Americans for Prosperity-Alabama is hosting a series of free matinee screenings of “Young Washington” at eight locations across the state throughout July, part of the group’s celebration of America’s 250th anniversary. Admission, popcorn and a drink are complimentary for every guest, and the events are open to the public with advance registration.

“America’s 250th anniversary is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reflect on the principles that built our country and to come together as a community,” said AFP-AL State Director Adam Thompson. “Through these events, we’re proud to offer our fellow Alabamians an opportunity to connect with our history, celebrate our shared values, and enjoy time with other liberty-minded individuals.”

Seating is limited at each venue, so the group encourages Alabamians to reserve seats early at AFPAlabama.com, where they can find the nearest location and secure tickets.

“Young Washington,” released in theaters July 3 by Angel Studios, is an epic drama tracing George Washington’s early years on the frontier of the French and Indian War, two decades before the Declaration of Independence.

William Franklyn-Miller stars as the young Washington alongside Ben Kingsley, Andy Serkis, Kelsey Grammer and Mary-Louise Parker.

The film also carries a sweet home connection: director, producer and co-writer Jon Erwin is a Birmingham native — the son of former state Sen. Hank Erwin and grandson of Medal of Honor recipient Henry “Red” Erwin — who got his start as a teenage ESPN camera operator covering Alabama football before making films like “Woodlawn,” “I Can Only Imagine” and “Jesus Revolution.”

Erwin has called “Young Washington” a love letter to America for its 250th anniversary.

The film is riding real momentum into AFP-AL’s screening series. It posted one of the biggest opening weekends in Angel Studios history, finishing No. 2 at the box office on the Fourth of July, and Erwin announced Sunday from Mount Vernon that a sequel, “1776,” is already being written.

The screenings join a summer full of America 250 celebrations across Alabama, from local commemorations in all 67 counties to the state’s official Sweet Home 250 festival at American Village.

“These screenings are about more than an afternoon at the movies,” Thompson added. “They are an invitation to reflect on our nation’s beginnings and renew our shared commitment to the values that continue to guide us forward.”

Americans for Prosperity-Alabama says it is dedicated to empowering individuals to improve their lives and communities by advancing policies that expand freedom and opportunity for all.