Acid Lakes and Bad Takes: Dante’s Peak with a Volcanologist

What happens when Hollywood disaster fiction meets real-world volcano science? Find out at Reel Science, a new event series exploring the facts behind movies with help from scientific experts.

The first screening features Dante’s Peak, the 1997 volcanic disaster film. Joining the event is Dr. Mel Rodgers, a volcanologist ready to break down the movie’s biggest scientific questions. Could a truck really make it across a lava flow? Can a mountain lake turn acidic enough to become dangerous? And what about Grandma?

Dr. Rodgers has the real-world science behind the cinematic chaos.

What to Expect

- Film Screening: Watch Dante’s Peak on the big screen.

- Scientific Breakdown: Discover what the movie gets right — and where Hollywood takes some creative liberties.

- Live Commentary and Discussion: Hear expert explanations and join the conversation as the film unfolds.

Whether you're a science enthusiast, a disaster-movie fan, or simply curious about how realistic Dante’s Peak really is, this screening offers a fun way to explore volcano science.

Seating is limited, so reserve your tickets in advance!