Dayton937

Things to do in Dayton | Restaurants, Theatre, Music and More

Dayton Ohio

Toronto – Day #3 – 2013

By Leave a Comment

Hello!

Well…I’m really exhausted this morning…but it’s my own fault.  I was simply having too much fun last night, and I didn’t get to bed until about 2:00.  I then got up at 6:00am and darted out the door to land in this line by 6:50.  The Fox Searchlight Party was last night, and it was a winner. The cocktails were good, the food was exceptional (though I couldn’t bring myself to sample everything), and the mingling was perfect.  The party was celebrating 4 films that the distributor will release this year – BELLE, DOM HEMINGWAY, ENOUGH SAID, and 12 YEARS A SLAVE.  I met and chatted with several folks, and the party was full of industry folks including numerous stars (like Michael Fassbender, Alfre Woodard, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Paul Giamatti, Tom Felton, Sarah Paulson and more).

And now the films from yesterday.  I saw three.

First off was HATESHIP LOVESHIP – a film by Liza Johnson starring Kristen Wiig and Guy Pearce.  This film has a Dayton connection…the production design (done very well!) was by Hannah Beachler – graduate of WSU’s Motion Picture Program.  The story is about a socially awkward woman – Johanna –  who is hired to take care of a teenage girl with a mother who has died and somewhat absent father (the girl lives with her grandfather – played by Nick Nolte).  Upon receiving a note from the girl’s father, Johanna responds with a letter that is ultimately hijacked by the girl and her friend.  They devise a scheme where they respond to Johanna via e-mail and make her think that the father has developed a crush and is ultimately falling in love.  It’s a cruel, teenage prank, and Johanna goes headfirst into the “relationship.” Though not without some wonderful moments, I didn’t love this film.  I felt that it had some tone issues and had a few moments that I just didn’t buy.  It’s nice to see Wiig do some serious material, but it was a bit of a challenge to hear her deliver some monotone, unaffected delivery and not be swept back to former SNL characters.

hateshiploveship_02

12 YEARS A SLAVE – I finally saw a really amazing film…one that will clearly be nominated for Best Picture along with numerous acting nominations.  This new film by Steve McQueen (director of HUNGER and SHAME) is a masterpiece – based on the memoir by Solomon Northup.  Northup was a free African American who was kidnapped in 1841 and sold into slavery.  The film is harrowing and beautifully done, and the performances are rich and complex.  After the screening, a Q&A with McQueen and several actors provided some eloquent insight into the production.  Upon talking about the films of McQueen, Michael Fassbender said something that sums up the challenging material that McQueen often addresses, “As an audience member, you have to contribute.  It’s not a passive experience.”  Those are the films I love.  I don’t want to be spoon fed, and McQueen always presents material that requires some work and introspection.  One issue that I don’t think too many people want to talk  about is the use of the Bible in the film.  Slave owners often refer to it – justifying their rights by the Biblical text.  This is not unlike people who continue to use the Bible to promote their hate-filled agendas today.  Without making it a focus, I think McQueen wants us to consider how we approach this book.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iiw1cYXQw4g’]

THERESE was the last film I saw yesterday.  Based on the novel THERESE RAQUIN by Emile Zola, this film stars Elizabeth Olsen, Tom Felton, and Jessica Lang – who were all present for a Q&A following the film – along with director Charlie Stratton.  This period story (which ultimately became the basis for THE POSTMAN ALWAYS RINGS TWICE), is about a sexually repressed young woman who must marry a sickly cousin.  Upon meeting an old family friend, she has a sexual awakening and yearns to be set free from the confines of her current surroundings.  This film is a bit clunky, but the production values are lovely and the performances are solid.  The director mentioned one thing that attracted him to the story – it’s rare to go into a film where you change who you’re rooting for several times.  I think that’s rather interesting…and I need to think about it.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XCLBkM4OfSY’]

A few of you asked which film I walked out of yesterday.  You’ll have to ask me in person…as I don’t reveal the titles of films that I don’t watch in their entirety.

More soon!  Thanks for reading!

Toronto – Day #2 – 2013

By Leave a Comment

Hello Everyone.

On my second day, I set out to see 4 films…but I really only saw 3.  I sat down for my first film, and I simply couldn’t take it.  After 5 minutes, I thought I might leave.  After 10 minutes, I couldn’t stand it…but I thought I needed to give it more time.  After 30 minutes, I simply couldn’t tolerate seeing one of my favorite actresses in such a terrible film.  So I left.

A couple hours later, I made my way to LABOR DAY – the new film by Jason Reitman starring Kate Winslet and Josh Brolin.  This is the story of a mother and son who live alone in  a small town in the late 1980’s.  Winslet’s character is extremely lonely and depressed, and her son (a nice performance by Gattlin Griffith) tries to keep her afloat.  An escaped convict works his way into their home, and rather unlikely relationships ensue – new lover for mom and a father figure for her son.  The movie is shot beautifully, and the performances are really wonderful – Winslet’s melancholy is palpable.  I really loved a lot about this film, but it sadly has a few big annoyances…a couple bad situations and a couple moments of laugh-out-loud bad screenwriting.  A slight recut could fix a lot…but I don’t think that will happen before its release.

 li-laborday_01_large-tiff

Next up was the world premiere of the first animated feature by Chomet (director of THE TRIPLETS OF BELLVILLE) – ATTILA MARCEL.  As a big fan of PARIS JE T’AIME, I was already familiar with the fact that he can direct live material with great success – he did the short about the little boy with mime parents.  This film is highly stylized with lots of charm and a lot of great music.  It’s the story of a mute piano player who is raised by his overbearing aunts.  After meeting an herbalist who lives on a secret floor in his building, he begins to explore hidden memories of his deceased parents.  Though a bit clunky (a couple devises just don’t work) and a bit long, it’s got enough magic to keep you invested…and you’ll root for the protagonist all the way through. (Sorry…there’s no trailer with subtitles.)

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

My last film of the day was BAD HAIR from Venezuela.  This is the story of a curly-haired boy who lives in the projects with his mother and her newborn.  It’s a gritty existence – surrounded by gunfire, violence and rough terrain.  More than anything in the world, the little boy wants straight hair so he can be “like a singer.”  The mother fears that her son is gay, and her lack of education and fear for his well-being makes her take strides to eventually “heal” her son.  This is a grim film – but not without moments of sheer joy.  The performances are incredible from everyone, and the material is transportive.  Though I wish the film had been 10-15 minutes shorter (not a whole lot happens…it would be stronger if it was tighter), I think it’s my favorite film of the festival so far (it brings to mind two other films – the great performances of childhood in TOMBOY and the gritty style of FISH TANK).

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uW0o1jz5d9Y’]

After screening 3 films, I met up with Glenn Kiser – director of SABBATICAL (which won the Audience Award at last year’s Dayton LGBT Film Festival).  We had a great time catching up, and he mentioned that Dayton was one of his favorite festival experiences during his travels with SABBATICAL.  I don’t think he was just feeing me a line – he mentioned the great sense of community, the friends he made, and his overall experience.  I think we can be proud of that!

I’m currently in line for tickets…then off to 3 films today and a big party tonight.  More soon. Thanks for reading!

Jonathan

Toronto – Day #1 (5 Films)

By Leave a Comment

Hello!

Today was one of those packed days…and I’m thinking I might finish typing this while in line tomorrow morning (so I can get at least 5 hours of sleep).

I saw 5 films on Day #1.

First off was an Iranian film called CLOSED CURTAIN by Jafar Panahi & Kambuzia Partovi.  This is a film about a man who goes into hiding with his dog – residing in a “friend’s house” where he blacks out all the windows and fears any sounds of people outside.  A strange woman finds her way into the house, and tensions mount.  About half way into the film, the story reveals itself.  Not everything is as it seems…for this is a story being written/imagined by a director.  This is a film about inspiration and character development…and how one creates under certain constraits.  Not knowing Panahi’s story (of being under house arrest in Iran) could make this film a little more difficult to initially understand…though I eventually found the cinematic riddles/metaphors to be a little obtuse and tedious.  (There’s a side story about how dogs are not allowed to be seen in public…and the dog in this movie steals every scene.)

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lBLiT13SBl8′]

(CONTINUED at 7:00am Friday morning)

Francois Ozon’s latest film – YOUNG AND BEAUTIFUL – is a sexually charged film about a girl losing her virginity over the summer…and how she eventually is drawn into the power-play of sexuality.  At 17, while still in high school and living at home, she begins leading a double life of a prostitute.  She uses on-line pornography as tutorials, and she steals her mother’s clothes to look more sophisticated.  Told over the course of 4 seasons, this film has a couple clunky moments and on-the-nose song choices (and a little too overscored – though I do love the score).  It even visually references BELLE DE JOUR – which is clearly loved by Ozon.  Overall, I rather liked the sexual politics of the film…and I loved the ending.  (Last year, I saw Ozon’s last film  – IN THE HOUSE…it ended up being one of my favorites.)

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KMSiEhAw4PA’]

ABUSE OF WEAKNESS is Catherine Breillat’s latest film – based loosely on her personal story of dealing with the aftermath of a stroke and being swindled by a man who she came to admire (who was supposed to star in her next film).  This film stars Isabelle Huppert, and she is out of this world!  The control of her body and speech are unbelievable!  Though a bit too long and sometimes a bit frustrating (though I’m guessing that might be the point…as dealing with an illness and its physical challenges can be much the same).  The psychology of what makes people do things that seem out of character is a driving force of this film, and it’s worth seeing just for Huppert’s incredible performance.

abuseofweakness_01

KILL YOUR DARLINGS stars Daniel Radcliffe as Allen Ginsberg – which should seal the deal to mainstream America that Radcliffe can do a lot more than play a boy wizard (many already knew this given EQUUS and other examples).  Though produced by Killer Films (known for a variety of indie gems over the years – BOYS DON’T CRY, FAR FROM HEAVEN, and many many more), this film seemed more “Hollywood” than anything I saw on Day #1.  This is due mostly to its simplistic script.  The visual style is rather nice, and most of the performances are really quite good, but it seemed a little too easy and I found myself rolling my eyes a lot – especially in the first 20 minutes (and the use of some contemporary music killed a few moments instead of making them relatable).  Overall, I came away liking several things about the film – but it’s far from being a masterpiece.  (Part biopic, part thriller!…you didn’t see that coming, did you?  Without the opening scene set in prison, you wouldn’t really guess the film was heading that direction.)

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t6i4XR5Z4lU’]

ONLY LOVERS LEFT ALIVE was my final film of the day.  Jim Jarmusch’s vampire movie isn’t what many might suspect.  It’s not at all a horror film!  This is a love story about 2 sophisticated  people who have lived for hundreds of years.  Told in a bit of a hallucinogenic haze, this film is actually full of humorous moments and thoughtful insights to today’s world.  (Tom Hiddleston’s character – who plays opposite Tilda Swinton – is contemplating suicide…due mostly to being so disenchanted with the monstrous actions of today’s human beings – who he refers to as “zombies”).  Told in a languid, poetic fashion, this is a character driven film with lots of long, slowly moving scenes with beautiful music and photography.  Some might find the film boring (especially if they’re looking for a traditional genre film), but I thought it was rather lovely.  Tilda was NOT there!  Though disappointing, it was nice to see and hear Jarmusch and Hiddleston discuss the film (I didn’t previously know who Hiddleston was…but fans were shrieking with delight when he emerged from his car).  Mia Wasikowska was also in attendance.  She had little to say.

RZ6A7363.JPG

only-lovers-left-alive

3 Films today.  Maybe 4!

More later!  Thanks for reading!

Toronto International Film Fest – I Made It To Town!

By Leave a Comment

Hello Friends of THE NEON!

I made it to Toronto.  With very little sleep, I ran right to registration and picked up my pass and catalog…which I looked at very quickly and made my first picks.  The Toronto International Film Festival (which I’ll refer to now as TIFF) officially begins tomorrow night.  That said, industry screenings begin tomorrow morning.  Each day, my pass allows me to see 2 public screenings and numerous industry screenings.  (The public screenings are more fun…they’re filled with film lovers…and the filmmakers and stars often attend those screenings.)  Only a handful of tickets for those public screenings are put aside for people who have passes like mine…and we can only collect them 48 hours in advance.  This means that I’ll be up every morning at 6:00 so I can leave my apartment and get in line by 7:00.  At 8:00, I’ll hopefully be one of the first people in line so I can get the tickets I want….then I’m off to screenings for the rest of the day.

Each day, I’ll see 3, 4 or sometimes even 5 films (that’s a rarity, though…my eyes can only handle so much).

I just returned from grabbing a beer and plotting my next few days.  I picked up some local publications and started to assess the buzz about any films that I might need to see, and my initial plan of attack is in place.  With over 300 films to chose from, the scheduling can become madness…and I love it.

Thanks for checking in with my blog.  One film I’ll be seeing tomorrow (Thursday night) is Jim Jarmusch’s new vampire film (not a genre I really like…but my favorite actress is the star – TILDA SWINTON).  Tune in again (and each day thereafter) to read about each of the films I’m seeing (and each of the stars I see flitting around).

More soon,

Jonathan

Only-Lovers-Left-Alive-still

 

 

 

Special Events Indoors and Out Part of Sept. 6 First Friday in Downtown Dayton

By Leave a Comment

SAMSUNG CSC

CACD is one of many locations that will display artwork during First Friday.

Warm up for Urban Nights by attending downtown Dayton’s next First Friday, held from 5 to 10 p.m. Friday, Sept. 6. Art exhibits, live music, dinner and drink specials, retail sales, and special events will be featured at a variety of downtown venues.

A complete list of what downtown businesses have on tap for First Friday is available on the DDP website. Highlights include:

Internationally known artist Robert Walker will display work at Clash Consignment (521 E. Fifth St.).

The monthly Courteous Mass Ride will meet for two rides this month at Don Crawford Plaza in front of Fifth Third Field, (220 N. Patterson Blvd.). The first will ride leaves at 5:30 p.m. and the second at 7 p.m. This month’s route will go through the heart of downtown and tour part of East Dayton.

The Dayton Visual Arts Center (118 N. Jefferson St.) will be exhbiting Music for Teacups: Colagiovanni and Haviland, a selection of video, artist books and original prints by two artists from Athens, Ohio. The gallery will be open until 8 p.m.

???????????

Several restaurants, including Lily’s Bistro pictured here, will offer dining specials and a food truck rally also will be held during First Friday.

Garden Station (509 E. Fourth St.) will be offering an introduction to herbal remedies class at 6 p.m., a compassionate communication workshop at 7 p.m. and live music by Meghna & the Majority at 8 p.m. The Urban Farmer’s Market begins at 5:30 p.m.

The Great Dayton Flood Walk will start at 7 p.m. View vintage photos of the flood, visit buildings that made it through the flood, see high-water marks from 1913 and more. $10 per person. Call 937-274-4749 or email [email protected] for required reservations and meeting location.

Synergy Incubators hosts a food truck rally at 200 S. Jefferson St., featuring many popular local food trucks, music, children’s activities, Hope Foundation Motorcycle Raffle, Inside Out 11M Photobooth and a local artisan marketplace.

The Yellow Cab (700 E. Fourth St.) will feature exhibit “The Art of Music,” with artwork created by musicians and inspired by music. University of Dayton professor Al Carrillo will read his poetry, and an open mic will be available for anyone who wants to perform.

???????????

Steel drummer Joseph Glenn, pictured here with saxophonist Tyrone Martin, will again perform on the street during First Friday.

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.

THE SPECTACULAR NOW Opens & BLUE JASMINE Continues at THE NEON!

By Leave a Comment

The_Spectacular_Now_4Hello Everyone,

Wow! What an incredible weekend! FilmDayton had some nice crowds over the weekend (their line-up was awesome), and BLUE JASMINE became one of our biggest openings of the year! Many thanks to all of you who came out. We were busy, and it felt great!

If you still need to see THE WAY WAY BACK, you only have a couple more days. In addition, I hope many of you will come down for our special 4-day engagement of IN THE HOUSE – one of my absolute favorite films of the year (only a few people turned out on Monday). Thursday will be the last day for both films, and you can see their schedules on our official site – www.neonmovies.com. While BLUE JASMINE will certainly stick around, we have another hot, new film opening this weekend – THE SPECTACULAR NOW. This film has garnered high praise from The Wall Street Journal, Los Angeles Times, Entertainment Weekly, USA Today, Variety, Chicago Sun-Times and many more. We hope you’ll support it!

Synopsis for THE SPECTACULAR NOW: “This is the tale of Sutter Keely, a high school senior and effortless charmer, and of how he unexpectedly falls in love with “the good girl” Aimee Finecky. What starts as an unlikely romance, becomes a sharp-eyed, straight-up snapshot of the heady confusion and haunting passion of youth – one that doesn’t look for tidy truths.” (taken from A24) This film stars Shailene Woodley – she played a daughter to George Clooney’s character in THE DESCENDANTS. She’s really wonderful. Click this LINK to visit the official site.

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

“James Booker, the ‘Piano Prince of New Orleans,’ is resurrected in Lily Keber’s superb new documentary film – BAYOU MAHARAJA: THE TRAGIC GENIUS OF JAMES BOOKER. The documentary features concert footage, eyewitness accounts of the outrageous Booker in action and reflections from fellow New Orleans musicians Harry Connick Jr., Allen Toussaint, Dr. John, Aaron Neville and others. 2013’s most talked-about music documentary, the movie captures the essence of this underappreciated virtuoso. Meet Lily Keber at THE NEON when she introduces her film and leads a Q&A session following the screening.” (taken from VSOP Press Notes) This film will play one time only – Wednesday, September 18 at 7:30. Tickets are already on sale at THE NEON’s box office.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tV8zi0uwChk’]

I’m sad to announce that THE NEON has lost a good friend. Harish Trivedi of The India Foundation passed away earlier this month. He was such a lover of film, and he provided the community with a wealth of knowledge and passion for Indian cinema. He was a great collaborator, and his spirit and drive were infectious. He will be greatly missed.

Unfortunately, Saturday’s screening of SALMA has been cancelled. We hope it will be rescheduled for a future event, but no further details are available at this time.

Thanks for your continued support!

We hope to see you soon!
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Fri, Aug. 30 – Thurs, Sept. 5:

BLUE JASMINE (PG-13) 1 Hr 38 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:30, 2:45, 5:00, 7:15, 9:30
Monday: 12:30, 2:45, 5:00, 7:15
Tuesday – Thursday: 3:10, 5:20, 7:30

THE SPECTACULAR NOW (R) 1 Hr 35 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:40, 3:00, 5:15, 7:30, 9:40
Monday: 12:40, 3:00, 5:15, 7:40
Tuesday – Thursday: 3:00, 5:15, 7:40

COMING SOON:
As always, all dates are tentative. Many of these dates will change.
In some rare cases, titles may disappear.
TBD – BLACKFISH
TBD – THE HUNT
Sept. 13 – SALINGER
TBD – THE PATIENCE STONE
TBD – AUSTENLAND
TBD – WADJDA
Oct. 18 – ENOUGH SAID
Oct. 18 – INEQUALITY FOR ALL
TBD – CUTIE AND THE BOXER

Taste of the Oregon Festival Takes Over Fifth Street This Sunday

By Leave a Comment

TasteOfOregon_LogoSample the many things that make the Oregon District one of Dayton’s longest-standing hotspots this Sunday, Aug. 25, during the first Taste of Oregon festival. The event — which features food and drinks, live music, shopping, arts, vintage cars, and a home and garden tour — celebrates the area’s 40th year as a Historic District.

Fifth Street will be closed in the District for the festival, which runs from noon to 7 p.m. Admission to the event is free, and food and drink tickets are $1 each, with food items priced between $3 and $6. The event will highlight the several new District establishments that have opened recently, along with long-time District favorites.

The Menus, a popular band based in Cincinnati, will headline the festival with a set that begins at 4 p.m. Funky G and the Groove Machine will perform from 12:30 to 3 p.m.

Yuengling and craft beers, along with nonalcoholic beverages, will be available on the street, in addition to those served in the eateries and taverns.

The Oregon Historic District Society will present a home and garden tour from 1 to 4 p.m., starting at 22 Brown St. (Inn Port D’Vino/Deaf Monty’s Wine). Tickets are $5.

SAMPLING OF THE TASTE OF OREGON MENUS:

Blind Bob’s
Vegetarian Basket
Chicken Wing Basket

Jay’s Seafood
Jay’s Chocolate Mousse
Lobster Mac and Cheese

Lily’s Bistro 
BBQ, Cheddar and Bacon Deviled Eggs
Watermelon Gazpacho
Homemade Lemonade: Watermelon Mint, Cucumber Basil and Classic Flavors

Lucky’s Taproom and Eatery
Vegan and Beef Sloppy Joes & Sliders with a Side of Slaw

Oregon Express
Gourmet Pizza Slices

Salar  Restaurant and Lounge
Marinated Chicken Skewer with Spanish Rice
Fish and Chips
2 Carnitas Tacos (Pork, Rice, Cheese and Lettuce)

Smokin BBQ
BBQ Pork and Chicken

Thai 9
Chicken Spring Rolls
Vegetable Spring Rolls
Shrimp Salad
Coco Shrimp
Thai Tea
Thai Coffee

Trolley Stop
Red Beans and Rice
Organic Keener’s Farm Sliders
Ginger Lemonade

Tumbleweed
Grilled Meatloaf Sandwiches
NY Strip Kabobs

Welcome to Dayton Beer Week 2013!

By Leave a Comment

Dayton Beer Week Logo

It is here! Who says there is nothing to celebrate in August?

Beer has flooded the country. In 2010, there were fewer than 1,800 breweries in the United States. And there were zero in Dayton. Fast forward to 2013, where there are over 2,500 breweries in the United States. Dayton is seeing its own brewing growth spurt, with the Dayton Beer Company, Fifth Street Brewpub, Toxic Brewing Company, Lock 27 Brewing, Yellow Springs Brewing, Eudora, Star City Brewing, and many others that I am sure are in the works. Beer tastings have also expanded all over the city. Brewtensils has been offering not only supplies, but classes in brewing everything from a traditional lager or pilsner to experiments on the far ranges of the flavor scale. This is the environment the 4th Annual Dayton Beer Week will be awakening to this weekend, inviting all of Dayton to step out and discover some of the beery goodness themselves.

There are going to be some big events celebrating beer this weekend as the party kicks off at Kitty Hawk Golf Course with the 3rd Annual Pints, Putters, & Pink Balls-2 Club Golf Scramble benefiting the Breast Cancer Foundation. Registration starts at 12:30 PM for a 1 PM start. Get out your beer gear on Sunday and join all the floats and fun for the 4th Annual Beer Pride Parade in the Oregon district, starting at 4:30 PM at Dublin Pub (of course). The good folks at 5th Street Wine and Deli will be having a pre-parade tasting starting at 1 PM, so you can get an incredible seat for the festivities. For those of you who are a little more health conscious, Widmer Brothers is sponsoring Biking for the Beer of It Tuesday night. It begins in West Carrollton and ends after a 10 mile ride at A Taste of Wine in Miamisburg. They are very considerate, making sure you are well hydrated with a selection of beers at the midway point. The last major event of the week will be AleFest at Carillon Park (who is also setting up a historic brewery). You can try out all of the Dayton breweries, explore the growing gluten-free beer offerings, and just generally enjoy over 375 beers from over 150 breweries. That is, of course, if you are not beered out by that point.

AleFest Dayton 2013

Beer weeks ends with a bang, celebrating over 350 craft beers!

It is not just the big events that make this week special. Restaurants all over the Miami Valley are going to be celebrating in some form or another.

Monday:

  • Rouge will take over the draughts beginning at 5 PM at Jimmy’s Ladder 11. They will be featuring the Double Chocolate Stout, Hazelnut Brown, and Imperial IPA. After you’ve had your beer, you can keep the glass!
  • From 6 to 9 PM, you can help South Park Tavern fight off the Dogfish Head invasion they are anticipating. Grab a pint and pitch in!

Tuesday:

Wednesday:

Thursday:

Friday:

  • The Trolley Stop will be rolling out the red carpet on the second last night of Dayton Beer Week. They will be featuring rare beers like Bell’s Black Note, and good music that night from 7 PM to midnight.
  • Raise your glasses! From 6 to 7 PM, King’s Table will be featuring a stein hoisting competition featuring Sam Adam’s beers.
  • Are you still shy about craft beer? The Arrow Wine on Lyons Road will be having an Oskar Blues beer tasting from 5 to 7 PM. If you purchase a four or six pack of these very good brews, you will also walk out with a special gift.

This is not even remotely close to the full list of events for the week. Many restaurants and bars will be having specials on a wide range of beers.  Look over the full menu of events and plan your week accordingly.

A line up of different types of beer

This is a nice start to the week…

While you are out exploring Dayton, there are a few things you should remember while doing your tastings:

  • When you taste, it is very similar to tasting wine. You want a little foam on the top. You also want to look at and sniff the beer before you taste it, to see what aromas are coming off of it.
  • Do not hold the beer in direct light when you look at it. You get the best idea of color when you look at it in indirect light.
  • Give it a little bit of a swirl in your glass. This stirs up the carbonation a little, allowing more of the aromas to be released. Don’t underestimate the importance of scent when tasting your beer!
  • Hold the beer in your mouth a little bit, allowing it to roam all over your tongue. Enjoy the flavors that come out as it is in your mouth. Take a mental note on how thick the beer is. This is known as mouthfeel.
  • Allow the beer to warm up SLIGHTLY before you drink it. As with wine, a little bit of extra warmth unveils deeper flavors that may not be otherwise obvious.

And while you are going to Beer Week events:

  • Car pool. Parking is going to be very limited for some of these events, and the citizens are going to be out in force. Getting more people in one car is going to be helpful for everyone.
  • Get there early. You want to make sure you get there in enough time to get seats! Make sure you call the venue and check out the details.
  • Drink plenty of water. This is going to serve a twofold purpose. First, water will help cleanse the palate between each beer, giving you a better idea of how each beer tastes. Secondly, it will help you avoid a worse hangover than you might normally have.
  • Do not eat spicy foods before you go to an event. You do not want your taste buds to be still burning from the Nuclear Hot wings you just ate. Eat a little something; just tone it down.
  • Go to the dark side. If you are not at a pre-set beer tasting, start off with some of the lighter beers, and go to the darker ones. The darker beers tend to have heavier flavors and be thicker, which can linger a little longer.
  • Designate a driver. No explanation needed.

It has been a busy few years for the craft beer scene, and this is the year it looks like it is going to explode in Dayton. This is the time to go out and taste new beers, find new favorites, and meet new friends. There are so many events going on during the week we would love to know which ones you are most looking forward to. Leave a note in the comments, and we will see you around town. Cheers!

FILL THE VOID Opening at THE NEON!

By Leave a Comment

51c0c6039431c-blog-fillthevoid-092112Hello Everyone,

We’re moving along this week. On Friday (Aug. 9), we will open a lovely new Israeli film called FILL THE VOID.

Synopsis for FILL THE VOID: “Fill the Void tells the story of an Orthodox Hassidic family from Tel Aviv. Eighteen-year-old Shira is the youngest daughter of the family. She is about to be married off to a promising young man of the same age and background. It is a dream-come-true, and Shira feels prepared and excited. On Purim, her twenty-eight-year-old sister, Esther, dies while giving birth to her first child. The pain and grief that overwhelm the family postpone Shira’s promised match…When the girls’ mother finds out that Yochay may leave the country with her only grandchild, she proposes a match between Shira and the widower. Shira will have to choose between her heart’s wish and her family duty.” Peter Rainer of The Christian Science Monitor wrote, “The sheer force of artistry has the power to convert outsiders into insiders. I left Fill the Void feeling privileged, however briefly, to have been brought into this world.” It’s quite possible that FILL THE VOID will only play for one week. I hope you’ll hurry down!  Click the image above to be directed to the film’s official site.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NQuWarA9KXg’]

“Roger Brown — the greatest basketball player Dayton has ever known — will be inducted into the Naismith Hall of Fame on Sept. 8. Without the love and sacrifice of 84-year-old Daytonian Arlena Smith, it wouldn’t be happening. Join us at THE NEON on Aug. 15 at 7:30 for a benefit screening of the acclaimed documentary UNDEFEATED: THE ROGER BROWN STORY, with all proceeds going toward Arlena Smith’s trip to Springfield, Mass., for Brown’s Hall of Fame induction. Arlena and her late husband Azariah could not have children of their own, so they regularly welcomed troubled teenagers into their modest West Side home. One of those was Roger Brown. Among the greatest young basketball players in New York City history, Brown in 1961 had been unfairly implicated in a gambling scandal just as he was finishing his freshman year at the University of Dayton. Though never charged with a crime, he was kicked out of school and banned for life by the NBA. The Smiths came to the rescue. They opened up their home, found Brown a job, gave him the strength to move on. And finally, Brown bloomed anew. In 1967, he became the first player of the ABA’s Indiana Pacers. He led them to three championships, and became an Indianapolis City Councilman. All along, until his death at age 54 of cancer, Brown credited the Smiths — his ‘second parents’ — for making it possible.” (taken from press notes) Mark your calendars now! Tickets, just $10 each, are now available at our box office and at EbonNia Gallery.

The FilmDayton Festival is putting their marketing pieces into play, and they’re gearing up for another great festival. Film screenings will take place at THE NEON, but the festival is about a whole lot more…and it’s scheduled for August 23-25. Check out their line-up on the official site.

And speaking of FilmDayton, WSU’s Annual Big Lens Film Festival will kick off the festival this year. “The 21st Annual Big Lens Film Festival will premiere on Thursday, August 22nd at the THE NEON…Every year, Big Lens screens a selection of the very best short films to come from the Wright State University Motion Picture program, and this year is no different! Ranging from documentary to narrative, these six films cover a wide variety of subjects and emotions. There will be two screenings shown concurrently, one at 7:30pm and one at 8:00. Following the screenings, there will be a Q&A with the filmmakers, emceed by Oscar-nominated filmmaker Julia Reichert. Tickets to either screening are $7 each, and will soon be available at THE NEON. Some films may contain adult content.” (taken from Big Lens press notes)

We hope to see you this weekend!

All the best,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Fri, Aug. 9 – Thurs, Aug. 15:

FILL THE VOID (PG) 1 Hr 30 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:50, 3:00, 5:10, 7:20, 9:30
Monday – Wednesday: 3:15, 5:30, 7:45
Thursday: 3:15, 5:30

THE WAY WAY BACK (PG-13) 1 Hr 43 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:30, 2:45, 5:00, 7:15, 9:30
Monday – Thursday: 3:00, 5:15, 7:30

UNDEFEATED: THE ROGER BROWN STORY
(NR) 1 Hr 30 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.
Aug. 16 – I’M SO EXCITED

Aug. 23 – BLUE JASMINE

TBD – BLACKFISH

TBD – THE HUNT

TBD – FROM UP ON POPPY HILL

TBD – IN THE HOUSE

Experience the Best of Downtown During the Aug. 2 First Friday

By Leave a Comment

SAMSUNG CSC

Roaming performers, saxophonist Tyrone Martin and steel drum player Joseph Glenn, entertain the crowd during the July First Friday.

Art. Music. Shopping. Food. Fun. First Friday in downtown Dayton is about all of these things.

This free event will be held from 5 to 10 p.m. Friday, Aug. 2, throughout downtown. The August First Friday is always one of the year’s largest, and this year promises to be the same with the range of activities taking place. Roaming performers — the McGovern Ceili Dancers, acoustic duo Pourover and juggler Tony Steinbach — will provide entertainment throughout downtown.

If you plan to enter the Downtown in Focus photo contest, be sure to bring your camera along. From 8 to 11 p.m., most of downtown’s buildings will be lit for photographers who would like to capture city nightscapes to enter in the competition.

Just a few events taking place during the Aug. 2 First Friday are listed below:

Are you ready to rock? Canal Street Tavern (308 E. First St.) is presenting a tribute show by American Pink Floyd. The show starts at 9 p.m. and tickets are $12. Call 937-461-9343.

In honor of the second anniversary of Clash Consignment (521 E. Fifth St.), the store will throw a party to celebrate with all its customers. Entertainment will be provided by DJs Mike Wishnewski and Matt Freeman and henna artist Lily Whitehead. Boston Bistro will cater, and a $2 sidewalk sale will be held. Work by artist Robert Walker also will be featured. Call 937-241-9434.

The monthly Courteous Mass Ride will meet for two rides this month at Don Crawford Plaza in front of Fifth Third Field, (220 N. Patterson Blvd.). The first will ride leaves at 5:30 p.m. and the second at 7 p.m. Rides are free of charge and all skill levels are welcome. This month’s route will go past the downtown dog park, hit spots in Old North Dayton and surrounding areas (DATV, Mike Sell’s Potato Chips, Charlie’s Deli and Whitewater Warehouse) and head down the Mad River bike path back.

Synergy Incubators  will produce their fourth  First Friday Food Truck Rally.  Street Food is all the ragea and Dayton Food Park  (2oo S. Jefferson St.) will have 14 of Dayton’s food trucks lined up from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.  After you grab some grub, browse through the booths of local artisans that include jewelry, homemade soaps, pottery and other crafts.

To celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Great Dayton Flood, the Dayton Visual Arts Center (118 N. Jefferson St.) is showcasing artwork by local artists around the theme “Water, Water Everywhere.” Visitors can talk to the featured artists from the exhbit. The gallery will be open until 8 p.m. Call 937-224-3822.

Green Baby (31 S. St. Clair St.) will exhibit work by local artist Bley Hack, offer free chair massages to visitors and host a sale on select children’s items. The store will be open until 8 p.m. Call 469-8665.

Miami-Jacobs (110 N Patterson Blvd.) will host a Summer Block Party. HOT-FM 102.9 and WROU-FM 92.1 will broadcast live from the event, and entertainment includes a photo booth, indoor cornhole tournament and outdoor games. Call 937-668-0213.

As part of the First Friday Salsa Music Series, Son del Caribe will play live music from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. at RiverScape MetroPark (111 E. Monument Ave.) on the MetroPark Pavilion Stage. Experience sounds that include salsa and other styles of Latin dance music. Call 937-274-0126.

Sew Dayton (16 Brown St.) will showcase artist-of-the-month Craig Galentine, creator of the The Kokeshi Clan. A group of local children will be selling lemonade for Hanna’s Treasure Chest outside the store and the winner of the “Make It Work” contest will be announced, along with the next challenge. Call 937-234-7398.

Wiley’s Comedy Niteclub (101 Pine St.) presents Cutthroat Freakshow by Dirty Little Secrets. This off-the-beaten-track show begins at 9 p.m. Tickets are $10 for 18 and older. Call 937-224-5653.

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.

A complete list of what downtown businesses have on tap for First Friday is available on the DDP website. Call 937-224-1518 or email [email protected] for more information.

FRUITVALE STATION and THE WAY WAY BACK Open at THE NEON!

By Leave a Comment

The-Way-Way-Back-Liam-James-620x339Hello Everyone,

As much as we’d like to hold THE KINGS OF SUMMER (it performed very well over the weekend, and audiences loved it), we have to keep moving (otherwise we’d have to skip this weekend’s titles). On Friday (July 26), we will open 2 of the biggest indie hits of the summer – FRUITVALE STATION and THE WAY WAY BACK. Thursday will be your last chance to see 20 FEET FROM STARDOM and THE KINGS OF SUMMER. For this week’s remaining showtimes, visit our website at www.neonmovies.com.

Synopsis for FRUITVALE STATION: “Winner of both the Grand Jury Prize for dramatic feature and the Audience Award for U.S. dramatic film at the 2013 Sundance Film Festival, director Ryan Coogler’s FRUITVALE STATION follows the true story of Oscar Grant (Michael B. Jordan), a 22-year-old Bay Area resident who wakes up on the morning of December 31, 2008 and feels something in the air. Not sure what it is, he takes it as a sign to get a head start on his resolutions: being a better son to his mother (Octavia Spencer), being a better partner to his girlfriend Sophina (Melonie Diaz), and being a better father to Tatiana (Ariana Neal), their beautiful four year-old daughter. His resolve takes a tragic turn, however, when BART officers shoot him in cold blood at the Fruitvale subway stop on New Year’s Day. Oscar’s life and tragic death would shake the Bay Area – and the entire nation – to its very core.” (The Weinstein Company) With production design from WSU Motion Picture Alum Hannah Beachler! Beachler will be available for Q&As after screenings on Friday (July 26) at 7:30 and Saturday (July 27) at 5:10. Click THIS LINK to visit the film’s official site.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lhfuZo0Vju4′]

Synopsis for THE WAY WAY BACK: “THE WAY, WAY BACK is the funny and poignant coming of age story of 14-year-old Duncan’s (Liam James) summer vacation with his mother, Pam (Toni Collette), her overbearing boyfriend, Trent (Steve Carell), and his daughter, Steph (Zoe Levin). Having a rough time fitting in, the introverted Duncan finds an unexpected friend in gregarious Owen (Sam Rockwell), manager of the Water Wizz water park. Through his funny, clandestine friendship with Owen, Duncan slowly opens up to and begins to finally find his place in the world – all during a summer he will never forget.” The cast in this film is terrific – featuring one of Dayton’s own – Allison Janney! Click THIS LINK to visit the film’s official site.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OwNo1i3jkCo’]

“Roger Brown — the greatest basketball player Dayton has ever known — will be inducted into the Naismith Hall of Fame on Sept. 8. Without the love and sacrifice of 84-year-old Daytonian Arlena Smith, it wouldn’t be happening. Join us at THE NEON on Aug. 15 at 7:30 for a benefit screening of the acclaimed documentary UNDEFEATED: THE ROGER BROWN STORY, with all proceeds going toward Arlena Smith’s trip to Springfield, Mass., for Brown’s Hall of Fame induction. Arlena and her late husband Azariah could not have children of their own, so they regularly welcomed troubled teenagers into their modest West Side home. One of those was Roger Brown. Among the greatest young basketball players in New York City history, Brown in 1961 had been unfairly implicated in a gambling scandal just as he was finishing his freshman year at the University of Dayton. Though never charged with a crime, he was kicked out of school and banned for life by the NBA. The Smiths came to the rescue. They opened up their home, found Brown a job, gave him the strength to move on. And finally, Brown bloomed anew. In 1967, he became the first player of the ABA’s Indiana Pacers. He led them to three championships, and became an Indianapolis City Councilman. All along, until his death at age 54 of cancer, Brown credited the Smiths — his ‘second parents’ — for making it possible.” (taken from press notes) Mark your calendars now! Tickets, just $10 each, are now available at our box office and at EbonNia Gallery.

“The Libertarian Party of Ohio is hosting an evening of film, food, and discussion in support of the rights of individuals, families, and farmers to make healthy choices about what to grow and eat without interference from government. Food, Freedom and Farmageddon begins at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 8, with the film Farmageddon: The Unseen War on American Family Farms screening at 7:30 p.m at the The Neon, 130 E. Fifth St., Dayton. Fressa and Harvest Mobile Cuisine, two of Dayton’s most popular food trucks, will be parked right outside, and local food vendors will have their goods for sale. Also co-sponsoring the event is The Heights Cafe of Huber Heights. Admission is $5.” (taken from Libertarian Party Press Notes) Click THIS LINK to reserve your seat.
Hope to see you this weekend!

All the best,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Fri. July 26 – Aug 1:

FRUITVALE STATION (R) 1 Hr 25 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:50, 3:00, 5:10, 7:30, 9:45
Monday – Thursday: 3:00, 5:10, 7:30, 9:45

THE WAY WAY BACK (PG-13) 1 Hr 43 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:30, 2:45, 5:00, 7:15, 9:30
Monday – Thursday: 2:45, 5:00, 7:15, 9:30

COMING SOON:
As always, all dates are tentative. Many of these dates will change.
In some rare cases, titles may disappear.
TBD – FILL THE VOID
TBD – IN THE HOUSE
Aug. 2 – I’M SO EXCITED
Aug. 23 – BLUE JASMINE
TBD – BLACKFISH
TBD – THE HUNT

Keep the Rum Coming

By Leave a Comment

Portrait of George Washington

Yes, I would love to have a glass of rum. Thank you for asking!

George Washington is remembered as being one of the most respected individuals in American history. He was the General of the Army that defeated the British, he was the first President, and he was one of the great provocateurs before the American Revolution. He was a distiller, making his own beer and whiskey. He also knew quite well what spirits the people of colonial America liked to drink. He ordered 28 gallons of a particular spirit to distribute while he was running for the House of Burgess in Virginia. He also demanded it as a ration for his troops during the brutal winter they spent at Valley Forge and made sure that the fighting men got it before the officers did. When the war was over and Washington attended his inauguration, he (illegally) had a barrel of the finest imported. Whiskey was not a major American drink until after the war.  The spirit that Washington, and all colonists were so fond of, was rum.

Rum was rough when it was first made. It was called kill-devil by most, but also referred to by several British slang words like rumbustion or rumbullion, both of which were terms referring to an upheaval. As it started to rise through the gentry, it became more refined with very basic distilling technology. It also became more popular as a drink to take on long voyages. Most ships of the era were outfitted with large supplies of beer and water. Rum did not go bad like the beer eventually did, nor did it suffer the same contamination that water was suspect to. Moreover, it was discovered that the long trips to Britain and America in oak barrels mellowed the rum and made it a much better quality liquor. It became a staple not only in the British navy, but on the pirate ships that were attracted to the Caribbean area for its developing wealth. The British were not prepared for the strength of the new spirit over beer. Rum started to be mixed with water, brown sugar, and lime. This had two effects: it stopped the sailors from being dead drunk and it gave them enough vitamin C to prevent scurvy. This gave the British a distinct advantage in sea combat. It remained a staple until 1970, when having buzzed sailors and modern weapons seemed to be a bad idea.

Barrels of rum stacked on each other

Barrels of rum aging.

America loved it as well. Rhode Island created rum that was as good, if not better, than rums coming from the tropics. The colonies were awash with it. Rum was in punches and any other drink you could ask for while traveling. It was also part of the slave trade, with people selling molasses to the colonies to get money to buy slaves. On average, colonists were drinking about four gallons per person per year. England took note of that, and imposed the Molasses Act in 1733 and Sugar Act in 1764, taxing the ingredients that helped to make rum. In 1775, the American Revolution began, and the rum started to flow out of America. Molasses became harder to come by. Not long after the revolution, as Americans moved west, whiskey started to be made in larger quantities in Ohio and Kentucky. Rum fell out of favor for a very long time, making a brief reappearance during Prohibition, then again after World War Two during the Tiki drink craze that swept the fifties and sixties.

Rum is distilled from one of two sources, either of which must come from sugar: molasses or sugar cane juice. Sugar cane juice is a little rarer (and known as rhum), so the bulk of the rum we all drink is made from molasses. It makes sense; the original rums were distilled from molasses, which was no more than a sticky, hard to dispose of byproduct when people were making sugar. There was just enough sugar left in it, with the help of some yeast, to turn it into something that was drinkable. Since rum was originally distilled among the many islands of the Caribbean, there is no one way for any particular rum to be created. Different yeast strains, stills, and methods are all employed by the various companies, making no two rums alike. It is hard to categorize all of the rum that is available in the market, but these are some common distinctions:

  • Light (silver) rum – They are milder and sweeter in general than most rums. The bulk of silver rum comes from Puerto Rico or Brazil (called cachaca). These are the ones you will find in most cocktails.
  • Gold rum – They usually have been aged in charred oak barrels, which gives them a little more color than the younger silvers. These barrels usually come from bourbon, which adds richness to the flavor.
  • Dark rum – Deep brown or red in color, these are more often used in cooking. They are aged longer, adding richer molasses and caramel tones to them. Dark rums usually come from Jamaica, Haiti, or Martinique.
  • Overproof rum – Gold colored rum with a very high ABV (Alcohol by Volume), usually around 151 proof.
  • Spiced rum – Spices are added, usually to gold rums, to enhance the natural flavor of the rum. They can also be darkened with caramel color.
  • Flavored rum – Usually silver in color and lower in ABV, they make up for it with added flavors. The flavors selected, usually tropical in nature, blend well with the natural sweetness of the rum. They are usually added to a mixer as an enhancement.
Fish House Punch in nice glassware

Fish House Punch, a staple of the Founding Fathers. This may explain some of the government.

Some places still offer gunpowder rum (exactly as it sound: run mixed with gunpowder), and there are many fine sipping rums as well that are made in pot stills and very small batches.

Rum is starting to make a comeback from a very long hiatus. The craft cocktail movement, with its love of the classics, has brought this spirit back. The first cocktails were made of rum, littering the early years of America with recipes. Fish House Punch, flips, shrubs, and daiquiris (who have their own day on July 19th) all are cocktails that have a strong rum base. Mojitos are a wonderful summer cocktail, and the mai tai is considered a classic of the tiki era. Everything about rum invites fresh and tropical, perfect summer sipping. The complexity of rum offers an excellent base for cocktails.

From pirates to presidents, rum has been a spirit that has stayed close to the hands of people who enjoy a cocktail or two. Bourbon is considered the “spirit of America”, but the people who built America were fonder of their rum than whiskey of any sort. In recognition of the spirit and the day, find a restaurant with a patio that will make you a classic daiquiri. Summer is only going to last for so long, so enjoy!

Annual Downtown Dayton Photo Contest

By Leave a Comment

998702_10152509198158840_814700363_a Amateur and professional photographers are invited to participate in Downtown in Focus, a photo contest aimed at finding new and distinctive shots of our downtown. The City of Dayton, Downtown Dayton Partnership, Kaplan College and Dayton Daily News are sponsoring the contest.

One amateur winner and one professional winner will be selected in each of the following categories:

  • Downtown Living:  You know that place you and your friends go to every Saturday night downtown? Now is your chance to win some money for being a regular! Take photos showing off Dayton’s vibrant dining and nightlife scene, urban housing or anything else unique to living and playing downtown.
  • I Heart Downtown: The architecture of one of the historic buildings you have always admired. Your favorite spot along the river. That coffee shop where you buy your morning brew — this category is wide open to photograph anything and everything you love about downtown Dayton.
  • Skyline: It’s hard to single out the best thing about Dayton, so why not just capture the whole city? Show us your best shot of our downtown Dayton skyline!

A panel of judges ― consisting of professional photographers, photography editors and instructors, and arts community leaders ― will select the winners in each category and award a $250 cash prize to the Best in Show winner in each division. Honorable mentions also will be awarded at the discretion of the judges. In addition, City of Dayton Mayor Gary Leitzell will select one photo that best represents the City’s “Dayton Originals” motto. This photographer will receive a gift basket from the City of Dayton. Contest winners will be recognized at the Sept. 20 Urban Nights, and all entries will be displayed in a special exhibit during Urban Nights.

From approximately 8 to 11 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 2, during First Friday, many of downtown’s buildings will be lit for photographers who would like to capture night shots of the city.

The deadline to submit photos is 5 p.m. Friday, Aug. 30, 2013. There is no fee for application or participation.

Photographers are not required to be Dayton-area residents, but winners must be age 18 or older. Photos must have been taken in Greater Downtown ― which includes the Central Business District, Oregon Arts District, Webster Station and the ring of neighborhoods that surrounds downtown ― within the past calendar year. Official contest guidelines and entry forms are available at www.downtowndayton.org and www.daytonohio.gov.

For more information, contact:

Kristen Wicker: 937-224-1518, ext. 228, or [email protected]

Courtney Deutsch: 937-224-1518, ext. 231, or [email protected]

For contest submission details and entry forms: www.downtowndayton.org

 

 

Joss Whedon’s MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING & KON-TIKI Arrive at THE NEON!

By Leave a Comment

MUCH ADO Neon PosterHello Everyone,

Once again, we’re truckin’ through the titles. If you still need to see BEFORE MIDNIGHT or THE EAST, you only have through Thursday to see them at THE NEON. On Friday, we will open 2 new films – Joss Whedon’s MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING and the Academy Award nominee KON-TIKI (which will more than likely only play for one week). In addition to the 2 new films, we will hold LOVE IS ALL YOU NEED for one more week.  For this week’s remaining showtimes, visit our website at www.neonmovies.com.

Synopsis for MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING: “Shakespeare’s classic comedy is given a contemporary spin by director Joss Whedon. Shot in just 12 days, the story of sparring lovers Beatrice and Benedick offers a dark, sexy and occasionally absurd view of the intricate game that is love. As matchmaking schemes are put into play and disguguises are donned, loathing and love soon prove to be close cousins.” (taken from Lionsgate) Click HERE to visit the film’s official site.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jk5kkLNPg8g’]

Synopsis for KON-TIKI: “Norwegian explorer Thor Heyerdahl crossed the Pacific ocean in a balsa wood raft in 1947, together with five men, to prove that South Americans already back in pre-Columbian times could have crossed the sea and settle on Polynesian islands. After gathering financing for the trip with loans and donations, they set off on an epic 101 day-long journey across 8,000 kilometers, all while the world was watching. KON-TIKI tells about the origin of Heyerdahl’s idea and the events surrounding the group’s voyage.” (taken from The Weinstein Co.) Click HERE to visit the film’s official site.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i1Xf3toxvXM’]

This Saturday, July 6, THE NEON will host the premiere of Meladi McNair’s new film THE OMISSION. “Marissa tries to hide from her friends that she is in an unfortunate, yet common situation that afflicts many young adults. A violent, controlling relationship. Three flashbacks paint her birthday bash as the platform for a series of unfortunate events in which five long-time friends learn of her situation, and turn on each other… THE OMISSION, a dark, abuse awareness film debuts at 3 pm on July 6. The film was written and directed by Dayton’s own Meladi McNair; a Journalist and social-conscious author, artist and filmmaker. She is also the author of the anti-bullying book, ‘The Vexing.’ Tickets are $5 each.” (taken from press notes)

Here’s a note from American Pi, a store just a block from THE NEON: “Victory Film Group and Made in the USA Films present a 90 minute documentary that explores the rise and fall of U.S. manufacturing. Josh Miller sets out on a journey in which he attempts to live off of USA made products for 30 days. Can he do it!? During Josh’s journey he talks with locals to find out if ‘Made in the USA’ really means anything anymore. If not, what does that mean for the future of our country? Come find out when you join us on the MADE IN THE USA: THE 30 DAY JOURNEY. To obtain tickets online, visit the site. Our site says they are $10 but for a they are FREE. TICKETS MUST BE RESERVED via the website, at our location or via phone (click this LINK for the site). FREE price will reflect during checkout. We do have a VIP package so that viewers can get DVD and photos with Josh etc. and that price is $20.”

“AMU is the story of Kaju, a twenty-one-year-old Indian American woman who returns to India to visit her family and discover the place where she was born. The film takes a dark turn as Kaju stumbles against secrets and lies from her past. A horrifying genocide that took place twenty years ago turns out to hold the key to her mysterious origins.” The India Foundation will present this special screening of AMU on Saturday, July 13 at Noon. Tickets will be $5 each.

See you soon!
All the best,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Fri. July 5 – Thur. July 11:

MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING (PG-13) 1 Hr 49 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:10, 2:30, 4:50, 7:15, 9:40
Monday – Thursday: 3:00, 5:20, 7:45

KON-TIKI (PG-13) 1 Hr 36 Min
Friday: 2:40, 7:20, 9:30
Saturday: 7:20, 9:30
Sunday: 2:40, 7:20, 9:30
Monday – Wednesday: 3:00, 7:40
Thursday: 3:00

LOVE IS ALL YOU NEED (PG-13) 1 Hr 57 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:15, 4:50
Monday – Thursday: 5:10

THE OMISSION (NR) 40 Min
Saturday: 3:00

MADE IN THE USA: THE 30 DAY JOURNEY (NR)
1 Hr 33 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.
July 12 – 20 FEET FROM STARDOM
July ? – KINGS OF SUMMER
July 26 – THE WAY WAY BACK
TBD – GINGER AND ROSA
TBD – FROM UP ON POPPY HILL
TBD – IN THE HOUSE
Aug. 2 – I’M SO EXCITED
Aug. 23 – BLUE JASMINE

To Your Health, Happiness, and Prosperity – National Anisette Day

By 1 Comment

Anise flowers

Such a lovely bunch of flowers…

Anise has a long and flavorful history. It is mentioned in the Bible as a lesson not to be stingy to the Lord. It marched with Caesar as a treat for his troops, possibly one of the first candies developed. The Greeks, Romans, and Egyptians all used it to help digestive ailments, from upset stomachs to bad breath to indigestion. The Romans went so far as to bake it into mustaceum cake, where it was used with other herbs to aid in digestion. It was used for medicinal purposes as well as in cooking to add stronger flavors, or balance out sweetness. As time continued, more and more uses were found for this aromatic and powerfully flavored herb, from cosmetics to liquor. On July 2, we look to its use in liquors as we celebrate National Anisette Day.

Anisette is a generic name used for a liqueur that is primarily flavored with the herb anise, giving the drink a black licorice flavor. Sugary syrup is added to tone down the flavor ever so slightly. Anise grows mainly in the Middle East, Turkey, and Greece, but has spread through the world. Many of those countries also have created their own distinct anisette variations: in Greece it is known as ouzo, in Turkey it is called raki, in Syria, Egypt, and Israel it is known as arak. It is believed that Marie Brizzard, the popular French liqueur company, started to make anisette in 1755 with their other flavored options, helping to spread the popularity of the flavor through Europe. The Spanish fell in love with what they call Anis del Mono (“the monkey’s anisette”), the French created pastis and another infamous liqueur, absinthe. The Italians developed both white and black sambuca. All of them have their own variations of sweetness from the sugar added to the base spirit.

Milky white Yeni Raki

You can find this example of louched anisette at Pasha Grill in The Greene.

The flavor of licorice is a strong one, and anisette is rarely found without something mixed in it. The popular mix of choice for anisette in its many forms is water, whether you are looking at an elegant absinthe fountain or just pouring equal amounts of water and reki in a glass to create Lion’s Milk. One reason is the water dilutes the flavor, making it less intense and easier to drink. The other is to create and effect call louching, where the latent oils that are in the anise refuse to bond with the water mixture, giving the beverage a cloudy look. This is rarely done with sambuca (thought it would work), but the Italians came up with a unique solution to help cut the flavor of the anisette. They serve it with three coffee beans floating on top of it, calling it sambuca con la mosca, sambuca with a fly. The three beans represent health, happiness, and prosperity. You can do it with more or less, but it is considered bad luck to do it with an even number. After you drink the sambuca, you can chew on the beans to enhance the rich anise flavor.

Looking for it in this area can be difficult. Some of the more craft cocktail oriented places like Salar and Rue Dumaine may have absinthe or sambuca as aperitifs or digestifs to have during your meal, or for use in cocktails like a sazerac, Café de Paris, or typhoon. If you are looking to try an excellent louched drink, look to Pasha Grill for Yeni Raki, one of my favorites. Absinthe, sambuca, and ouzo are also common to find in liquor stores like Arrow Wine if you are feeling adventurous and want to bring some home for your own personal trials in cocktails.

From candy to medicine to cocktails, anise has proven to be a versatile and coveted plant. Its flavor profile, similar to a sweeter black licorice, is something people either love or hate. It blends well with other flavors in cooking as well as in adult beverages, helping to tone down bitter flavors and enhance sweeter ones. Over the Fourth of July weekend, with all of the family and friends you are going to be seeing, you have an opportunity to gather around a glass of something unique after a good meal and toast to each other’s heath, happiness, and prosperity.

 

LOVE IS ALL YOU NEED Now At THE NEON!

By Leave a Comment

OR_Love Is All You Need 2012 movie Wallpaper 1600x1200Hello Everyone,

We’re moving right along at THE NEON. Though we’re holding both of our current attractions (BEFORE MIDNIGHT and THE EAST), we also had room to open a new romantic comedy that I saw at last year’s Toronto International Film Festival – LOVE IS ALL YOU NEED. It’s directed by Academy Award winner Susanne Bier and stars Pierce Brosnan and Trine Dyrholm. For this week’s remaining showtimes, visit our website at www.neonmovies.com.

Several of you have been asking…and I’m excited to announce that the new adaptation of Shakespeare’s MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING, directed by Joss Whedon, is slated to open next Friday!

[yframe url=’ww.youtube.com/watch?v=jk5kkLNPg8g’]

Synopsis for LOVE IS ALL YOU NEED: “Philip (Brosnan), an Englishman living in Denmark, is a lonely, middle-aged widower and estranged single father. Ida (Dyrholm) is a Danish hairdresser, recuperating from a long bout of illness, who’s just been left by her husband for a younger woman, Thilde. The fates of these two bruised souls are about to intertwine, as they embark for a trip to Italy to attend the wedding of their children. With warmth, affection and confidence, Susanne Bier has shaken a cocktail of love, loss, absurdity, humor, and delicately drawn characters that will leave only the hardest heart untouched. It is a film about the simple yet profound pains and joys of moving on – and forward – with your life.” (taken from Sony Classics) Click HERE to visit the film’s official site.

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

On Saturday, July 6, THE NEON will host the premiere of Meladi McNair’s new film THE OMISSION. “Marissa tries to hide from her friends that she is in an unfortunate, yet common situation that afflicts many young adults. A violent, controlling relationship. Three flashbacks paint her birthday bash as the platform for a series of unfortunate events in which five long-time friends learn of her situation, and turn on each other… THE OMISSION, a dark, abuse awareness film debuts at 3 pm on July 6. The film was written and directed by Dayton’s own Meladi McNair; a Journalist and social-conscious author, artist and filmmaker. She is also the author of the anti-bullying book, ‘The Vexing.’ Tickets are $5 each.” (taken from press notes)

Here’s a note from American Pi, a store just a block from THE NEON: “Victory Film Group and Made in the USA Films present a 90 minute documentary that explores the rise and fall of U.S. manufacturing. Josh Miller sets out on a journey in which he attempts to live off of USA made products for 30 days. Can he do it!? During Josh’s journey he talks with locals to find out if ‘Made in the USA’ really means anything anymore. If not, what does that mean for the future of our country? Come find out when you join us on the MADE IN THE USA: THE 30 DAY JOURNEY. To obtain tickets online, visit the site. Our site says they are $10 but for a they are FREE. TICKETS MUST BE RESERVED via the website, at our location or via phone (click this LINK for the site). FREE price will reflect during checkout. We do have a VIP package so that viewers can get DVD and photos with Josh etc. and that price is $20.” Check out American Pi’s official site.

“AMU is the story of Kaju, a twenty-one-year-old Indian American woman who returns to India to visit her family and discover the place where she was born. The film takes a dark turn as Kaju stumbles against secrets and lies from her past. A horrifying genocide that took place twenty years ago turns out to hold the key to her mysterious origins.” The India Foundation will present this special screening of AMU on Saturday, July 13 at Noon. Tickets will be $5 each.

There’s another potential Gathr screening on the horizon. Once again, 50 tickets need to be reserved in order for the screening to be locked down. The movie is BACK TO 1942, and it’s an epic film set during a drought in China’s Henan province in 1942. The tentative screening is scheduled for July 17 at 7:30. Check out this LINK to watch the trailer and reserve your ticket. There’s only about a week left to reserve a ticket in order to secure the screening…and right now, it doesn’t look like it’s gonna happen. Hurry and share these details if this is a film you’d like to see!

See you soon!

All the best,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Fri. June 28 – Thur. July 4:

BEFORE MIDNIGHT (R) 1 Hr 48 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:15, 5:00, 7:30
Monday – Thursday: 5:20

THE EAST (PG-13) 1 Hr 56 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 2:30, 4:00, 9:40
Monday – Thursday: 2:50, 7:45

LOVE IS ALL YOU NEED (PG-13) 1 Hr 57 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 1:00, 7:15, 9:40
Monday – Thursday: 3:00, 5:30, 8:00

COMING SOON:
As always, all dates are tentative. Many of these dates will change.
In some rare cases, titles may disappear.
July 5 – MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING
July 12 – 20 FEET FROM STARDOM
July ? – KINGS OF SUMMER
July 26 – THE WAY WAY BACK
Aug 2 – I’M SO EXCITED!
Aug 26 – BLUE JASMINE
TBD – GINGER AND ROSA
TBD – KON TIKI
TBD – FROM UP ON POPPY HILL
TBD – IN THE HOUSE