Where to watch St. Helens (1982)

Story

This 1982 television film follows the dramatic two-month period in 1980 when Mount St. Helens in Washington began showing signs of volcanic unrest. Starting from March 20 when seismic activity first emerged, the story tracks various individuals as they navigate the mounting tension and uncertainty surrounding the mountain. The narrative builds toward the catastrophic eruption that would occur weeks later, exploring how ordinary people responded to the geological crisis unfolding around them.

Why watch

• Art Carney delivers a notable performance as President Harry Truman in this historical event film.
• Explores a real natural disaster through the perspectives of multiple characters caught in the situation.
• Action-thriller format provides dramatic tension while covering an actual 1980 geological event.

Good for: Viewers interested in historical disaster dramas and action-thrillers; the action and thriller genres suggest it may contain intense sequences, so parental discretion is advised.