The Sunrise Theater's SunFlix series presents a National Geographic film, "The First Grader," the inspirational story of an 84-year-old Kenyan man who insists on his right to attend primary school when his country's government establishes universal education.

This drama is based on a true story and stars Naomie Harris, Oliver Litondo, Tony Kgoroge and Sam Feuer. The director is Justin Chadwick. The film is rated PG-13 and runs for 1 hour and 43 minutes.

"The First Grader," which is in English, will be shown for three days only: Thursday, June 23, at 7:30 p.m., Sunday, June 26, at 2:30 and 7:30 p.m., and Monday, June 27, at 2:30 p.m.

Following is a synopsis from the film's official -website: In a small, remote mountain top primary school in the Kenyan bush, hundreds of children are jostling for a chance for the free education newly promised by the Kenyan government. One new applicant causes astonishment when he knocks on the door of the school. He is Maruge (Oliver Litondo), an old Mau Mau veteran in his 80s, who is desperate to learn to read at this late stage of his life. He fought for the liberation of his country, and now feels he must have the chance of an education so long denied - even if it means sitting in a classroom alongside 6-year-olds.

Moved by his passionate plea, head teacher Jane Obinchu (Naomie Harris) supports his struggle to gain admission, and together they face fierce opposition from parents and officials who don't want to waste a precious school place on such an old man.

Full of vitality and humor, the film explores the remarkable relationships Maruge builds with his classmates some 80 years his junior. Through Maruge's journey, we are taken back to the shocking untold story of British -colonial rule 50 years earlier where Maruge fought for the freedom of his country, eventually ending up in the extreme and harsh conditions of the British detention camps.

The historical Sunrise Theater is located at 250 NW Broad St. in Southern Pines.

Tickets for all shows are $7 for adults. Refreshments, including beer and wine, are available. All Sunrise Theater movies are commercial free.

For more information, contact the theater at (910) 692-3611 or www.sunrisetheater.com.