The Virginia Film Office is hosing a free screening of the award-winning HBO documentary THE LOVING STORY 6/12, 4:30 at the Byrd Theatre. June 12 has been named “Loving Day” by activist groups across the nation to honor the couple that paved the way for marriage equality. Richard and Mildred Loving, a Caroline County couple, wed in 1958 in violation of the Virginia Racial Integrity Act and were thrown in jail. They petitioned the court to overturn the ruling and the case was instrumental in defending marriage equality rights since.

The feature film version LOVING was shot in Virginia last year, It was directed by award-winning Jeff Nichols (Mud) and stars Joel Edgerton (The Gift) and Ruth Negga (Preacher).  It was recently accepted to the Cannes Film Festival, where it premiered to critical acclaim and extensive press coverage (Oscar buzz already). It’s scheduled to be released in November.

VFO Director Andy Edmunds stated, “Loving Day is worth recognizing and celebrating, especially here in the Commonwealth. Please come and enjoy this free screening of the documentary film that inspired the upcoming major motion picture.”

Doors open at 4 pm.  No tickets are necessary.