The documentary short Burning Ojai: Our Fire Story, featuring personal accounts of the 2017 California wildfires debuts Wednesday, October 28 (7:00 p.m. – 7:45 p.m. EST / PST), on HBO. Burning Ojai: Our Fire Story follows one family and the residents of Ventura County, CA through a journey of devastation, repair and survival after one of the largest wildfires in state history destroys their beloved community.

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.

Directed by Ojai resident and filmmaker Michael Milano, this short personal documentary interweaves raw footage of the fires along with interviews of those profoundly impacted. Milano, who also documents the fire’s impact on his own growing family, follows residents who endured the fire’s devastation on their homes and businesses, along with the town’s relief and repair efforts.

Ultimately, Burning Ojai: Our Fire Story underscores the resilience of Ventura County’s residents at a time when the threat of California fires shows no signs of slowing.