La Palma is a brisk four-part disaster story about a Norwegian family whose holiday turns into a volcanic emergency. Scientists recognise the danger while officials resist the warnings. It is familiar territory, but the series establishes the threat quickly and rarely wastes time.
The images are its strongest attraction. Holiday scenery, volcanic landscapes and the later effects of the catastrophe combine effectively. The computer work is respectable for a miniseries, and the collision of fire and water sometimes has real force.
The family is less convincing. Its members often feel assembled from standard disaster-film roles: the cautious father, impulsive mother, rebellious daughter and withdrawn son. Their arguments seem imposed to guarantee drama even while the outside world is already providing plenty. Sara's repeated poor decisions and remarkable survival particularly tested my patience.
The scientists mainly explain the danger, although their strand often supplies more suspense than the family story. Implausible escapes and dramatic incidents weaken credibility. The series appears to prefer impact over convincing consequences at several crucial points.
Still, its compact structure is an advantage. There is little padding, limited sentimentality and enough momentum to carry the spectacle. As fictional disaster entertainment, it is attractive and easy to watch; it should not be mistaken for a scientific forecast.
My rating is 6 out of 10 points. Viewers wanting a fast catastrophe with holiday scenery will find something enjoyable. Those seeking complex people and believable behaviour are likely to be disappointed. It goes down quickly, and may leave the memory just as quickly.