If that yellow school bus in the new Matthew McConaughey trailer looks familiar- it should! The Oscar winner’s latest film, The Lost Bus, just dropped its first trailer, and a good chunk of the action was filmed in the quaint little village of Ruidoso. So, those smoky mountain backdrops and winding roads? All local. It would seem as though Ruidoso is a Hollywood star all on its own, judging from the trailer alone! And if you’re watching from El Paso, you’ll definitely recognize some of the locations that we locals love to hit up for vacations.

If you don’t remember, last year I wrote about filming of The Lost Bus in the area back last year. It was then that McConaughey was spotted around the village, casually trying to blend in like he wasn't, well… Matthew McConaughey. Locals caught glimpses of the crew filming in and around Ruidoso, and now we’re finally seeing how it all comes together on screen.

Now, after months of anticipation, the first trailer is finally here- and it delivers. Think smoke, chaos, a bus full of kids, and McConaughey in full hero mode. Whether you’re here for the drama, the action, or just to spot familiar Ruidoso scenery on screen, this first look is worth a watch.

According to the Village of Ruidoso government website, filming for The Lost Bus took place from April 1st through the 7th of 2024. The production included over 1,050 participants with recent extras casting events which were organized by the Film Industry Jobs Forum.

What is "The Lost Bus" About?

According to Variety, "The Lost Bus" stars McConaughey and America Ferrera and is based on Lizzie Johnson's book "Paradise: One Town's Struggle to Survive an American Wildfire" about the devastating 2018 California wildfires that resulted in over 100 deaths and destroyed the majority of the town of Paradise. The fires were the deadliest in the state’s history. The movie centers on Kevin McKay (McConaughey) and Mary Ludwig (Ferrera), a bus driver and teacher who lead a school bus full of young students through the Camp Fire.

The Lost Bus premieres on Apple TV+ and select theaters this fall.