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Jonathan McNeal

YOUNG KARL MARX, THE INSULT and OSCARS Galore at THE NEON!

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Hello Everyone!

This has been an incredibly strong Oscar Season at THE NEON.  We brought you THE FLORIDA PROJECT, FACES PLACES, LADY BIRD and THREE BILLBOARDS OUTSIDE EBBING, MISSOURI before the holidays.  Then we brought THE SHAPE OF WATER, DARKEST HOUR, CALL ME BY YOUR NAME, PHANTOM THREAD, I, TONYA and all the OSCAR NOMINATED SHORTS.  It’s been one nominee to next…and Sunday will give us the winners!

We’re squeezing in two films that we initially didn’t think we’d have room to program. On Friday, we’ll open THE INSULT (a brilliant courtroom drama that’s nominated for “Best Foreign Film” at the Academy Awards) and THE YOUNG KARL MARX (for which A.O. Scott of The New York Times just wrote a glowing review). Audiences loved FILM STARS DON’T DIE IN LIVERPOOL, so we’ll hold it for limited screenings along with I, TONYA for one more week. If you still need to see the ANIMATED or LIVE ACTION OSCAR NOMINATED SHORTS, Thursday will be your last chance to catch them at THE NEON!  And don’t forget about our FREE OSCAR PARTY this Sunday (more details below).

Synopsis for THE INSULT: Nominated for “Best Foreign Film” at this year’s Academy Awards! “In today’s Beirut, an insult blown out of proportion finds Tony (Adel Karam), a Lebanese Christian, and Yasser (Kamel El Basha), a Palestinian refugee in court.” A.O. Scott of THE NEW YORK TIMES wrote, “There is something undeniably exhilarating about the film’s honest assessment of the never-ending conflict between decency and cruelty that rages in every nation, neighborhood and heart.” Click THIS LINK to visit the film’s official site.

Synopsis for THE YOUNG KARL MARX: “In the mid-1800s, after decades ofthe scientific and economic marchof the Industrial Revolution has created an age of both new prosperity and new problems, a 26-year-old writer, researcher andradical namedKarl Marx embarks,with his wife Jenny,on the road to exile. In Paris in 1844 they meet young Friedrich Engels, the well-to-do son of a factory owner whose studies and research has exposed the poor wages and worse conditions of the new English working class who operate looms, printing presses and other engines of industry that enrich their owners while punishing laborers. The smooth and sophisticated – but equally revolutionary and radical – Engels brings his research, help and resources to provide Marx with the missing piece to the puzzle that composes his new vision of the world.” A.O. Scott of The New York Times wrote that the film is, “Both intellectually serious and engagingly free-spirited.”

It’s Almost OSCAR Time! This Sunday, you’re invited to THE NEON’s Annual Oscar Viewing Party! The pre-show begins at 7pm, and we will begin seating as close to 7pm as possible. (The actual Oscar ceremony traditionally begins at 8:30.) Completed ballots (which are now available in our lobby) must be turned in before the first Oscar is given. YOU MUST BE PRESENT TO BE ELIGIBLE FOR PRIZES. You can reserve a spot and your place in line by dropping off your ballot when we open our doors on Sunday, March 4. One Ballot/Reservation Per Person! We’ll have fantastic prizes all night long, and our grand prize will once again be donated by our friends at Square One Salon & Spa with additional prizes from Always Ballroom and James Apesos M.D.

SAVE THE DATE! On March 22, Cliff Fawcett is bringing back the wildly successful PADDLING FILM FESTIVAL (formerly known as THE REEL PADDLING FILM FESTIVAL). This festival of short films that all take place on waterways around the world has garnered quite a following. More details soon!

Thank you for your continued support!
We hope to see you this weekend,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Tuesday, Feb. 27 – Thursday, March 8:

I, TONYA (R) 2 Hrs
Tuesday-Thursday (Feb 27-Mar 1): 5:10
Friday & Saturday (Mar 2 & 3): 11:50, 4:50, 9:40
Sunday (Mar 4):11:50, 4:50
Monday-Thursday (Mar 5-8): 5:10

OSCAR NOMINATED SHORTS: ANIMATION (NR) 1 Hr 23 Min
Tuesday (Feb 27): 3:15, 7:30
Wednesday & Thursday (Feb 28 & Mar 1): 5:20
FINAL DAY – March 1

OSCAR NOMINATED SHORTS: LIVE ACTION (NR) 1 Hr 39 Min
Tuesday (Feb 27): 5:15
Wednesday & Thursday (Feb 28 & Mar 1): 3:15, 7:30
FINAL DAY – March 1

FILM STARS DON’T DIE IN LIVERPOOL (R) 1 Hr 45 Min
Tuesday-Thursday (Feb 27-Mar 1): 3:00, 7:40
Friday & Saturday (Mar 2 & 3): 2:30, 7:20
Sunday (Mar 4): 2:30
Monday-Thursday (Mar 5-8): 3:00, 7:40

THE YOUNG KARL MARX (NR) 1 Hr 58 Min
Friday & Saturday (Mar 2 & 3): 2:10, 7:20, 9:50
Sunday (Mar 4): 2:10, 7:20
Monday-Thursday (Mar 5-8): 2:50, 7:50

THE INSULT (NR) 1 Hr 53 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday (Mar 2-4): 11:40, 4:50
Monday-Thursday (Mar 5-8): 5:20

COMING SOON:
(All Dates Are Tentative. Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear)
March 9 – THE PARTY
March 16 – A FANTASTIC WOMAN
April 6 – ISLE OF DOGS
April 6 – LOVELESS
April 20 – FOXTROT
April 27 – YOU WERE NEVER REALLY HERE
May 18 – RBG
TBD – THE DEATH OF STALIN
TBD – LEISURE SEEKER

Brilliant FACES PLACES Among Jonathan’s Favorites Coming to THE NEON!

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Hello Everyone!

We have had a terrific year with many big successes. Our two current attractions are garnering a lot of raves from critics and audiences alike, and I still hear people talking about other films from earlier this year like MAUDIE, THE BIG SICK, FLORIDA PROJECT, THEIR FINEST, I AM NOT YOUR NEGRO, and LOVING VINCENT (we still intent to bring this film back for a handful of shows when we can squeeze them in). Thus it might be hard to believe that the best films of the year are still on their way to THE NEON. Among them is a little gem called FACES PLACES. If you’ve been here in the past month, you’ve seen the trailer for this enchanting and uplifting documentary. It will open this Friday and play for just one week! Don’t miss it! On Thursday of next week, we will have preview screenings of THE SHAPE OF WATER (one of the absolute best films of the year – and certain to be a “Best Picture” contender) and DARKEST HOUR (almost certain to win an Oscar for Gary Oldman).

Many folks have been asking lately for my favorites of the year. 4 films immediately come to mind. Films that stood out that I can’t stop thinking about…and can’t wait to see again. FACES PLACES is one of them. The other three haven’t yet played anywhere around us but will soon be on their way – THE SHAPE OF WATER, CALL ME BY YOUR NAME and A FANTASTIC WOMAN. I’ll be sure to keep you in the loop.

Synopsis for FACES, PLACES: “89-year old Agnes Varda, one of the leading figures of the French New Wave, and acclaimed 33 year-old French photographer and muralist JR teamed up to co-direct this enchanting documentary/road movie. Kindred spirits, Varda and JR share a lifelong passion for images and how they are created, displayed and shared. Together they travel around the villages of France in JR’s photo truck meeting locals, learning their stories and producing epic-size portraits of them. The photos are prominently displayed on houses, barns, storefronts and trains revealing the humanity in their subjects, and themselves. FACES PLACES documents these heart-warming encounters as well as the unlikely, tender friendship they formed along the way.” Click this LINK to visit the film’s official site.

If you need gift-giving ideas for the film lover in your life, we’ve got you covered. NEON gift certificates are available at our box office in denominations of $5 and $10. We also just got in a new batch of NEON t-shirts with our slogan “Good To The Last Frame” on the back. Hurry in and get ’em while you can!

We also are helping The Rubi Girls by selling their annual wall calendar. The Rubi Girls are a charity-driven comedic drag troupe in town, and 100% of all calendar sales will go back to The Rubi Girls and the causes they champion. Calendars are $15 each or 2 for $20.

Our FAMILY HOLIDAY FILM SERIES has just one film left. Admission is free for children 12 and under, and general admission is just $2. This Saturday, December 16 at Noon, we’ll wrap up the series with HOME ALONE – can you believe this comedy classic starring Macaulay Culkin is already 27 years old?!? Tickets are first come, first serve – available 45 minutes before the screening.

Mark your calendars and please help spread the word. CHAVELA, a beautiful, award-winning documentary about Mexican singer Chavela Vargas, will have two special screenings in late January. On Saturday and Sunday, January 27 & 28 at Noon, director Daresha Kyi (who grew up in Dayton and graduated from The Miami Valley School) will present her documentary and participate in a Q&A. Ticketing details will be available soon. To learn more about the film, please click this LINK to visit the film’s official site.

Thanks so much for your continued support.
We hope to see you soon,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Tuesday, Dec. 12 – Thursday, Dec. 21:

LADY BIRD (R) 1 Hr 33 Min
Tuesday-Thursday (Dec 12-14): 3:00, 5:10, 7:20
Friday (Dec 15): 12:50, 3:00, 5:10, 7:20, 9:30
Saturday (Dec 16): 3:00, 5:10, 7:20, 9:30
Sunday (Dec 17): 12:50, 3:00, 5:10, 7:20
Monday-Wednesday (Dec 18-20): 3:00, 5:10, 7:20
Thursday (Dec 21): 3:00, 5:10
FINAL DAY – Dec. 21!

THREE BILLBOARDS OUTSIDE… (R) 1 Hr 55 Min
Tuesday-Thursday (Dec 12-14): 2:50, 5:15, 7:40
Friday & Saturday (Dec 15 & 16): 12:20, 5:00, 7:30, 9:55
Sunday (Dec 17): 2:20, 5:00, 7:30
Monday-Wednesday (Dec 18-20): 5:00, 7:30
Thursday (Dec 21): 5:00
FINAL DAY – Dec. 21!

FACES, PLACES (PG) 1 Hr 29 Min
Friday-Thursday (Dec 15-21): 3:00
Final Day – Dec. 21!

THE SHAPE OF WATER (R) 1 Hr 59 Min
Thursday (Dec 21): 7:30 – Preview Screening!

DARKEST HOUR (PG-13) 2 Hrs 5 Min
Thursday (Dec 21): 7:40 – Preview Screening!

HOME ALONE (PG) 1 Hr 43 Min
Saturday (Dec 16): Noon

COMING SOON:
(All Dates Are Tentative. Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear)
Dec. 21 – SHAPE OF WATER
Dec. 21 – DARKEST HOUR
TBD Possibilities – NOVITIATE, CALL ME BY YOUR NAME, PHANTOM THREAD,
FILM STARS DON’T DIE IN LIVERPOOL, A FANTASTIC WOMAN, 

 and the return of LOVING VINCENT

2 Big Hits at THE NEON – LADY BIRD & THREE BILLBOARDS OUTSIDE EBBING, MISSOURI

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Hello Everyone!

The weekend after Thanksgiving is usually pretty soft at the box office…but not for us this year at THE NEON. Many thanks to all of you who have come to support our two big hits! Both LADY BIRD (which is now the best reviewed films ever on the RottenTomatoes site) and THREE BILLBOARDS OUTSIDE EBBING, MISSOURI will stick around for another week! Visit each film’s official site be clicking the links above.  You can watch the trailers here:

 

If you haven’t been to THE NEON after dark in the past several days, you may not have seen that our parking lot has undergone some significant lighting work.  We know you’ll feel even better about parking your car there after sundown.  Many thanks to the City of Dayton and the Convention Center for seeing to these improvements!

If you need gift-giving ideas for the film lover in your life, we’ve got you covered. NEON Gift Certificates are available at our box office in denominations of $5 and $10. We also just got in a new batch of NEON t-shirts with our slogan “Good To The Last Frame” on the back. Hurry in and get ’em while you can!

We also are helping The Rubi Girls by selling their annual wall calendar. The Rubi Girls are a charity-driven comedic drag troupe in town, and 100% of all calendar sales will go back to The Rubi Girls and the causes they champion. Calendars are $15 each or 2 for $20.

Our FAMILY HOLIDAY FILM SERIES was off to a nice start this past weekend, and we still have two more family-friendly films to go. Admission is free for children 12 and under, and general admission is just $2. This Saturday, December 9 at Noon, we’ll watch the holiday classic – MIRACLE ON 34th STREET – starring a young Natalie Wood. On December 16 at Noon, we’ll wrap up the series with HOME ALONE – can you believe this comedy classic starring Macaulay Culkin is already 27 years old?!? Tickets are first come, first serve – available 45 minutes before each screening.

Mark your calendars and please help spread the word. CHAVELA, a beautiful, award-winning documentary about Mexican singer Chavela Vargas, will have two special screenings in late January. On Saturday and Sunday, January 27 & 28 at Noon, director Daresha Kyi (who grew up in Dayton and graduated from The Miami Valley School) will present her documentary and participate in a Q&A. Ticketing details will be available soon. To learn more about the film, please click this LINK to visit the film’s official site.

Though our two current attractions are much-loved and doing great business, I’m excited even more for films yet to come.  THE SHAPE OF WATER, CALL ME BY YOUR NAME, FACES PLACES and FANTASTIC WOMAN are favorite films of the year…and they’re still coming down the pike.

Thanks so much for your continued support.
We hope to see you soon,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Tuesday, Dec. 5 – Thursday, Dec. 14:

LADY BIRD (R) 1 Hr 33 Min
Tuesday-Thursday (Dec 5-7): 3:00, 5:10, 7:20
Friday (Dec 8): 12:50, 3:00, 5:10, 7:20, 9:30
Saturday (Dec 9): 3:00, 5:10, 7:20, 9:30
Sunday (Dec 10): 12:50, 3:00, 5:10, 7:20
Monday-Thursday (Dec 11-14): 3:00, 5:10, 7:20

THREE BILLBOARDS OUTSIDE… (R) 1 Hr 55 Min
Tuesday-Thursday (Dec 4-7): 2:50, 5:15, 7:40
Friday & Saturday (Dec 8 & 9): 11:40, 2:15, 4:50, 7:30, 9:55
Sunday (Dec 10): 11:40, 2:15, 4:50, 7:30
Monday-Thursday (Dec 11-14): 2:50, 5:15, 7:40

MIRACLE ON 34th STREET (NR) 1 Hr 37 Min
Saturday (Dec 9): Noon

COMING SOON:
(All Dates Are Tentative. Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear)
Dec. 22 – SHAPE OF WATER
Dec. 22 – DARKEST HOUR
TBD Possibilities –
FACES PLACES
NOVITIATE
CALL ME BY YOUR NAME
PHANTOM THREAD
The Return of LOVING VINCENT

LOVING VINCENT Opens Friday at THE NEON. Big Holiday Films On Horizon!

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Hello Everyone!

We’re moving forward this Friday with a film many of you have expressed great interest in seeing – LOVING VINCENT. This hand oil-painted film is absolutely stunning, but its engagement will be limited (we have 2 spectacular new films that need to open on Nov. 22). Hurry down – everything will have to leave (including FLORIDA PROJECT and GOODBYE CHRISTOPHER ROBIN – click either title to visit that film’s official site) within the next couple weeks.

Synopsis for LOVING VINCENT: “The man was carrying nothing; his hands clasped to a fresh bullet wound leaking blood from his belly. This was Vincent van Gogh, then a little known artist; now the most famous artist in the world. His tragic death has long been known, what has remained a mystery is how and why he came to be shot. Loving Vincent tells that story.” LOVING VINCENT is told via animated oil paintings – all done by hand. Don’t miss this incredibly gorgeous experience!  To watch the trailer and learn more about the process, Click this LINK to visit the film’s official website.

“The ME/CFR Dayton Support Group is sponsoring a free screening of UNREST to raise awareness about Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and resources within the Dayton area for support. When Harvard Ph.D. student Jennifer Brea is struck down by a fever that leaves her bedridden, she sets out on a virtual journey to document her story as she fights a disease that medicine forgot. FREE to the public (movie, parking, popcorn). Donations welcome at the door. This Sunday, Nov. 12 at 3:30.” To reserve your seat via FaceBook, please click this LINK. (details provided by event coordinator Jerry Leggett)

On Wednesday, November 15 at 7:15, The Jewish Community Center of Greater Dayton will host a special screening of the classic Gary Cooper film HIGH NOON at THE NEON. Speaking with the film will be the Pulitzer Prize-winner Glenn Frankel, author of HIGH NOON: THE HOLLYWOOD BLACKLIST AND THE MAKING OF AN AMERICAN CLASSIC. Tickets are $9 each and are available via this LINK or by calling Karen at (937)610-1555.

The Dayton Holiday Festival, Mix 107.7 and THE NEON will present the return of the much-loved FAMILY HOLIDAY FILM SERIES. This year, we’ll look at 3 holiday gems over the course of the first three Saturdays in December. Admission is free for children 12 and under, and general admission is just $2. On December 2 at Noon, we’ll watch PRANCER – a film about a little girl who finds one of Santa’s injured reindeer. On December 9 at Noon, we’ll watch the holiday classic – MIRACLE ON 34th STREET – starring a young Natalie Wood. On December 16 at Noon, we’ll wrap up the series with HOME ALONE – this classic starring Macaulay Culkin is already 27 years old! Tickets are first come, first serve – available 45 minutes before each screening.

We’ve got a really strong line-up over the next several weeks.  We are slated to open both LADY BIRD and THREE BILLBOARDS OUTSIDE EBBING, MISSOURI on November 22.  These 2 films are winning praise and Oscar buzz galore.  On December 22, we are slated to open THE SHAPE OF WATER (one of my absolute favorite films of the year with the incredible Sally Hawkins) and DARKEST HOUR.  Somewhere in between these dates, we hope to get to FACES PLACES (another of my favorites of the year – an absolutely charming, insightful and uplifting film) and possibly THE SQUARE.  Stay tuned!

Thanks so much for your continued support.
We hope to see you soon,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Wednesday, Nov. 8 – Thursday, Nov. 16:

THE FLORIDA PROJECT (R) 1 Hr 51 Min
Wednesday-Thursday (Nov 8 & 9): 2:50, 5:10, 7:30
Friday & Saturday (Nov 10 & 11): 2:50, 5:10, 7:30, 9:45
Sunday (Nov 12): 5:30, 7:45
Monday-Thursday (Nov 13-16): 5:10, 7:30

GOODBYE CHRISTOPHER ROBIN (PG) 1 Hr 47 Min
Wednesday-Thursday (Nov 8 & 9): 3:00, 5:20, 7:40
Friday, Saturday, Sunday (Nov 10 – 12): 12:10, 2:30, 7:20
Monday & Tuesday (Nov 13 & 14): 3:00, 7:20
Wednesday (Nov 15): 3:00
Thursday (Nov 16): 3:00, 7:20

LOVING VINCENT (PG-13) 1 Hr 34 Min
Friday & Saturday (Nov 10 & 11): 12:50, 5:15, 9:40
Sunday (Nov 12): 12:50, 5:15
Monday-Thursday (Nov 13-16): 3:00, 5:15

UNREST (NR) 1 Hr 38 Min
Sunday (Nov 12): 3:30

HIGH NOON (PG) 1 Hr 25 Min + Discussion
Wednesday (Nov 15): 7:15

COMING SOON:
(All Dates Are Tentative. Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear)
Nov. 22 – THREE BILLBOARDS OUTSIDE EBBING MISSOURI
Nov. 22 – LADY BIRD
Dec. 22 – SHAPE OF WATER
Dec. 22 – DARKEST HOUR
TBD Possibilities – FACES PLACES, THE SQUARE

 

TIFF 2017 – Day #9

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Hello Everyone,

Today was my last day of screenings at TIFF 2017.  I’ve been all around the world on this trip to Toronto, and I ended up beating my record by one film this year.  In all (meaning I sat through each film entirely – I don’t count or report on the films I walk out of), I saw 34 movies…and I had a marvelous time.

My first film today was KINGS, directed by Deniz Gamze Erguyen.  Because Erguyen had directed MUSTANG (nominated for “Best Foreign Film” Oscar in 2016), I was looking forward to this film about a family caught in the middle of the L.A. riots starring Halle Berry.  Unfortunately, it’s a mess.  The family dynamics are complicated (Berry is a single mother and a foster mother to several children).  She bakes cakes for clients around town and relies on her oldest son to help keep all the kids in check.  Daniel Craig plays a crazy next-door-neighbor who likes to yield and occasionally shoot a shotgun into the air.  As racial tensions are escalating after the brutal police attack on Rodney King, Berry’s family is also going through transition…and everything starts to boil at the same time.  Erguyen attempts to inject the film with some visual poetry of lava boiling under the earth’s surface, but tonally it doesn’t work with some of the silliness we’re seeing on screen (like Berry’s outer space sex dream).  I wanted to like this film, but it just didn’t work.

Next up, I saw DON’T TALK TO IRENE, directed by Pat Mills.  We had Mills as a guest at the Dayton LGBT Film Festival a couple years ago, and I’ve been anxious to see what he would do next.  I’ll be honest, the trailer wasn’t doing much for me…but the film ended up being pretty terrific.  This charming (yet unafraid to be crude) tale of an overweight high school outsider who wants to be a cheerleader is very funny and engaging.  When she gets suspended at school, she has to do volunteer work at a retirement home as punishment.  What results is hilarious and quite touching.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=56xfd8POz4c

My last film of the day (and of the festival) was MY DAYS OF MERCY, directed by Tali Shalom-Ezer and shot in Cincinnati.  Dayton’s own Karri O’Reilly served as executive producer, and she invited me to be her “Plus One” for a lovely dinner & the film’s international premiere with some of the cast and crew (including the director, the Director of Photography, folks from Killer Films and more).  After the dinner, we all walked down the Red Carpet with fans, reporters and paparazzi clicking photos and hollering out for “Ellen” as we walked by (Ellen Page was right behind us, and everyone was hoping to get a great picture or an autograph).  The film was introduced by the director and all the key people from the film were onstage and thanked.  The film is a lovely, quiet romantic story about two women on opposing sides of the death penalty debate.  Starring Ellen Page, Kate Mara, Amy Seimetz, and Charlie Shotwell – the performances are all very strong.  This was the first time that many of the people involved with the film had seen it since the score had been added, and the crowd reaction went over quite well.  I think this film will find distribution, which doesn’t hurt to help secure even more films from shooting in the area.

So now I’m done with TIFF 2017.  I’ve seen some tremendous work, a few stinkers and quite few films that I think will do well at THE NEON.

Thanks so much for joining me on my cinematic journey.  (Below are a few pics from last night’s premiere.)

See you at the movies,

Jonathan

MANY CONGRATS to Karri O’Reilly & Her Team for a great film and a great premiere!

TIFF 2017 – Day #8

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Hello Everyone,

I’m starting to slow down.  A bit exhausted and a little sore (eyes, butt, etc.), it was time to scale back to four screenings today. Tomorrow will be my last day, and I’ll see even fewer because I have a big event on the books.  Dayton-based producer Karri O’Reilly (who has worked on numerous feature-length films around the world including BLUE CAR and CAROL) has a film premiering tomorrow night – MY DAYS OF MERCY (which shot in Cincinnati) – and she has invited me to be part of the festivities.  You’ll get all the latest before I head out of town on Saturday afternoon.

My first film for today was FILM STARS DON’T DIE IN LIVERPOOL, directed by Paul McGuigan.  Starring Annette Bening and Jamie Bell, this is the story of movie star Gloria Grahame and the last of her May-December romances.  At first, I found Bening’s accent and whispy delivery a little hard to take, but I eventually accepted it and fell for the chemistry of her and Jamie Bell (who is absolutely darling in this film).  The film has a jumpy structure, and I fear that some of our regulars (who prefer linear storylines) might get a little confused regarding the timeline.  Regardless, I think this is a film that could do well for us – especially if Bening gets an Oscar nomination.

MUDBOUND, directed by Dee Rees (PARIAH), was my second film of the day.  This film will get a very limited release (NYC and LA) and then go straight to streaming service on Netflix…which is too bad – because it works really well on a big screen.  That said, I think it will still be a big award contender this year.  With multiple protagonists/narrators, this is the story of two families in the deep South during World War II.  The racial tensions are heavy, and the stories are so well developed – a white family and a black family are trying to do the best they can for their families as they farm their land and try to encourage their children to excel.  This film, though set 80 years ago, is very timely…and it will break your heart.

DARKEST HOUR, directed by Joe Wright, has a lot of Oscar buzz for Gary Oldman playing Winston Churchill.  This is a film about the weeks leading up to Dunkirk…which has been a very popular theme this year (CHURCHILL, THEIR FINEST, DUNKIRK, and some television too).  This film is very polished and has some really wonderful moments, but I don’t completely agree with the Oscar buzz.  Is it a complete transformation?  Absolutely!  But I think his performance borders on camp – as some of his choices are very hammy and singsongy.  So I’m guessing I’ll be in the minority on this one.

MARROWBONE, directed by Sergio Sanchez (THE ORPHANAGE), was my final film of the day.  This ghost story/thriller is in the vein of THE OTHERS and SIXTH SENSE – but is clearly made for a more tweenage crowd.  It’s the story of a group of kids who lock themselves away from the world after the death of their mother.  With lovely photography and successful moments intended to make your jump, it works on a certain level…but the story too conveniently leaves out important plot points so it can reveal them later – which feels like cheating.  I also felt like some of the revelations were trite while others were genuinely fresh.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1FaRYVCZZyo

Only one day of screenings left.  In some respects, those first movies I saw exactly a week ago seem so far away…but it also seems like I just got here yesterday.

I’m going to try and get a good night of sleep so I don’t scare people with bloodshot eyes tomorrow.

Thanks for reading,

Jonathan

TIFF 2017 – Day #7

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Hello Everyone,

Today was another day with 5 films…and it was an impressive day of films. That said, I’m not quite certain how/why I’m still standing.

LEAN ON PETE, the new film from Andrew Haigh (WEEKEND, 45 YEARS) was my first film of the day.  This is a touching story about a teenage boy who is mostly left to fend for himself – his mother abandoned the family and his father works a lot and is consumed with a new relationship.  While on a morning run, the boy stumbles across a race track stable and is taken with the idea of getting to know how to tend horses.  Lean on Pete is an older quarter horse with whom the boy becomes enamored, and a slow, eloquent, sad story follows.  This film won’t be for everyone…and though I didn’t like every turn it took, I ultimately think this film is a gem.  (there is no trailer yet for this film)

A FANTASTIC WOMAN, the second film in the festival directed by Sebastian Lelio, was my next film for the day. It is brilliant!  When her boyfriend wakes up not feeling well and dies due to complications of an aneurysm, Marina notifies the family…and trouble ensues.  Marina is a trans woman, and the family doesn’t want her to be a part of the man’s wake.  Sad and inspiring and with a couple fantastical moments, this movie will end up as one of my favorites of the festival.

PROFESSOR MARSTON AND THE WONDER WOMEN, directed by Angela Robinson, is the story of William Marston’s polyamorous relationship and the creation of the Wonder Woman comics.  The story focuses heavily on the controversy of the early days of the comic that included lesbianism and BDSM.  Though beautifully shot and containing some wonderful performances, there were some details that kept me from fully embracing this story.  The script seemed contrived and too easy at moments, and the framing device of a hearing with Child Study Association of America could easily have been a powerful scene instead of a recurring element that ultimately weakens as the film progresses.  This film will find an audience, but its rough edges will keep it from going too far.

FACES PLACES, the new documentary from Agnes Varda and JR, is a cinematic, magical gift. I adore so much of Varda’s work, and this film was just the warm and joyful and insightful film I needed.  If you have a chance to see it on the big screen, don’t miss it!  Check out the trailer below for a taste. (added note: JR was in Dayton several years ago with his mobile photo printing truck!  You might remember large scale photos pasted to the Dayton Art Institute and the former Chin’s building.)

LOVING PABLO, directed by Fernando Leon de Aranoa was my last film of the day.  This is the story of Colombian drug lord Pablo Escobar as told by one of his lovers – famed journalist Virginia Vallejo.  This engaging story has two great central performances from Javier Bardem and Penelope Cruz.  And though I was fully engaged and admired many of the filmmaker’s choices, I found some of it hard to take.  When rampant killing sprees are backed by celebratory-like rock music, it seems as though the filmmaker is elevating the crimes to “rock star” proportions.  Almost as though they should be admired (which doesn’t sit well for me).  Overall, I liked the film…but I doubt I’ll revisit it.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NSDaVVqAm4o

Thanks so much for reading.  Only two days left for my festival experience.

More soon,

Jonathan

TIFF 2017 – Day #6

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Hello Everyone,

Today was a busy day.  I considered seeing 6 films, but I was backed up with NEON obligations (the weekly newsletter, emails, etc.), so I only saw 5…and then met a friend for a quick drink at a little gay industry soiree.  (I’m exhausted.)

My first film of the day was THE WIFE, directed Bjorn Runge and starring Glenn Close and Jonathan Pryce.  This film opens with a husband and wife preparing for bed and awaiting big news.  Within the first few minutes, we find out that he has just been awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature, and the couple are off to Stockholm to receive the award.  Close’s reactions seem supportive but with reservation.  It’s clear that something more is simmering under the surface.  Though well done, this film is pretty simple. The handful of flashback scenes almost do the film a disservice – as they aren’t particularly well done (and performances don’t live up to Close’s).  I think this film will find an audience, but its slow pace and somber tone will mean a limited reception.

I, TONYA, directed by Craig Gillespie, was my second film of the day.  This film is based on actual interviews about Tonya Harding and the assault of Nancy Kerrigan.  The film is a mix of colorful characters, and on the surface it seems like fun.  That said, there are moments when characters break the fourth wall…and those moments made me feel that they were making light of the domestic violence in the film – and that was hard to stomach.  Overall, it’s a good film with an absolute standout performance by one of Dayton’s own – Allison Janney (people are buzzing about a supporting Oscar nomination).  I think many people will love this film, but I have some major reservations.  The film made headlines a couple days ago when  it got picked up for distributional after a festival screening.

BPM (BEATS PER MINUTE), a narrative feature about ACT UP PARIS, directed by Robin Campillo, was my third film of the day.  This tender and engaging film about a group of activists during the height of the AIDS epidemic had me rather emotional.  There tactics were rather non-traditional and a bit aggressive, but they were clearly responsible for the government taking notice.  Though there are a couple narrative arcs in the story, it’s the one about the young couple (one positive and the other negative) that will break your heart.

A much-hyped film that made its premiere at Sundance – THE DISASTER ARTIST, directed by James Franco – was my next to last film of the day.  This film is about the making of THE ROOM – a film that is regarded as one of the worst films ever made.  Franco plays Tommy Wiseau – the director of the terrible film…and his brother James plays Greg Sister – Wiseau’s friend, co-star and collaborator.  This movie works without knowing anything about the film on which it is based…but it helps.  Franco’s performance seems so weird and out-of-control – but it’s truly based on a terribly odd man.  This film is destined for cult status – much like THE ROOM itself.

My final film of the day was a documentary called SCOTTY AND THE SECRET HISTORY OF HOLLYWOOD, directed by Matt Tyrnauer.  This is the story of a former Marine who opened a gas station in L.A. and catered to the sexual desires (either by himself or by finding and providing specific requests) of numerous Hollywood legends from the late 40’s to early 80’s.   Based in part on Scotty Bowers’ tell-all book about his time and clients at the gas station, this films starts off like a gossipy recount.  But then it turns into so much more.  Unapologetic and full of stories, Scotty is quite a character and the film is both hysterical and terribly sad.

I have 5 films slated for tomorrow, too.

Thanks for reading!

Jonathan

TIFF 2017 – Day #5

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Hello NEON Friends,

Today was a long one.  I saw 4 films that had me buzzing to three different venues around town – so there wasn’t much time for food and other such nonsense.

First off was DISOBEDIENCE by director Sebastian Lelio.  This quietly stirring film from the UK stars Rachel Weisz and Rachel McAdams, and the story centers around a woman who is returning to her Orthodox Jewish home after the death of her father.  It’s immediately clear that she is now an outsider, but even more tension seems to exist between her and two old friends.  The way in which this film reveals itself is quite lovely, but I feel like the pace might be a bit too slow for many who might initially be attracted to casting alone.

Next up was UNICORN STORE – the feature-length directorial debut from Brie Larson.  Larson introduced the film and she is one of the most gracious and sincere artists I’ve encountered (she thanked the projectionists, the sound people and everyone behind the scenes).  Because her mother couldn’t attend the screening, she took a picture of the audience (and I captured this sweet moment below).  The film is about a young woman who doesn’t make it at art school and moves back in with her parents.  She suffers from a certain woman-child issues…still wanting everything sprinkled with glitter and painted with rainbows.  When she finally lands a job, she receives an invitation to come to a secret store where a man offers her the ability to buy a unicorn.  This film certainly had fans in the audience…and it is very competently done (cinematography is nice, editing is solid, etc.) – but the story is relatively hokey and I couldn’t buy into it.  The sentiment of continuing to believe in magic and resisting to fit the mold is sweet, but I just couldn’t help but think “grow up.”

THREE BILLBOARDS OUTSIDE EBBING, MISSOURI, the new film from Martin McDonagh (IN BRUGES) was my next film.  Frances McDormand is incredible in the rather rough film about a woman who is trying to get the police to get more involved in finding the person(s) who raped and murdered her daughter.  With a tone not unlike some Coen Brothers material, this script is excellent (though many of these unlikable Southern characters use language that really makes me wince) and I think audiences will really embrace this film.  McDonagh, McDormand and Sam Rockwell were in attendance, and the Q&A was superb.

My final film for the day was one of the best films I’ve seen so far – THE SHAPE OF WATER from director Guillermo del Toro.  This fairy tale for adults will almost certainly receive a lot of Award Recognition this year.  Set in the 60’s, the story follows a mute cleaning lady who stumbles upon a government secret – an underwater creature with whom she begins to feel an attachment.  This really wonderful film is almost of hybrid of CREATURE FROM THE BLACK LAGOON and AMELIE…a fantastical romance that is very much for adults.  There are a couple scenes in the movie that are set in an old cinema…and the setting was actually the the old theatre where I saw the film.  The crowd went nuts – it was a magical moment. Del Toro, Sally Hawkins Octavia Spencer, Richard Jenkins and Michael Shannon were all there for a Q&A that was incredibly special. Hawkins is sheer magic – and should certainly be nominated for her performance.

It ended up being a very late night, and I’ve got at least 5 films scheduled for tomorrow.

Thanks so much for reading,

Jonathan

TIFF 2017 – Day #4

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Hello Everyone.

I just got in from a very full day.  I left the condo at 7:45am and returned at 1:45am.  I saw 4 films and countless celebrities…ranging from Emma Stone and Steve Carell to Judi Dench…and then several folks at a Fox Searchlight party including Nicholas Hoult, Octavia Spencer, Michael Shannon, Sarah Silverman, James McAvoy, and more.

The first film I saw today was a highly anticipated film (in some circles) from auteur Darren Aronofsky (director of BLACK SWAN).  It’s called MOTHER!, and I absolutely loathed it.  Though Aronofsky is a master craftsman, I’m simply not interested in his stories.  I often find his metaphors rather obtuse, and in the case of this film, the violence and brutality in the third act is just too much.  This is on the bottom of the list for me so far this year.

I cleansed the palette with JANE, a new documentary about Jane Goodall directed by Brett Morgen (director of THE KID STAYS IN THE PICTURE).  This new film is largely constructed from footage that was recently discovered (thought to have been lost) that was shot in the 1960’s by renowned National Geographic photographer Hugo van Lawick.  With a tremendous score by Philip Glass, the film is a love story and a gorgeous portrait of Goodall’s early monumental work with chimpanzees.  To make it extra special, Goodall was in attendance, and seeing her speak has been a highlight of the festival.  She’s so inspiring and commands attention through her passion, grace and eloquence. When she was approached to be a part of this documentary, she said “Not again,” but agreed nonetheless – and she said it’s been one of the best experiences of recounting her work. (below is a photo I took…there is no trailer available yet for this documentary)

VICTORIA & ABDUL, the new film by Stephen Frears, was next on the list.  And it didn’t disappoint.  (Fears has had an incredible career.  From MY BEAUTIFUL LAUNDERETTE to DANGEROUS LIAISONS to THE GRIFTERS to MRS. HENDERSON PRESENTS to PHILOMENA – many of his films are quite special to me.) This elegant period piece is not at all stuffy or staid, it’s actually quite funny and charming, and the chemistry between Dench and Fazel is magic.  This is a story about Queen Victoria’s later years and how she befriended an Indian man who was initially only intended to present her with a special gift from India.  This true story, which was supposed to have been wiped from the history books by Victoria’s son – King Edward VII, was discovered several years ago by author Shrabani Basu. I know that our audiences are going to love this film when it opens on October 6.  Extra special…Dench and many others were in attendance for a Q&A.

BATTLE OF THE SEXES was my final film of the day (though the after-party was something special too).  Directed by Jonathan Dayton & Valerie Faris (directors of LITTLE MISS SUNSHINE), this film is so much more than the shenanigans of Steve Carell featured in the trailer.  Based on the true story of Billie Jean King and her famous match with Bobby Riggs, we actually end up getting a lot of King’s personal struggle to live her own truth.  With a strong screenplay and strong performances across the board, I think we’ll do well with this film when it opens on Sept. 29 (this date just got bumped up over the weekend).  Extra special…Billie Jean King, Emma Stone, Steve Carell, Sarah Silverman, the directors and many others were in attendance for a Q&A.

After my final screening, I went to Fox Searchlight’s party that was held to celebrate the three films playing at the festival – BATTLE OF THE SEXES, THE SHAPE OF WATER and THREE BILLBOARDS.  This was the party to be at last night.  The cocktails and food were spectacular, and everywhere you turned, stars were everywhere – from Stone and Silverman to Michael Shannon, Octavia Spencer, Richard Jenkins, Rachel Weisz and Nicholas Hoult.  What a night!

Thanks for reading!

Jonathan

 

TIFF 2017 – Day #3

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Hello Everyone.

I had a couple nice surprises today.  Though I have liked some of Alexander Payne’s work (I adored his short in PARIS J’TAIME and I liked DESCENDANTS and NEBRASKA and ABOUT SCHMIDT), I wasn’t terribly excited about seeing DOWNSIZING.  It’s a satirical allegory about a man who decides to partake in a new government subsidized program that shrinks you – thus taking up less space, consuming less food, etc…it also allows you to live a potentially more lavish lifestyle – because your dollars go further when you need less of everything.  I wasn’t prepared for just how funny this film was going to be…yet still provide a mirror to contemporary injustices.  Critical response has been mixed, but I was engaged from beginning to end and liked what this film had to say.

Next up was the world premiere of THE CHILDREN ACT, directed by Richard Eyre (director of IRIS and NOTES ON A SCANDAL).  Emma Thompson and Stanley Tucci star in this British film about a family court judge who must determine difficult cases – i.e. should a set of conjoined twins be separated if one will certainly die even though they’ll both die if left conjoined.  The screenplay is so smart, and Thompson is in top form.  There is no trailer yet for this film, and it has not been picked up for distribution…but I’m certain it will.  Thompson and others were there to introduce the film and then answers questions after the film.  It was a wonderful Q&A and I did manage to get a couple pictures. (there is no trailer yet for this film)

My last film of the day was the terribly dark and disturbing film THE KILLING OF A SACRED DEER, directed by Yorgos Lanthimos.  (This film was shot in Cincinnati!) Starring Nicole Kidman and Colin Farrell, this film will is about a teenage boy who forms a relationship with the doctor who he believes is responsible for the death of his father.  After he befriends the entire family, he begins to terrorize them. With parallels and similarities to Greek tragedy (and in my opinion – Michael Haneke), this film is a in a category of its own.  The performances are intentionally a bit stifled and peculiar, but everyone is 100% invested in the off-kilter world that Lanthimos has created.  The sound design and score are an eerie and terrifying addition, and many audience members didn’t know what to make of this film.  (Which is kind of what happened with the diretor’s most recent film THE LOBSTER.)  Though I applaud the craft and was entirely absorbed during the screening of this film, it’s one that I have no intention to see again.  In my opinion, DOGTOOTH is still this director’s masterpiece. (my pic from the Q&A is below)

 

Thanks for reading!

Jonathan

TIFF 2017 – Day #2

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Hello Everyone.

Today was my 2nd day of screenings for the festival, and the first film I saw was ON CHESIL BEACH, directed by Dominic Cooke – based on the novel by Ian McEwan (McEwan wrote the screenplay too and was part of the Q&A).  This very British film has an incredible central performance by Saoirse Ronan.  Set mostly in the 1960s, the film is about two newlyweds who are having trouble consummating their relationship while on their beachside honeymoon. A series of flashbacks help us understand their backstories and courtship, and the story is beautifully told.  The film might be described as a bit staid by some, but I think it’s quite eloquent…though it could use one more cut.  There are a couple scenes that are absolutely brilliant, and I think this film will eventually find distribution.

GRACE JONES: BLOODLIGHT AND BAMI was the second film I saw today.  Directed by Sophie Fiennes, this documentary was funded by folks in Ireland and the UK.  Though Ms. Jones is an exceptional and striking performance artist, this film is entirely too long given the footage on display.  It makes sense that the director attempted to make an unconventional doc given her subject, but the grainy (VHS-looking) quality of the footage does a disservice to the material – especially the concert footage.  There are a lot of gems in this film, but an hour-long version would be much stronger.  (And I’d still love to see a documentary that contextualizes Ms. Jones and her artistic process in the fabric of the music scene.)

LADY BIRD, Greta Gerwig’s feature-length directorial debut, was the winner for today.  Saoirse Ronan stars as a high school senior living in Sacramento, California who really wants to get out of town, and her parents are expertly played by Laurie Metcalf and Tracy Letts.   This quirky comedy seems to have flavors of so many people with whom Gerwig has worked.  It’s a little bit Baumbach, a little bit Stillman…but still a whole lot of Gerwig. This film is a treat.  (Timothee Chalamet also has a small part in this film.  This officially makes Saoirse and Timothee two of the “It” gang for the season.  Both have incredible ranges and are a joy to watch on screen.)  During the Q&A (check out the photo I took below), Gerwig said that the film is about realizing how much you love something as you’re preparing to leave.  When she came to the stage to a standing ovation, she was in tears.  This personal film is certainly worth celebrating, and it’s clear that the film is coming from someone with a sincere, lovely attachment to the material.

During the Q&A, Gerwig also noted that the casting of Saoirse Ronan was born at TIFF in 2015.  The two both had films at the festival that year (BROOKLYN and MAGGIE’S PLAN) – and that’s when they met and read the script together in Ronan’s hotel room (Ronan read the lead and Gerwig read all the other parts).  Gerwig knew that Ronan was perfect for the role, and she pushed back production by 6 months to make certain it would work for everyone’s schedule.

I capped off the night at a fun party hosted by IFC with a couple friends who I met in Dayton over the years.  My friend Glenn works at Dolby and was a guest of the Dayton LGBT Film Festival several years ago (we’ll see several films together over the next few days), and Charlie is a publicist (representing a great roster of films this year) who regularly visits Dayton with his partner who grew up in Miamisburg.  It’s been great catching up with both of them.

Thanks for reading!

Jonathan

TIFF 2017 – Day #1

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Hello NEON Supporters,

Yesterday was a super easy day of travel.  Though there was one minor delay with a flight, we made up for it in the air…and customs was a breeze.  I was on a bus en route to the subway within 15 minutes of landing (perhaps an all-time record).  After about 40 minutes of travel to get to the central hub for Press & Industry folks, I got my credentials and first round of tickets, and I was feeling good.

Though my check-in with my airbnb was rather frustrating, I managed to get a lot of work done for the LGBT Film Fest while I awaited the key to my room…so yesterday was productive (albeit in a rather corporate setting and not on the streets of Toronto).

Today was my first day of screenings…and I’m off to a good start.

My first film this morning was LOVELESS – directed by Andrey Zvyagintsey (director of LEVIATHAN – nominated for “Best Foreign Film” a couple years ago…and won the Golden Globe). This Russian film won the Jury Prize at this year’s Cannes Film Festival.  It’s a film about a marriage that’s on the verge of divorce…and how the couple has become so consumed by themselves that they “abandon” their young son.  They don’t even immediately notice when he goes missing.  The film is a slow, slow burn, and I think some editors (or distributors…you know who I mean) would be inclined to chop a good 30 minutes out.  But this is all part of the point.  There’s a stillness in its lonely composition and a desire to hold a frame longer than usual…as though the director is provoking you to search for clues within the frame.  Overall, I think it’s a hard sell, but I’m glad I was along for the ride.

IN THE FADE was my next film – directed by Fatih Akin (director of EDGE OF HEAVEN – a lovely film we featured at the Dayton LGBT Film Fest several years ago.)  This German film stars Diane Kruger – who won “Best Actress” for her role in this film at the Cannes Film Festival.  It’s the story of a German woman who loses her husband (of Turkish descent) and son in an explosion…and soon finds out that the explosion was set by Neo-Nazis with the intent to kill foreigners.  This film turns from a courtroom drama into a tale of revenge on a dime (the original German title is “Aus Dem Nichts” – aka “Out Of Nowhere”), and the tension builds pretty quickly and effectively – until it becomes a little too absurd.  I liked it, but a few major eye rolls kept me really liking it more.

Regarding my third and final film of the day, I have to make a confession.  I had already seen it!  Sony Classics screened this and several other films for exhibitors in our market over the past several weeks…but this is one that I had to see again (there are 4 other films playing at the festival that I have already seen – but I won’t see any of them for a second time).  CALL ME BY YOUR NAME, directed by Luca Guadagnino (director of I AM LOVE  – one of my absolute favorite films of the past decade) – is an Italian film that’s mostly in English.  Based on one of the best novels I’ve read in quite some time (with a screenplay by James Ivory), this is the story of a teenage boy and his sexual awakening during the summer of 1983.  This film is absolutely one of the best films of the year, and the central performance by Timothy Chalamet is unbelievable.  The film is sensual in so many ways, and the soundtrack is one that I’ll own as soon as it’s available.  Checkout the trailer below…it’s only a small, delicious taste of what’s in store for you.  **Director Luca Gaudaanino and actors Armie Hammer and Timothee Chalamet did a brief and insightful Q&A after the screening.**

Thanks for checking in with me today.

I only have three films scheduled for tomorrow…and then it gets crazy after that.

All the best,

Jonathan

DAYTON LGBT FILM FEST Heading Into 12th Year!

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What do Bette Midler, Danny Glover, Danny DeVito, Laura Linney, Ian McKellen and Laverne Cox all have in common? They all have films playing at The Dayton LGBT Film Festival this year!

Titles are locked down, marketing materials are ready to go, and visiting artists are securing their travel plans for The 12th Annual Dayton LGBT Film Fest – taking place next month at THE NEON in Downtown Dayton.

During the weekend of Oct. 13-15, the festival will screen 17 films (a combination of shorts and features) with ties to the LGBT community – ranging from American comedies to International dramas…from narratives to documentaries. Directors, stars and other creative individuals from a handful of the selections are slated to attend.

One special guest will be Jill Alexander, an accomplished actress and co-star of SENSITIVITY TRAINING (pictured above on the left). The committee selected the film from over 100 submissions this year and was unaware (until after booking the film) that Alexander grew up right here in the Miami Valley and attended Beavercreek High School. The festival is thrilled to bring Alexander back home to share her work with the community and her family.

On Friday, October 13, attendees of the Opening Night Film FREAK SHOW will be invited to the Opening Night Party at The Mudlick Tavern – just a few blocks from THE NEON. For $8, guests will see the movie and then enjoy a complimentary cocktail and appetizers – this is certain to be a very hot ticket.

Though festival passes sold out in record time this year, patrons will have a chance to get single tickets for each of the screenings beginning Friday, September 8. Details about the films and how to get tickets can be found on the official site – www.daytonlgbt.com

Sponsors for this year’s festival include PFLAG Dayton, The Dayton Gay Men’s Chorus, Sue Spiegel & Lisa Hanauer, The Human Race Theatre Company, Miami Valley Fair Housing, AARP Ohio, The Greater Dayton LGBT Center, MJ’s On Jefferson, Johnny Dangerously, Equitas Health, David Lauri, Square Once Salon & Spa, Marion’s Piazza, Ken Byers, Kurt Fleagel & Warren Riffle, and Westminster Financial.

THE NEON is located at 130 E. 5th St in downtown Dayton. For additional information, visit the official site – www.daytonlgbt.com – or call THE NEON at (937)222-8452.

NEON Manager Preparing For Toronto International Film Festival

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Hello Everyone,

My bags are mostly packed, a third draft of my “Must See” list has been deciphered from my scribbled notes, and I can hardly contain my excitement as I prepare to embark on my 13th Toronto International Film Festival.

Over the past several years of attending TIFF, I’ve seen almost everything I set out to see.  I had a rhythm (which involved very little sleep), and I knew how early I needed to wake every morning in order to be one of the first dozen people in line (which helped to secure the really hot tickets).  But this year, they’ve mixed it up.  Instead of waiting in queue every day, I’ll have two small windows of opportunity to get on-line and request the tickets I desire for the entire festival…thus luck will have more to do with it than gumption.  My fingers are crossed.

I’ll be keeping a daily log of all the films I see (and stars I encounter).  Though I wish I could do all the festivals – like Berlin and Cannes and Sundance and NYFF and  Telluride – I’m actually quite happy that TIFF is the one that fits so well with my schedule.  I’ve loved going to the festival over the years, and I love being able to report my findings to all of you.

Here are a few films that I’m quite anxious to see:

SHAPE OF WATER – Sally Hawkins is divine.  Here’s the trailer:

LEAN ON PETE – from the director of WEEKEND and 45 YEARS (and creator of HBO’s LOOKING).  Here’s a clip:

CALL ME BY YOUR NAME – from the director of I AM LOVE (one of my favorite films of the past decade).  Here’s a trailer:

FACES AND PLACES – from the incomparable Agnes Varda and JR.  (I’m pretty certain that JR. has been to Dayton!)

Stay tuned.  I start screening movies Thursday morning!

Thanks for reading,

Jonathan

FREE Movie Tickets For Students at THE NEON

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THE NEON, Downtown Dayton’s Independent Cinema, will be giving away 200 free tickets to high school and college students who wish to see AN INCONVENIENT SEQUEL: TRUTH TO POWER.

A follow-up to Al Gore’s Oscar® Winning documentary AN INCONVENIENT TRUTH, this film follows Gore as he continues his tireless fight to train an army of activists and influence international climate policy. Cameras follow him behind the scenes — in moments both private and public, funny and poignant — as he pursues the inspirational idea that while the stakes have never been higher, the perils of climate change can be overcome with human ingenuity and passion.

Free tickets are being funded by the The Adler – Zsambok Foundation – an organization that strongly believes that young people must be made aware of current climate issues. The film is playing now through Thursday, August 24. Showtimes can be found at www.neonmovies.com, and tickets will be given on a first-come, first-serve basis to all high school and college students with valid student IDs.

THE NEON is located at 130 E. Fifth Street in downtown Dayton.