Matthew McConaughey stars in new movie about 2018 deadly wildfire, with New Mexico standing in for California | World News

In a heart-wrenching tale of bravery and survival, New Mexico is stepping in for California in a new film that tells the story of a bus driver and a school teacher who rescued students during the deadliest wildfire in California’s history. The film, titled “The Lost Bus,” is based on the real-life events of the 2018 blaze that killed 85 people and nearly wiped out the community of Paradise in the Sierra Nevada foothills.

Jamie Lee Curtis’ production company, along with other industry heavyweights, is bringing this harrowing story to the big screen. The film will star Matthew McConaughey and America Ferrera, under the direction of Paul Greengrass. Emmy Award winner Brad Ingelsby and Jason Blum’s production company Blumhouse are also on board to produce the film.

The production of “The Lost Bus” is currently underway in and around Santa Fe, Española, and Ruidoso, New Mexico. The film will focus on the heroic actions of bus driver Kevin McKay and teacher Mary Ludwig, who risked their lives to save a bus full of children from the raging wildfire.

From California to New Mexico and beyond, wildfires have become more frequent and devastating due to drier and hotter conditions exacerbated by climate change. The film aims to shed light on the human elements, tragedies, and bravery that emerged from the catastrophic wildfire.

With a star-studded cast and a powerful storyline, “The Lost Bus” promises to be a poignant and gripping portrayal of courage in the face of adversity. The production will employ hundreds of crew members and extras from New Mexico, showcasing the state’s vibrant film industry and talent pool.