What's On          Visit

The Big Year

The Big Year

Film @ THE 222

January 21, 2027

Film

Programmed by Erin Partridge

The Big Year (2011) stars Steve Martin, Jack Black, and Owen Wilson as three passionate birdwatchers competing in a high-stakes, year-long contest to spot the most bird species across North America. As their obsession grows, each man struggles to balance the competition with personal relationships and life responsibilities. Their journeys intertwine in humorous and heartfelt ways, revealing how far they’re willing to go for the elusive title of “Big Year” champion. Stay afterwards for a discussion of the film.

Directed by David Frankel (The Devil Wears Prada), The Big Year is a comedy-drama based on Mark Obmascik’s nonfiction book The Big Year: A Tale of Man, Nature, and Fowl Obsession. The film follows the intersecting stories of three men—Brad Harris (Jack Black), Stu Preissler (Steve Martin), and Kenny Bostick (Owen Wilson)—each driven by different motivations, from escaping routine to chasing legacy. Filmed across diverse North American locations, including Alaska, British Columbia, and various U.S. states, the movie highlights real birding hotspots and features hundreds of bird species. The supporting cast includes Rashida Jones, Anjelica Huston, and Dianne Wiest, adding depth to the characters’ personal lives.

NOTE: This season we are doing Staff’s Pick programming for film. Watch for selections from Paul Mahder, Jonathan Wind, and Erin Partridge.

Event details

Thurs 4 March 20277:00 pm

Open seating. Doors open 30 minutes before performance time.

Student - 18 and under with IDfree
General$20

Booking fees may apply.

For those requiring assistance, wheelchair or companion seating, accessible seating locations are available. Bookings can be made by calling the Box Office on 1 (707) 473-9152 or by email at info@the222.org

  • Event duration is a guide only and may be subject to change.
  • Children aged 15 and under must be accompanied at all times.
  • Film is rated PG

“A genial comedy that takes bird-watching seriously while gently poking fun at the obsession.”

Roger Ebert in the Chicago Sun-Times

Cast and Creative


David Frankel Director

* The 222 debut

Plan your visit

THE 222
222 Healdsburg Avenue
Healdsburg, California 95448

Parking available on north side of building.

Location and access

Located in Healdsburg just north of the roundabout on the east side of Healdsburg Avenue.