Dayton Ohio

THE NEON – Oscar Nominee THE GREAT BEAUTY Opens and FREE Oscar Party News!

February 27, 2014 By Jonathan McNeal Leave a Comment

Hello Everyone,

Every now and then I hear people say “I wish you’d bring more foreign films to town”…well now’s your chance. Between the Oscar Shorts, THE PAST, and GLORIA, we’re having a nice run of foreign material at THE NEON. And starting this Friday we’ll have THE GREAT BEAUTY, the Italian picture nominated for “Best Foreign Film!” In addition to it, we will hold all of our other current attractions – PHILOMENA, DALLAS BUYERS CLUB and GLORIA!

Click this LINK to visit the official site for PHILOMENA. Click this LINK to visit the official site for DALLAS BUYERS CLUB. Click this LINK to visit the official site for GLORIA.

Synopsis for THE GREAT BEAUTY: “Journalist Jep Gambardella has charmed and seduced his way through the lavish nightlife of Rome for decades. Since the legendary success of his one and only novel, he has been a permanent fixture in the city’s literary and social circles, but when his sixty-fifth birthday coincides with a shock from the past, Jep finds himself unexpectedly taking stock of his life, turning his cutting wit on himself and his contemporaries, and looking past the extravagant nightclubs, parties, and cafes to find Rome in all its glory: a timeless landscape of absurd, exquisite beauty.” Nominated for “Best Foreign Film” at this year’s Academy Awards. Click on this LINK below to visit the film’s official site.

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I’m happy to report that the latest tugg request we received will move forward! Special thanks to those of you who got on-line and reserved your ticket! On Thursday, March 6 at 7:30, the Ohio Valley Chapter of the National MS Society will host a screening of WHEN I WALK. “In 2006, 25-year-old Jason DaSilva was on vacation at the beach with family when, suddenly, he fell down. He couldn’t get back up. His legs had stopped working; his disease could no longer be ignored. Just a few months earlier doctors had told him that he had multiple sclerosis…Jason tried exercise to help cope, but the problem only worsened. After his dispiriting fall on the beach, he turned to his Mom, who reminded him that, despite his disease, he was still a fortunate kid who had the opportunity to pursue the things he loved most: art and filmmaking. Jason picked up the camera, turned it on his declining body, and set out on a worldwide journey in search of healing, self-discovery, and love.” Read more about the film, watch the wonderful trailer and reserve your ticket at this LINK.

We’re ready for you this Sunday! THE NEON’s Annual Oscar Party has been a success for more than a decade, and we’re excited that ThinkTV has once again agreed to help us get a signal for the broadcast. On Sunday, March 2, seating will begin as close to 7pm as possible (which is when the pre-show begins). Ballots for guessing the winners are now available in our lobby…and must be turned in before the first award is given (guests must be present during our party to be eligible for prizes). Prizes will be given throughout the evening for correct guesses…and the Grand Prize – “The Star Treatment” (courtesy of Square One Salon & Spa and THE NEON) – will go to the person with the most correct guesses. This party is FREE and YOU are Invited! Come in anytime on Sunday, March 2 to turn in your ballot. Upon turning in a ballot (one per person), you will be given a number – which will result in the seating priority later that night.

We hope to see many of you this weekend!

Thanks for your continued support,

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Friday, Feb. 28 – Thursday, March 6:

PHILOMENA (PG-13) 1 Hr 38 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:40, 5:10
Monday – Thursday: 3:00

GLORIA (R) 1 Hr 50 Min
Friday, Saturday: 2:50, 7:20, 9:45
Sunday: 2:50
Monday – Wednesday: 5:15, 7:45
Thursday: 5:15

DALLAS BUYERS CLUB (R) 1 Hr 57 Min
Friday, Saturday: 4:30, 9:50
Sunday: 4:30
Monday – Thursday: 5:30

THE GREAT BEAUTY (NR) 2 Hrs 22 Mins
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 1:30, 7:00
Monday-Thursday: 2:30, 8:00

THE NEON’S ANNUAL OSCAR PARTY (NR) Who Knows?!?
Sunday: Seating begins at 7:00

WHEN I WALK (NR) 1 Hr 24 Min + discussion
Thursday: 7:30

COMING SOON:
As always, all dates are tentative. Many of these dates will change.
In some rare cases, titles may disappear.
March 7 – OMAR (Nominated for Best Foreign Film)
March 14 – ELAINE STRITCH: SHOOT ME
March 21 – GRAND BUDAPEST HOTEL
TBD – TIM’S VERMEER
TBD – LE WEEK-END
April 18 – THE LUNCHBOX

ARMSTRONG LIE & OSCAR SHORTS Open Friday at THE NEON!

February 4, 2014 By Jonathan McNeal Leave a Comment

Hello Everyone,

We’re truckin’ right along with new titles at THE NEON. If you haven’t had a chance to see INSIDE LLEWYN DAVIS, Thursday will be your last chance to see it with us. On Friday, we will open the new documentary THE ARMSTRONG LIE as well as the Animated Short and Live Action Short Contenders for this year’s OSCAR Race. THE INVISIBLE WOMAN will stick around for another week – though showtimes are limited. Remaining showtimes for this week can be found at www.neonmovies.com

Synopsis for THE ARMSTRONG LIE: “In 2009 Alex Gibney was hired to make a film about Lance Armstrong’s comeback to cycling. The project was shelved when the doping scandal erupted, and re-opened after Armstrong’s confession.” (Taken from Sony Classics) Click this LINK to visit the film’s official site.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YMo78N4BMww’]

Synopsis for THE OSCAR SHORTS: “ShortsHD is once again bringing the wildly popular OSCAR Nominated Short Film programs to theaters around the globe. The theatrical release of The OSCAR Nominated Short Films has met enthusiastic audiences ever since its launch 8 years ago – giving people around the world an opportunity to see the nominated films prior to the OSCAR Awards ceremony on March 2nd.” (taken from press notes) On Feb. 7, THE NEON will open 2 Programs – LIVE ACTION and ANIMATION. (On Feb. 14, THE NEON plans to open the DOCUMENTARY Program.) Click this LINK to visit the official site for these programs.

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“The Miamisburg Malayalee Organization is arranging the screening of the highly acclaimed Indian film DRISHYAM on Saturday, Feb. 8 at 11:30am. This drama-thriller was written and directed by Jeethu Joseph and stars Mohanlal and Meena. ‘After his family commits an unexpected crime, a man desperately tries to save them from getting in trouble with the law.’ If you would like more details about reserving a ticket and helping to sponsor this event, please contact the organization at (937)654-7715. Remaining tickets will be available at the door for $10 each.” This just in! This film will unfortunately NOT be subtitled!

“The Junior Leaguers Club of Dayton, an African American based organization, will hold a fundraiser with the film SANKOFA on Saturday, Feb. 22 at Noon. This film is about an African American model on a photo shoot in Africa who has an ancestral experience which transforms her life and consciousness. ‘Sankofa’ is an Akan word that means ‘we must go back and reclaim our past so that we can move forward.’ The profit from this event will fund scholarships to graduating seniors in the Miami Valley. Applications will be available at the event in case you know a worthy student to submit to the organization. Tickets may be purchased at the Neon for $30. (Student tickets are $15 each.) The price includes a movie ticket, popcorn, soda, and a glass of wine for adults.” (Taken from press notes.)

Thanks for your continued support.

Oscar Ballots are now available at our Box Office. Take one home, toil over it, and bring it back on March 2 for your chance to win great prizes!

We hope to see many of you this weekend!

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Friday, Feb. 7 – Thursday, Feb. 13:

THE INVISIBLE WOMAN (R) 1 hrs 51 min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 2:30, 7:20
Monday – Wednesday: 5:15
Thursday: 12:15, 5:15

THE ARMSTRONG LIE (R) 2 hr 04 min
Friday: 12:00, 4:50, 9:40
Saturday: 4:50, 9:40
Sunday: 12:00, 4:50
Monday – Thursday: 2:45, 7:40

OSCAR SHORTS – ANIMATED (NR – suggested PG) 1 Hr 42 Min
Friday, Saturday: 12:30, 5:10, 9:45
Sunday: 12:30, 5:10
Monday – Thursday: 3:10, 7:45

OSCAR SHORTS – LIVE ACTION (NR – suggested R) 1 Hr 53 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 2:45, 7:30
Monday – Thursday: 5:20

DRISHYAM (NR) 2 Hr 40 Min
Saturday: 11:30am

FACEBOOK DETECTIVE (NR)
Thursday: Noon
(one-time screening of a soon-to-be Lifetime Movie)

COMING SOON:
As always, all dates are tentative. Many of these dates will change.
In some rare cases, titles may disappear.
TBD – THE PAST
TBD – GLORIA
March 7 – OMAR
TBD – GRAND BUDAPEST HOTEL
TBD – TIM’S VERMEER
TBD – LE WEEK-END
TBD – THE LUNCHBOX

Ralph Fiennes’ INVISIBLE WOMAN Opens Friday at THE NEON

January 29, 2014 By Jonathan McNeal Leave a Comment

Hello Everyone,

It’s time to start moving along at THE NEON. If you still need to see AUGUST: OSAGE COUNTY, tomorrow (Thursday) will be its last day with us. The Coen Brothers’ INSIDE LLEWYN DAVIS will stick around for another week, and on Friday we’ll open the new film directed by (and starring) Ralph Fiennes – THE INVISIBLE WOMAN. Remaining showtimes for this week can be found at www.neonmovies.com

Synopsis for THE INVISIBLE WOMAN: “Nelly (Felicity Jones), a happily-married mother and schoolteacher, is haunted by her past. Her memories, provoked by remorse and guilt, take us back in time to follow the story of her relationship with Charles Dickens (Ralph Fiennes) with whom she discovered an exciting but fragile complicity.” (Taken from Sony Pictures Classics) This lovely film, also starring NEON-favorite Kristin Scott Thomas, will delight our regulars who love period costume dramas…but it goes beyond that. Giving the film a 100% review, Scott Foundas of VARIETY wrote, “So tastefully mounted and brilliantly acted that it wears down even the corset-phobic’s innate resistance to such things.” Click on this LINK to visit the film’s official site.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WDMHb3GetIc’]

Fans of THE NEON have requested a special screening of a fantasy film called KNIGHTS OF BADASSDOM (a films about Live Action Role Playing starring Peter Dinklage and Steve Zahn). They worked with Tugg to see if there was enough interest in screening the film in Dayton…and the required reservations crossed the threshold. This means that the screening will happen on Wednesday, February 5 at 8:30. To buy tickets in advance, visit this LINK. If any tickets remain, they will be sold at the door on the night of the screening.

“The Junior Leaguers Club of Dayton, an African American based organization, will hold a fundraiser with the film SANKOFA on Saturday, Feb. 22 at Noon. This film is about an African American model on a photo shoot in Africa who has an ancestral experience which transforms her life and consciousness. ‘Sankofa’ is an Akan word that means ‘we must go back and reclaim our past so that we can move forward.’ The profit from this event will fund scholarships to graduating seniors in the Miami Valley. Applications will be available at the event in case you know a worthy student to submit to the organization. Tickets may be purchased at the Neon for $30. (Student tickets are $15 each.) The price includes a movie ticket, popcorn, soda, and a glass of wine for adults.” (Taken from press notes.)

Thanks for your continued support.
Mark your calendars for our annual Oscar Party – March 2! More details coming soon.
We hope to see many of you this weekend!

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Friday, Jan. 31 – Thursday, Feb. 6:

THE INVISIBLE WOMAN (R) 1 hrs 51 min
Friday, Saturday: 12:20, 2:40, 5:00, 7:20, 9:40
Sunday: 12:20, 2:40, 5:00, 7:20
Monday – Thursday: 2:50, 5:15, 7:40

INSIDE LLEWYN DAVIS (R) 1 hr 45 min
Friday, Saturday: 12:30, 2:50, 5:15, 7:30, 9:50
Sunday: 12:30, 2:50, 5:15, 7:30
Monday & Tuesday: 3:00, 5:20, 7:45
Wednesday: 3:00, 5:20
Thursday: 3:00, 5:20, 7:45

KNIGHTS OF BADASSDOM (R) 1 Hr 26 Min
Wednesday: 8:30

COMING SOON:
As always, all dates are tentative. Many of these dates will change.
In some rare cases, titles may disappear.
TBD – OSCAR NOMINATED SHORTS
Feb. 7 – THE ARMSTRONG LIE
TBD – THE PAST
TBD – GLORIA
TBD – GRAND BUDAPEST HOTEL
TBD – TIM’S VERMEER
TBD – LE WEEK-END
TBD – THE LUNCHBOX

2 Hits Led To THE NEON’s Best Weekend Ever!

January 15, 2014 By Jonathan McNeal Leave a Comment

Hello Everyone,

THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU! We just had our best weekend ever!!

AUGUST: OSAGE COUNTY performed wonderfully – with several sold-out screenings over the weekend. INSIDE LLEWYN DAVIS also did quite well. I’m pretty certain that both films will stick around for a couple more weeks…but we do have other exciting films down the road.

It’s interesting to note that even though we had our best weekend ever, neither film could take the prize for “Best Opening Weekend.” That title still belongs to FAHRENHEIT 9/11 (with MOONRISE KINGDOM close behind).

Click this LINK to visit the official site for AUGUST: OSAGE COUNTY. Click this LINK to visit the official site for INSIDE LLEWYN DAVIS.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eiy1Ne5CGv4′]

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“VERY YOUNG GIRLS is Start Freedom Dayton’s first film of 2014. VYG takes a look at human trafficking from the victims’ perspective and introduces us to Rachel Lloyd, the founder of NYC based GEMS – an organization dedicated to empowering victims to escape and live new lives. VYG is sponsored by Peace on Fifth and newest friend the Zonta Club of Dayton – an organization advocating for the status of women worldwide. Amanda Arrington from the East End Community Center will lead discussion after the film. Learn what is happening locally and how you can get involved. Ticket prices help keep this film series going. A program of Peace on Fifth fully supported by the community. The screening is scheduled for January 23 at 7:30, and tickets are just $8 – available exclusively at THE NEON. Contact Peace on Fifth with questions at 937.367.7215 or at [email protected]” (Taken from Peace On Fifth press notes.)

RISING FROM THE ASHES, the award-winning feature-length documentary about Team Rwanda, will premiere at THE NEON on Monday, January 27 at 7:30 p.m. The event is presented by Garry Harrington & sponsored by Five Rivers MetroParks. “RISING FROM THE ASHES is a joyous and uplifting independent film about the development of a national cycling team in Rwanda, a country still affected deeply by the genocide that tore the East African nation apart in 1994…The documentary tells a story of redemption, hope and second chances. It is not about the bike; however, the bicycle becomes a tool that has helped change a nation…Advance tickets are $11 and can be purchased online by clicking this LINK. Remaining tickets at the door will be $15…For more information about the film, go to www.risingfromashesthemovie.com.” (press notes provided by Garry Harrington) Advanced tickets for this event are only available on-line.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bXfq0DxS4KM’]

Fans of THE NEON have requested a special screening of a fantasy film called KNIGHTS OF BADASSDOM (a films about Live Action Role Playing starring Peter Dinklage and Steve Zahn). They worked with Tugg to see if there was enough interest in screening the film in Dayton…and the required reservations just crossed the threshold. This means that the screening will happen on Wednesday, February 5 at 8:30. To buy tickets in advance, visit this LINK. If any tickets remain, they will be sold at the door on the night of the screening.

Thanks for your continued support.
Oscar nominations come out this week. Have you made your predictions?

We hope to see you soon!

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Friday, Jan. 17 – Thursday, Jan. 23:

AUGUST: OSAGE COUNTY (R) 2 hrs 01 min
Friday, Saturday: 11:40, 2:10, 4:45, 7:20, 9:45
Sunday: 11:40, 2:10, 4:45, 7:20
Monday: 3:00, 5:20, 7:40
Tuesday – Thursday: 2:45, 5:15, 7:40

INSIDE LLEWYN DAVIS (R) 1 hr 45 min
Friday, Saturday: 12:30, 3:00, 5:15, 7:30, 9:50
Sunday: 3:00, 5:15, 7:30
Monday – Wednesday: 3:00, 5:20, 7:45
Thursday: 3:00, 5:20

VERY YOUNG GIRLS (NR) 1 Hr 23 Min + discussion
Thursday: 7:30

COMING SOON:
As always, all dates are tentative. Many of these dates will change.
In some rare cases, titles may disappear.
TBD – THE ARMSTRONG LIE
TBD – THE PAST
TBD – THE INVISIBLE WOMAN
TBD – OSCAR-NOMINATED SHORTS
TBD – GLORIA
TBD – GRAND BUDAPEST HOTEL
TBD – TIM’S VERMEER
TBD – LE WEEK-END
TBD – THE LUNCHBOX

New Coen Brothers & Meryl Streep/Julia Roberts Movies Open Friday at THE NEON

January 8, 2014 By Jonathan McNeal Leave a Comment

Hello Everyone,

In the last few days of 2013, PHILOMENA took a leap and became the most successful film of the year at THE NEON! That’s pretty awesome. Can you guess #2 and #3? (I’ll let you know next week.) If you still need to see PHILOMENA or NEBRASKA or BLUE IS THE WARMEST COLOR, Thursday (Jan. 9) will be your last chance to catch them at THE NEON. Check out our website for showtimes at www.neonmovies.com.

On Friday, we will open 2 highly anticipated films…the new film from The Coen Brothers – INSIDE LLEWYN DAVIS and the star-studded adaptation of Tracy Letts’ Pulitzer Prize-Winning play – AUGUST: OSAGE COUNTY. We’re hoping for an exciting weekend!

Synopsis for INSIDE LLEWYN DAVIS: “INSIDE LLEWYN DAVIS follows a week in the life of a young folk singer as he navigates the Greenwich Village folk scene of 1961. Guitar in tow, huddled against the unforgiving New York winter, he is struggling to make it as a musician against seemingly insurmountable obstacles-some of them of his own making.” (CBS Films) The latest from The Coen Brothers is one of the most anticipated films of the season – starring Oscar Isaac, Carey Mulligan, Garrett Hedlund, John Goodman, and Justin Timberlake. Click this LINK to visit the official site.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fmyglO2Zr0E’]

Synopsis for AUGUST: OSAGE COUNTY: “AUGUST: OSAGE COUNTY tells the dark, hilarious and deeply touching story of the strong-willed women of the Weston family, whose lives have diverged until a family crisis brings them back to the Midwest house they grew up in, and to the dysfunctional woman who raised them. Letts’ play made its Broadway debut in December 2007 after premiering at Chicago’s legendary Steppenwolf Theatre earlier that year. It continued with a successful international run.” (The Weinstein Company) This all-star cast has been getting a lot of buzz, and both Meryl Streep and Julia Roberts have been nominated for Golden Globe Awards for their performances! Click this LINK to visit the official site.

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In addition to these 2 new films, we have something that’s suitable for the entire family. For 2 special screenings only, we will play THE ADVENTURER: CURSE OF THE MIDAS BOX on Saturday and Sunday mornings. “Ancient mysteries. Powerful evil. A fearless hero’s quest through a fantastical realm of steam-powered wonders and sinister magic. In THE ADVENTURER: CURSE OF THE MIDAS BOX, seventeen-year-old Mariah Mundi’s life is turned upside down when his parents vanish and his younger brother is kidnapped. Following a trail of clues to the darkly majestic Prince Regent Hotel, Mariah discovers a hidden realm of child-stealing monsters, deadly secrets and a long-lost artifact that grants limitless wealth – but also devastating supernatural power. With the fate of his world and his family at stake, Mariah will risk everything to unravel the Curse of the Midas Box!”

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oW8pxkUpXIU’]

Some fans of THE NEON have requested a special screening of a fantasy film called KNIGHTS OF BADASSDOM (a film about Live Action Role Playing starring Peter Dinklage and Steve Zahn). They’re working with Tugg in hopes of drumming up enough interest to make the screening happen. If 66 tickets are reserved by Jan. 22, then the screening will take place on Wednesday, February 5 at 8:30. To reserve a ticket, follow this LINK. Your card will only be charged if enough people reserve tickets and the event moves forward.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zyougFDZ7zU’]

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

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Friday, Jan. 10 – Thursday, Jan. 16:

AUGUST: OSAGE COUNTY (R) 2 hrs 01 min
Friday, Saturday: 11:50, 2:15, 4:45, 7:15, 9:45
Sunday: 11:50, 2:15, 4:45, 7:15
Monday – Thursday: 2:45, 5:15, 7:40

INSIDE LLEWYN DAVIS (R) 1 hr 45 min
Friday: 2:50, 5:10, 7:30, 9:50
Saturday: 12:30, 2:50, 5:10, 7:30, 9:50
Sunday: 12:30, 2:50, 5:10, 7:30
Monday – Thursday: 3:00, 5:20, 7:45

THE ADVENTURER: CURSE OF THE MIDAS BOX (PG)1 Hr 39 Min
Saturday, Sunday: 10:30am

COMING SOON:
As always, all dates are tentative. Many of these dates will change.
In some rare cases, titles may disappear.
TBD – THE ARMSTRONG LIE
TBD – THE PAST
TBD – THE INVISIBLE WOMAN
TBD – OSCAR-NOMINATED SHORTS
TBD – GLORIA
TBD – GRAND BUDAPEST HOTEL
TBD – TIM’S VERMEER
TBD – LE WEEK-END
TBD – THE LUNCHBOX

BLUE IS THE WARMEST COLOR Opens at THE NEON!

January 2, 2014 By Jonathan McNeal Leave a Comment

Hello Everyone,

Snowy out? No worries! THE NEON is open!!

Word of mouth continues to be amazing for PHILOMENA. In fact, both PHILOMENA and NEBRASKA saw spikes in attendance over the weekend. That said, we still want to move forward with BLUE IS THE WARMEST COLOR before we get busy with 2 huge titles on January 10. If you want to see any of these three films, you’ll only have until January 9.

Synopsis for BLUE IS THE WARMEST COLOR: “The sensation of the Cannes Film Festival and the most controversial film of the year, BLUE IS THE WARMEST COLOR made cinema history as the first film ever awarded the Palme d’Or to both its director and its actresses. In a star-making role, Adèle Exarchopoulos is Adèle, a passionate young woman who has a yearning she doesn’t quite understand until a chance encounter with the blue-haired Emma ignites a flame and brings her to life. Léa Seydoux (Midnight in Paris) gives a fearless performance as Emma, the older woman who excites Adèle’s desire and becomes the love of her life. Abdellatif Kechiche’s intimate epic of tenderness and passion charts their relationship over the course of several years, from the ecstasy of a first kiss to the agony of heartbreak. Pulsing with gestures, embraces, furtive exchanges, and arias of joy and devastation, BLUE IS THE WARMEST COLOR is a profoundly moving hymn to both love and life.” (IFC Films) Click this LINK to visit the official site. Because this film is rated NC-17 for explicit sexual content, patrons must be 18 or over for admission.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y2OLRrocn3s’]

Next Friday (Jan. 10), we are slated to open 2 highly anticipated films – INSIDE LLEWYN DAVIS (the new film from The Coen Brothers) and AUGUST: OSAGE COUNTY (starring Meryl Streep, Julia Roberts and numerous other incredible actors). We think it will be a pretty amazing weekend.

“VERY YOUNG GIRLS is Start Freedom Dayton’s first film of 2014. VYG takes a look at human trafficking from the victims’ perspective and introduces us to Rachel Lloyd, the founder of NYC based GEMS – an organization dedicated to empowering victims to escape and live new lives. VYG is sponsored by Peace on Fifth and newest friend the Zonta Club of Dayton – an organization advocating for the status of women worldwide. Amanda Arrington from the East End Community Center will lead discussion after the film. Learn what is happening locally and how you can get involved. Ticket prices help keep this film series going. A program of Peace on Fifth fully supported by the community. The screening is scheduled for January 23 at 7:30, and tickets will be $8 and available exclusively at THE NEON (beginning this Friday). Contact Peace on Fifth with questions at 937.367.7215 or at [email protected]” (Taken from Peace On Fifth press notes.)

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7fX6EaHuRCg’]

Some fans of THE NEON have requested a special screening of a fantasy film called KNIGHTS OF BADASSDOM (a film about Live Action Role Playing starring Peter Dinklage and Steve Zahn). They’re working with Tugg in hopes of drumming up enough interest to make the screening happen. If 66 tickets are reserved by Jan. 22, then the screening will take place on Wednesday, February 5 at 8:30. Click HERE to watch a trailer for this film. To reserve a ticket, follow this LINK. Your card will only be charged if enough people reserve tickets and the event moves forward.

I’d like to thank you for your continued support of THE NEON. Early figures suggest that 2013 was THE NEON’s most successful year…and it’s your constant support that has helped make that happen.

Thank you so much!
Wishing you a Happy and Healthy New Year!

Jonathan

Revised SHOWTIMES for Friday, Jan. 3 – Thursday, Jan. 9:

PHILOMENA (PG-13) 1 hr 38 min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:30, 5:10, 7:20
Monday – Thursday: 3:00, 7:30

NEBRASKA (R) 1 hr 55 min
Friday, Saturday: 2:45, 4:30, 9:30
Sunday: 2:45, 4:30
Monday – Thursday: 5:10

BLUE IS THE WARMEST COLOR (NC-17) 2 Hr 59 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 1:00, 7:00
Monday- Thursday: 2:45, 7:15

COMING SOON:
As always, all dates are tentative. Many of these dates will change.
In some rare cases, titles may disappear.

Jan. 10 – AUGUST: OSAGE COUNTY
Jan. 10 – INSIDE LLEWYN DAVIS
TBD – THE ARMSTRONG LIE
TBD – THE PAST
TBD – THE INVISIBLE WOMAN

KILL YOUR DARLINGS – One Week Only – Opens Friday at THE NEON!

December 24, 2013 By Jonathan McNeal Leave a Comment

Hello Everyone,

Word of mouth has been great for both of our current films. Ticket sales at THE NEON are above national averages for both titles, and that’s pretty great news! Thanks for all of your help in telling your friends and family about what we’re playing…word of mouth is one of our best marketing tools!

NEBRASKA will stick around, and because PHILOMENA has bounced back, it will hold through the New Year (be sure to pay close attention to showtimes). In addition, we will open the new film KILL YOUR DARLINGS – but only for a handful of screenings. Check out the showtimes below and hurry down if you want to catch this film!

Synopsis for KILL YOUR DARLINGS: “Daniel Radcliffe stars as Beat Generation icon Allen Ginsberg in this biopic set during the famed poet’s early years at Columbia University, and centering on a murder investigation involving Ginsberg, his handsome classmate Lucien Carr, and fellow Beat author William Burroughs. The year is 1944. Ginsberg (Radcliffe) is a young student at Columbia University when he falls hopelessly under the spell of charismatic classmate Carr (Dane DeHaan). Alongside Carr, Ginsberg manages to strike up friendships with aspiring writers William Burroughs (Ben Foster) and Jack Kerouac (Jack Huston) that would cast conformity to the wind, and serve as the foundation of the Beat movement… Jennifer Jason Leigh, Kyra Sedgwick, David Cross, and Michael C. Hall co-star.” (Jason Buchanan, Rovi) Click this LINK to visit the official site.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AxGgkEHmHHg’]

“Peace on Fifth is at it again with their knockout film series START FREEDOM DAYTON. Save the date for January 23rd at 7:30, as Peace on Fifth is slated to screen a film about human trafficking. Zonta Club of Dayton is the sponsor for the first film of 2014 and a human trafficking professional will lead the after viewing discussion. Tickets will be $8 and will be available exclusively at THE NEON. Contact Peace on Fifth with questions at 937.367.7215 or at [email protected] The film title will be announced in January.” (Taken from Peace On Fifth press notes.)

Don’t forget that we sell gift certificates at our box office in $5 and $10 denominations. These are a perfect gift for the film lover in your life…or perhaps the person who still needs to discover what THE NEON has to offer.

Wishing you and yours a Happy Holiday Season.

Thank you for your continued support,

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Friday, Dec. 27 – Thursday, Jan. 2:

PHILOMENA (PG-13) 1 hr 38 min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 2:45, 5:00, 7:20
Monday – Thursday: 3:00, 7:30

NEBRASKA (R) 1 hr 55 min
Friday, Saturday: 12:10, 2:30, 5:00, 7:30, 9:55
Sunday: 12:10, 2:30, 5:00, 7:30
Monday – Thursday: 2:40, 5:10, 7:45

KILL YOUR DARLINGS (R) 1 Hr 44 Min
Friday, Saturday: 12:30, 9:30
Sunday: 12:30
Monday- Thursday: 5:15

COMING SOON: As always, all dates are tentative. Many of these dates will change. In some rare cases, titles may disappear.

Jan. 3 – BLUE IS THE WARMEST COLOR
Jan. 10 – AUGUST: OSAGE COUNTY
Jan. 10 – INSIDE LLEWYN DAVIS
TBD – THE ARMSTRONG LIE
TBD – THE PAST
TBD – THE INVISIBLE WOMAN

Big Date Changes – Coen Brothers Added to Upcoming NEON Engagements!

December 17, 2013 By Jonathan McNeal Leave a Comment

Hello Everyone,

Once again, big changes are happening to our upcoming release dates. It was determined yesterday (by “the powers that be”) that MANDELA won’t open after all at THE NEON. We’re quite disappointed by this, but the decision is out of our hands. That said, we’re glad that we will be able to open two smaller gems between now and our next big titles on January 10. On Dec. 27, we plan to open KILL YOUR DARLINGS – a story about the early life of poet Allen Ginsberg (a brave choice for actor Daniel Radcliffe of the HARRY POTTER films). On Jan. 3, we plan to open BLUE IS THE WARMEST COLOR – the French sensation that is garnering numerous awards and lots of attention around the world. Then on January 10 – a potentially huge day for us – we are slated to open AUGUST: OSAGE COUNTY as well as the new Coen Brothers film (we’re delighted about this) – INSIDE LLEWYN DAVIS.

This will more than likely be the final week for PHILOMENA – so hurry down if you still need to see this wonderful film (or if you need to see it again). NEBRASKA opened quite well this weekend, so we think it will stick around for a couple weeks. Click on either title above to visit that film’s official site. Both of these films are big contenders at this year’s Golden Globes!

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cd7uDrc5IpI’]

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[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jl8DidbbTQM’]

This year’s Family Holiday Film Series is already coming to a close! Tickets are FREE for children 12 and under, and all other tickets are $2 each. The final film – the holiday classic WHITE CHRISTMAS – will only screen this Saturday at Noon. Tickets will be available starting 45 minutes before the show.

An additional encore screening of THE TRIUMPH has been set for Monday, December 23 at 7:30. The local, faith-based non-profit hosting this screening is delighted that the demand for these tickets is so high. “THE TRIUMPH is a powerful new documentary film about our Blessed Mother’s apparitions in Medjugorje. On June 25, 1981, in the mountain village of Medjugorje in Bosnia Herzegovina, Our Lady appeared to six children. She identified herself as the Blessed Virgin Mary, Queen of Peace, and continues to appear to several of the visionaries even today.” (taken from Lovey Dovey, Inc. press notes) $10 presale tickets will only available via this LINK from Love Dovey, Inc. Remaining tickets will be sold at THE NEON on the night of the screening.

“Peace on Fifth is at it again with their knockout film series START FREEDOM DAYTON. Save the date for January 23rd at 7:30, as Peace on Fifth is slated to screen a film about human trafficking. Zonta Club of Dayton is the sponsor for the first film of 2014 and a human trafficking professional will lead the after viewing discussion. Tickets will be $8 and will be available exclusively at THE NEON. Contact Peace on Fifth with questions at 937.367.7215 or at [email protected] The film title will be announced in January.” (Taken from Peace On Fifth press notes.)

Thanks for your continued support!

We hope to see you soon,

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Friday, Dec. 20 – Thursday, Dec. 26:

PHILOMENA (PG-13) 1 hr 38 min
Friday: 12:30, 2:45, 5:00, 7:20, 9:30
Saturday: 2:45, 5:00, 7:20, 9:30
Sunday: 12:30, 2:45, 5:00, 7:20
Monday: 5:15
Tuesday – Thursday: 3:00, 5:15, 7:30

NEBRASKA (R) 1 hr 55 min
Friday, Saturday: 12:10, 2:30, 5:00, 7:30, 9:55
Sunday: 12:10, 2:30, 5:00, 7:30
Monday: 2:40, 7:45
Tuesday – Thursday: 2:40, 5:10, 7:45

WHITE CHRISTMAS (NR) 2 Hrs
Saturday: Noon

THE TRIUMPH (NR) 1 Hr 45 Min + Discussion
Monday: 7:30

COMING SOON:
As always, all dates are tentative. Many of these dates will change.
In some rare cases, titles may disappear.
Dec. 27 – KILL YOUR DARLINGS
Jan. 3 – BLUE IS THE WARMEST COLOR
Jan. 10 – AUGUST: OSAGE COUNTY
Jan. 10 – INSIDE LLEWYN DAVIS
TBD – THE ARMSTRONG LIE
TBD – THE PAST
TBD – THE INVISIBLE WOMAN

PHILOMENA and DALLAS BUYERS CLUB Are Hits at THE NEON!

December 5, 2013 By Jonathan McNeal Leave a Comment

Hello Everyone,

For the second week in a row – Wow!! We had one of our best Thanksgiving Weekends ever at THE NEON! Audiences are loving both DALLAS BUYERS CLUB and PHILOMENA, and I want to Thank YOU for being such loyal and wonderful patrons at THE NEON. Even though other theaters jumped in on PHILOMENA, you made us come out on top! Thank You! (To visit the official site for each of our current titles (which we will hold), click on the titles above.)

Though we are doing well with our current titles, I’d suggest hurrying down if you still need to see them. We have other titles we need to get to before the end of the year – including Alexander Payne’s new film NEBRASKA and the star-studded AUGUST: OSAGE COUNTY.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=huQkhv0xQEk’]

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This year’s Family Holiday Film Series starts this Saturday! Tickets are FREE for children 12 and under, and all other tickets are $2 each. We will screen RISE OF THE GUARDIANS on December 7, on December 14 we will screen HOME ALONE, and on December 21 – the holiday classic – WHITE CHRISTMAS. Each film will only screen one time – at Noon. Tickets will only be available starting 45 minutes before each show.

Dayton-native Toni Dixon will premiere her new short film on Sunday, December 15 at 7:30. “FROM HIDDEN PAIN TO FREEDOM is an emotional depiction of the life of Tia. It is a powerful story of survival against all odds – the story of a little girl caught up in a world of physical, emotional and sexual abuse. The setting takes place in the inner-city projects of Ohio where Tia resides with her grandmother because her mother chose the company of men over family. There, she quickly realizes how cold and cruel the world can really be. Gaining strength from within, she grows up to overcome her pain to new found freedom.” (taken from Press Notes) Tickets are $10 each and are now available at THE NEON’s box office.

Thanks for your continued support!

We hope to see you soon,

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Friday, Dec. 6 – Thursday, Dec. 12:

PHILOMENA (PG-13) 1 hr 38 min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:30, 2:45, 5:00, 7:20, 9:40
Monday – Thursday: 3:00, 5:15, 7:30

DALLAS BUYERS CLUB (R) 1 hr 57 min
Friday: 12:10, 2:30, 5:00, 7:30, 9:55
Saturday: 2:30, 5:00, 7:30, 9:55
Sunday: 12:10, 2:30, 5:00, 7:30, 9:55
Monday – Thursday: 2:40, 5:10, 7:45

RISE OF THE GUARDIANS
Saturday: Noon

COMING SOON:
As always, all dates are tentative. Many of these dates will change.
In some rare cases, titles may disappear.
TBD – KILL YOUR DARLINGS
Dec. 20 – NEBRASKA
Dec. 25 – AUGUST: OSAGE COUNTY
TBD – THE ARMSTRONG LIE

2013 Dayton Holiday Festival Continues Downtown Throughout December

December 5, 2013 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

The Grande Illumination and Dayton Children’s Parade Spectacular in Lights kicked off the Dayton Holiday Festival this past Friday, but events continue throughout the season as part of this month-long celebration that has been kindling the holiday spirit downtown for 41 years.

In addition, a special holiday edition of First Friday will be held throughout downtown from 5 to 10 p.m. this Friday, Dec. 6. Shop for unique and locally made items, view festive window displays that are part of the first Downtown Holiday Decorating Contest, enjoy live holiday-themed entertainment, and take advantage of discounts and special deals. A complete list of this Friday’s activities is available online.

The Dayton Holiday Festival’s Family Weekends, sponsored by DP&L, include:

Family Movie Series

Dec. 7, 14 & 21 — noon

The Neon, 130 E. Fifth St.

Bring the family for fun, festive films. Enjoy the following movies during this year’s series: Dec. 7 – Rise of the Guardians, Dec. 14 – Home Alone, Dec. 21 – White Christmas. Titles subject to change. Free for kids 12 and younger, $2 for adults. 937-222-7469.

MUSICAL WONDERLAND

Dec. 7 — 10 a.m. to 5:45 p.m.

Dec. 8 — 11:30 a.m. to 5:45 p.m.

Schuster Center DP&L Stage, Second and Main streets

Enjoy several talented music groups performing during the first weekend in December. 937-228-7591.

Uno’s Pizza with Santa

Dec. 7, 14, 21, 22 — 11 a.m.

Dec. 9 and 16 — 6:30 p.m.

Uno Chicago Grill, 126 N. Main St.

Have a meal with Santa before or after visiting The Tike’s Shoppe and other downtown holiday attractions. Reservations required. Call for cost. 937-910-8000.

Virginia Kettering’s Train Display

Through Jan. 6 — Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Chase Bank lobby, Kettering Tower, Second and Main streets

View this one-of-a-kind model train display, given to the community by Mrs. Virginia W. Kettering. The train can be viewed through the building windows at Second and Main streets at any time.

Wonderland Windows

Through Jan. 2 — 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. (closed for private functions some days)

Schuster Center Wintergarden, Second and Main streets

Experience the magical Rike’s holiday displays. 937-228-7591.

The Tike’s Shoppe

Through Dec. 23 — hours vary

Schuster Center Wintergarden, Second and Ludlow entrance

A special shop run by kids, for kids ― and priced within a kid’s budget. Santa is available for pictures from 2-5 p.m. each day of the Tike’s Shoppe. Managed by YES! For Youth. 937-212-1878.

The Dayton Holiday Festival is presented the Downtown Dayton Partnership, the City of Dayton, Montgomery County and the Mrs. Virginia W. Kettering Dayton Holiday Festival Fund. A complete list of festival events is available online, as well as a calendar of other downtown holiday events.

The DDP’s website has a complete list of downtown’s events, a dining guide, parking map and more at www.downtowndayton.org. Follow the DDP on Facebook to keep up with downtown events and news.

Special Holiday Dec. 6 First Friday

December 1, 2013 By Dayton937 1 Comment

Downtown’s next free First Friday event will be held from 5 to 10 pm Friday, Dec. 6. During this special holiday edition of the event, visitors can shop for unique and one-of-kind items, view festive window displays that are part of the first Downtown Holiday Decorating Contest, enjoy live entertainment and take advantage of discounts and special deals.

Roaming performers — drummer Joseph Glenn, choir Girls Inc. and juggler Tony Steinbach — will entertain throughout downtown, while performers on stilts and dressed as candy canes and holiday trees will walk through the streets. A stage area also will be set up next door to the Trolley Stop, 530 E. Fifth St. The schedule for those performances is:

Viva La Strings

6 to 7 p.m.: Viva La Strings

7 to 8 p.m.: Miami Valley Music Men

8 to 9 p.m.: String orchestra FPAC

Listed below are the 20 businesses participating in the inaugural Downtown Holiday Decorating Contest. The winning business will be selected the week of Dec. 2 and announced during First Friday.

510 Gallery Fine Art, 508 E. Fifth St.

All Pilates, 27 S. St. Clair St.

American Pi, 41 S. St. Clair St.

Beaute Box, 116 W. Fifth St.

Blind Bob’s, 430 E. Fifth St.

Boston Stoker, 34 W. Second St.

Brim, 464 E. Fifth St.

CADC Art Gallery, 45 S. St. Clair St.

Clash Consignment, 521 E. Fifth St.

Derailed: A Hair Salon, 506 1/2 E. Fifth St.

The Flying Pizza, 223 N. Main St.

Green Baby, 31 S. St. Clair St.

Lily’s Bistro, 329 E. Fifth St.

Price Stores, 52 S. Jefferson St.

Riff Raff on the Canal, 130 N. Patterson Blvd.

Sew Dayton, 261 Wayne Ave.

Sherwood Florist, 444 E. Third St.

Spice Paradise, 16 Brown St.

Valeria’s Beauty Center and Day Spa, 21 W. First St.

The Wine Gallery, 5 W. Monument Ave.

“The holidays are a special time downtown, and this event is designed to make our center city even more festive,” said Sandy Gudorf, Downtown Dayton Partnership president. “With so many locally owned businesses located in our downtown, it’s the perfect destination to find unique gifts, enjoy dinner or drinks at a local restaurant, and so much more.”

Dec. 6 First Friday Events

Art & Shopping

• CADC, 45 S. St. Clair St.: Hosting its annual Art Box gift gallery, featuring handmade and one-of-a-kind gift items. Call 313-9883.

• Clash Consignment, 521 E. Fifth St.: Have your photo taken with Santa and his elves. Call 241-9434.

• Color of Energy, 16 Brown St.: (Open until 8 p.m.) Exhibiting new art by Mike Elsass and live painting. Call 266-3491.

• Dayton Art Institute, 456 Belmonte Park North: (Open until 8 p.m.) Showing the exhibits Object of Devotion and A Buckeye Abroad: Frank Wilcox in Paris. Call for cost. 223-4278.

• Dayton Society of Painters and Sculptors, 48 High St.: (Open until 8 p.m.) Hosting a reception for DSPS New Member Invitational. Light refreshments will be served. Call 228-4532.

• Dayton Visual Arts Center 118 N. Jefferson St.: (Open until 8 p.m.) Exhbiting Close to the Edge: Vera Scekic and this year’s ARTtoBUY Holiday Gift Gallery. Both will be open through Dec. 21. Call 224-3822.

• Gallery 510 Fine Art, 508 E. Fifth St.: Bring in your receipt from any other Oregon District business and receive 20 percent off any Gallery 510 Fine Art pashmina/scarf. Free gift wrapping. Call 672-6717.

Retail Stores

• American Pi, 41 S. St.Clair St.: Featuring work by artist ColorBash, a local family business that produces furniture and home accents made from salvaged wood. Also featuring its 12-Hour Annual Sale from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Dec. 6 (excludes artist/consignment items). Call 938-7890.

• Beaute Box, 116 W. Fifth St.: Free makeup lessons and holiday-themed refreshments. Call 903-3165.

• Brim, 464 E. Fifth St.: Featuring gift baskets that include items from local businesses and store gift registries and certificates. Also offering complimentary tea from Ghostlight Coffee and candy canes. Call 222-4287.

• Green Baby, 31 S. St. Clair: Hosting a toy exchange at 6:30 p.m. and accepting donations for Hannah’s Treasure Chest. For every $25 spent on gift cards, receive an additional $5 or for every $50, receive an additional $10. Call 469-8665.

• Found Treasures 4 You, 502 Wayne Ave.: Offering 20 percent off everything in the store. Call 580-8803.

• Omega Music, 318 E. Fifth St.: Bring in a receipt from any Oregon District business and receive 10 percent off your total purchase. Call 275-9949.

• ReCreate, 438 E. Fifth St.: Sale on select items, including new and used instruments, other music-related items, and original artwork. Call 321-3517.

• Sew Dayton, 261 Wayne Ave.: Featuring $1 scrap bags, button bags and vintage patterns, as well as half-off all vintage fabrics. Call 234-7398.

• The Yellow Cab, 700 E. Fourth St. Hosting the annual Handmade Holiday show featuring more than 30 vendors selling art, crafts and other original, handmade items. Mugshots Studios will be set for fun holiday pictures. Alcoholic beverages will be available to purchase.

• Sherwood Florist 444 E. Third St.: Offering 10 percent off all holiday pre-orders and all in-store items. Call 298-3655.

Entertainment

• Don Crawford Plaza in front of Fifth Third Field, 220 N. Patterson Blvd.: The monthly Courteous Mass Ride will meet at 5:30 p.m. This month will be a glow-ride. Dress up your bike with lights, wear glow bracelets or necklaces — anything to make you glow. All tours are free and welcome any skill level.

• Grass Roots Enrichment and Wellness Center, 400 E. Fifth St., Suite C: (Open until 8 p.m.) Featuring artist-of-the-month John Todd, along with activities for families and light refreshments. Call 723-6747

• Salon J Ladner, 37 S. St. Clair St.: Downtown’s newest salon will host the special event “Light Up The Night,” its first after-hours “glow in the dark” styling party focused on giving back to a Dayton charity. The event, held from 6 to 10 p.m., features $10 women’s styling and $5 men’s style or edge up. All proceeds go to AIDS Resource Center Ohio. In addition, Salon J Ladner will offer 20 percent off throughout the month of December to all new customers.
• The Neon, 130 E. Fifth St.: Call 222-SHOW (7469) for films and show times.

• RiverScape MetroPark, MetroParks Ice Rink, 111 E. Monument Ave: Skate under the stars by the Great Miami River at downtown’s outdoor rink. $7 includes admission and skate rental. The park’s concession will be open to purchase hot chocolate and other snacks. Call 278-2607.

• Wiley’s Comedy Niteclub, 101 Pine St.: Featuring comedian Thai Rivera. Show begins at 9 p.m. Tickets are $10 per person. Call 224-5653.

Food and Drink

• Deaf Monty’s Wine, 22 Brown St.: $2 tastings of select wines. Call 225-9463.

• Franco’s Ristorante Italiano, 824 E. Fifth St.: 10 percent off food. Call 222-0204.

• Lily’s Bistro, 329 E. Fifth St.: Offering complimentary holiday cookies to all customers. For every $50 spent on gift cards, receive $5 free. Call 723-7637.

• Lucky’s Taproom and Eatery, 520 E. Fifth St.: Dinner specials and tapping of a firkin of craft beer. Call 222-6800.

• Riff Raff Tavern on the Canal, 130 N. Patterson Blvd.: Drink specials offered throughout the night. Call 361-3131.

• Salar, 400 E. Fifth St.: DJ in the lounge, cigars on the back patio and drink specials starting at 10 p.m. Call 203-3999.

• Smokin’ Bar-B-Que, 200 E. Fifth St.: 10 percent off food. Call 586-9790.

• Thai 9, 11 Brown St.: 15 percent off food. Call 222-3227.

• Uno Chicago Grill, 126 N. Main St.: 10 percent off food. Call 910-8000.

•The Wine Gallery, 5 W. Monument Ave.: Offering wine and appetizer specials and a $10 chair massage from 6 to 9 p.m. Call 224-9463.

Music

• Blind Bob’s, 430 E. Fifth St.: Featuring happy hour from 4 to 8 p.m., $2.50 well drinks, 75 cents off bourbon and other drink specials and live music. Call 938-6405.

• De’Lish Café, 139 N. Main St.: Featuring happy hour from 5 to 10 p.m. and live music during a mix and mingle with downtown business professionals. Call 461-2233.

• Dublin Pub, 300 Wayne Ave.: Featuring happy hour until 6 p.m., a performance by the Miami Valley Pipe and Drum group starting at 6 p.m., and live music starting at 9 p.m. Call 224-7822.

• Gilly’s, 132 S. Jefferson St.: Old Skool Groove Night from 8 p.m. to midnight. Call 228-8414.

• Jay’s Seafood, 225 E. Sixth St.: Live music by Puzzle of Light at 9 p.m. Call 222-2892.

• Oregon Express, 336 E. Fifth St.: Featuring half-price pizza from 4 to 8 p.m., Linda Prevo and Friends from 5-8 p.m., and the Eric Jerardi Band starting at 9:30 p.m. Call 223-9205.

First Friday is presented by the Downtown Dayton Partnership with support from the Oregon District Business Association and Rev. Cool’s “Around the Fringe” show that airs on Fridays from 8 p.m. to midnight on WYSO-FM 91.3. The Downtown Dayton Partnership’s website has a complete list of downtown’s arts and cultural amenities, as well as a dining guide, parking map and much more. Download the Find It Downtown mobile search tool for smartphones at http://mobile.downtowndayton.org.

Downtown Businesses to Participate in Small Business Saturday

November 24, 2013 By Dayton937 1 Comment

Brim is one of the downtown stores that will participate in Small Business Saturday.

Saturday, Nov. 30, is Small Business Saturday, and 18 downtown businesses will participate. Small Business Saturday is observed the Saturday after Thanksgiving, and is designed to encourage holiday shoppers to patronize small, local brick-and-mortar businesses.

“Downtown Dayton is home to one of the largest collections of independent retailers in the region,” said Amelia O’Dowd, owner of Brim in the Oregon District, who helped organize this year’s event downtown. “In addition to great shopping, restaurants and bars will be offering gift certificates in addition to being open for lunch and dinner, and such businesses as wellness/yoga studios and salons will be offering gift certificates in addition to merchandise.”

The Downtown Dayton Partnership’s website, www.downtowndayton.org, has a complete list of downtown businesses, as well as a list of business resources, arts and cultural amenities, a dining guide, parking map, and much more. Follow the Downtown Dayton Partnership on Facebook to keep up with downtown events and news. Smartphone users can find places, events, parking and more with Find It Downtown Mobile: mobile.downtowndayton.org.

This year’s participating businesses are:

Bonnett’s Books, 502 E. Fifth St.

BRIM, 464 E. Fifth St.

Clash Consignment Co., 521 E. Fifth St.

Derailed: A Hair Salon, 506 ½ E. Fifth St.

Feathers Vintage, 440 E. Fifth St.

Found Treasures 4 You, 502 Wayne Ave.

Gallery 510 Fine Art, 508 E. Fifth St.

Ghostlight Coffee, 1201 Wayne Ave.

Grass Roots Enrichment & Wellness Center, 400 E. Fifth St., Suite C

Green Baby, 31 S. St. Clair St.

Hicks’ Barber Shop, 11 Brown St.

Lily’s Bistro, 329 E. Fifth St.

Lucky’s Taproom, 520 E. Fifth St.

Practice Yoga, 504 E. Fifth St.

The Record Gallery, 438 E. Fifth St.

ReCreate, 438 E. Fifth St.

Sew Dayton, 261 Wayne Ave.

Spice Paradise, 8 Brown St.

Sterling Studio, 511 E. Fifth St.

Downtown Dayton: The Hub of Holiday Spirit

November 21, 2013 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

The tree lighting ceremony at 7:45 p.m. is a highlight of the kickoff of the Dayton Holiday Festival.

The month-long Dayton Holiday Festival begins Nov. 29 with the Grande Illumination and Dayton Children’s Parade Spectacular in Lights from 4 to 9 p.m. on Courthouse Square, on the corner of Third and Main streets. The tree-lighting ceremony will start at 7:45 p.m. with the parade immediately following. Holiday events will continue into late December. This will be the 41st year for the holiday celebration.

On the Friday after Thanksgiving beginning at 4 p.m., an array of family-friendly activities will be available to enjoy all evening. Activities on Courthouse Square include live music on the Courthouse Square Main Stage, sponsored by Kroger, until 7:45 p.m. In the Old Courthouse, the Downtown Dayton Priority Board and B94.5 Hot Country‘s Gingerbread Homes for the Holidays Contest entries will be on display. Winners will be announced during the evening. Children can participate in the Junior League of Dayton’s Holiday Hunt by checking in at the Junior League booth. The scavenger hunt runs until 7 p.m.

Several other activities will take place near the Square. Children can create holiday crafts or “Dial-An-Elf” to share their wish list with one of Santa’s helpers at Time Warner Cable Media’s Holiday Village in the Kettering Tower. Carnival rides and games on Third Street, sponsored by Fifth Third Bank, will run all evening. Horse-drawn wagon rides will be offered through 7:30 p.m. Wagon rides are $1 per person, but all other activities are free.

Children can enjoy free carnival rides, games, crafts and more at the Grande Illumination.

The Tike’s Shoppe — sponsored by ABC 22/FOX 45, Victoria Theatre Association and the Oakwood Register and managed by YES! For Youth — will be located in the Schuster Center Wintergarden. This gift shop specifically designed for children will remain open through Dec. 23 on select days. Patrons also may view Rike’s animated holiday windows in the Wintergarden.

Capping off this festive night is the tree-lighting ceremony at 7:45 p.m. on Courthouse Square. Volunteers will pass out 3D glasses provided by CareSource. The Dayton Children’s Parade Spectacular in Lights will immediately follow the ceremony. More than 100,000 lights will illuminate the 45-minute parade, which will feature a variety of festive floats, entertainers, animals and several surprises. Miami-Jacobs Career College and MIX 107.7-FM are sponsoring the activities.

“The Grande Illumination and Dayton Children’s Parade Spectacular in Lights is a great night for the entire family to come downtown,” said Sandy Gudorf, president of the Downtown Dayton Partnership. “It is a magical night guaranteed to put you in the holiday spirit.”

The Dayton Holiday Festival continues throughout the month of December with such activities as the Family Movie Series at The Neon, Virginia Kettering’s Holiday Train Display and more.

The Dayton Children’s Parade Spectacular in Lights is a holiday favorite.

Volunteers are still needed for the Grande Illumination. Sign up online to volunteer.

The DDP’s website has a complete list of downtown’s events, a dining guide, parking map and more at www.downtowndayton.org. Follow the DDP on Facebook to keep up with downtown events and news.

ALL IS LOST Opens Friday + Other Great NEON News!

November 13, 2013 By Jonathan McNeal Leave a Comment

Hello Everyone,

We had an absolutely incredible weekend. Many, many thanks to all of you who chose to come to THE NEON to support 12 YEARS A SLAVE. This spectacular film will certainly stick around. In addition, we will open ALL IS LOST – the new, highly-acclaimed film starring Robert Redford. ALL IS LOST will be a short run (please hurry down if you’d like to see it)…we are still planning to open DALLAS BUYERS CLUB on Nov. 22. If you still need to see HOW I LIVE NOW, you only have until tomorrow (Thursday). Check out our website for remaining showtimes.

Synopsis for ALL IS LOST: “Academy Award winner Robert Redford stars in ALL IS LOST, an open-water thriller about one man’s battle for survival against the elements after his sailboat is destroyed at sea. Written and directed by Academy Award nominee J.C. Chandor (MARGIN CALL) with a musical score by Alex Ebert, the film is a gripping, visceral and powerfully moving tribute to ingenuity and resilience.” (Roadside Attractions) Click this LINK to visit the film’s official site.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lk_R04LfUQU’]

Tonight’s screening of THE TRIUMPH is sold out, but an encore screening has been set for Tuesday, Nov. 26 at 7:30. The local, faith-based non-profit hosting this screening is delighted that the demand for these tickets is so high. “THE TRIUMPH is a powerful new documentary film about our Blessed Mother’s apparitions in Medjugorje. On June 25, 1981, in the mountain village of Medjugorje in Bosnia Herzegovina, Our Lady appeared to six children. She identified herself as the Blessed Virgin Mary, Queen of Peace, and continues to appear to several of the visionaries even today.” (taken from Lovey Dovey, Inc. press notes) $10 presale tickets are only available via this LINK from Love Dovey, Inc. Remaining tickets will be sold at THE NEON on the night of the screening.

“Come support GLSEN at the Dayton Premiere of SCARY NORMAL on Thursday November 21st at 7:30. Tickets are available on a sliding scale – pay what you can – $15-$50. Director Jennifer Bechtel presents this coming-of-age romantic comedy about Chelsea, a teenager who just wants to be seen as normal. However, her stepdad’s life as an independent filmmaker leaves her surrounded by wild, colorful characters and often embarrassed and frustrated by her family. Along comes Danielle, a sometimes brash, almost always self-confident young lesbian who has been kicked out of her own family because of her sexuality. Through their friendship, Chelsea starts to realize the true value of friends and family who love unconditionally. About GLSEN: For 25 years GLSEN, the Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network has been the leading national education organization focused on ensuring safe schools for all students.” (taken from GLSEN Dayton press notes) Tickets are now available at THE NEON.

Here’s a little something special. It’s a picture I took from the front row of a screening of 12 YEARS A SLAVE at this year’s Toronto International Film Festival. The Q&A after the screening was both insightful and powerful.

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

SHOWTIMES for Fri, Nov. 15 – Thurs, Nov. 21:

12 YEARS A SLAVE (R) 2 hrs 14 min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 1:00, 4:00, 7:00, 9:45
Monday – Thursday: 2:30, 5:15, 8:00

ALL IS LOST (PG-13) 1 hr 46 min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:30, 2:50, 5:10, 7:30, 9:50
Monday – Wednesday: 2:50, 5:10, 7:30
Thursday: 2:50, 5:10

SCARY NORMAL (NR) Film + Discussion
Thursday: 7:30

COMING SOON:
As always, all dates are tentative. Many of these dates will change.
In some rare cases, titles may disappear.
Nov. 22 – DALLAS BUYERS CLUB
Nov. 27 – PHILOMENA
TBD – KILL YOUR DARLINGS
Dec. 20 – NEBRASKA
Dec. 25 – AUGUST: OSAGE COUNTY
Jan. 3 – THE ARMSTRONG LIE

12 YEARS A SLAVE & HOW I LIVE NOW at THE NEON!

November 6, 2013 By Jonathan McNeal Leave a Comment

Hello Everyone,

By now, I’m sure you’ve heard of 12 YEARS A SLAVE. This was one of the 32 films I saw in Toronto this Fall, and I immediately knew that a classic had been born. I wasn’t alone. The film went on to win “The People’s Choice Award” – the biggest prize at The Toronto International Film Festival. In addition, the film has received 100% reviews from THE NEW YORK TIMES, THE LOS ANGELES TIMES, THE WALL STREET JOURNAL, NPR, ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY, ROLLING STONE, and many more. 12 YEARS A SLAVE will certainly be nominated for “Best Picture” at the Academy Awards (and will likely win), so we hope you’ll hurry to see it with us!

In addition, we will open a new film that I have not yet seen. HOW I LIVE NOW stars Saoirse Ronan (from ATONEMENT) and was directed by Kevin Macdonald (director of LAST KING OF SCOTLAND and MARLEY). I like everyone involved, so I’m anxious to see it.

If you still need to see HANNAH ARENDT or ENOUGH SAID, Thursday will be your last chance to catch them at THE NEON. IN A WORLD, the comedy that audiences are loving, will stick around for one screening a day over the weekend.

Synopsis for 12 YEARS A SLAVE: “12 YEARS A SLAVE is based on an incredible true story of one man’s fight for survival and freedom. In the pre-Civil War United States, Solomon Northup (Chiwetel Ejiofor), a free black man from upstate New York, is abducted and sold into slavery. Facing cruelty (personified by a malevolent slave owner, portrayed by Michael Fassbender), as well as unexpected kindnesses, Solomon struggles not only to stay alive, but to retain his dignity. In the twelfth year of his unforgettable odyssey, Solomon’s chance meeting with a Canadian abolitionist (Brad Pitt) will forever alter his life.” (Fox Searchlight) Click this LINK to visit the film’s official site.

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Synopsis for HOW I LIVE NOW: “Set in the near-future UK, Ronan plays Daisy, an American teenager sent to stay with relatives in the English countryside. Initially withdrawn and alienated, she begins to warm up to her charming surroundings, and strikes up a romance with the handsome Edmund (George MacKay). But on the fringes of their idyllic summer days are tense news reports of an escalating conflict in Europe. As the UK falls into a violent, chaotic military state, Daisy finds herself hiding and fighting to survive.” (Magnolia Pictures)

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Mark your calendars now…this year’s Family Holiday Film Series is wonderful! Tickets are FREE for children 12 and under, and all other tickets are $2 each. We will screen RISE OF THE GUARDIANS on December 7, on December 14 we will screen HOME ALONE, and on December 21 – the holiday classic – WHITE CHRISTMAS. Each film will only screen one time – at Noon. Tickets will only be available starting 45 minutes before each show.

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

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Fri, Nov. 8 – Thurs, Nov. 14:

12 YEARS A SLAVE (R) 2 hrs 14 min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 1:00, 4:00, 6:30, 7:00, 9:45
Monday – Wednesday: 2:30, 5:15, 7:30, 8:00
Thursday: 2:30, 5:15, 8:00

HOW I LIVE NOW (R) 1 hr 41 min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 2:00, 9:30
Monday – Thursday: 3:00, 5:20

IN A WORLD (R) 1 hr 33 min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 4:15

COMING SOON:
As always, all dates are tentative. Many of these dates will change.
In some rare cases, titles may disappear.

Nov. 22 – DALLAS BUYERS CLUB
Nov. 22- KILL YOUR DARLINGS
Nov. 27 – PHILOMENA
Dec. 20 – NEBRASKA
Jan. 3 – THE ARMSTRONG LIE

HANNAH ARENDT & IN A WORLD Start Friday at THE NEON!

October 31, 2013 By Jonathan McNeal Leave a Comment

Hello Everyone,

If you haven’t seen the wonderful film WADJDA, you only have until Thursday to catch it at THE NEON. In addition, INEQUALITY FOR ALL is also heading out. On Friday, we will begin 2 new films – the thoughtful and charged biopic HANNAH ARENDT and the hilarious comedy (which was the sold-out, opening night film at this year’s FilmDayton Festivao) IN A WORLD.

Synopsis for HANNAH ARENDT: “The sublime Barbara Sukowa reteams with director Margarethe von Trotta for her brilliant new biopic of influential German-Jewish philosopher and political theorist Hannah Arendt. Arendt’s reporting on the 1961 trial of ex-Nazi Adolf Eichmann in The New Yorker-controversial both for her portrayal of Eichmann and the Jewish councils-introduced her now-famous concept of the “Banality of Evil.” Using footage from the actual Eichmann trial and weaving a narrative that spans three countries, von Trotta beautifully turns the often invisible passion of thought into immersive, dramatic cinema. An Official Selection at the Toronto International and New York Jewish Film Festivals, Hannah Arendt also co-stars Klaus Pohl as philosopher Martin Heidegger, Nicolas Woodeson as New Yorker editor William Shawn, and two-time Oscar Nominee Janet McTeer (Albert Nobbs) as novelist Mary McCarthy.” (Zeitgeist Films) Click HERE to visit the film’s official site.

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Synopsis for IN A WORLD: “Lake Bell (Children’s Hospital) stars in IN A WORLD…a hilarious romantic comedy about a struggling vocal coach who strikes it big in the cutthroat world of movie-trailer voiceovers, only to find herself in direct competition with the industry’s reigning king-her father. Written and directed by Bell, who won the Sundance 2013 Waldo Salt Screenwriting Award for the script, IN A WORLD also stars Fred Melamed (A SERIOUS MAN), Rob Corddry (HOT TUB TIME MACHINE), Nick Offerman (Parks and Recreation), and Tig Notaro (The Sarah Silverman Program).” (Roadside Attractions) Click HERE to visit the film’s official site.

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A local faith-based non-profit is hosting a screening of the new documentary THE TRIUMPH on Wednesday, November 13 at 7:30. “THE TRIUMPH is a powerful new documentary film about our Blessed Mother’s apparitions in Medjugorje. On June 25, 1981, in the mountain village of Medjugorje in Bosnia Herzegovina, Our Lady appeared to six children. She identified herself as the Blessed Virgin Mary, Queen of Peace, and continues to appear to several of the visionaries even today. The filmmakers are hoping the audience can view the movie with an open mind, as they interview skeptics, priests, believers, and non-Christians who claim they have seen an apparition of Mary. ‘This is without a doubt one of the greatest historical and spiritual phenomenons that has ever happened in the history of mankind and the great thing about it is that it is happening right now, during our time…’ said TRIUMPH producer Zaid Jazrawi.” (taken from Lovey Dovey, Inc. press notes) $10 presale tickets are only available via this LINK from Love Dovey, Inc. Remaining tickets will be sold at THE NEON on the night of the screening.

On Friday of next week, we will open 2 new films. The first is one of the most anticipated films of the year – 12 YEARS A SLAVE. This film will certainly be nominated (and likely win) “Best Picture” at the Academy Awards…it is absolutely incredible! In addition, we will open HOW I LIVE NOW (from the director of THE LAST KING OF SCOTLAND) – a film about an American girl on holiday in the UK who finds herself fighting to survive as the British Empire becomes a military state. Several other great films are just down the road – like the fantastic film PHILOMENA. We hope to see you often over the next several weeks.

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Thanks for your continued support!

We hope to see you soon,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Fri, Nov. 1 – Thurs, Nov. 7:

ENOUGH SAID (PG-13) 1 hr 33 min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 1:00, 5:20, 9:50
Monday – Thursday: 3:10, 5:20

HANNAH ARENDT (NR) 1 hr 53 min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:30, 3:00, 7:20
Monday – Thursday: 3:00, 7:30

IN A WORLD (R) 1 hr 33 min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 3:10, 5:15, 7:30, 9:40
Monday – Thursday: 5:20, 7:45

COMING SOON:
As always, all dates are tentative. Many of these dates will change.
In some rare cases, titles may disappear.
Nov. 8 – 12 YEARS A SLAVE
Nov. 8 – HOW I LIVE NOW
Nov. 22 – DALLAS BUYERS CLUB
Nov. 22- KILL YOUR DARLINGS
Nov. 27 – PHILOMENA
TBD – ALL IS LOST
Dec. 20 – NEBRASKA
Jan. 3 – THE ARMSTRONG LIE