The Sunrise Theater's SunFlix Series will present the FOX/Searchlight production of "Amelia," the story of Amelia Earhart, Thursday, Jan. 7, through Monday, Jan. 11.

The cast includes two-time Oscar winner Hilary Swank in the title role, plus Richard Gere, Ewan McGregor, Christopher Eccleston and Joe Anderson. The Hollywood Reporter calls the film "a top-flight portrayal of the aviator by Hilary Swank" and "an instant bio classic.... It ranks with recent real-life portrayals of Ray Charles by Jamie Foxx and Truman Capote by Philip Seymour Hoffman and could be similarly awards-bound.... Earhart wanted to be able to fly free as a bird above the clouds, and director Mira Nair and star Swank make her quest not only understandable but truly impressive."

The film's official Web site provides the following summary:

"After becoming the first woman to fly across the Atlantic, Amelia (Hillary Swank) was thrust into a new role as America's sweetheart - the legendary 'goddess of light,' known for her bold, larger-than-life charisma.

"Yet, even with her global fame solidified, her belief in flirting with danger and standing up as her own, outspoken woman never changed. She was an inspiration to people everywhere, from First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt to the men closest to her heart: her husband, promoter and publishing magnate George P. Putnam (Richard Gere), and her long time friend (and briefly lover), pilot Gene Vidal (Ewan McGregor).

"In the summer of 1937, Amelia set off on her most daunting mission yet: a solo flight around the world that she and George both anxiously foresaw as destined, whatever the outcome, to become one of the most talked-about journeys in history. This final mission led to her mysterious disappearance, which remains unsolved today."

Shows are scheduled for weekdays and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2:30 and 7:30 p.m (no matinee on Saturday for this film).

"Amelia" is rated PG and runs for 1 hour and 51 minutes.

The historic Sunrise Theater, located at 250 NW Broad St. in Southern Pines, is nonprofit.

Ticket prices are $7 for evening shows and $6 for the matinee. Refreshments, including beer and wine are available, and all movies are commercial free.

Contact the theater at (910) 692-3611 or at www.sunrisetheater.com.