The world premiere of director Paul Greengrass’ latest Apple original film, The Lost Bus, made its debut at the Toronto International Film Festival on Friday night with strong audience reactions and early award speculation.
The Gripping Survival Thriller dramatizes the real-life story of a school bus driver and teacher who led 22 children safely during a devastating 2018 camp fire in Northern California, which took 85 lives and destroyed more than 18,000 structures.
Based on journalist Lizzie Johnson’s non-fiction book, Paradise: The Suffering of One Town to Survive American Wildfires, “The Lost Bus” tells the story of the dangerous journey of fire. The camp fire, fueled by strong winds caused by broken electricity lines, burned more than 150,000 acres, nearly wiped out the town of paradise from the map.
Matthew McConaughey stars as Kevin McKay. American Ferrera plays Mary Ludwig. Mary Ludwig is a teacher who refuses to leave his students behind. Together, the two lead a race with time and a tense evacuation effort to become an invasion Inferno.
Returning to an impressive lead dramatic role, McConaughey offers performance that combines vulnerability with resolution. He found a deep connection with the material and green grass style. “There was a line that Paul came up with that,” McConaughey shared. “Kevin says, ‘It was too late as a father, so now it’s too late as a father.’ ”
Ferrera brings warmth and grit to the character based on a real educator, bringing fresh turns in Oscar-nominated “Barbie.” She brought her passion for signature, paying homage to Mary of the real life of the audience, calling it “a great honor” to portray her.
Together, the chemistry between the two lead stars locks in the emotional core of the film.
“This story is not just about fire. It’s about courage, choice and protecting instinct,” Greengrass said in a Q&A after the Q&A. The director, known for “United 93” and “Captain Phillips,” once again leaning against his distinctive documentary-style realism, creating a false phobia-like, fast-moving thriller.
Greengrass co-written the script with Brad Ingelsby, creator of HBO’s “Mare of Easttown.” The film leans heavily towards practical effects, with real fire being used where possible to amplify authenticity.
Cinematographer Pal Urvik Roxes uses a handheld camera to capture chaos, while James Newton Howard’s emotional score and immersive sound design raise tension.
Festival audiences responded with emotional strength, including visible tears and audible stomachs during screening.
The intense thing can hardly explain it. I cried and barely managed to breathe. This is the most visceral filmmaking.
Supporting cast includes Yulvasquez as fire chief, Ashley Atkinson as local residents, and Spencer Watson and Danny McCarthy as first responders.
In a personal touch, McConaughey’s real-life son, Levy and his mother, Kay McConaughey, appear as his character’s family.
The project was first announced in 2022, featuring Jamie Lee Curtis’ photographs of the comet and produced by Jason Blum. During the Q&A, Curtis revealed that he had heard NPR and discovered Johnson’s story. In an additional personal connection, Curtis pointed out that her mother, legendary actress Janet Lee, once dated the real Mary Ludwig father.
Johnson, a reporter for the San Francisco Chronicle who covered the fire, served as a consultant for the film to ensure de facto accuracy.
“The Lost Bus” has products that will help attract worshipers into Oscar’s conversation. Some critics see it as the best picture nominator for potential long shots, but can be seen as a strong competitor in technical categories, such as sound, editing, and original scores.
McConaughey and Ferrera’s performances are also impressive, but not the type that Oscar normally recognizes from films like this.
Apple will release “The Lost Bus” on Select Theaters on September 19th, and will be streaming on Apple TV+ from October 3rd.
There are a few online responses below.
Clarissa Rocco: “#TheLostbus Matthew McConaughey and America Ferrera ride the thrill from start to finish. Sometimes it feels like they’re driving hell.
Nicole Soroka | As an on-screen scene: “#TheLostbus is based on Lisey Johnson’s novel about the 2018 California Camp fire, but nothing but devastating. With the intense performances of #MatthewMCConaughey and #Americaferrera, the film is an impactful reminder that life can change with the blink of an eye.”
Eric Davis (@erikdavis): “Matthew McConaughey and American Ferrera pilot a school bus full of children through the fierce bush of Paul Greengrass fires.
Nick Van Dinser said: “Does the Lost Bus have all the disaster/survival film cliches? Yes. Is it a fierce, impressive visual experience made in the theatre? Yes.
