Volcano: An Inquiry into the Life and Death of Malcolm Lowry

This feature-length Oscar®-nominated documentary focuses on Malcolm Lowry, author of one of the major novels of the 20th century, Under the Volcano. But while Lowry fought a winning battle with words, he lost his battle with alcohol. Shot on location in four countries, the film combines photographs, readings by Richard Burton from the novel and interviews with the people who loved and hated Lowry, to create a vivid portrait of the man.

Directed by John Kramer, Donald Brittain, Volcano: An Inquiry into the Life and Death of Malcolm Lowry leans on a strong ensemble — Richard Burton, Donald Brittain, Marjorie Bonner — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about documentary titles of 1976.