Photo: DJ Ahmet is the opening feature of Belmont World Film’s 23rd International Film Series that starts March 31.

The focus of Belmont World Film’s 23rd International Film Series is “Freedom on Film,” beginning Monday, March 31, and running weekly through June 16 at Apple Cinemas in Cambridge and the West Newton Cinema.

The series presents eleven films that were screened at the biggest international film festivals in which three were their countries’ submission for the Academy Award’s Best International Feature film.

The powerful lineup explores the many dimensions of freedom, from personal liberation to political resistance, showcasing compelling stories from around the globe and shedding light on the struggles and triumphs of those who dare to break barriers. The series invites audiences to engage with diverse perspectives on what it truly means to be free.

Opening night features the East Coast premiere of DJ Ahmet, winner of the World Cinema Dramatic Special Jury Award and the Audience Award at this year’s Sundance Film Festival. The film depicts a sweet, coming-of-age drama about 15-year-old Ahmet, who finds solace in music while navigating tradition, family expectations, and first love in a remote Macedonian village. The screening at Apple Cinema in Fresh Pond will be preceded by a dinner reception at the theater featuring North Macedonian cuisine from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Other highlights include: 

• Reading Lolita in Tehran, based on the best-selling memoir by Azar Nafisi on April 28. 
• Under the Volcano, about the trials of a Ukrainian family on vacation in Tenerife, Spain on the eve of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The film was Poland’s submission for the Best International Feature Film Oscar.
• The closing night film of the main series is Four Mothers. A heartfelt Irish comedy starring James McArdle is about a gay Young Adult novelist on the cusp of literary success, who’s unexpectedly tasked with caring for his ailing mother and three of his friends’ mothers over a chaotic weekend. Tickets includes an optional closing night dinner featuring Irish cuisine.

Funding for the International Film Series is provided by Juliet Jenkins/Leading Edge Realty and the Quebec Delegation of Boston. The Belmont LGBTQ+ Alliance is a community partner.

Individual tickets are $14 in advance (no fees) and $16 at the door with cash or check. “Passports,” which can be shared with one other person, offer eight films for $95. Memberships, for which individuals receive tickets or passports and other benefits, are also available. EBT, WIC, and ConnectorCare cardholder tickets and passes are half-price. The opening and closing dinners have separate admissions.

For tickets, passes, or for more information visit www.belmontworldfilm.org or call 617-484-3980. Like us at www.Facebook.com/BelmontWorldFilm or follow us on Instagram @Belmont_World_Film or X at @BelmntWorldFilm.