Flying high above Los Angeles in a whirling news helicopter, Marika Gerrard and Zoey Tur (known then as Bob) captured some of the city’s most epic breaking news stories. The two recount the salacious details of their career as a husband-and-wife journalist team doing whatever it took to catch an unfolding story. Their camera captured the extreme adrenaline of the culture of live news and, as a result, the strain it took on their relationship—and, ultimately, a major life transition for Zoey. A wholly unique take on the story of Los Angeles told through stunning aerial footage and remarkable home videos, WHIRLYBIRD reframes many of the city’s pivotal moments of the 1990s, including the O. J. Simpson pursuit and the 1992 riots.

In Matt Yoka’s sprawling debut feature, he deftly mirrors the peaks and valleys of one unique American family to the city of Los Angeles, showcasing their parallel growing pains and their search for a sense of self. WHIRLYBIRD is a completely original and intricately woven tapestry that reveals the agony and the ecstasy of breaking news.

Festivals, Awards & Nominations

Nominee - Sundance Grand Jury Prize, Documentary

For the safety and comfort of our audience members and employees, we will have the following safety protocols in place for at least the first two weeks after we reopen:

• Masks required by all staff and patrons at all times

• Staggered showtimes and ample time between shows to mitigate crowds

• Ticket pre-orders for films encouraged to reduce lines 

• Hand sanitizer and disposable face masks available for patrons

• Only 50% of our tickets will be available for sale so that we can ensure a safe movie-going experience

• In light of the latest health updates from the city of Chicago, and in accordance with the School of the Art Institute, we will not be selling concessions nor allowing outside food or drink for at least the first two weeks of business. 

• We will, however, hand out a FREE small popcorn to those who show proof of COVID vaccination, as a “parting gift” when you exit the theater. 

• If you are feeling unwell or have a fever, please stay home and stream films until you feel better

Note: protocols are subject to change, per new or evolving information.