If You Loved ‘La Palma,’ You’ll Adore ‘The Impossible’

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Netflix’s latest miniseries, titled “La Palma“, delves into the consequences of a volcanic eruption on the namesake Canary Island, mirroring real-life events from the Cumbre Vieja volcano, particularly the 2021 eruptions. The series thoughtfully portrays how such an explosion would impact both locals and tourists, and its character development is commendable, although some might find the natural disaster narrative itself a bit predictable. However, despite being widely viewed by many, the show has received less favorable reviews from critics.

Watching the new series reminds me of the 2012 film “The Impossible“, which was based on the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami. Unlike “La Palma”, this movie is grounded in reality. Starring Naomi Watts, Ewan McGregor, and a young Tom Holland, “The Impossible” tells the story of a family vacationing in Thailand who are torn apart by the tsunami. The high stakes and tense performances make it a must-see for fans of “La Palma”.

Even at 14, Tom Holland Was a Great Actor

In one of Tom Holland’s earliest films, titled “The Impossible“, he showcased his acting prowess before taking on roles like Spider-Man and Romeo in stage productions of “Romeo and Juliet”. At this point in his career, Holland portrayed Lucas, the 12-year-old son of Maria (played by Naomi Watts) and Henry Bennett (Ewan McGregor). Samuel Joslin and Oaklee Pendergast played Lucas’s younger siblings. Given that he was the eldest among the child cast, Holland stood out in the film.

In the initial part of the film, he’s teamed up with Watts, and their connection is remarkable – they come across as utterly convincing as mother and son. With Henry and the other kids absent, Watts and Holland are given plenty of chances to demonstrate their acting abilities, and they both deliver admirably. When they find a fellow survivor, a boy named Daniel, they spring into action to assist him – unfortunately, he goes missing later on. Holland skillfully conveys the sensitivity and emotion of Lucas, making him an excellent fit for this movie.

Naomi Watts & Ewan McGregor Are Incredible

As a cinephile, I can’t help but appreciate it when top-tier actors are given the freedom to truly shine in a film, and “The Impossible” is one of those instances where they seize the opportunity with both hands. Striking a delicate balance between raw emotional intensity and authentic character development isn’t an easy feat, yet Watts and McGregor manage it masterfully. Their performances are nothing short of captivating – Watts portrays a mother who is both worried and resilient, a role that feels incredibly genuine given her determination to safeguard her child as well as the young boy they encounter during their journey.

In The Impossible, McGregor delivers a remarkable portrayal of Henry that resonates deeply. He convincingly captures the selflessness of a father who is prepared to sacrifice everything for his children and wife. Some scenes are incredibly moving, and the emotional reunion feels genuine, not just another plot point. Despite spending most of the movie apart, Watts and McGregor skillfully depict Maria and Henry’s relationship, making it seem as if we’ve glimpsed their everyday lives. Their performances significantly enhance the drama, elevating the film to new heights. It’s no surprise that Watts was recognized with an Oscar nomination for her role.

A Genuinely Tense and Emotional Plot

In contrast to the captivating spectacle of the volcanic eruption in La Palma, serving as a gauge for the gravity of the event, the tsunami depicted in The Impossible is arguably more harrowing. Although the narratives of these two works differ – La Palma’s narrative unfolds gradually – The Impossible excels by vividly portraying the aftermath of the tsunami. The central theme revolves around the struggles of families amidst tragedy, and the film does not shy away from its grim reality. The film devotes significant attention to the dangerous consequences and heart-wrenching impact of the (actual) event, creating a tale that is both deeply saddening and nerve-wracking. Tension in the story primarily stems from the separation of the main characters, while the emotional moments occur at various junctures throughout the narrative.

A significant aspect of the movie’s emotional impact lies in its depiction of the fact that not everyone survived the tsunami. Scenes set in the hospital are particularly gut-wrenching, particularly for those who have gone through family losses or faced natural disasters themselves. The helplessness experienced by the Bennetts as they grapple with the disaster’s unpredictable consequences adds a profoundly moving touch to the film. This is an experience that many in Los Angeles during the wildfires or New Orleans during Katrina can deeply empathize with. The Impossible is a movie that leaves a lasting impression, and you can watch it for free via the link provided below: [Link]

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2025-01-10 07:31