Under the Volcano (1984)

Another week, another letter of the alphabet. This week the A-to-Z challenge brings us the letter “U” and the first-time watch of the week is Under the Volcano (1984).

Title: Under the Volcano

Director: John Huston

Released: June 13, 1984

Runtime: 1 hour 52 minutes

Available to stream on: HBOMAX

IMDb synopsis: A day in the life of a self-destructive British consul in Mexico on the eve of World War II.

Geoffrey Firmin (Albert Finney) is wandering the streets of Cuernavaca, Mexico, drinking himself away. In the years leading up to World War II he’s lost his position of British Consul to Mexico, he’s estranged from his wife, Yvonne (Jacqueline Bisset), and his days are spent searching for solace at the bottom of any bottle he can get his hands on.

One day, while drinking and speaking to his half-brother Hugh (Anthony Andrews), Geoffrey can’t believe that Yvonne is in the doorway. His prayers have been answered and his wife has returned to him. Together, both Yvonne and Hugh, decide to try and help Geoffrey gain some level of sobriety so that he can attempt to put his life back together.

However, despite their best efforts, Hugh and Yvonne struggle to get Geoffrey to turn things around. How do you help someone who isn’t willing to help themselves?

Under the Volcano (1984) is based on a novel of the same name, which is said to be semi-autobiographical, by Malcolm Lowry. Going into this viewing, I had no idea that it was based on a book. However, after viewing it, I’d be willing to read the novel because if nothing else it’s an interesting character study.

But that’s not to say Under the Volcano (1984) is without its issues. The cinematography is generally visually stunning. Although, there is a lack of consistency for at times that same cinematography feels out of place with what is happening in the scene.

Part of that inconsistency could be attributed to the non-linear way in which the story is told. When done right, non-linear storytelling can be captivating and add layers to the story. But when you miss the mark, it feels messy and can take away from the engagement you have with the characters. That being said, non-linear or not, we’re never really given anything to make us want to invest in any one specific character.

I say all of that to say that the performance given by Albert Finney is fantastic. Anyone who has known or spent time around an alcoholic knows that they don’t act in the over-the-top ways that are usually portrayed on screen. Instead, Finney decides to focus on the speech of his character. No, there aren’t any dramatic instances of slurring speech. Rather, the emphasis is placed on Geoffrey communicating from the heart. Trying desperately to convey his thoughts and feelings without the alcohol interfering.

It’s a shame that the pacing and lack of character investment takes away from Finney’s performance. If you have the chance to check out Under the Volcano (1984), I’d say take advantage of it. If nothing else, you’ll definitely walk away with an opinion or two.

Well, those are my thoughts. But what about yours? What did you think of Under the Volcano (1984)?

Hit me with your thoughts in the comments below or by reaching out on social media!

So, what’s up next? Next Sunday we will tackle the letter “V”.

Do you have an idea as to what the movie should be? You’ve got until Wednesday morning to get those suggestions in. Wednesday afternoon/evening the movie will be announced on Twitter and Instagram.