Burning Ojai: Our Fire Story

On December 4, 2017, as the Santa Ana winds whipped through Ventura County at dangerously high speeds, the Thomas Fire broke out and ravaged nearly 282,000 acres of land, making it the largest wildfire in California's history. Told through a combination of raw footage and interviews with those impacted most, Burning Ojai: Our Fire Story follows the residents who endured the fire's devastation on their homes and businesses, along with the town's extensive relief and repair efforts. This short, personal documentary is directed by Ojai resident and filmmaker Michael Milano, who also documents the fire's impact on his own growing family. Ultimately, Burning Ojai underscores the resilience of Ventura County's residents at a time when the threat of California fires shows no signs of slowing.