Looking at the name of this documentary, Fire of Love, the exact subject matter of film is not conveyed straightforwardly through the title. While after watching it, the unwavering love between Kraffts and volcanoes remains in my mind. It helps to inspire the audience to be more courageous in pursing their own passions is what makes this documentary more meaning to every individual viewer. Thus, for the article published on the FASE, it is worth to write an analysis and expansion of the documentary’s name that provides a deep and comprehensive deconstruction of various kinds of love hidden in Kraffts relationship with volcanoes.
The film portrays a passionate and complex love, and among all of them, the most obvious one is Krafft couple’s love to each other. Like the narration stated, “Alone, they could only dream of volcanoes. Together, they can reach them.” After watch the film, the kind of mutualism love is depicted through actions and words, no matter they were physically together or not, their needs for each other is significant, especially when it comes to something related to volcanology.
Another unwavering love in the documentary is their shared passionate about volcanoes. It was this love that encourages them to live with a countercultural spirit, not having children and traveling around the world, in late 60s. The great love about volcanoes has turned them into bold explorers. Even though the topic about death is frequently mentioned in the latter part of film, they were not talking in a heavy tone, but the excitement of practicing volcano research had surpassed every other emotion.
Last but not least, one of the least mentioned types of love portrayed in the film is Maurice and Katia’s love to human beings. As someone bored during the height of World War II, Kraffts were obsessed with volcanoes for seeking the comfort from nature that is greater human power. However, despite the disappointment towards humanity, the ultimate destination of their studies was still focused on how to save more life. Cooperated with government, they had made great contributions in raising the awareness of volcanic risks and helped with the evacuation of villages before eruptions. Though it was begun with the purpose of escaping human society, what they had finally achieved were much greater than simply walk into natures.
By analysing those three kinds of love, it does not only provide a comprehensive interpretation of film but also encourages audience for pursuing their dreams, for loving people around. The film presents a possibility of what would life look like when love becomes the primary reason behind every choice. Looking at Katia and Maurice, when life is driven by love and passion, it eventually leads to a road that is more unconventional yet more bright and meaningful, to both individual and public.
(image credit: Sandbox Film)