Lava (2014 film)

Lava_(2015_film)_poster

Lava is a 2014 American computer-animated musical short film produced by Pixar Animation Studios. Directed and written by James Ford Murphy, the short film was released alongside Pixar's feature film Inside Out.

Plot[edit | edit source]

The story is set in a tropical archipelago and follows a lonely volcano named Uku who longs for love. Over millions of years, Uku sings a song of hope for someone to "lava." As he continues to sing, another volcano named Lele forms underwater and eventually surfaces. Lele, who has heard Uku's song, rises to the surface just as Uku sinks into the ocean. However, Lele's love and song revive Uku, and the two volcanoes form an island together, symbolizing their eternal bond.

Production[edit | edit source]

Lava was directed by James Ford Murphy, who also wrote the screenplay. The inspiration for the short came from Murphy's love of Hawaiian culture and music. The animation style was designed to capture the beauty of the Hawaiian islands and the natural world.

Music[edit | edit source]

The short film features a song titled "Lava," written by James Ford Murphy and performed by Kuana Torres Kahele and Napua Greig. The song plays a central role in the narrative, expressing Uku's longing and eventual joy.

Release[edit | edit source]

Lava premiered at the Hiroshima International Animation Festival on June 14, 2014. It was later released theatrically alongside Inside Out on June 19, 2015.

Reception[edit | edit source]

The short film received mixed to positive reviews from critics. While some praised its animation and music, others felt the story was too simplistic. However, it was generally well-received by audiences for its emotional depth and visual beauty.