Hollywood heavyweight Matthew McConaughey is back with a powerful new survival drama, and this time, he’s not acting alone. In his upcoming film The Lost Bus, the Oscar-winning actor stars alongside two very important people from his real life—his teenage son Levi McConaughey and his mother Kay McConaughey. The emotional and gripping trailer, released on Thursday, gives audiences a first look at the high-stakes drama inspired by the true events of California’s catastrophic 2018 Camp Fire, the most devastating wildfire in the state’s history.
The film will first hit select theaters on September 19, before premiering globally on Apple TV+ on October 3.
A Story of Heroism in the Face of Disaster
At the heart of The Lost Bus lies an extraordinary true story, adapted from journalist Lizzie Johnson’s acclaimed book, Paradise: One Town’s Struggle to Survive an American Wildfire. The Camp Fire swept through Northern California’s Butte County in November 2018, tragically claiming 85 lives and displacing tens of thousands of residents. It remains the deadliest and most destructive wildfire in the state’s history.
McConaughey steps into the role of Kevin McKay, a father grappling with personal struggles who suddenly finds himself thrust into a life-or-death mission. Kevin is described as “a determined father who risks everything to rescue a dedicated teacher and her students.” The trailer reveals Kevin’s transformation from an ordinary man battling personal failures into an unlikely hero determined to save lives.
A Family Affair On-Screen
One of the most unique aspects of The Lost Bus is that McConaughey is joined by his real family members. His 17-year-old son, Levi McConaughey, shares scenes with him, portraying a defiant teen who pushes back against his father’s commands during the chaos. Their natural chemistry brings authenticity to the strained father-son relationship depicted in the film.
Adding another layer of realism is McConaughey’s mother, Kay McConaughey, who makes a rare screen appearance. In the trailer, Kay is shown in emotional moments, her expressions capturing the fear and uncertainty that families faced during the devastating wildfire.
This family casting choice not only heightens the emotional pull of the story but also makes The Lost Bus stand out as a deeply personal project for the actor.
America Ferrera Joins the Cast
Also starring in the film is America Ferrera, fresh off her Oscar-nominated performance in Barbie. She takes on the role of Mary Ludwig, a teacher dedicated to protecting her students during the wildfire. In the trailer, Mary reflects on her misplaced belief that following the rules would keep her safe, only to discover that catastrophe can strike anywhere. Her character is the emotional anchor for the children caught in the disaster, balancing fear with determination.
Ferrera’s presence adds star power and emotional depth, ensuring audiences connect not only with the physical danger of the fire but also with the human stories at its center.
A Glimpse at the Trailer
The two-minute trailer wastes no time plunging viewers into the chaos of the Camp Fire. It begins with Kevin McKay reflecting on his personal struggles: “I can’t catch a break,” he admits, before suggesting that rescuing the children might be his “second chance.” But even as he clings to that thought, the raging fire threatens to take everything away.
As the fire closes in, the school bus becomes both a literal and metaphorical vehicle for survival. With children on board, including one heart-wrenching moment where a young passenger cries, “I want my daddy,” the stakes couldn’t be higher.
The trailer features gripping visuals:
- Emergency vehicles speeding down dirt roads.
- Aircraft narrowly escaping massive clouds of smoke.
- McConaughey shouting at the kids to “hang on” as the bus barrels through fiery landscapes.
The intensity makes clear that this isn’t just a disaster movie—it’s a story about resilience, sacrifice, and human spirit in the face of overwhelming odds.
Directed by Paul Greengrass
The film is helmed by Paul Greengrass, a director celebrated for his ability to capture real-life tragedies with raw intensity. Known for Captain Phillips and United 93, Greengrass has proven his talent for balancing documentary-like realism with cinematic storytelling. With The Lost Bus, he applies his trademark style to one of the most recent and haunting natural disasters in American history.
His direction promises not only thrilling action sequences but also an exploration of the human cost of such tragedies. By blending action with emotional storytelling, Greengrass ensures that the film will resonate with audiences on multiple levels.
More Than Just a Disaster Film
While The Lost Bus features large-scale action scenes filled with fire, smoke, and chaos, it’s ultimately a story of courage and second chances. McConaughey’s character arc mirrors the real-life experiences of many who faced the Camp Fire—ordinary individuals who had to make extraordinary decisions under unimaginable pressure.
The film also aims to shed light on broader issues:
- The increasing threat of climate change-related wildfires.
- The resilience of communities in the face of disaster.
- The unsung heroes—teachers, parents, and first responders—who risked everything to save lives.
Release Information
The Lost Bus will open in select U.S. theaters on Friday, September 19, giving audiences the chance to experience its intensity on the big screen. Just a few weeks later, it will become available for streaming on Apple TV+ starting October 3, ensuring global access to the powerful story.
The dual release strategy allows the movie to reach both traditional moviegoers and the growing audience of streaming subscribers.
Final Thoughts
With its all-star cast, real-life inspiration, and emotional intensity, The Lost Bus is shaping up to be one of the most talked-about films of 2025. Matthew McConaughey’s decision to share the screen with his son Levi and his mother Kay adds an unparalleled authenticity to the story, making it not just a cinematic experience but a family legacy project.
By highlighting the heroism that emerged during one of California’s darkest moments, the film promises to both move and inspire audiences. As Kevin McKay’s voiceover suggests, sometimes tragedy provides an unexpected second chance—not just for survival, but for redemption.