Overview

• The film began streaming globally on Apple TV+ on Oct. 3 following a TIFF debut and a limited U.S. theatrical run.
• Based on the 2018 Camp Fire, the story centers on bus driver Kevin McKay’s real rescue of 22 students, with Matthew McConaughey and America Ferrera in the lead roles.
• Critics highlight Paul Greengrass’s high-tension, immersive fire sequences and McConaughey’s performance, with some noting that cutaways to officials dilute momentum.
• Coverage documents composite and omitted figures and altered details, including folding Abbie Gerspacher-Davis’s role into Mary Ludwig and changing the portrayal of McKay’s awareness of his family’s safety.
• The real Kevin McKay says he was consulted and recognizes scenes drawn from his account, while the cast includes McConaughey’s mother and son in on-screen roles.