Things are heating up at Sundance 2022. National Geographic Documentary Films came out the victor of a “fierce bidding war” for “Fire of Love,” a deal Variety describes as “the first big pact” out of the fest so far.
Narrated by Miranda July, the doc tells the “unexpected love story of two intrepid French scientists, Katia and Maurice Krafft, who died in a volcanic explosion doing the very thing that brought them together: seeking to understand the mystery of volcanoes by capturing the most spectacular imagery ever recorded,” per director Sara Dosa in an interview with us. She explained, “The two shot hundreds of hours of footage and thousands of photographs, risking their lives to get as close to the thrill of the fire as humanly possible. ‘Fire of Love’ playfully interprets the Kraffts’ story and images they left behind, resulting in an archival collage adventure through themes of love, time, the implacable unknown, and the meaning of human existence amid the vastness of our planet’s most awesome force.”
The “The Seer & The Unseen” helmer recalled being “stunned” when she first saw the pair’s footage. “The imagery was not just spectacular, but was captured at such close range — dangerously close. The imagery indicated that they were willing to risk their lives to experience and understand the power of volcanoes. And, the more I learned about them, the more I became fascinated by their unique relationship, their humor, their philosophy, and their passion for the planet,” she shared.
Variety writes that “Netflix, Amazon, Sony Pictures Classics, Paramount, and several other players were in the hunt for the film at various points. Financial terms of the deal, which was for worldwide rights, were not publicly disclosed but it is in the mid seven-figure range, according to knowledgeable insiders.”
“Fire of Love” is slated for theatrical release this year.
“We are absolutely honored to begin our journey with National Geographic Documentary Films,” said Dosa. “They champion cinematic storytelling about the wonders and power of the natural world, so there is truly no better fit for our ode to love and volcanoes. We are thrilled to take this next step with them to bring the awe-inspiring story of the Kraffts to audiences worldwide.”
Sundance is once again virtual this year due to COVID-19. It kicked off January 20 and runs through January 30.
