(6-11-26) Last night “You Are Here” actor and writer Jack Kennedy, a Botkins native, was at the Wapa Theater in Wapakoneta where he premiered his feature film “You Are Here.” The film’s screening tour will continue on Sunday in Cleveland.
Botkins native premieres feature film at Wapa Theater
Kennedy told Hometown Stations
“This is a dream come true. I’ve been at this for 30 years trying to make this film reality. And It’s just, I don’t know. and to do it in my hometown with my family and my bunch of my cousins and people I haven’t seen in a long time. To me this we’re doing, 3-month 25 city tour, and this is the thing I’ve been looking forward to right here.”

RELATED: Wapakoneta Daily News, May 12th, 2026
“Botkins Baby Returns Home to Premiere Movie”
Jack Kennedy, who began life in Botkins, will include stops in the area to promote his movie “You Are Here.” As an adult, Jack went on to graduate from West Point, author a children’s book titled “The Cow Who Lost Her Moo,” and entered into a career in the entertainment industry.
Kennedy has worked with many well-known actors. You will recognize the names of Sir Ben Kingsley, Forest Whitaker, and Seth Mcfarland to list a few. He has also partnered with Rob Lowe, another person of local notoriety. Television credits include an appearance with Nathan Fillion of “Castle” and “The Rookie” fame.
Television and film efforts abound. Perry Mason, General Hospital, NCIS:LOS Angeles, and Days of Our Lives highlight Kennedy’s TV history. He participated in a live theater production entitled “A Party for Marty” alongside Martin Short and Jason Alexander. The movie “Iron Man 3” rounds out his repertoire.
“You Are Here” is a PG-13 rated comedy/drama. Kennedy stars and is directed by his wife, Claire. Billed as a modern day “It’s A Wonderful Life,” the production is a tribute to small town living with its ups and downs. The plot revolves around an author with writer’s block who sets out to find new inspiration. Instead, he becomes stranded in a tiny town with car trouble, is forced to take up residence in an old Winnebago, and finds his motivation in an aging mechanic.
Speaking of a Winnebago, Jack and Claire, their three children, and their three dogs are traveling the country in same to promote their movie. Will their escapades mirror “You Are Here,” or evoke new laughs and memories?

About the movie
You Are Here is a modern-day It’s A Wonderful Life, a tribute to the small towns and communities there that both stifle and uplift you. It’s a story about possibilities – those you have and those you squander and how there are always more to be found, if you go looking for them. It’s a funny, quirky date night movie that we hope you’ll enjoy.
You Are Here is also a journey across the country. Jack and Claire Kennedy, the husband-and-wife filmmakers are loading up their three kids (Jack, Calleigh, Quinn), three dogs (Love, Ghostbuster, Scotch), and lots of merch (Challenge Coins, Shirts, Hats) in the RV from the film and are bringing You Are Here to a small town or city near you. We hope you’ll join us.
You Are Here – Teaser Trailer
The cast features Judd Nelson….
