The Lost Bus (2025)

The Lost Bus

• I’ll start off by saying this: I think that this film could’ve been a top tier survival/thriller, and a very memorable one, but there are times when the character development and family/relationship drama just weighs down the entire film. I’m normally a fan of focusing on characters, because I like to get emotionally connected, but in this case, I don’t really think that’s the point. If you’re gonna make an action film, make it an action film. For the most part, it was, and it’s definitely enjoyable. I’d be lying if I said I didn’t get a bit stressed out watching this, and I do think it’s worth your time. It’s just that it’s too long and every time there’s some kind of deep, emotional conversation, it really pulls you out of the current situation. Not horribly, but *just* enough. Matthew McConaughey brings his A-game (when has he not?), and he was the big draw for me to watch this, and the fact that it’s Oscar nominated this year. Every line he delivers definitely holds weight and adds a nice little depth to the whole “save the kids from the fire” situation. Again, I don’t think his character really needed expansion, but I can’t pretend like he doesn’t absolutely carry this film on his back. America Ferrara is pretty solid too, though nothing spectacular. Now, the reason this was nominated for an Oscar is because of the visual effects. I have to say, they are pretty impressive and create a very vivid and consuming environment. There’s a couple times where it’s a little obvious, but as a whole, I do think they’re pretty worthy of an Oscar. Even though it’s just fire and smoke, it’s still very impressive. Overall, this is a great survival/thriller, though it’s a bit dragged out at times because of some needless drama (just my opinion). But I did like it a lot and I’m glad I saw it. I would recommend it to most action/survival fans. This film is officially Berry Approved, so go watch it now!