Local filmmaker brings award-winning environmental visionary to the big screen at La Paloma Theatre

North County locals have a chance to experience a powerful environmental story rooted in the American heartland through the lens of one of their own.

San Marcos-based producer/director Michael “MJ” Johnson will debut his new feature documentary, Prairie Prophecy, at the historic La Paloma Theatre in downtown Encinitas on Thursday, Aug. 21 at 7 p.m. The event marks the California premiere of the film, which explores the extraordinary life and life’s work of Wes Jackson, a pioneering figure in sustainable agriculture and co-founder of The Land Institute, according to a news release.

Following the screening, Johnson will join a live panel of environmental experts for a community Q&A about the film, Jackson’s legacy, and what it means for the future of food, farming, and climate resilience—locally and beyond.

“Wes Jackson changed how I think about the planet—and how we live on it,” said Johnson in the news release. “He’s a scientist, a philosopher, and a storyteller. His vision of sustainable agriculture is both radically hopeful and urgently needed. I wanted to make a film that brings that message home.”

Prairie Prophecy delves into Jackson’s groundbreaking work with perennial grains and natural systems agriculture—a bold, science-backed alternative to industrial farming. As climate challenges intensify, the film invites viewers to consider how we might heal both the land and our relationship to it, the news release stated.

Locals are encouraged to arrive early to enjoy music by Encinitas local and the film’s composer, Tom Griesgraber, as well as the atmosphere of the La Paloma, a beloved North County landmark known for supporting community-driven events and independent film.

Tickets at: www.lapalomatheatre.com; Film website: www.prairieprophecy.com