos when signs of impending volcanic activity emerge. The series isn’t just melodrama; it cleverly intertwines facts about the island's geological history, mingled with fictional elements, to escalate the narrative tension. Critics and viewers alike have noted the show’s thrilling, yet often chilling, premise, where scientists Marie and Haukur discover alarming evidence of volcanic threats, pushing against bureaucratic indifference.
One standout quote from the show’s official description implies the stakes involved: "If the volcano erupts, a mountain mass the size of Manhattan might erupt..." This encapsulates the fear and urgency experienced by the characters, reminiscent of real concerns voiced after the island's last eruption, which resulted in nearly one billion euros worth of damage and the destruction of homes.
During its actual eruption, La Palma suffered tremendous loss. With over 3000 buildings destroyed and thousands of residents displaced, the volcanic activity turned vibrant landscapes bleak. The urgency of the show, paired with its somewhat fantastical elements, builds suspense as it captures the dire need for warnings and evacuations.
Critics have praised the series for its stunning visuals, complimenting the dialogue and overall execution. Archi Sengupta from LeisureByte noted, “La Palma is enjoyable and binge-watch-worthy, putting us face to face with terrifying reality.” Similarly, Chris Joyce of Movies and Munchies noted how captivating character dynamics added depth to the suspenseful narrative, even if he described the character development as “uneven.”
Despite this, many viewers have expressed mixed feelings, particularly concerning the plot’s pacing and implausibility. Some social media users have claimed the show commits “plot line failures,” yet it retains popularity due to the fascinating overlap between reality and fiction, compelling audiences to engage with the content.
While the series is not based on true events, it does heavily draw inspiration from the Cumbre Vieja volcano's dangerous profile. The geological threat is real, and the island itself is dubbed volcanically active, having experienced several eruptions over the last few centuries. Interestingly, the last major eruption before 2021 was the first sub-aerial eruption witnessed since 1971, heightening the urgency surrounding discussions about volcanic monitoring and preparedness.
Historical data reveals how the 2021 eruption unfolded, beginning with numerous small tremors before culminating in fire, ash, and chaos. It was reported at the time of the eruption, “The volcano released... large amounts of toxic sulphur dioxide gases,” necessitating the authorities to mandate indoor confinement for residents to avoid inhalation risks.
Despite the panic it induces, experts have questioned some of the dramatic scenarios the show portrays. Notably, geologists have challenged the idea of catastrophic tsunami formation from volcanic activities, citing more likely incremental collapses rather than single massive events capable of causing global tectonic disaster.
Nonetheless, the show’s ability to highlight human and environmental resilience amid disaster resonates with audiences, particularly for those who have followed the real-life impacts of the 2021 eruption. It keeps viewers engaged, showcasing not only the frightening aspects of nature but also the human spirit's struggle to navigate calamity.
Fans of disaster tales will find La Palma both entertaining and frightening, appealing to those who enjoy narratives like The Impossible or Chernobyl. With its engaging storytelling, it bridges the gap between family dynamics and the stark reality of natural disasters, making it not just another survival flick.
Available now on Netflix, La Palma beckons viewers to immerse themselves in both its thrilling scenes and the underlying message about ecological fragility and the importance of heeding nature’s warnings. Whether you find the experience intriguing or lacking, one thing remains certain: this series has positioned itself as significant viewing for this disaster season.
