This is a fast-paced, big budget French comedy that pays off with its cast and genre conventions. However, a little digging under the surface and you may discover comedies can be dark for more than just its dialogue.
When a volcanic eruption in nearby Iceland forces all flights to be cancelled in Europe, a long-divorced couple embarks on an extraordinary European road trip to get from Paris to their daughter’s wedding in Greece before her big day arrives. Unfortunately, this involves them being together the entire way, with hilarious and entertaining events ensuing.
There’s much to like about 'The Volcano'. Produced by the same team that brought us French box office hits such as 'The Intouchables' and 'Heartbreaker', this big-budget and slickly-produced film hits the mark in many ways. French-favourite Danny Boon provides a brilliant and believable lead role, and co-star Valerie Bonneton also does exceptionally well. Their hatred for each other is tangible and awkward enough that it breathes a moment of life into the aging warring-spouse genre, but the laughs are too spaced out that you’re left feeling like you’ve seen it before. The sleek editing and cinematography certainly gets a nod, and an enjoyable cameo from Denis Ménochet (before things get inappropriate) is a highlight. There are some very funny moments along the way, and the script gives plenty of room for the cast to show what they can do. But it’s the underlining morals and themes that you can’t turn a blind eye to. Though comedies usually get away with looser morals (and unrealistic events) to enjoy a light-hearted laugh or two, encouraging extra-marital affairs and making jokes of a distraught and horribly-broken childhood for the couple’s only daughter is something that you shouldn’t ignore.
If you enjoy comedies, you’ll certainly want to go along for the trip in 'The Volcano'. But for those who like to delve a little deeper, the disturbing messages and inappropriate moments the film gives us leaves you walking away conflicted (and perhaps concerned) at what may and may not be acceptable in society today.
★★ 1/2
