I have some exciting news to share. My latest project, Kern Oil, is coming to fruition. This documentary is a heartfelt exploration of my hometown and livelihood. As a third-generation oil worker, my journey began with my Grandpa Tommy Bird and continued with my father, Rickey Bird Sr. Our family has been deeply intertwined with the Kern County oilfields for decades.
A Legacy of Oil and Filmmaking
Throughout my life, I've worn two hats: one as a director and the other as an oil worker. For over 20 years, making movies and drilling for oil have been significant parts of my life. I've witnessed the highs and lows of both industries and seen many hardworking people lose everything due to fluctuating oil prices and stringent state regulations.
Tragically, in 2022, my father couldn't find work, leading to severe depression and his untimely death. One of his notes read, "I have dug myself into a hole I can't get out of." This loss was a devastating blow to our family, and it echoed the struggles of other oil workers in our community.
The Impact of Declining Oil Work
These personal stories of loss and hardship made me question why more people don't care about this situation. After many conversations with my wife, I realized that the general public doesn't fully understand the value of oil or how much we rely on it daily in California. Kern County, in particular, leads the way in safe and environmentally friendly drilling practices. Yet, there's a disconnect between the public's perception and the reality of the oil industry.
Bridging the Information Gap
The problem lies in the lack of accessible information. Sifting through data can be tedious, so I thought — why not create an entertaining "Netflix-style" documentary? Kern Oil aims to showcase the history of Kern Oil, the drilling and processing methods, and the hardworking people behind the scenes. It also addresses a common question: "If we're not drilling for oil here, where are we getting it from?" Unfortunately, most of California's oil is imported, and the demand continues to rise. This leads to higher gas prices for Californians and economic hardship for local Kern County communities.
The Importance of Local Oil Production
It's crucial for people to understand the importance of the oil and gas industry and how we can work together to reduce our reliance on it. However, while we still need oil, why not keep production local? This would benefit our local economy and ensure safer, more environmentally friendly practices.
Assembling the Dream Team
To bring this vision to life, I've collaborated with talented individuals from both the film and local oil industries. I'm thrilled to have assembled a "dream team" to ensure our facts are accurate and the documentary is engaging for everyone — not just those who support the oil industry.
Join Us on This Journey
I invite you to check out our teaser trailer and visit our website at www.kernoilmovie.com. Join us on this journey to understand the vital role of oil in our lives and the importance of supporting local production in Kern County.
By shedding light on these issues, I hope to foster a greater appreciation for the oil industry and the people who dedicate their lives to it. Together, we can make a difference.