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TIFF 2015 – Day #3

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a5e418c00d1f88a05b2165e602f9f7f0_originalHello Again,

After my successful turn in line this morning, I was off to my first screening – MISS YOU ALREADY, directed by Catherine Hardwicke.  Many people refer to this type of a film as a “chick flick.”  Though there are many films that get this label, there are a handful of these guilty pleasures that I have absolutely adored over the years…and I was hoping to find a new BEACHES today.  Hardwicke takes the story of two best friends since childhood (Toni Collette and Drew Barrymore) and gives it the energy and style of her film THIRTEEN.  There’s lots of crazy camera moves and a series of montages in an attempt to keep it fresh, but I feel that style detracts from this already overlong story.  Though there are certain elements of this film that work (namely Collette), I was mostly disappointed.  However, I was still moved by the ending – so I still had some sort of emotional attachment.

I had only planned on 4 films today, but when I had a window of time, I snuck in another film instead of a nap.  SLEEPING GIANT, by first-time Canadian director Andrew Cividino, is a lakeside summertime coming-of-age story about a teenage boy of privilege and his friendship with two much rougher boys living with their grandmother for the season.  It’s pretty early on in the film that we feel the powder keg sensibility of what’s in store, and the story becomes a little predictable.  But the cadence of the contemporary youthful dialog is just right and the boys’  performances are all strong.   What’s especially lovely about this film is the subtext.  This is one of the stronger films I’ve seen so far…but a hard sell – teen dramas that aren’t really meant for teens are always tricky (even when they’re as wonderful as ME AND EARL AND THE DYING GIRL).

THE LADY IN THE VAN, directed by Nicholas Hytner, was next on my list.  Hytner was in attendance for this film, and the Q&A was fantastic.  Based on the memoir and subsequent play by Alan Bennett, the films stars Maggie Smith (who originated the role in the play in 1999).  As this was the world premiere, it was Hytner’s first time seeing the finished film with an audience, and he had such eloquent things to say.  Maggie Smith is divine, and I must say that it’s smarter, funnier and significantly more touching than the trailer alludes. (Sony Classics has picked this up, so it’s pretty certain it will get a NEON run.)

Then I got to see the North American premiere of THE DANISH GIRL, directed by Tom Hooper (KINGS SPEECH).  This lovely film isn’t without a couple problematic moments, and it will certainly have its LGBT detractors – harping that it’s too “easy.”  That said, I think it works.  With lovely art direction, exquisite costumes and incredible performances across the board, this is a love story about artists Lili Elbe and Gerda Wegener (Eddie Redmayne & Alicia Vikander).   Lili, first introduced to us as Einar Wegener, is known to be the first recorded person to receive sexual reassignment surgery in the 1930’s.  Her diaries, posthumously used as the basis for the book MAN INTO WOMAN, remain highly regarded work for the transgender community.  There will certainly be a lot of award season buzz for this film. (In addition to a fantastic Q&A with Tom, Eddie and Alicia, the audience at this screening included many stars from other films at the festival – including Johnny Depp (his wife Amber Heard plays a wonderful role in the film, and she was stunning tonight).)

TE PROMETO ANARQUIA, directed by Julio Hernández Cordón, was my last film for the night.  This gritty film set in Mexico City is about two skateboarder boyfriends and their attempt to make some cash.  It feels a bit like some of Gus Van Sant’s indie work (less GOOD WILL HUNTING and MILK, more PARANOID PARK and ELEPHANT).  There are a lot of scenes where we simply see people traveling through the landscapes of the town with a loud, music-driven soundtrack.  And there a handful of scenes with dudes showing off their machismo – which I understood their intent but felt were some of the weaker moments.  The storytelling was uneven and overly long, and I think some of the plot points were haphazardly executed. About 25 minutes in, I considered leaving…but I’m glad I stuck it out.

I finished up the night with cocktails and catching up with some friends from NYC.  Some high profiles films are on the docket for tomorrow – looking forward to them.

Thanks for reading!

Jonathan

Oscar Nominee TIMBUKTU Opens & FREE Oscar Party Details at THE NEON!

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TIMBUKTU-newposter-Oscarnom_{d5704ff5-075b-e411-9d0b-d4ae527c3b65}_smHello Everyone,

The response to STILL ALICE was really terrific this weekend. Most customers agree that Julianne Moore’s performance is honest and beautifully done…and that she will deserve the Academy Award this Sunday. STILL ALICE will stick around, and on Friday, we will open a contender for this year’s “Best Foreign Film” Oscar – TIMBUKTU – the first time a film from Mauritania has ever received a nomination.  The last day for TWO DAYS, ONE NIGHT will be Thursday, Feb. 19.  MR. TURNER is slated to open on Feb. 27 and THE SECOND BEST EXOTIC MARIGOLD HOTEL is set to open on March 6!

Synopsis for TIMBUKTU: Currently rated 98% Fresh on Rottentomatoes.com, this stunning film is as important as it is beautiful. “Not far from the ancient Malian city of Timbuktu, now ruled by the religious fundamentalists, proud cattle herder Kidane lives peacefully in the dunes with his wife Satima, his daughter Toya, and Issan, their twelve-year-old shepherd. In town, the people suffer, powerless, from the regime of terror imposed by the Jihadists determined to control their faith. Music, laughter, cigarettes, even soccer have been banned. The women have become shadows but resist with dignity. Every day, the new improvised courts issue tragic and absurd sentences. Kidane and his family are being spared the chaos that prevails in Timbuktu. But their destiny changes abruptly in this stunningly rendered film from a master of world cinema.” (taken from Cohen Media) Joe Morgenstern of The Wall Street Journal wrote, “If Timbuktu – a nominee for this year’s foreign-film Oscar – were politically astute and nothing more, it would still serve a valuable purpose. But the film throbs with humanity, and abounds in extraordinary images.” Click this LINK to visit the film’s official site.

Many thanks to the Alzheimer’s Association for their help in spreading the word about our engagement of STILL ALICE. “More than 5 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s and the the signs of Alzheimer’s are often dismissed as typical aging. Memory loss that disrupts daily life is not normal – it’s one of the 10 warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease. If identified, these signs should be taken seriously and a doctor should be consulted. Early detection is important so that individuals and families can seek possible treatments that may provide relief from symptoms and allow more time to plan for the future. The Alzheimer’s Association Miami Valley Chapter is here to help! You can contact their 24/7 Helpline at 800.272.3900 or alz.org/dayton.” (The Alzheimer’s Association has literature available in THE NEON’s lobby during our run of STILL ALICE.)

“The Junior Leaguers Club of Dayton will sponsor a special screening of DEAR WHITE PEOPLE on Feb. 28, 2015 at noon. DEAR WHITE PEOPLE is a 2014 American satirical film written and directed by Justin Simien. The film focuses on African American students who attend a predominately white university. This is the fourth annual movie sponsored by the Junior Leaguers of Dayton as a fundraiser for scholarships. The film will be followed by a community discussion led by Jeannette Taylor, program coordinator for NCCJ. The cost is $30 per ticket which includes the cost of movie, soda, a glass of wine, popcorn and the discussion.” (Taken from event press notes.) Tickets can now be purchased at THE NEON’s box office.

The Oscars are this Sunday, and you’re invited to our Annual FREE Oscar Party! Oscar ballots and details are now available in our lobby. Many thanks to the folks at ThinkTV for agreeing to help us get a broadcast signal for the event! Additional thanks to our friends at Square One Salon & Spa for donating a special gift for our grand prize of the night!

The ReelAbilities Film Festival is happening at numerous venues around Cincinnati, but one special screening is coming to Dayton on Wednesday, March 4 at 7:30 – ON BEAUTY. “Rick Guidotti, who after 15 years of working for clients such as Yves Saint Laurent, Elle, and Harper’s Bazaar, grew tired of seeing the same ideal of beauty ‘spit up at us constantly.’ In a moment of serendipity, Rick walked by a young woman with Albinism at a New York City bus stop, and wondered why she wasn’t considered beautiful in his other world. This exploration resulted in a show-stopping magazine spread for Life Magazine called ‘Redefining Beauty.’ The Cincinnati ReelAbilities Film Festival, organized by LADD and presented by Macy’s, is our region’s largest film festival celebrating the stories, lives and art of people who experience disability; all of the film screenings benefit local nonprofit organizations.” For more information or to order advanced tickets, click this LINK to the official site.

On Sunday, March 8 at 3:20 (Please Note – the date in last week’s newsletter was incorrect!), Taller Trees Productions will premiere THE FALL LEAGUE – a locally produced documentary about seniors, softball and life. “This heart-warming documentary captures the story of a Dayton senior league (all players are over age 63), but it goes much further, exploring the impact of the sport in regard to family relationships, the bonding and camaraderie between players, and topics of aging that are necessary considerations for active seniors…the movie has been accepted for the Indy Sports Film Fest Experience in Toronto…and Louisvilles’ International Festival of Film.” (taken from press notes) To read more about the film and its production and to view the trailer, visit the film’s official site by clicking this LINK. Tickets, just $7 each, will be available at THE NEON’s box office beginning this weekend. Many people involved with the production of the film will attend the screening.

“On Sunday, March 15 at 3:00, The Turkish American Society is proud to present a special, one-time screening of director Hasan Kiraç’s TWO HEARTS AS ONE (Birlesen Gönüller). This powerful film – one of the most expensive productions in Turkish film history – is based on a true story. Starting in 1940’s Soviet Russia, and continuing into 1990’s, this is the story of four hearts which couldn’t be stopped by distances and years. Newlyweds Niyaz and Cennet are forced to separate when war rears a violent and chaotic head. Niyaz is taken to Red Army to fight on the Soviet side, while Cennet is sent to a camp when the Nazis took over their village…Woven into the narrative is the story of Yunus and Dilek, a loving couple from Turkey who leave for Almaty, then the capital of Kazakhstan, in the 1990’s. Ambitious Yunus is planning to build a school, but he has no resources at all. His wife Dilek sympathizes and supports him, but their enduring poverty wears her patience and resolve – until a chance encounter provides some much-needed perspective. Tickets for this special event are $10 and will be available on the day of the event (to purchase tickets in advance, visit The Turkish American Society – 2601 East Fourth Street). Presented in Turkish, with English subtitles.” (Taken from press notes)

Thanks for your continued support.
We hope to see you this weekend – at the movies and our Oscar Party!

Stay warm,
Jonathan

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

TIMBUKTU (NR) 1 Hr 37 Min
Friday & Saturday: 12:45, 2:50, 5:00, 7:15, 9:30
Sunday: 12:45, 2:50, 5:00
Monday – Thursday: 3:00, 5:15, 7:30

STILL ALICE (PG-13) 1 Hr 41 Min
Friday, Saturday: 12:40, 3:00, 5:15, 7:30, 9:45
Sunday: 12:40, 3:00, 5:15, 7:30
Monday – Thursday: 3:15, 5:30, 7:45

OSCAR PARTY (NR) Runtime: Who Knows?!
Sunday: Seating begins at approximately 7:00

COMING SOON:

(All Dates Are Tentative. Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear.)

Feb. 27 – MR. TURNER
March 6 – THE SECOND BEST EXOTIC MARIGOLD HOTEL
March ? – WHAT WE DO IN THE SHADOWS
March ? – LEVIATHAN
March ? – RED ARMY
April 3 – WOMAN IN GOLD
TBD – MOMMY
March ? – WILD TALES
TBD – GREY GARDENS

WILD – Starring Reese Witherspoon – Opens Friday + More About IMITATION GAME, TOMMY LEE JONES Yogananda & More

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wild-reese-witherspoonHello Everyone,

We’re going to end the year at THE NEON with some very high profile films. On Friday, we will open WILD – the new film based on the #1 Bestseller by Cheryl Strayed. I saw this film in Toronto, and I immediately knew that Witherspoon would receive nominations galore for this role. She’s a shoe-in for an Oscar nomination! Next Thursday (Dec. 25), we will open THE IMITATION GAME – a film that was on the top of the list to see in Toronto. This is one that will undoubtedly get a “Best Picture” nomination. It’s a really terrific film, and I know Daytonians are going to love it!

If you still need to see THE HOMESMAN (starring Hilary Swank and Tommy Lee Jones – directed by Jones) or THE THEORY OF EVERYTHING (do not miss Eddie Redmayne in this incredible performance), they will stick around until Wednesday, Dec. 24! And due to high demand, we are playing AWAKE: THE LIFE OF YOGANANDA two more times this weekend (Friday and Sunday only).

Remaining showtimes for this current week can be found on our website at www.neonmovies.com

Synopsis for WILD: “After years of reckless behavior, a heroin addiction, and the destruction of her marriage, Cheryl Strayed (Reese Witherspoon) makes a rash decision. Haunted by memories of her mother Bobbi (Laura Dern) and with absolutely no experience, she sets out to hike more than a thousand miles on the Pacific Crest Trail all on her own.” (taken from Fox Searchlight) Reese Witherspoon is absolutely incredible in this film. WILD was directed by Jean-Marc Vallee – director of DALLAS BUYERS CLUB. Click on this LINK to visit the film’s official website.

To read more about AWAKE: THE LIFE OF YODANANDA, click on this LINK.

The Annual Family Holiday Film Series, presented by The Dayton Holiday Festival, The Downtown Dayton Partnership, Channel 99.9 and THE NEON, only has one film left. Admission is FREE for kids 12 & under and only $2 for general admission. The Cary Grant classic THE BISHOP’S WIFE will play this Saturday, December 20 at Noon. Tickets will only be available starting 45 minutes before each screening, and children must be present in order to claim free tickets.

KRW Cycles is attempting to bring another motorcycle-inspired film to town. “ON ANY SUNDAY: THE NEXT CHAPTER is an exploration into the pursuit of excitement, passion and life in the two-wheeled world of motorcycle riding. Experiences that are as relatable to a rider as a day with friends, others that explore human triumph and overcoming fear, and some which occur once in a lifetime. One moment of riding a motorcycle – On Any Sunday.Critically acclaimed director Dana Brown (“Step Into Liquid” and “Dust to Glory”) teams up with his father, Academy Award Nominee Bruce Brown (“The Endless Summer” and “On Any Sunday”) to journey deeper into the humanity, thrills and excitement of the global culture of motorcycle riding; those who are bonded by their passion for the race, the love of family and friendship, and on a deeper level – their quest for the thrill of the next ride.” This is a tugg event. The movie is scheduled to screen on Thursday, Jan. 15 at 7:30. If not enough reservations are made by Jan. 2, the event will be cancelled. Visit this LINK to reserve your ticket.

Don’t forget that we sell gift certificates in $5 and $10 denominations at our box office. They make perfect holiday gifts for the film lovers in your life…or for people who have never experienced THE NEON. Diana also ordered some delicious 2-pack biscotti from Tastes of Nostalgia – they’d make a perfectly sweet pairing to our certificates.

Thank you for your continued support.

We hope to see you soon,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Friday, Dec. 19 – Wednesday, Dec. 24:
Please note: These showtimes are only good until Wednesday!
A New Schedule (due to the holiday) Will Begin on Dec. 25!

THE THEORY OF EVERYTHING (PG-13) 2 Hr 3 Min
Friday & Saturday: 5:00, 9:55
Sunday: 5:00
Monday – Wednesday: 5:30
Final Day – Dec. 24!

THE HOMESMAN (R) 2 Hrs 2 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 2:30, 7:30
Monday – Wednesday: 3:00, 8:00
Final Day – Dec. 24!

WILD (R) 1 Hr 55 Min
Friday, Saturday: 11:45, 2:15, 4:45, 7:15, 9:45
Sunday: 11:45, 2:15, 4:45, 7:15
Monday – Wednesday: 2:45, 5:15, 7:45

THE BISHOP’S WIFE (NR) 1 Hr 49 Min
Saturday: Noon

AWAKE: THE LIFE OF YOGANANDA (PG) 1 Hr 27 Min
Friday & Sunday: 12:30

COMING SOON:
(All Dates Are Tentative. Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear.)
Dec. 25 – THE IMITATION GAME
Jan. 9 or 16 – FOXCATCHER
TBD – FORCE MAJEURE
TBD – MR. TURNER
TBD – STILL ALICE
TBD – OSCAR SHORTS
TBD – TWO DAYS ONE NIGHT
TBD – LEVIATHAN
TBD – THE SECOND BEST EXOTIC MARIGOLD HOTEL

Oscar Hopeful THEORY OF EVERYTHING Opens at THE NEON!

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10482287_381129725378465_1199013742911067013_nHello DaytonMostMetro Fans,

I’ve got good news. WHIPLASH and BIRDMAN will be able to share a screen starting this Wednesday. That said, if you need to see either of these films, I’d suggest hurrying down. They may not last more than one more week. Tomorrow (Wed, Nov. 26), we will open a film that I know many of you will embrace – THE THEORY OF EVERYTHING. When I saw this film at the World Premiere in Toronto, the auditorium was packed with stars who were anxious to see the film – including Jon Stewart, Julie Taymor and Andrew Garfield. The standing ovation was remarkable, and hearing Eddie Redmayne (who deserves the Oscar for this performance) speak about the process was incredible. I hope you’ll be anxious to see the film with us this weekend.

Synopsis for THE THEORY OF EVERYTHING: “Starring Eddie Redmayne and Felicity Jones, this is the extraordinary story of one of the world’s greatest living minds, the renowned astrophysicist Stephen Hawking, who falls deeply in love with fellow Cambridge student Jane Wilde. Once a healthy, active young man, Hawking received an earth-shattering diagnosis at 21 years of age. With Jane fighting tirelessly by his side, Stephen embarks on his most ambitious scientific work, studying the very thing he now has precious little of – time. Together, they defy impossible odds, breaking new ground in medicine and science, and achieving more than they could ever have dreamed. The film is based on the memoir Travelling to Infinity: My Life with Stephen, by Jane Hawking, and is directed by Academy Award winner James Marsh (MAN ON WIRE).” Click on this LINK to visit the film’s official website.

The Annual Family Holiday Film Series, presented by The Dayton Holiday Festival, The Downtown Dayton Partnership, Channel 99.9 and THE NEON, has secured titles for this year’s line-up. Films will screen at Noon on December 6, 13, & 20 – and the price is absolutely amazing. Admission is FREE for kids 12 & under and only $2 for general admission. ELF will play on December 6, THE MUPPET CHRISTMAS CAROL will play on December 13, and the Cary Grant classic THE BISHOP’S WIFE will play on December 20. Tickets will only be available starting 45 minutes before each screening, and children must be present to claim free tickets.

Last year, THE NEON hosted a few screenings of THE TRIUMPH for a local non-profit. On December 10, 4Mary.Org will bring back this documentary another time. “THE TRIUMPH is a powerful new documentary film about a prophecy unfolding right now, before our very eyes. From Medjugorje, a tiny village in Bosnia-Herzegovina, comes a message from the Mother of God. Does this woman really know mankind’s future, as millions believe? Decide for yourself.” (taken from press notes) Tickets are $10 each and can only be purchased in advance by visiting the official site. Click this LINK to purchase tickets and this LINK to check out the trailer.

As we head into the holiday season, I want to take this opportunity to express my great thanks for your patronage. We’re trending to make 2014 a banner year, and we wouldn’t be in this great place without your enthusiasm & support. In addition, I want to thank Diana Cordero – our assistant manager. Diana has been right beside me for over 13 years at THE NEON, and I couldn’t do it without her. Thank you!

Wishing all of you a great Thanksgiving!

We hope to see you soon,

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Wednesday, Nov. 26 – Thursday, Dec. 4:
PLEASE NOTE: This schedule is more than a week!

THE THEORY OF EVERYTHING (PG-13) 2 Hr 3 Min
Wednesday & Thursday: 2:45, 5:15, 7:45
Friday & Saturday: 11:45, 2:15, 4:45, 7:15, 9:45
Sunday: 11:45, 2:15, 4:45, 7:15
Monday – Thursday: 2:45, 5:15, 7:45

BIRDMAN (R) 1 Hr 59 Min
Wednesday & Thursday: 2:40, 7:30
Friday & Saturday: 2:40, 7:30, 9:55
Sunday – Thursday: 2:40, 7:30

WHIPLASH (PG-13) 1 Hr 47 Min
Wednesday & Thursday: 5:10
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:20, 5:10
Monday – Thursday: 5:10

COMING SOON:
(All Dates Are Tentative. Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear.)
Dec. 5 – CITIZENFOUR
Dec. 25 – THE IMITATION GAME
Dec. 25 – WILD
Jan. 9 or 16 – FOXCATCHER
TBD – FORCE MAJEURE
TBD – HOMESMAN

Amazing Line-Up at THE NEON! THEORY OF EVERYTHING Opens Sooner Than Expected!

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Whiplash_010814_1170x457

Hello Everyone,

I’m happy to report that BIRDMAN continues to bring in nice crowds, thus it will be sticking around. However, despite incredible reviews, WHIPLASH didn’t perform quite as well as we had hoped. That said, we’re holding it for another weekend. At this point, we’re not sure if it will stick around beyond Tuesday…we need to wait for another weekend to see if we can hold it any longer. I’d suggest hurrying down if you still need to see this film. On Wednesday of next week (the day before Thanksgiving), we will open one of my absolute favorites from this year’s Toronto International Film Festival – THE THEORY OF EVERYTHING. I’ll send you more details about this film early next week. For remaining showtimes, please visit our website at www.neonmovies.com

 

The Annual Family Holiday Film Series, presented by The Dayton Holiday Festival, The Downtown Dayton Partnership, Channel 99.9 and THE NEON, has secured titles for this year’s line-up. Films will screen at Noon on December 6, 13, & 20 – and the price is absolutely amazing. Admission is FREE for kids 12 & under and only $2 for general admission. ELF will play on December 6, THE MUPPET CHRISTMAS CAROL will play on December 13, and the Cary Grant classic THE BISHOP’S WIFE will play on December 20. Tickets will only be available starting 45 minutes before each screening, and children must be present to claim free tickets.

Our line-up for the next several weeks is incredible. In addition to THE THEORY OF EVERYTHING, I know you’ll love THE IMITATION GAME (which will surely be nominated for “Best Picture” this year), and I’m anxious to see CITIZENFOUR as well as FORCE MAJEURE.

Thanks so much for your continued support!

We hope to see you soon,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Friday, Nov. 21 – Tuesday, Nov. 25:
PLEASE NOTE: This schedule only goes until Tuesday!

BIRDMAN (R) 1 Hr 59 Min
Friday & Saturday: 11:50, 2:15, 4:45, 7:15, 9:45
Sunday:11:50, 2:15, 4:45, 7:15
Monday & Tuesday: 2:45, 5:15, 7:45

WHIPLASH (PG-13) 1 Hr 47 Min
Friday & Saturday: 12:20, 2:40, 5:00, 7:20, 9:40
Sunday: 12:20, 2:40, 5:00, 7:20
Monday & Tuesday: 3:00, 5:30, 8:00

COMING SOON:
(All Dates Are Tentative. Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear.)

Nov. 26 – THE THEORY OF EVERYTHING
Dec. 5 – CITIZENFOUR
Dec. 25 – THE IMITATION GAME
Dec. 25 – WILD
Jan. 9 or 16 – FOXCATCHER
TBD – FORCE MAJEURE
TBD – HOMESMAN

TIFF 2014 – Day #4

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The-Theory-Of-Everything-PosterSunday, September 7, 2014

Hello Again.

Last night was a late night again…so this morning started with a drag…but I don’t regret staying out until 2:00.  I had dinner with an old friend (I met Bill in line for Almodovar’s TALK TO HER back in 2002) and then met a couple other friends for cocktails.  It was a great night.

This morning started in line like all the other mornings.  I managed to get the tickets I want for Tuesday public screenings (including WILD – the buzz for Reese Witherspoon is quite big), and I was then off to my first P&I screening.

TOUR DE FORCE was first.  It’s a German film about a group of friends getting together for their annual bike ride.  This year, the protagonist has chose Belgium as the destination – much to his friends’ consternation.  Within the first act, it is revealed that he has chosen Belgium because physician assisted suicide is an option there.  He has ALS, and his body is reacting worse and worse each day.  The chemistry of the friends is quite good, and I liked a lot of the film, but I think it lost its way a couple times.  Ultimately, I think there’s a really strong 80 minute film here.  Unfortunately, the 95 minute version isn’t the best.

FACE OF AN ANGEL was my next selection.  It’s the new Michael Winterbottom film that uses the murder of an American student traveling in Italy (the Meredith Kercher case is clearly the inspiration) as the jumping point for the film.  This movie is about a filmmaker who has been offered the chance to write a screenplay and direct the film version of the murder and court proceedings.  As he gets deeper into understanding the dynamics, he decides he’d rather create a film that speaks to the murder but isn’t actually traditional telling of the story.  Daniel Bruhl, who I first fell in love with in GOODBYE, LENIN, plays the director, and Kate Beckinsale plays the journalist who has written extensively about the case.  Sadly, I think the film becomes a self-reflexive jumble – with dream sequences and drug-induced hallucinations that create a frenzy of a film that ultimately doesn’t work.  Though I like that the film makes us question the idea of “truth,” I wasn’t up for all the antics of this story.

I was quite excited to see MISS JULIE – the new Liv Ullmann adaptation of the classic play by Strindberg, starring Jessica Chastain and Collin Farrell.  This is the story of a daughter of a count who is enamored by a well-spoken valet.  What initially seems like flirting becomes a cat and mouse game for control of affections and desire – and certainly an examination of class. The production elements are divine, and Chastain’s performance is absolutely incredible, but I ultimately felt that the adaptation was rather arduous.  There’s something to be said for honoring the text of a classic play, but I think this film needs tightening.

And then I saw the world premiere of  THE THEORY OF EVERYTHING – the story of Stephen Hawking, his relationship with his wife and his battle with ALS.  I love this film! The photography is lovely, the evolving period aspects are perfect, and the performances are out of this world.  I didn’t sense a false note in any moment, and I think numerous awards will follow.  Eddie Redmayne was in attendance and spoke quite eloquently of the process of creating his body movements – which involved doctors and a choreographer.  In addition to all the folks from the film (many of whom participated in the Q&A), there were several stars in attendance for the screening – including Andrew Garfield, Jon Stewart and Julie Taymor.  THE NEON has tentatively put this film on the schedule right around Thanksgiving!  (Look at this photo comparison…I’ve only just seen it, and it makes the film all the more impressive.)

Stephen-Hawking-Jane-Wedding

Thanks again for checking in!

Jonathan