LOS ANGELES — Award-winning actor and former New York City firefighter Steve Buscemi will serve as executive producer for the upcoming documentary, “Into the Unknown,” a film that promises to deliver an unfiltered look at the daily lives and sacrifices of America’s paramedics.
Buscemi joins fellow executive producers Wren Arthur, as well as Randolph Mantooth and Kevin Tighe, the beloved stars of the iconic series “Emergency!,” to help bring the stories of today’s EMS professionals to the screen.
A star-studded team for EMS storytelling
“Into the Unknown” follows six paramedic crews from across the United States, offering viewers a raw and emotional glimpse into the world of frontline EMS. The documentary captures the experiences of a Gulf War veteran, Columbine survivors, best friends working the night shift, rural volunteers and a helicopter rescue team. The film explores not just the high-stakes nature of their work, but also the mental health challenges and emotional toll faced by paramedics in communities nationwide.
Buscemi, known for his roles in “Reservoir Dogs,” “Fargo” and “The Big Lebowski,” brings not only star power but firsthand experience to the project.
“I started my career as a firefighter with the FDNY, and I’ve seen firsthand the dedication and courage it takes to serve others in these high-stress environments,” Buscemi said. “Paramedics are often the unseen heroes, and this documentary offers a much-needed, authentic look at their lives and the sacrifices they make. I’m proud to be part of this project and to shine a light on these incredible individuals.”
Wren Arthur, a two-time Emmy-winning producer and co-founder of Olive Productions with Buscemi, is equally passionate about highlighting the resilience of EMS professionals.
“I am thrilled to be working with the talented team on “Into the Unknown.” The paramedics we follow in this film are nothing short of extraordinary,” Arthur said. “Our goal is to not only show their courage and resilience but to also open a dialogue about the importance of mental health and the unseen emotional toll this work can take. I’m excited to bring their stories to the screen.”
‘Emergency!’ legacy lives on
Mantooth and Tighe, who played Johnny Gage and Roy DeSoto in the 1970s series “Emergency!,” have long championed the EMS profession. Now, as executive producers, they see “Into the Unknown” as a way to honor and advance the legacy of the show.
“Steve’s background in the FDNY gives him a unique insight into the lives of first responders. His authenticity and commitment to portraying these real-life heroes with respect and understanding is what makes this documentary so special,” Mantooth said.
Tighe added, “Olive Productions has an incredible track record of producing meaningful, compelling programs, and their passion for telling real, impactful stories is unmatched. Joining forces with Steve and Wren on this project, given their shared passion for the subject, ensures that “Into the Unknown” will be a film that resonates with audiences long after the credits roll.”
A project with EMS at its heart
Directed by Tom Putnam — known for his acclaimed firefighting documentaries “BURN” and “BURN X” — “Into the Unknown” aims to deliver an unparalleled perspective on the realities and motivations of paramedics, illuminating the courage that drives them to serve. The documentary is set to premiere later in 2025.
The film is produced with the support of FirstNet, Built with AT&T, as well as the Los Angeles County Fire Museum, Masimo, ZOLL Medical Corporation, Public Safety Group, Global Medical Response, National Association of EMTs and the CARESTAR Foundation.
For more information, visit intotheunknowndoc.com to learn more about the film, the advisory committee and supporting organizations, or to sign up for regular updates.
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