Apple Original Films has released the first teaser trailer for The Lost Bus, a gripping and emotional rescue drama directed by Academy Award-nominee Paul Greengrass (United 93, Captain Phillips). Inspired by true events and based on the book Paradise: One Town’s Struggle to Survive an American Wildfire by Lizzie Johnson, the film is set to debut in select theaters and globally on Apple TV+ in fall 2025.
The Lost Bus follows the harrowing journey of a school bus driver, played by Academy Award-winner Matthew McConaughey, and a devoted teacher, portrayed by Emmy, SAG, and Golden Globe Award-winner America Ferrera, as they fight to save 22 schoolchildren from one of the deadliest wildfires in American history. As flames engulf the landscape, the pair must navigate chaos, fear, and unimaginable danger to lead their young passengers to safety.
“This is the story of quiet heroism — of people coming together in the face of the unthinkable,” said director Paul Greengrass. “I’m honored to have been entrusted with this story.”
Greengrass co-wrote the screenplay with Brad Ingelsby (Mare of Easttown), and the film is produced by Ingelsby, Gregory Goodman, Jason Blum for Blumhouse Productions, and Jamie Lee Curtis for Comet Pictures. Lizzie Johnson, whose reporting and book inspired the film, serves as executive producer.
The film’s origin story is as compelling as its narrative: after hearing Johnson on NPR, Jamie Lee Curtis read the book and brought it to Blumhouse under her first-look deal, helping bring the real-life story to the screen.
Joining McConaughey and Ferrera in the cast are Yul Vazquez, Ashlie Atkinson, and Spencer Watson, rounding out a powerful ensemble for what promises to be a moving and suspenseful cinematic experience.
The Lost Bus marks another major addition to Apple TV+’s slate of acclaimed original programming. Since its launch in 2019, Apple TV+ has rapidly become a global force in streaming, earning over 576 wins and more than 2,600 award nominations to date, including accolades for Ted Lasso and the Oscar Best Picture winner CODA.
The Lost Bus will be available exclusively on Apple TV+ and in select theaters fall 2025.
For more information, visit apple.com/tvpr.
