Media Contact:
Tonya Mantooth
Executive Producer
tonya@intotheunknown.com
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Steve Buscemi and Wren Arthur Join as Executive Producers for the Powerful New Documentary Into the Unknown About Paramedics on the Front Lines

New York, NY – April 15, 2025 – Award-winning actor, director and producer Steve Buscemi and two-time EMMY-winning producer Wren Arthur have been announced as executive producers of the highly anticipated documentary feature Into the Unknown. This groundbreaking film offers an unflinching, in-depth look at the lives of paramedics. The film follows six paramedic crews from across the U.S., including a Gulf War veteran, Columbine survivors, best friends on the night shift, rural volunteers, and a helicopter rescue team. It offers a raw, real-world portrayal of their high-stakes work, exploring the dangers, mental health challenges, and emotional toll of saving lives and facing loss.

Steve Buscemi, known for his iconic roles in Reservoir Dogs, Fargo, The Big Lebowski, and his celebrated TV work on Boardwalk Empire, The Sopranos, and Miracle Workers brings his commitment to powerful storytelling to this project. In addition to his acting, Buscemi has directed and produced numerous films and television projects, including The Listener, which world premiered at the 2022 Venice Film Festival. He is currently starring in the hit Netflix series Wednesday and is in production on Martin McDonagh’s upcoming film Wild Horse Nine. “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,” said Buscemi. “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, co-founder of Olive Productions with Buscemi, has produced and worked on numerous award-winning films and documentaries, including the EMMY-winning Park Bench with Steve Buscemi and Medora, as well as HBO’s A Good Job: Stories of the FDNY. Arthur’s producing credits also include Puzzle (Sony Classics) and the upcoming Psycho Therapy (Brainstorm Media). She is deeply passionate about telling stories that highlight the real struggles and triumphs of everyday heroes. “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,” said Arthur. “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.”

Into the Unknown will provide an unparalleled and emotional perspective on the realities faced by paramedics, shedding light on their motivations and the courage that drives them to do this critical work. The film offers a deep look into the sacrifices these frontline heroes make to serve their communities, even in the face of personal and professional challenges.Buscemi and Arthur join the film’s executive producers Randolph Mantooth and Kevin Tighe, the stars of the legendary TV show Emergency.

Mantooth shard his admiration for Steve Buscemi’s connection to this project: “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.”

Tighe also speaks highly of the collaboration: “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.”

Into the Unknown will premiere later in 2025. The film is directed by Tom Putnam, whose previous firefighting documentaries include directing BURN and its sequel, BURN X, and supervising producing Dick Wolf’s NBC series LA Fire and Rescue.

Into the Unknown

FirstNet®, Built with AT&T*, is the principal sponsor of the project. Additional sponsors supporting the documentary’s production include Los Angeles County Fire Museum, Masimo, ZOLL Medical Corporation, Public Safety Group, Global Medical Response, National Association of EMTs.

Find out more about the documentary, the advisory committee and the organizations supporting it at intotheunknowndoc.com. You can also sign up to get regular updates.