Update: The run has been extended to Thursday, July 7, with showings at 12:45, 6:15 and 9 p.m. each day.

Virginia serves as the inspirational backdrop for “Tri,” a film about a medical tech encouraged by a cancer patient to take on the burgeoning and brutally difficult sport of triathlon.

Opening Friday, June 24, at Criterion Cinemas Movieland, “Tri” was directed by Richmond native Jai Jamison and stars Jensen Jacobs as Natalie, an ultrasound tech and unlikely triathlete who hesitantly embarks on her unlikely quest to compete after a surprising conversation with one of her patients. Most of Natalie's friends and colleagues are skeptical, and the film hinges on whether she can endure the grueling conditioning, much less compete in or even finish the race.

Much of "Tri" was filmed in the scenic Shenandoah Valley during the Luray Triathlon in August. “Tri” also stars Virginian Tim Reid, a mentor to director Jamison. Springfield native Ted Adams III produced "Tri" through Red Zeppelin Productions. The movie took home the Indie Spirit best story line award at the Boston International Film Festival in late April.