Paul Greengrass's intense survival drama, "The Lost Bus," is available for streaming on Apple TV+ from October 3, 2025, following its limited theatrical debut in September 2025. The film brings the harrowing true story of a heroic rescue during the devastating 2018 Camp Fire in California to a wider audience.
The narrative centers on the courageous actions of bus driver Kevin McKay, portrayed by Matthew McConaughey, who, alongside teacher Mary Ludwig, played by America Ferrera, guided 22 children through the raging inferno. The 2018 Camp Fire, which ignited on November 8, 2018, remains the deadliest and most destructive wildfire in California's history, burning 153,336 acres and causing an estimated $16.5 billion in damage, destroying over 18,000 buildings. The disaster tragically resulted in 85 fatalities, and the community of Paradise was largely destroyed within the first six hours of the blaze.
McConaughey's performance captures McKay as a driver who, despite grappling with personal hardships including the recent loss of his dog and his son's illness, felt an overwhelming duty to protect the children. Teacher Abbie Gerspacher-Davis also provided crucial support in keeping the students calm during the terrifying ordeal. Their five-hour odyssey covered approximately 30 miles through smoke-choked roads lined with traffic and flames, showcasing extraordinary resilience.
Adapted from Lizzie Johnson's acclaimed book, "Paradise: One Town's Struggle to Survive an American Wildfire," "The Lost Bus" has earned critical praise, including an 85% score on Rotten Tomatoes. Director Paul Greengrass, known for his realistic approach in films like "United 93," meticulously recreated the chaos of the event. The film serves as a poignant testament to human courage and sacrifice against overwhelming adversity, and will be accessible to subscribers on Apple TV+.