Into the Inferno

Into the Inferno

Year: 2016

Runtime: 104 min

Language: English

Director: Werner Herzog

Documentary

Filmmaker Werner Herzog and volcanologist Clive Oppenheimer embark on a captivating expedition to explore active volcanoes around the world. Their journey takes them from Indonesia’s imposing mountains to Ethiopia’s historic volcanic landscapes and the secluded areas of North Korea. Through stunning visuals and insightful conversations, they investigate the powerful relationship between humanity and these awe-inspiring, and often dangerous, natural phenomena.

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Timeline – Into the Inferno (2016)

Trace every key event in Into the Inferno (2016) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Exploring Indonesia's Volcanoes

The documentary begins in Indonesia, highlighting the active volcano of Mount Sinabung. Director Werner Herzog, alongside volcanologist Clive Oppenheimer, investigates the impacts of volcanic activity on the surrounding communities and their beliefs.

Indonesia
2

Ambrym Island's Spiritual Volcanoes

Herzog travels to the Vanuatu Archipelago on Ambrym Island, where volcanoes dominate the landscape. The local chief, Mael Moses, shares stories of the village's connection to the spirits believed to maintain the volcanoes' fires and recollects the last significant eruption in 1968.

Ambrym Island, Vanuatu
3

Volcanic Eruptions and Lore

The villagers of Endu recall their history with volcanic eruptions, emphasizing their belief that lava signifies the devil's wrath. These beliefs lead to a three-year ban on visitors after devastation, showcasing an age-old connection with nature that faces modern threats.

Endu, Vanuatu
4

Mount Erebus in Antarctica

Herzog and Oppenheimer's journey brings them to Mount Erebus in Antarctica, a significant focal point for their philosophical discussions. They explore the dual nature of volcanoes as both creators of life and harbingers of destruction, reflecting on humanity's fascination with them.

Mount Erebus, Antarctica
5

The 1976 Guadeloupe Eruption

The documentary recalls Herzog's visit to La Soufrière in Guadeloupe in 1976, where the threat of an eruption prompted the evacuation of 70,000 residents. Notably, one man chose to remain behind, symbolizing the human struggle between fear and attachment to home amidst danger.

1976 Guadeloupe
6

The Krafts' Volcanic Passion

Katia and Maurice Kraft, a French couple, dedicated their lives to studying volcanoes and tragically lost their lives to a lava flow in Japan. Their story exemplifies the perils faced by those who seek to understand and document the violent nature of eruptions.

Japan
7

The Birth of Lake Toba

Lake Toba, the world's largest volcanic lake, is highlighted as a product of an eruption approximately 74,000 years ago. This monumental eruption resulted in significant ash dispersal, leading to a near-extinction event for humanity, with only a few survivors remaining.

Indonesia
8

Danakil Depression's Geological Wonders

Herzog journeys to the Danakil Depression in Ethiopia, noted for being the hottest place on Earth. Here, scientists study rift valleys that will create new volcanoes, showcasing the ongoing geological transformation of the Earth.

Danakil Depression, Ethiopia
9

Erta Ale's Exposed Magma

Erta Ale is introduced as one of only three volcanoes globally with exposed magma, garnering interest from researchers. Excavations in this area provide insights into early hominids, illuminating humanity’s ancient connections to volcanic landscapes.

Erta Ale, Ethiopia
10

Iceland's Volcanic Culture

In Iceland, volcanoes have significantly impacted society and culture, with past eruptions shaping local traditions. The documentary reflects on the challenges faced during eruptions, such as the 2010 Eyjafjallajökull event, emphasizing the Icelanders' rich history with these natural phenomena.

2010 Iceland
11

The Significance of Mt. Paektu

Mt. Paektu in North Korea is presented as a dormant volcano steeped in national pride and propaganda. The crew observes how the regime utilizes its historical significance while highlighting the social conditions of the surrounding area, deeply impacted by government control.

North Korea
12

Tanna Island's Deity of Fire

The documentary concludes on Tanna Island, where Mount Tasur is revered as a deity named John Frum. This local belief system reflects the deep spiritual connection between the villagers and the volcano, showcasing their cultural identity intertwined with the forces of nature.

Tanna Island

Last Updated: November 15, 2024 at 17:20

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