‘Girl Rising'

A new movie championing the importance of education for women will be shown Thursday night at Wehrenberg Theatres in Cape Girardeau.

"Girl Rising" is a documentary that tells the stories of women facing challenging environments, but who share a dream of receiving an education. The nine women, of different countries, who are spotlighted come from varying backgrounds and different challenges including: bonded labor, abuse, extreme poverty and forced marriage.

Narrated by actors Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, Cate Blanchette and others, the film appears to be an inspiring look into how education has played a key role in the women's freedom and happiness.

The movie is being shown locally thanks in large part to the efforts of the Zonta Club of Cape Girardeau. Tickets are available for $10 online at www.gathr.us or from Zonta members. The movie starts at 7 p.m. To watch the movie trailer, go to 10x10act.org/girl-rising.

While the message of the movie is important, the nature of the film's material is not geared for younger audiences, as evidenced by the PG-13 rating.

It's easy to forget many around the world don't enjoy the freedoms we do in this country. Many women are subject to horrible challenges. This film puts a spotlight on the issues, and it's our hope that much good will come from sharing their stories.