Six scientists. One volcano. Zero survivors of the editing room.
The story means to develop through an uncovering of layers - strata. As writer Krumbachova stated: "With nature as a prison, an impassable barrier ... where every action is physically and psychically limited by the environment ... people are reduced to fragments of basic instinct and intelligence." Promoted as a psychological thriller, Strata provides little tension nor any real climax. The characters are ideas - not believably real.
Production
New Zealand volcanic locations that out-act the entire cast.
Writing
Krumbachova's philosophical ambition vs. actual execution: beautiful disaster.
Director
Geoff Stevens
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Director Geoff Stevens never made another feature; this remains his singular, misunderstood volcanic legacy.
Writer Ester Krumbachova was a Czech New Wave legend; her English-language debut became a fascinating misfire of artistic translation.
US
NZ
