The Lost Bus: A True Story of Survival and Courage

This weekend, I had the opportunity to attend an early screening of the new Apple TV+ movie The Lost Bus at the historic Chinese Theater in Hollywood. Starring America Ferrera and Matthew McConaughey, the film tells the true story of California’s 2018 Camp Fire, the deadliest and most destructive wildfire in the state’s history.

The story follows Kevin, a school bus driver, and Mary, an elementary school teacher, as they try to escape the wildfire while keeping the children in their care safe. Watching their journey unfold is intense, emotional, and at times heartbreaking.

After the screening, producer Jamie Lee Curtis shared in a live interview that the story is meant to be its own experience and should remain separate from the Los Angeles wildfires in January 2025. Still, as someone in the LA community, it’s impossible not to feel deeply emotional and connected to these characters. Every fear, moment of sadness, and surge of tension is amplified by the beautiful score from James Newton Howard.

If you’re looking for something emotional, intense, and ultimately uplifting, The Lost Bus is definitely worth watching. It will be available on Apple TV+ starting Friday, September 26th, 2025.