The Lost Bus: McConaughey Risks All in California Wildfire

TORONTO, Canada – In the suspenseful disaster thriller, The Lost Bus, director Paul Greengrass explores the 2018 Camp Fire in California. The film, which premieres at the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival, depicts a harrowing tale of heroism amid chaos.

The movie stars Matthew McConaughey as Kevin McKay, a school bus driver who returns to his hometown after a personal tragedy. As he grapples with family issues, including his dog’s illness and strained relationships, a devastating wildfire erupts, forcing him to confront his fears.

When smoke engulfs the area, Kevin becomes the only driver available to rescue 23 stranded school children and their teacher, Mary Ludwick, played by America Ferrera. With the flames threatening their lives, McKay’s decision to change his route presents a potential death trap but also a chance for redemption.

Greengrass, known for his kinetic storytelling and authentic depictions of disaster, infuses The Lost Bus with visceral urgency. He navigates the characters’ emotional depths while showcasing the terror of the wildfire. McConaughey’s performance adds to the tension, anchoring the film with a believable portrayal of a man in crisis.

“The Lost Bus is the story of quiet heroism,” Greengrass said. “It captures the unthinkable and the courage that emerges in the face of it.”

The film’s production highlights the human struggle against natural disasters, reflecting on the 2018 event that left California reeling. Pacific Gas & Electric accepted responsibility for starting the fire, which killed 85 people and devastated the region.

The Lost Bus opens in theaters on September 19 and will stream on Apple TV+ starting October 3.