DAYTON LGBT FILM FESTIVAL

SKELETON TWINS and ALIVE INSIDE Open at THE NEON!

September 25, 2014 By Jonathan McNeal

Hello Everyone,

We’re moving forward this weekend with 2 new films! THE SKELETON TWINS has been winning high praise for Kristen Wiig and Bill Hader, and ALIVE INSIDE is a moving documentary that will uplift audiences and perhaps start a local movement.

Synopsis for THE SKELETON TWINS: “When estranged twins Maggie (Kristen Wiig) and Milo (Bill Hader) feel they’re at the end of their ropes, an unexpected reunion forces them to confront why their lives went so wrong. As the twins reconnect, they realize the key to fixing their lives may just lie in repairing their relationship.” (taken from Roadside Attractions) Click this LINK to visit the film’s official site.

Synopsis for ALIVE INSIDE: “Alive Inside is a joyous cinematic exploration of music’s capacity to reawaken our souls and uncover the deepest parts of our humanity. Filmmaker Michael Rossato-Bennett chronicles the astonishing experiences of individuals around the country who have been revitalized through the simple experience of listening to music. His camera reveals the uniquely human connection we find in music and how its healing power can triumph where prescription medication falls short. This stirring documentary follows social worker Dan Cohen, founder of the nonprofit organization Music & Memory, as he fights against a broken healthcare system to demonstrate music’s ability to combat memory loss and restore a deep sense of self to those suffering from it…An uplifting cinematic exploration of music and the mind, Alive Inside’s inspirational and emotional story left audiences humming, clapping and cheering at the 2014 Sundance Film Festival, where it won the Audience Award.” (taken from Bond/360) Click this LINK to visit the film’s official site.

“On Wednesday, October 8 at 7:30, there will be a one-time screening of AMERICAN WINTER immediately followed by a moderated discussion with the producer Harry Gantz. This screening is sponsored by the City of Dayton, Ohio CDC Association, and CareSource. ‘For countless middle-class families who have experienced job loss or an unexpected financial setback, the American Dream has become an American nightmare. Working families, seemingly on a path toward economic security, have discovered how quickly they can slip from the middle class into poverty. The film presents an intimate snapshot of the state of the nation’s economy as it is playing out in the lives of many American families.’ (From American Winter notes) A must see for those working with those in poverty and those involved in the formation of policy that impacts the community’s safety net services! Admission is $5 and open to the public. Tickets can be purchased by visiting THE NEON’s box office, going to www.thinktank-inc.org or by contacting [email protected].” (taken from press notes)

We received wonderful news late last week. THE WAY HE LOOKS, the opening night film of this year’s Dayton LGBT Film Festival, was selected by Brazil to represent their country in this year’s Oscar race. We’re so delighted that this little gem is getting such great recognition around the world! Our festival’s official website is now live, and festival passes (only 2 left) and single tickets are starting to move. Click this LINK to visit the site and read all about the films. If you get a ticket to Opening Night (only $8), you get to see the film (sponsored by Square One Salon & Spa) and attend the Opening Night Party at Salar (sponsored by Lisa Hanauer & Sue Spiegel) – where there will be complimentary wine and delicious appetizers. It’s really the best deal in town!

Thanks for your continued support!

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Friday, Sept. 26 – Thursday, Oct. 2:

THE SKELETON TWINS (R) 1 Hr 33 Min
Friday & Saturday: 12:30, 2:45, 5:00, 7:20, 9:40
Sunday: 12:30, 2:45, 5:00, 7:20
Monday: 3:15, 5:30, 7:45
Tuesday: 5:30, 7:45
Wednesday & Thursday: 3:15, 5:30, 7:45

ALIVE INSIDE (NR) 1 Hr 18 Min
Friday & Saturday: 1:00, 3:00, 5:15, 7:30, 9:30
Sunday: 1:00, 3:00, 5:15, 7:30
Monday: 3:00, 5:15, 7:30
Tuesday: 3:00, 7:30
Wednesday & Thursday: 3:00, 5:15, 7:30

COMING SOON:
(All Dates Are Tentative. Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear.)
Oct. 3 – LOVE IS STRANGE
Oct. 10-12 – DAYTON LGBT FILM FEST
Oct. 17 – MY OLD LADY
Oct. 24 – PRIDE
Nov. 7 – BIRDMAN
Nov. 14 – WHIPLASH
Nov. 28 – THE THEORY OF EVERYTHING

ENOUGH SAID, 2 French Imports & More at THE NEON

October 1, 2013 By Jonathan McNeal Leave a Comment

Hello Everyone,

We’re cleaning house this weekend. If you still need to see BLUE JASMINE, AUSTENLAND, SALINGER or THE HUNT, you only have until Thursday to see them at THE NEON. For remaining showtimes for this week, visit our official site at www.neonmovies.com.

On Friday, we will open 3 new films. First of all, we’ll open one of the best reviewed comedies of the year – a film I really like – ENOUGH SAID. Directed by Nicole Holofcener, this film is smart, funny & touching, and it has two incredible central performances by Julia Louis-Dreyfus and James Gandolfini. In addition, Francophiles will rejoice for our one-week engagement of 2 French films – POPULAIRE and HAUTE CUISINE (and foodies will certainly want to see the latter).

Synopsis for ENOUGH SAID: “A divorced and single parent, Eva (Julia Louis Dreyfus) spends her days enjoying work as a masseuse but dreading her daughter’s impending departure for college. She meets Albert (James Gandolfini) – a sweet, funny and like-minded man also facing an empty nest. As their romance quickly blossoms, Eva befriends Marianne (Catherine Keener), her new massage client. Marianne is a beautiful poet who seems “almost perfect” except for one prominent quality: she rags on her ex-husband way too much. Suddenly, Eva finds herself doubting her own relationship with Albert as she learns the truth about Marianne’s Ex. ENOUGH SAID is a sharp, insightful comedy that humorously explores the mess that often comes with getting involved again.” (taken from Fox Searchlight) Click HERE to visit the film’s official site.

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Synopsis for POPULAIRE: “Spring, 1958: 21-year-old Rose Pamphyle lives with her grouchy widower father who runs the village store. Engaged to the son of the local mechanic, she seems destined for the quiet, drudgery-filled life of a housewife. But that’s not the life Rose longs for. When she travels to Lisieux in Normandy, where charismatic insurance agency boss Louis Echard is advertising for a secretary, the ensuing interview is a disaster. But Rose reveals a special gift – she can type at extraordinary speed. Unwittingly, the young woman awakens the dormant sports fan in Louis. If she wants the job she’ll have to compete in a speed typing competition…He’ll turn her into the fastest girl in the world!” (taken from The Weinstein Company) Click HERE to visit the film’s official site.

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Synopsis for HAUTE CUISINE: “Hortense Laborie (Catherine Frot), a renowned chef from Perigord, is astonished when the President of the Republic (Jean d’Ormesson) appoints her his personal cook, responsible for creating all his meals at the Elysee Palace. Despite jealous resentment from the other kitchen staff, Hortense quickly establishes herself, thanks to her indomitable spirit. The authenticity of her cooking soon seduces the President, but the corridors of power are littered with traps.” (taken from The Weinstein Company) Click HERE to visit the film’s official site.

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THE DAYTON LGBT FILM FESTIVAL is just 10 days away! The dates are set for October 11-13, and the line-up is fantastic. The official site is up and running, and you can visit our Facebook Page for last-minute postings. We hope you’ll look at our site and find something you’d like to see…if you’re into thought-provoking documentaries or period films or satirical comedies, we’ve got it covered. As I’m writing this newsletter, there are less than 10 passes left (we made 60)…but there are plenty of single tickets to individual shows. Tickets can be purchased via the official site (with surcharges) or at THE NEON (for face value)!

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THE WATCHER’S REVELATION will screen October 24 at 7:30 and 9:45. “Is a race of benign extraterrestrials secretly influencing the world’s governments? Are these creatures really ancient aliens sent to protect humanity from self-destruction, or are they evil beings set on deception as the world approaches its final days?…This faith-based, science fiction film was made by lifepointe church in Dayton, OH, featuring a cast and crew of local talent who worked for an occasional pizza and the love of film. Tickets are $5 and extremely limited. They are available for purchase at lifepointe church and will be available at The Neon box office starting October 7.” (taken from Lifepointe Church press notes)

We’ve got so much going on in the next few weeks…and we’re heading into Oscar season. I’m so delighted to announce that 12 YEARS A SLAVE has just been added to our line-up. It’s certain to be nominated for “Best Picture” this year, and it is exceptional!

Thanks for your continued support!
We hope to see you soon,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Fri, Oct. 4 – Thurs, Oct. 10:

ENOUGH SAID (PG-13) 1 hr 33 min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 1:00, 3:10, 5:15, 7:30, 9:40
Monday – Thursday: 3:15, 5:30, 7:45

POPULAIRE (R) 1 hr 51 min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:30, 5:00, 9:30
Monday – Thursday: 5:15

HAUTE CUISINE (PG-13) 1 hr 35 min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 2:45, 7:20
Monday – Thursday: 3:00, 7:40

COMING SOON:
As always, all dates are tentative. Many of these dates will change.
In some rare cases, titles may disappear.
Oct. 11 – THE PATIENCE STONE
Oct. 18 – INEQUALITY FOR ALL
Octo. 25 – ALL IS LOST
Oct. 25 – WADJDA
Nov. 8 – 12 YEARS A SLAVE
Nov. 22 – DALLAS BUYERS CLUB
Nov. 22- KILL YOUR DARLINGS
TBD – CUTIE AND THE BOXER

SALINGER and THE HUNT Open Friday at THE NEON!

September 24, 2013 By Jonathan McNeal Leave a Comment

Hello Everyone,

We’re moving right along, and I think it’s fair to say that we’ve got something for everyone this weekend. In addition to holding AUSTENLAND and BLUE JASMINE for one more week, we will open the documentary SALINGER and the highly acclaimed film from Denmark –THE HUNT. For remaining showtimes for this week, visit our official site at www.neonmovies.com.

Synopsis for SALINGER: “SALINGER features interviews with 150 subjects including Salinger’s friends, colleagues and members of his inner circle who have never spoken on the record before as well as film footage, photographs and other material that has never been seen. Additionally, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Edward Norton, John Cusack, Danny DeVito, John Guare, Martin Sheen, David Milch, Robert Towne, Tom Wolfe, E.L. Doctorow, Gore Vidal and Pulitzer Prize winners A. Scott Berg and Elizabeth Frank talk about Salinger’s influence on their lives, their work and the broader culture. The film is the first work to get beyond the Catcher in the Rye author’s meticulously built up wall: his childhood, painstaking work methods, marriages, private world and the secrets he left behind after his death in 2010.” (taken from The Weinstein Company) Click HERE to visit the film’s official site.

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Synopsis for THE HUNT: “Mads Mikkelsen (NBC’s Hannibal, A ROYAL AFFAIR) won the Best Actor Award at the 2012 Cannes Film Festival for his penetrating portrayal of Lucas, a former school teacher who has been forced to start over having overcome a tough divorce and the loss of his job. Just as things are starting to go his way, his life is shattered when an untruthful remark throws his small community into a collective state of hysteria. As the lie spreads, Lucas is forced to fight a lonely fight for his life and dignity.” (taken from Magnolia Pictures) Click HERE to visit the film’s official site.

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THE DAYTON LGBT FILM FESTIVAL is heading into its 8th year, and we’ve just secured flights for 2 visiting filmmakers (with hopefully more to come). The dates are set for October 11-13, and the line-up is fantastic. The committee has been working on this year’s festival since April, and we’re proud of the response – festival passes are already flying. The official site is up and running, and you can visit our Facebook Page for last-minute and fun postings. We hope you’ll look at our site and find something you’d like to see…if you’re into thought-provoking documentaries or period films or satirical comedies, we’ve got it covered. Single tickets go on sale this Wednesday, Sept. 25…it’s certain to be an amazing festival!

I’m sure many of you have seen the trailer for one of the best reviewed comedies of the year – Nicole Holofcener’s ENOUGH SAID, starring Julia Louis-Dreyfus and James Gandolfini. I’m delighted to announce that it has moved up…it is now set to open next Friday (Oct. 4).

Thanks for your continued support!
We hope to see you soon,

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Fri, Sept. 27 – Thurs, Oct. 3:

BLUE JASMINE (PG-13) 1 Hr 38 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 2:50, 9:45
Monday – Thursday: 5:30

THE HUNT (R) 1 Hr 55 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:30, 5:00, 7:20
Monday – Thursday: 3:10, 7:50

AUSTENLAND (PG-13) 1 Hr 37 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:45, 5:10
Monday – Thursday: 5:20

SALINGER (PG-13) 2 Hrs
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 2:50, 7:15, 9:45
Monday – Thursday: 3:00, 7:45

COMING SOON:
As always, all dates are tentative. Many of these dates will change.
In some rare cases, titles may disappear.
Oct. 4 – ENOUGH SAID
Oct. 11 – THE PATIENCE STONE
Oct. 18 – INEQUALITY FOR ALL
Oct. 25 – WADJDA
Nov. 22- KILL YOUR DARLINGS
Nov. 22 –DALLAS BUYERS CLUB
TBD – CUTIE AND THE BOXER

THE GIRL WHO PLAYED WITH FIRE Comes To Town!

September 3, 2010 By Jonathan McNeal 2 Comments

Hello Everyone.

The next several weeks are full of special events. In addition to seeing all of our engagements, you’ll want to get out your calendar to make certain you don’t miss many of these unique opportunities to see so many great films at THE NEON.

GET LOW – the new highly acclaimed film with Robert Duvall, Bill Murray, and Sissy Spacek – is a hit. Audiences are loving it…and it will stick around. That said, THE KIDS ARE ALL RIGHT and WINTER’S BONE have reached the end of their very successful runs. Both of these films will only play through Thursday. On Friday, we will open the 2nd film in the Millennium Trilogy – THE GIRL WHO PLAYED WITH FIRE. We’ve had more phone calls about this title than any other recent film. We hope Daytonians turn out for this installment!

Synopsis for THE GIRL WHO PLAYED WITH FIRE: “Two journalists on the verge of exposing their story in Millennium about an extensive sex trafficking operation between Eastern Europe and Sweden are brutally murdered. Lisbeth Salander’s prints are on the weapon.
Mikael Blomkvist, alone in his belief in Salander’s innocence, plunges into an investigation of the slayings which will implicate highly placed members of Swedish society, business and government. Knowing Salander to be fierce when fearful, he is desperate to get to her before she is cornered and alone but she is nowhere to be found. Digging deeper, Blomkvist also unearths some heart-wrenching facts about Salander’s past life…” (taken from press notes)

On Wednesday, September 15th at 7:30 p.m. MochaReaders will host a special screening of the 70’s hit movie FOXY BROWN starring legendary actress Pam Grier. Movie goers will enjoy refreshments, special giveaways and WWRD-TV32 will highlight the event. Join MochaReaders in celebrating and welcoming Pam Grier to Dayton to promote her new book. (Ms. Grier will appear at “A Foxy Affair – An Evening with Pam Grier” at Ponitz Career Technology Center, 471 Washington Street on Thursday, Sept. 16. For more information visit www.mochareaders.com or call (937) 361-7657.) Single tickets to the Wednesday, Sept. 15 screening of FOXY BROWN (on 35mm) are just $5 and are now available at THE NEON’s box office!

On Thursday, Sept. 16, DATV will present the MEDIA THAT MATTERS FILM FESTIVAL. The festival showcases 12 jury selected short films – each 12 minutes or less – that tackle a broad range of social issues with humor, humanity and honesty. Tickets are $15 each and are available on-line at www.datv.org or at our box office.

The Downtown Dayton LGBT Film Festival is swinging into action for its 5th year! The wonderfully designed website just launched last week. Check it out at www.daytonlgbt.com. The website is full of images and links to trailers and official sites. It also outlines all of the sponsors for this year. GREAT NEWS! We have just secured the attendance of 4 guest artists (and perhaps even more will be announced soon). Casper Andreas – director of VIOLET TENDENCIES (Saturday, Sept. 25 at 9:30), Sarah Louise Lilley – star & producer of NOTHING HAPPENED and Jessica Provenz – writer and producer of NOTHING HAPPENED (Saturday, Sept. 25 at 3:00), and Heath Daniels – writer, star and producer of GO-GO REJECT (also on Saturday, Sept. 25 at 3:00) will attend the fest. These guest artists will be flying in from NYC and LA…and I hope they’ll have a warm reception with an enthusiastic crowd at each screening – please help to make it happen.

Living City Film Fest is at it again! This year, the festival will be a celebration of the career of Jeff Bridges. Titles include THE FABULOUS BAKER BOYS, THE LAST PICTURE SHOW and THE BIG LEBOWSKI (each on 35mm)…a full line-up of titles, sponsors and dates (October/November) will be announced soon.

FREE TICKET information.
CONGRATULATIONS!!
The winners of a pass good for 2 people to THE NEON are Lee & Milly H! There were only 16 entries into our review contest…so Milly H & Lee had great odds of winning (with 5 entries between the 2 of them). I’ll keep you posted as we may re-work this contest and launch it again in the future.

We hope to see you soon.
Take care,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for September 3 – September 9:

GET LOW (PG-13) 100 Minutes
Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Monday: 12:40, 2:50, 5:10, 7:30, 9:50
Tuesday – Thursday: 2:50, 5:10, 7:30

THE GIRL WHO PLAYED WITH FIRE (R) 129 Minutes
Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Monday: 1:00, 4:00, 7:00, 9:45
Tuesday – Thursday: 2:15, 5:15, 7:45

COMING SOON:
As always, all dates are tentative.

Sept. 10 JOAN RIVERS – A PIECE OF WORK

Sept. 17 ANIMAL KINGDOM & RESTREPO

Sept. 24 FAREWELL

Oct. 1 THE ELEPHANT IN THE LIVING ROOM

Oct. 8 LEBANON

Oct. 15 A WOMAN, A MAN & A NOODLE SHOP

TBD WILD GRASS