Blog

Recognized at multiple film festivals around the world

Kern Oil has been recognized as an Award Winner at 9 film festivals around the world — from the SoCal Film Awards to the Roshani International Film Festival. The story of Kern County continues to travel.

Official Selection — 2026 Indiewood Film Festival at TCL Chinese Theatres

Kern Oil has officially been selected for the 2026 Indiewood Film Festival and will screen at the legendary TCL Chinese Theatres in Hollywood on Monday, September 14th at 2:00 PM.

2026 SoCal Film Awards — Best Documentary

Kern Oil has been awarded Best Documentary at the 2026 SoCal Film Awards. An incredible honor for everyone who helped bring this story of Kern County's oil industry to life.

American Golden Picture International Film Festival — June 2026

Kern Oil has been awarded Best Documentary Long at the American Golden Picture International Film Festival (June 2026 Edition) — a milestone for independent filmmaking and the story of Kern County.

Every Wednesday in June 2026 — Matinee & Evening Screenings

After two successful premieres, Kern Oil is officially coming to Studio Movie Grill every Wednesday throughout June 2026. Matinee and evening screenings available — seats are limited.

Every Wednesday in June 2026 — Matinee & Evening Screenings

After two successful premieres, Kern Oil is officially coming to Studio Movie Grill every Wednesday throughout June 2026. Matinee and evening screenings available — seats are limited.

A Night to Remember at the Fox Theater

The energy was undeniable at the historic Fox Theater as Kern Oil officially premiered in Taft, California. The crowd showed up strong for a night that celebrated Kern County's oil heritage.

Full Schedule, Ticket Prices & Special Opening Day Event

Kern Oil announces an exclusive month-long screening series at Studio Movie Grill Bakersfield — every Wednesday in June with matinee ($12) and evening ($15) showings. Special opening event on June 3.

After Strong Bakersfield Response, the Film Comes to Oil Country

After an incredible Bakersfield premiere, Kern Oil is heading to Taft — the heart of California oil country. Tickets are now available for the Taft premiere.

An On The Porch Exclusive With Filmmaker Rickey Bird Jr.

Rickey Bird Jr. works the rigs by day and calls "action" by night. His documentary Kern Oil — funded out of pocket, built grassroots — just premiered to nearly 1,000 people at the Historic Bakersfield Fox Theater.

Red Carpet Premiere at the Historic Fox Theater, Bakersfield

After two years of filming, late nights, and borrowed gear, Kern Oil premieres at the historic Fox Theater in Bakersfield on February 27 — a red carpet event celebrating local history and local voices.

A Third-Generation Oil Worker Turned Filmmaker

As a third-generation oil worker, my journey began with my Grandpa Tommy Bird. This documentary is a heartfelt exploration of my hometown, my livelihood, and the people whose stories deserve to be told.

Director of Photography Brandon Rose Captures Kern County

Our Director of Photography Brandon Rose has truly outdone himself, capturing stunning shots from the Kern County oilfields. The first teaser trailer for Kern Oil is now live.