By Kathleen Hokit, Published on June 5, 2026 | Featured Photo: Oilworker Monument in Taft, California
Bakersfield, Calif. — The story of Kern County’s oil industry has returned to local theaters for the entire month of June as Kern Oil, a feature-length documentary by filmmaker Rickey Bird Jr., continues its run at Studio Movie Grill in Bakersfield.
The documentary explores the history, people, and communities connected to one of California’s most significant energy-producing regions.
Kern Oil documentary trailer
Through conversations with oilfield workers, business owners, historians, community leaders and industry experts, the film examines how the oil industry has shaped Kern County’s economy, culture, and identity for generations.
Rather than focusing solely on oil production, Kern Oil takes a broader look at the families, careers, and local businesses supported by the industry.
“I hope people come away with a better understanding of our local oil industry and the important role it plays in providing energy for our state. More than anything, I hope the film starts meaningful conversations about energy, jobs, and our future,” Rickey Bird Jr. says.
The documentary also addresses the challenges facing the energy sector today, including changing regulations, economic pressures, and the ongoing conversation surrounding California’s energy future.
Mayor of Taft, Dave Noerr, participated in the documentary and he shared his experience with Kern Magazine.
“I thoroughly enjoyed being a part of this effort from the very beginning,” Noerr says. “It was obvious that Rickey Bird and his staff were looking to drill through the mantle of hypocrisy and denial and reach the raw truth about our contribution, our relevance and our necessity as an industry.”
For many viewers, the film offers a rare opportunity to hear directly from the people whose livelihoods are tied to the oilfields and to gain a deeper understanding of an industry that impacts everyday life across the state.
” I hope for most people viewing this documentary is an ‘aha’ moment. They put aside the hypocrisy and denial, and learn of our contribution to America’s security and quality of life,” Noerr says. “We are proud of what we have done as an industry, we are proud of who we are, we are proud to be a part of this film.”
Additional screenings are scheduled throughout June at Studio Movie Grill in Bakersfield, with matinee and evening showings available on June 10, June 17 and June 24.
Whether audiences have personal ties to the oil industry or are simply interested in learning more about a major part of Kern County’s history, Kern Oil provides a local perspective on a topic that continues to shape the region today.
After the showings in Bakersfield, there are plans to reach more Californians.
“We will be screening the documentary in Taft and, hopefully, Sacramento in the near future,” Bird says. “Our goal is to bring the film to even more communities, but we need additional funding to make that happen. We are currently seeking companies, organizations, and individuals who would like to help us share this important message and expand the film’s reach.”
Kern Oil Tickets and screening information are available at KernOilMovie.com.
🍿 NOW SCREENING AT STUDIO MOVIE GRILL – BAKERSFIELD
Wednesday, June 10, 2026
Matinee – 1:30 PM
Evening – 7:10 PM
Wednesday, June 17, 2026
Matinee – 1:30 PM
Evening – 7:10 PM
Wednesday, June 24, 2026
Matinee – 1:30 PM
Evening – 7:10 PM
🎟️ Get Your Tickets at KernOilMovie.com
