On Screen Dayton
BREAKING: See Fred Armisen perform LIVE in Yellow Springs
The inaugural Yellow Springs Film Festival (YSFF) is bringing in the celebrities for their weekend-long festivities. Due to popular demand (sell out) of Fred Armisen’s “In Conversation With…” special event, festival organizer’s have added a special event live music performance “Comedy For Musicians, But Everyone Is Welcome” featuring Armisen.
Armisen has been new touring this new show all over the country, so organizers are thrilled to bring this event to the area. and this will be the area’s debut performance.
The festival also features a kick-off party with Raekwon from Wu-Tang Clan, who is debuting a film he executive produced called “Taking the Groove Back.” There is also a special retrospective of Guided by Voices 40 year career, along with lots of other special film events. Tickets and information for all the festival’s events can be found at YSFilmFest.com.
HOW TO GO?
When: October 6, 2023
Doors open at 4pm
Show starts at 5pm
General Admission $30
Get festival information here: https://www.ysfilmfest.com/
Get tickets for Fred Armisen show here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/fred-armisen-comedy-for-musicians-but-everyone-is-welcome-tickets-72233386904
TIFF Day #8 – 2023 – 30 Films Screened So Far
Hello Dayton937!
Today was looking slim initially. My only official film on the books today was NYAD – everything else came as surprises…and we all know that not all surprises are good.
My first film was from Cuba. WILD WOMAN, dir. Alán González (Cuba). “Yolanda, a Cuban woman, goes from dancing her heart out at a house party to running against the clock to find her son and skip town once a video circulates from that gathering that seems to incriminate her.” (TIFF Catalog) Not only did I feel like this film was missing a reel (that doesn’t really happen anymore), it also is as much about the landscape as it is about the main character. Though the lead actress was quite compelling and gives an honest and rather heartbreaking performance, not everyone is as good. I ultimately was only slightly invested to find out “what happens” at the end, and I don’t see this film breaking out.
My next film was my first “early departure” from TIFF. If you’re new to my blog, you might not know that I don’t review or name names for films that I don’t finish. I don’t think it’s fair to write reviews for films that I don’t watch from beginning to end. In this case, the idiot dialog and some really poor performances (it seemed like every line was said with a knowing smile) made me cringe a lot…and my eyes were starting to hurt from rolling so much. It was noted at the start that it was being presented courtesy of Paramount+, so maybe you’ll stumble upon it there one day – let me know if you watch a movie with some really big stars there in the near future.
Next up was a film I was anxious to see…and it didn’t disappoint. NYAD, dir. Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi, Jimmy Chin (USA). “Annette Bening and Jodie Foster dive into the dangerous waters of the Florida Straits, in this film based on the true story of the woman who, at the age of 64, became the first person to swim from Cuba to the US without a shark cage.” (TIFF Catalog) This film was directed by the folks who brought us the incredible doc FREE SOLO – and it’s their first time directing a narrative. They’s got the chops to do it…and with Bening and Foster as the talent, it turns into crowd-pleasing gold. As a bonus, Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi & the real Bonnie (Nyad’s best friend turned coach) were in attendance to introduce the film and partake in a Q&A after. It was spectacular, and Bening is so very present and alive in this performance! The film is inspiring on a lot of levels, and every now and then, I saw a little glimmer of my friend Julia Reichert in Annette Bening. I’m sad that most people will see this on Netflix…it deserves a big screen with good sound.
I tried to get a ticket to the film AMERICAN FICTION tonight, but demand was too high – and even though I waited over an hour, at least 100 of us were turned away…so instead, I chose a documentary about a performer I admire but didn’t know much about. LIL NAS X: LONG LIVE MONTERO, dir. Carlos López Estrada, Zac Manuel (USA). “Watch superstar Lil Nas X transcend genres and defy expectations in this revealing, jubilant, and inspiring musical documentary.” This documentary, though certainly a PR piece, shined some light on a performer who is breaking down barriers. I admire how unabashedly queer and flamboyant Lil Nas has become in the public eye over the past couple years, and it was nice to get some background on him as well as explore some production moments of the tour I wasn’t able to attend. For all the quick fame and money that has come his way, Lil Nas still seems a bit naive but also grounded on some level…and that’s refreshing. Madonna makes a quick appearance in the doc – which certainly seems to give a nod to TRUTH OR DARE – which was groundbreaking 30+ years ago.
Tomorrow is my last full day of screenings. On some level, it’s hard to believe it’s winding down…on another, it seems like I’ve been here for months.
Thanks for reading!
Jonathan
TIFF Day #6 – 2023
Hello Everyone.
I saw three films today, and that has my count up to 22 over the past 6 days.
I started my day with the biggest sob of the fest so far. ONE LIFE, dir James Hawes (UK). “Sir Anthony Hopkins stars as Sir Nicholas Winton, a British stockbroker who helped rescue hundreds of children from Europe on the verge of the Second World War, an act of compassion that was almost forgotten for 50 years.” (TIFF Catalog). Some might think this little film is too easy or on-the-nose…and I would understand where they’re coming from…but I don’t agree. This film works and achieves exactly what it set out to do. The narrative has parallel story lines – a more contemporary story about a man cleaning his office and remembering his past…and the memories come to life of the work he did just before WWII. It’s powerful…it’s inspiring…it speaks to current political and humanitarian issues. With handsome photography, score and production design, I know this would be a hit with our audience. I’m showing two pics from this film because Hopkins isn’t the only big star in this film.
My next film covered some similar territory as ONE LIFE – but this biopic is itching to get Kate Winslet another Oscar nomination. LEE, dir. Ellen Kuras (UK). “Oscar winner Kate Winslet stars in this fascinating portrait of the great American war correspondent Lee Miller, whose singular talent and ferocious tenacity gave us some of the 20th century’s most indelible images.” (TIFF catalog) Lee Miller was a model turned photographer, and she most famously worked as a war correspondent for British Vogue. The film is set up as Miller is being interviewed about her life and career – so the life story is told through flashbacks that are motivated by photos that she is showing her interviewer (played by Josh O’Connor from THE CROWN). I questioned some tonal “shifts” in the film, but ultimately thought it was a strong endeavor and spurred my interest to learn more about the subject. Some people might feel cheated by the last 15 minutes…I rather liked the ending (as well as the contextual photos and “update” at the end).
My final film today was a mini crowdpleaser – complete with audience applause in the middle of the movie…but sadly, it’s not the next JOJO RABBIT. NEXT GOAL WINS, dir. Taika Waititi (USA). “Michael Fassbender, Elisabeth Moss, and Oscar Kightley star in Taika Waititi’s comedy about the American Samoa soccer team’s attempt to make a World Cup — 12 years after their infamous 31-0 loss in a 2002 World Cup qualifying match.” (TIFF catalog) This film treads familiar territory. In fact, it’s so familiar that some of the jokes seem lifted directly from TED LASSO. It’s an underdog story, and you really start rooting for the losing team – and I did find myself on the edge of my seat a few times. Unfortunately, there were moments when Michael Fassbender’s disposition changed on a dime – and I questioned a few times if I had fallen asleep and missed something. Regardless, there’s still a lot to like about this rag-tag soccer team, and I think audiences will embrace the movie together on the big screen…but it’s not great. (And I kinda hate that Waititi put himself in the film…his intro is so unnecessary, and his caricature is cringe-worthy.)
No big parties or anything crazy tonight. I’m going to write THE NEON’s newsletter and hopefully get a good night’s slepp.
Thanks for reading!
Jonathan
2nd National Cinema Day – $4 Movies This Sunday
Still haven’t seen “Barbie” or “Oppenheimer”? This Sunday, you’ll be able to catch up for $4 a ticket in movie theaters nationwide.
Theater owners announced Monday that the second annual National Cinema Day will be held Sunday, Aug. 27. For one day, all movies — in all formats and at all showtimes — will be $4 at participating theaters. More than 3,000 theaters are participating, which accounts for most of the cinemas in the U.S., including the leading chains AMC and Regal.
Some of the chains even have deals on concessions. AMC is offering a small-popcorn-and-drink combo for $5; at Regal, the same combo is only $4. You can get a drink at Angelika for $4, and Cinemark is giving every guest a dollar off any popcorn, soda, or candy.
It’s the second straight year theaters are trotting out the one-day event at the tail end of summer. Last year’s inaugural National Cinema Day, put on by the Cinema Foundation, a nonprofit affiliate of the National Association of Theater Owners, was judged an enormous success. An estimated 8.1 million moviegoers bought $3 tickets on Saturday, Sept. 3. The discount gimmick turned into the highest attended day of the year for theaters. A normally quiet time instead saw cinemas crowded with moviegoers — and theaters sold plenty of popcorn. This year, the day is moving up slightly on the calendar, shifting from Saturday to Sunday, and costs $1 more.
BREAKING: Raekwon of Wu-Tang Clan making opening night appearance at Yellow Springs Film Festival
Yellow Springs Film Festival (YSFF) has just announce their opening film on October 6, 2023 is the Midwest Premiere of award-winning documentary short Taking Back The Groove. The moving portrait of disco legend Richie Weeks’ battle to reclaim the rights to his music and restore his legacy in the wake of the Black Lives Matter movement is directed by Celia Aniskovich (Call Me Miss Cleo) and executive produced by Raekwon of Wu-Tang Clan and trailblazing comedian Russell Peters. A post-screening panel discussion with Weeks, Aniskovich and Raekwon will be moderated by festival Founder Eric Mahoney. Tickets for the event go on sale Thursday, August 24th at 12:00pm EST.
Additional YSFF special events include a conversation with Comedian / Actor Fred Armisen (Portlandia, SNL, Documentary Now); an immersive documentary experience, 32 Sounds, with the director Sam Green and Oscar® winning director Steven Bognar in conversation; and a 40-year retrospective of the band Guided by Voices featuring their seminal documentary Watch Me Jumpstart by Banks Tarver.
The Festival program includes documentary features The Cave of Adullam by Laura Checkoway; Rather by Frank Marshall; Citizen Sleuth by Chris Kasick; We Are Fugazi From Washington DC by Joe Gross, Joseph Pattisall & Jeff Krulik; and Have You Got It Yet? The Story of Syd Barrett and Pink Floyd by Roddy Bogawa & Storm Thorgerson. Narrative features include Fancy Dance by Erica Tremblay; The Secret Art of Human Flight by H.P Mendoza, Madly by Gael García Bernal, Mia Wasikowska, Anurag Kashyap, Sebastián Silva, Sion Sono, & Bat for Lashes; and a 10 Year Anniversary screening of Only Lovers Left Alive by Jim Jarmusch.
The YSFF short films program features work by Steven Bognar, Charlotte Ercoli, Adam Meeks, Stephen Michael Simon, Max Cohn and Ellie Sachs, and will include the World Premiere of Lynn’s Fire by Steve Zahn (The Righteous Gemstones, The White Lotus).
The festival will also present a retrospective of the career of longtime Yellow Springs resident and Academy Award® winning director Julia Reichert, featuring film posters, interviews and excerpts of her incredible body of work available free to the public.
All films and events will take place October 6-8, 2023 in the village of Yellow Springs, Ohio at the historic Little Art Theatre, The Foundry at Antioch College and Crome Architecture. YSFF is produced by Hotshot Robot Productions Director / Producer Eric Mahoney and Creative Director / Musician Ian Jacobs, supported by the Yellow Springs Community Foundation.
For further info or to purchase tickets and badges please visit: www.ysfilmfest.com/
Dayton Dinner Theater announces 2022-2023 Schedule
Get excited, The Dayton Dinner Theater is back with its much-awaited interactive movie party season for 2022 – 2023! It’s a great way to spend time with family and friends when the days are short and nights are long. Make the most of it by sipping the sublime themed drinks with your loved ones, while flaunting your movie-themed attire. What more do you need when you can have classic movies, gourmet food, and specially concocted drinks to enjoy with your friends, family, or that special someone?
What to expect from a Dayton Dinner Theater event? First off, make sure you indulge in the creatively themed food provided by Brock Masterson catering. While you indulge in the delicacies, you can feast your ears to live music and soundtrack presentations featuring acts by the likes of The University of Dayton Jazz Ensemble and acclaimed musician and producer Denny Wilson.
A big improvement from year’s past is the themed cocktail selections.The Brightside’s new Bar Manager, Suzy Switzer, has come up with a whole range of delicious offerings.
That’s not all. As it’s an interactive movie party, organizers will feature famous interactive quote and fun participation activities, pop-up fun facts, and our not-so-famous, but equally entertaining, theme-spotting drinking game. Enjoy some lip-smacking-themed desserts while you’re at it! To add the cherry on the cake, there are special surprises for the top costume contest participants.
Now let’s talk about the prices. “Inflation may have gone up, but our tickets have stayed the same price :)”. Book your tickets at just $35 but with so many added entertaining activities. Visit www.daytondinnertheater.com for more information. To make sure that we can serve you with all our scrumptious food, tickets must be booked in advance.
The annual movie series commences on Wednesday, November 30 with an all-time holiday favorite movie Elf at The Brightside Music & Event Venue from 6-9pm.
This year’s list is dominated by comedy and clever and witty classics. See the full schedule below.
Dayton Dinner Theater Season Schedule:
Wednesday, Nov 30, 2022 – Dayton Dinner Theater premiere featuring Elf movie party and live music
Wednesday, Dec 7, 2022 – Dayton Dinner Theater featuring the 80’s classic Christmas Vacation & live music
Sunday, Dec 11, 2022 – Dayton Dinner Theater featuring A Christmas Story and live music
Sunday, Jan 15, 2023 – Dayton Dinner Theater premiere featuring Raiders of the Lost Ark
Sunday, Jan 29, 2023 – Dayton Dinner Theater premiere featuring The Princess Bride & live jazz
Sunday, Feb 12, 2023 – Dayton Dinner Theater featuring Grease & live music
Sunday, Feb 26, 2023 – Dayton Dinner Theater featuring Dazed and Confused
Sunday, March 12, 2023 – Dayton Dinner Theater featuring The Big Lebowski
*All events take place at The Brightside Music & Event Venue located at 905 E 3rd St, Dayton.
For more information, visit: www.daytondinnertheater.com
Adult Beginner Dance Classes Offered Downtown
Looking for an adult dance class that is truly for beginners? Well, look no further! Brittany Butler, a former professional ballerina with the Dayton Ballet, is offering a 6-week adult dance class for all ages and levels of dance with her business “Brittany Moves.” If you’ve wanted to dip your toe into dance – for the first time or as a refresher, this is your class.
This series will take place at The Brightside (905 E 3rd St) in the beautiful Upside Loft (upstairs). This series starts on Monday, April 18th, and runs each Monday through May 23rd, from 5:30-7pm. You can join at any time along the way!
“We will begin with stretching to allow the kinks to loosen up and work themselves out. This 15-minute period will also work as a grace period for those who may need a few minutes after work, to get parked, changed, etc. Then we will focus on warming up the body by moving the muscles and joints – getting the heart rate up,” Butler explained.
‘Then we will learn some ballet,” Butler continues. “And we’ll end with some simple jazz combinations since jazz has many foundations in the creation of dance. You can take away these moves and practice on your own time. It’s a great feeling to be working in a group creating movement to the beat. Don’t sweat if you aren’t able to make each class – there is plenty of variety to cover week to week!”
Butler explained that regular workout clothing is fine to wear to these classes. Ballet attire is not required.
HOW TO GO?
The Brightside (905 E 3rd St)
Upside Loft (upstairs).
This series starts on Monday, April 18th, and runs each Monday through May 23rd, from 5:30-7pm. (15 min grace period before doors lock)
Single classes are $15
4-week class package is $50
6-week class package for $72
Secure Your Spot Here: 👇
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/adult-beginner-dance-class-tickets-315556346527
Dayton Dinner Theater presents “Airplane!”
Dayton Dinner Theater presents “Airplane!” See a classic favorite on the big screen in a fun group, interactive setting on Sunday, February 27th at The Brightside Music & Event Venue.
Enjoy Chef-inspired themed food, desserts, and cocktails from Brock Masterson. Before the movie, organizers have arranged for live-themed music featuring the renowned Dr. Willie Morris and the University of Dayton Jazz Ensemble.
During the movie, show your skills with DDT’s famous interactive quote contest, fun facts, theme spotting, and a trivia contest during intermission. Although these movie parties are geared more towards adults, they are family-friendly.
When? Feb 27, 2022, 6:00 PM – 9:10 PM. Doors open at 5:45pm. Food and live music are available from 6-7pm, the movie starts at 7pm, a short intermission for dessert and trivia will start at 8pm. The movie ends around 9 pm.
Where? The Brightside Event Center, 905 E 3rd St, Dayton, OH 45402
Note: Table reservations only for parties of 6 or more, otherwise, we have open seating.
Cost: $35 tickets available at daytondinnertheater.com. Advance tickets are required.
About the Event:
Themed Food: TBA (last time we had a choice of steak or fish…. I had the lasagna)
Themed Drinks: TBA (we cater to those with a drinking problem)
Themed Attire: pick your occupation… doctor, pilot, stewardess, auto pilot, or Hare Krishna salesman
Dayton Dinner Theater presents “The Princess Bride”
Dayton Dinner Theater presents “The Princess Bride”! See a classic family favorrite on the big screen in a fun group, interactive setting at The Brightside Music & Event Venue.
Enjoy Chef-inspired themed food, desserts, and cocktails from Brock Masterson. Before the movie, organizers have arranged for live-themed music featuring the renowned Dr. Willie Morris and the University of Dayton Jazz Ensemble.
During the movie, show your skills with DDT’s famous interactive quote contest, fun facts, theme spotting, and a trivia contest during intermission. Although these movie parties are geared more towards adults, they are family-friendly.
When? Jan 30, 6:00 PM – 9:20 PM. Doors open at 5:45pm. Food and live music are available from 6-7pm, the movie starts at 7pm, a short intermission for dessert and trivia will start at 8pm. The movie ends around 9 pm.
Where? The Brightside Event Center, 905 E 3rd St, Dayton, OH 45402
Note: Table reservations only for parties of 6 or more, otherwise, we have open seating.
Cost: $35 tickets available at daytondinnertheater.com. Advance tickets are required.
About the Event:
Themed Food: TBA (maybe some stew, something that looks like mutton, something w/fire in the name, and maybe a peanut?)
Themed Drinks: The Battle of Wits (sparkling grape juice, vodka, cherry, pixie stick poison), The Buttercup (Butterscotch liquor, light cream, rum, cinnamon stick stirrer)
Themed Attire: You can be a Prince, a Pirate, a Princess, a Pauper, a Giant, or a Swordsman. If you dress up as a ROUS, we will give you extra cheese.
Dayton Dinner Theater launches new season on Sunday with “Star Wars”
Dayton Dinner Theater is back! This fun Sunday tradition starts back on November 21, 2021, with the showing of Star Wars (A New Hope) at The Brightside Music & Event Venue from 6-9pm.
“I think it’s the perfect cure for the winter blahs,” says Dayton resident John Boucuvalas and founder of the Dayton Dinner Theater which opens back up on Sunday, after being shut down last year due to Covid. “I think it’s important to have something fun to look forward to when the days are short and the weather is cold and grey.”
The time off has allowed time for exciting new upgrades and partnerships such as having the renowned Dr. Willie Morris and the University of Dayton Jazz Ensemble to feature live music before the movie. They’ve also partnered with local caterer Brock Masterson, to create themed food and drinks specific to each film.
“We were getting some big crowds and momentum when Covid hit, and now we are ready to be back and better than before,” says Boucuvalas. “Partnering with UD and Brock Masterson’s is great and adds a touch of class and familiarity for folks around here.”
With a full Sunday liquor license at The Brightside, the fully stocked bar features our signature $5.00 themed drinks along with a wide variety of mixed drinks, wines, and beer.
During the movie, Dayton Dinner Theatre features their famous interactive quote contest, fun facts, theme spotting, with a trivia contest during intermission. They truly make movies a social and interactive experience.
This year’s lineup mostly features comedies and quotable classics that line up with the interactive nature of the event. Tickets are $35 and must be purchased in advance. More information can be found at www.daytondinnertheater.com. Note: Tickets must be purchased in advance to allow for accurate food preparation.
Dayton Dinner Theater Schedule
Sunday, Nov 21, 2021 – Dayton Dinner Theater premiere featuring Star Wars & live jazz
Sunday, Dec 5, 2021 – Dayton Dinner Theater featuring Christmas Vacation & live jazz
Sunday, Dec 12, 2021 – Dayton Dinner Theater featuring Elf
Sunday, Jan 16, 2021 – Dayton Dinner Theater premiere featuring Wizard of Oz & live jazz
Sunday, Jan 30, 2022 – Dayton Dinner Theater premiere featuring The Princess Bride & live jazz
Sunday, Feb 6, 2022 – Dayton Dinner Theater featuring Caddyshack & live jazz
Sunday, Feb 27, 2022 – Dayton Dinner Theater featuring Airplane & live jazz
Sunday, March 13, 2022 – Dayton Dinner Theater featuring The Holy Grail
Sunday, March 27, 2022 – Dayton Dinner Theater featuring Napoleon Dynamite
Sunday, April 10, 2022 – Dayton Dinner Theater featuring The Big Lebowski & live jazz
LEAN ON PETE Starts Friday + RBG News from THE NEON
Hello Everyone!
We have to keep moving along at THE NEON! If you still need to see ISLE OF DOGS or YOU WERE NEVER REALLY HERE, Thursday will be you last chance to catch them with us. On Friday, we will open acclaimed filmmaker Andrew Haigh’s lovely new film – LEAN ON PETE. TULLY will stick around for one more week.
Synopsis for LEAN ON PETE: ONE WEEK ONLY! “From acclaimed filmmaker Andrew Haigh (WEEKEND and 45 YEARS), and based on the beloved novel by Willy Vlautin, comes LEAN ON PETE – a deeply moving story about love, loneliness, family, and friendship, told through the unique prism of one boy’s connection to a very special racehorse. Fifteen-year-old Charley Thompson (Charlie Plummer) arrives in Portland, Oregon with his single father Ray (Travis Fimmel), both of them eager for a fresh start after a series of hard knocks. While Ray descends into personal turmoil, Charley finds acceptance and camaraderie at a local racetrack where he lands a job caring for an aging Quarter Horse named Lean On Pete. The horse’s gruff owner Del Montgomery (Steve Buscemi) and his seasoned jockey Bonnie (Chloe Sevigny) help Charley fill the void of his father’s absence – until he discovers that Pete is bound for slaughter, prompting him to take extreme measures to spare his new friend’s life.” Click on this LINK to visit the film’s official site.
The Dayton Jewish Film Festival is down to its last film for this year…and it has already SOLD OUT! But there’s good news if you haven’t purchased your ticket yet. An encore screening of SAMMY DAVIS JR: I’VE GOT TO BE ME has been scheduled for Thursday, May 24 at 7:30. Brochures are available in our lobby, and you can find out more about the films (as well as details about tickets) on the festival’s OFFICIAL SITE.
After two successful special screenings, WE’RE DOING FINE is coming back for one more show this Saturday. Audiences loved seeing Dayton all aglow on the big screen, and we’ve had several requests to play the film one more time during the day. So we’ve added a screening – you’ll have one more chance to catch it at THE NEON. We will screen WE’RE DOING FINE on Saturday, May 12 at Noon, and tickets are just $7.50 each. Tickets for this encore screening are only available in-person at THE NEON’s Box Office!
“It’s now official: Big things come in small, un-hyped packages. LIVES WELL LIVED, the inspiring film about women and men aged 75-100 who have more energy, creativity and optimism than any superhero, just rolled over the results for recent Oscar winners in its theatrical premiere. LIVES WELL LIVED celebrates the incredible wit, wisdom and experiences of adults aged 75 to 100. Through their intimate memories and inspiring personal histories encompassing over 3000 years of experience, forty people share their secrets and insights to living a meaningful life. These men and women open the vault on their journey into old age through family histories, personal triumph and tragedies, loves and losses – seeing the best and worst of humanity along the way. Their stories will make you laugh, perhaps cry, but mostly inspire you.” (Shadow Distribution) Director Sky Bergman will be here for this special one-time screening on Sunday, May 13 at 3:00. Tickets, just $7.50, are now available at THE NEON’s box office. Tickets are selling quickly. Get yours early!
“LUNAFEST returns to Dayton for the 9th year, bringing nine new short films by, for and about women from around the world. This year’s unique films range from animation to fictional drama, covering topics such as women’s health, body image, relationships, cultural diversity and breaking barriers. From the comedy of a young Indian-American woman who wants to follow her dreams to the harrowing first-person account of a young girl’s escape from Boko Haram, each story will inspire and enlighten. All proceeds from LUNAFEST will go to the Ohio Domestic Violence Network and to Chicken & Egg Pictures, a nonprofit organization that supports women nonfiction filmmakers whose artful and innovative storytelling catalyzes social change. The festival is sponsored locally by Dayton Women’s Rights Alliance. Tickets are $10.00 ($5.00 students) with donations over this amount gratefully accepted. Tickets can be purchased in advance for this popular one-time showing which sold out last year.” (Dayton Women’s Rights Alliance) Tickets available now at THE NEON’s Box Office or via this LINK. LUNAFEST will screen on Sunday, May 20 at 3:00.
On Thursday, May 17 at 7:30, Mike Shea is bringing his latest film to THE NEON. “MONARCH is a neo-noir mystery short about a detective trying to make sense of the drug dealing underworld of a small mid-western city. This film was shot all around Dayton, OH’s legendary Oregon District. The cast is comprised entirely of comedians from the Dayton area starring in almost exclusively dramatic roles. The story itself is based on writer/director Michael Shea’s 2017 docu-drama THE CROSS AT THE GEM. This film was submitted (in a condensed 5-minute cut) to the 2018 Lander University 2WK Film Festival in Greenwood, SC. At this special one-night event, the audience will be treated to an opening performance from some of the cast and crew, a screening of the original 2017 film THE CROSS AT THE GEM as well as the premiere of the full director’s cut version of the film MONARCH. The premiere will close with a Q&A session with the whole cast and crew. Tickets are $5 and are available at THE NEON box office. Fans can also qualify for fun rewards and prizes by supporting the film’s GoFundMe campaign at this official site LINK.”
“On Wednesday May 23, Jewish Family Services of Greater Dayton and St. Paul’s Episcopal Church will host a screening of the film NEWTOWN. This documentary chronicles the aftermath of the deadliest mass shooting of schoolchildren in American history: a shooting that took the lives of 20 elementary children and 6 educators in Newtown, CT on December 14, 2012. Now in the wake of the Parkland shooting and the many others that pass by us in the media, it is critical that we keep the conversation going. For every community – for the Dayton community – how do we keep our children safe? Please join the community on hand to watch the movie, listen to reflections by the film’s director, Kim Snyder, and take part in a panel discussion to explore safety strategies for our communities.” Admission is Free, and tickets will be given on a first come, first served basis the night of the screening.
“The student filmmakers of Wright State University’s award-winning Motion Pictures Program will premiere their new thesis films at the 2018 BIG LENS FILM FESTIVAL at THE NEON on May 27. This year’s films dive into a number of contemporary issues and themes, including coming of age stories, cyberbullying, severed familial relationships, racial tensions, aging, conquering fears and more. Short films from Wright State’s Department of Theatre, Dance and Motion Pictures have screened at top film festivals, including Sundance, and been Student Academy Award Nominees. This year’s festival will have two scheduled screenings of the films. The first screening starts at 5:30pm and the second will begin at 8pm, both ending with Q&A with the directors of the films.” Tickets are available now for $10 at THE NEON’s box office. For more information about the films, cast and crew, please click on this LINK.
On Wednesday, May 30 at 7:30, we will have a special, customer appreciation screening of a truly special film. BARAKA is a film that played at an older incarnation of THE NEON before I took over management more than 17 years ago. “Featuring no conventional narrative, this film presents footage of people, places and things from around the world. From chaotic cities to barren wilderness, the movie takes viewers around the globe to witness a variety of spectacles in both natural and technological realms.” (google) You won’t want to miss your chance to see this astonishing film on the big screen. Tickets will be free and given on a first come, first served basis. We will begin giving out tickets at 6:30 on May 30 – one ticket per customer.
In the coming weeks, we will have some very special documentaries that I think will be loved by so many of you. First off is RBG – a film about a living legend and icon, Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. This film is set to open on the evening of May 17 (showtime below). Later in June, we’ll have WON’T YOU BE MY NEIGHBOR? – a fantastic documentary about PBS’s Mister Rogers – a true humanitarian and American treasure. Because we think you’ll embrace these films so much, we have assembled a bit a merchandise that ties in with each film. These little gift items will be perfect for Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, birthdays, or just to treat yourself. Be sure to check out our display case next time you’re in.
Thank you for your continued support!
We hope to see you this weekend,
Jonathan
SHOWTIMES for Wednesday, May 9 – Thursday, May 17:
ISLE OF DOGS (PG-13) 1 hr 41 Min
Wednesday & Thursday (May 9-10): 5:15
FINAL DAY – May 10!
YOU WERE NEVER REALLY HERE (R) 1 Hr 29 Min
Wednesday (May 9): 3:10, 7:30
Thursday (May 10): 3:10
FINAL DAY – May 10!
TULLY (R) 1 Hr 36 Min
Tuesday-Thursday (May 7-10): 3:00, 5:20, 7:40
Friday (May 11): 12:30, 2:40, 5:00, 7:20, 9:45
Saturday (May 12): 2:40, 5:00, 7:20, 9:45
Sunday (May 13): 12:30, 5:15, 7:30
Monday-Wednesday (May 14-16): 3:00, 5:20, 7:40
Thursday (May 17): 3:00, 5:20
FINAL DAY – May 17!
LEAN ON PETE (R) 2 Hrs 1 Min
Friday & Saturday (May 11 & 12): 1:00, 4:00, 7:00, 9:30
Sunday (May 13): 1:00, 4:00, 7:00
Monday-Wednesday (May 14-16): 2:45, 5:15, 7:45
Thursday (May 17): 2:45, 5:15
FINAL DAY – May 17!
WE’RE DOING FINE (NR) 1 Hr 26 Min
Saturday (May 12): Noon
LIVES WELL LIVED (NR) 1 Hr 12 Min + Q&A
Sunday (May 13): 3:00
MONARCH (NR) new film, short + pre-show
Thursday (May 17): 7:30
RBG (PG) 1 Hr 37 Min
Thursday (May 17) – Preview Screening – 7:45
COMING SOON:
(All Dates Are Tentative. Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear)
May 18 – DISOBEDIENCE
June 1 – POPE FRANCIS: A MAN OF HIS WORD
June 29 – WON’T YOU BE MY NEIGHBOR?
TBD – FOXTROT
TBD – FINAL PORTRAIT
AN INCONVENIENT SEQUEL Now Playing at THE NEON + FALSETTOS News!
Hello Everyone!
We opened a new film yesterday that many people have been asking about – AN INCONVENIENT SEQUEL: TRUTH TO POWER. In addition to this powerful new film, we’re holding LANDLINE and THE BIG SICK (this winner just keeps going and going) for one more week. (Details about a special screening of AN INCONVENIENT SEQUEL followed by a panel discussion can be found at the end of this newsletter.) Next week, we plan to open MAUDIE.
Synopsis for AN INCONVENIENT SEQUEL – TRUTH TO POWER: “Former Vice President Al Gore continues his tireless fight, traveling around the world to train an army of activists and influence international climate policy. Cameras follow him behind the scenes — in moments both private and public, funny and poignant — as he pursues the inspirational idea that while the stakes have never been higher, the perils of climate change can be overcome with human ingenuity and passion.” (Paramount Pictures) Click this LINK to visit the film’s official site.
Due to local demand, THE NEON is excited to explore bringing a bit of Broadway to our screens. Buy your tickets now, and let’s see if we can make this one-night-only screening of FALSETTOS a success! “Nominated for five 2017 Tony Awards, including Best Revival of a Musical, Falsettos is a hilarious and poignant look at a modern family revolving around the life of a gay man Marvin, his wife, his lover, his soon-to-be-bar-mitzvahed son, their psychiatrist, and the lesbians next door. Originally created under the specter of the AIDS crisis, this timely musical about middle-class family dynamics manages to remain buoyant and satirically perceptive even as it moves towards its heartbreaking conclusion. Lincoln Center Theater’s production stars Christian Borle, Stephanie J. Block, Andrew Rannells, and Brandon Uranowitz, all of whom received Tony nominations for their respective performances.” FALSETTOS will screen Wednesday, August 16 at 7:30. Tickets are $12 each and are currently available on-line via this LINK. They are also available at THE NEON’s box office.
Dayton Writers Movement is gearing up for the premiere of UNWRITTEN – SEASON 2 on Sunday, Aug. 27 at 5:30. “UNWRITTEN is a serialized audio drama podcas – think radio play – written, acted and produced locally here in Dayton. The first season, which was up for several AudioVerse Podcast Awards, has reached 54+ countries and more than 1,600 cities with its dramatic storytelling and comedic timing. In Season 2, the podcast series continues the journey with a group of friends as they deal with the events of season 1 and wrangle mature social issues, uncover a mystery, and tackle their inner demons. The group will be premiering the first episode of Season 2 with a live talk back afterward. Advanced tickets are available for $6 each by clicking this Official Link. One Time Only Public Showing! (Explicit, mature content) For more information about the podcast, visit unwrittenpodcast.com” Tickets not sold on-line, if available, will be available at our box office starting 1 hour before the event.
This year’s Dayton LGBT Film Fest is shaping up, and we’re almost ready to start rolling out details. Mark your calendars for Oct. 13-15, it’s going to be a great weekend-long fest! And speaking of film festivals, The Toronto International Film Festival has begun releasing titles from this year’s line-up…I’m getting pretty excited about several of them!
Some local organizations are very excited about our engagement of AN INCONVENIENT SEQUEL and the opportunity to continue local discussions about our climate with you. After Tuesday August 15’s 7:30 screening, representatives from Citizens Climate Lobby, Sierra Club Miami Group, The Climate Mobilization, and Move To Amend will hold a panel discussion. In addition, there will be other opportunities to engage with members from these organizations at various locations at different times around town. We’ll have flyers in our lobby this weekend that outline all the opportunities, and you can also find the flyer on our Facebook page by following this LINK.
Thanks so much for your continued support.
We hope to see you soon,
Jonathan
SHOWTIMES for Saturday, Aug. 12 – Thursday, Aug. 17:
THE BIG SICK (R) 1 Hr 59 Min
Saturday (Aug 12): 4:50, 9:30
Sunday (Aug 13): 4:50
Monday – Thursday (Aug 14-17): 5:15
LANDLINE (R) 1 Hr 37 Min
Saturday, Sunday (Aug 12-13): 12:30, 2:40, 7:20
Monday & Tuesday (Aug 14 & 15): 3:00, 7:45
Wednesday (Aug 16): 3:00
Thursday (Aug 17): 3:00, 7:45
AN INCONVENIENT SEQUEL: TRUTH TO POWER (PG) 1 Hr 38 Min
Saturday (Aug 12): 12:40, 2:50, 5:10, 7:30, 9:45
Sunday (Aug 13): 12:40, 2:50, 5:10, 7:30
Monday-Thursday (Aug 14-17): 2:50, 5:10, 7:30
FALSETTOS (NR) 2 Hrs 22 Min
Wednesday (Aug 16): 7:30
COMING SOON:
(All Dates Are Tentative. Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear)
Aug. 18 – MAUDIE
Aug. 18 – THE LITTLE HOURS
TBD – LADY MACBETH
Aug 30 – PATTI CAKE$
Oct 6 – VICTORIA AND ABDUL
Oct 13-15 – DAYTON LGBT FILM FEST
Oscar Week -Top 60 FOOD Scenes in Movies
With the Oscars approaching, we thought we would do a little twist.. As you know, our blog usually centers around local Food Adventures. Thousands of fellow Miami Valley foodies discuss, like, suggest and comment on various Dayton area restaurants, festivals, photos and events. We even have a website, DaytonFoodies.com
What we don’t have (yet) is a movie studio. Being fanatical fans of delicious grub, we have developed a love for various movie scenes over our lifetime. With the Oscars coming up this Sunday, we thought the timing was right for a list of our favorite movie scenes with food…
A little unorthodox, but what the heck… here is our “Top 60 Food Adventures” of Hollywood.
So here , without further delay, Food Adventures with the Big Ragu, Chef House and Hungry Jax present our list of..
THE TOP 60 CLASSIC DINING and FOOD SCENES in MOVIES (click on the movie title for a link to see a video of the scene)
1—ANIMAL HOUSE – “BLUTO’S CAFETERIA SCENE”:
Who can forget this classic scene with Belushi scarfing down food at his college cafeteria. The scene ends with Bluto’s imitation of a zit and the famous “food fight” yell. This could easily be Big Ragu at MCL Cafeteria.
2— THE GODFATHER – “MICHAEL’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT SHOOTING”:
Incredibly tense scene at an Italian restaurant between two mob families that ends in murder. The other scenes in the Godfather that make honorable mention are “Leave the gun, take the cannoli scene” and “the Godfather’s Orange scene.”
3— OLIVER! – “PLEASE SIR, I WANT SOME MORE”:
The little orphan gets ballsy and approaches the mean orphanage director for seconds on soup. In this poor setting, it doesnt go over so well. Preceded by the classic song “Food Glorious Food.” A musical for the ages.
4— LADY AND THE TRAMP – “SPAGHETTI DINNER”:
One of Hungry Jax’s favorites. A Disney animated classic about puppy love. Who can forget the two dogs eating the same strand of spaghetti into a kiss? The first “nose nudging” of a meatball scene in movie history. If only every first date was like this one, with Italian music in the background.
5—THE GOLD RUSH – “SHOE FOR DINNER“:
Charlie Chaplin plays this lovable man who is down on his luck in this silent film. Hungry and poor on Thanksgiving, there is no food left, so he decides to eat his leather shoe. The result is one of the classic scenes in film history, from a true genius.
6— “GOODFELLAS BACKYARD PICNIC”:
A classic mob movie with lots of food scenes. Chef House loves this scene where everybody is eating sausages and taking care of business at the back yard picnic. Two other scenes worth noting are the “SPAGHETTI and KETCHUP” scene and the “DINNER IN PRISON” scene. Both classic views into the Italian mob life and how important food was to them.
7— SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARVES: “THE APPLE”:
A creepy scene where the witch tempts Snow White with a poisoned apple. Asking her just to “make a wish and take a bite.” Don’t do it Snow White, that bitch is cray cray… This Disney animated movie was groundbreaking artistic work at the time.
8—FORREST GUMP: “BOX OF CHOCOLATES”:
Mama always said “Life is like a box of chocolates… you never know what you’re gonna get.” When Tom Hanks uttered these words, so was born one of the most famous lines in movie history. Ether Price agrees.
9— 9 1/2 Weeks – “EROTIC REFRIGERATOR SCENE”:
Who could forget this sexy scene with Kim Basinger and Mickey Rourke when he still had his own face. Spilled milk, honey and strawberries never looked so good. Like many movie scenes, the background music made it a classic. Here it was the 1964 song “Bread and Butter” by the Newbeats.
10— ROCKY – “RAW EGGS FOR BREAKFAST”:
A boxer has to do what he has to do to get some protein in this world. Sylvester Stallone gulps down some raw eggs before dawn in this unforgettable scene. Yo Adrian, he has to get ready for Apollo Creed ya know?
11— WHEN HARRY MET SALLY – “ORGASM AT KATZ DELICATESSEN”:
Meg Ryan does her best imitation of having a big “O” in the middle of a crowded deli. The scene is an instant classic and is cemented in the annuals in a movie mostly about the battle of the sexes. We have never seen anyone do this at DiSalvo’s Deli, 5th Street Deli or Flyboys
Deli, thank goodness. The scene ends with the customer across the restaurant saying the classic line “I’ll have what she’s having.”
12— CHRISTMAS VACATION – “TIME TO CUT THE TURKEY”:
Chevy Chase digs in with all the family, including cousin Eddie. He finds the turkey a bit overdone and dry. But hey, they are going to have the hap happiest Christmas since Bing Crosby danced with Danny friggin Kaye. Two other famous food line in this scene:
“Aunt Bethany, does your cat by any chance eat jello?” — I don’t know about the cat, but I sure am enjoying it.” Also “he’s just yackin on a bone”.. blllleeeaack.. he got it up.” And who could forget the egg nog scene1 and egg nog scene 2
13— THE BREAKFAST CLUB – “LUNCH SCENE”:
A Preppy, a Jock, a Nerd, a Stoner and a Weirdo unpack their lunch. From Sushi to donuts and pixie stix, the result is a classic foodie scene. This movie is a perfect look into high school life in the 1980’s. Thank goodness no one took Mike Bender up on his “eat my shorts” offer. There are a ton of great lines in this one including “Where’s your lunch?” — You’re Wearing it…
14— INDIANA JONES and THE TEMPLE of DOOM – “CHILLED MONKEY BRAINS”:
In another country, Indy Jones and his crew must learn not to insult “his highness” and eat the exotic and downright disgusting dishes served up one after the other. Snake Suprise? Chilled Monkey brains? Huge Beetles? When eyeball soup is the soup du jour, you might want to leave and go to Rue Dumaine instead.
15— WILLY WONKA – “THE CHOCOLATE ROOM”:
Gene Wilder unleashes the brats into his world of pure imagination. Ladies and gentlemen… the chocolate room. You can even eat the dishes. But the damn Augustus kid falls into the chocolate river and ruins all the fun.
16— E.T. the EXTRA TERRESTRIAL: “E.T. TRIES REESE’S PIECES”:
Drew Barrymore and Elliot get E.T. into the house by using a trail of Reese’s Pieces. This scene put that candy on the map. It is crazy to imagine that an alien would come all this way and love processed chocolate.
17— PULP FICTION – “ROYALE WITH CHEESE”:
John Travolta and Samuel L. Jackson have a classic discussion about McDonalds in France. Another great food scene in this movie worth mentioning is the “Big Kahuna Burger scene.” Don’t ever let Samuel L. Jackson take a sip of your soft drink.
18— FATAL ATTRACTION – “PET RABBIT IN THE POT”:
Horrifying climax to a stalker scene where Glenn Close’s character boils the pet rabbit. She’s “not going to be ignored.” We think the family probably ended up ordering out for delivery that night, after this scene. Worst Food Adventure on film.
19— SILENCE OF THE LAMBS – “LIVER, FAVA BEANS, CHIANTI”:
When psycho cannibals brag about eating whiners with wine, you have a classic movie clip. We don’t like whiners either, but prefer to avoid them, rather then sautee them. Oh well, Anthony Hopkin’s other mention is from Hannibal – WARNING in this GRAPHIC SCENE, he feeds Ray Liotta’s character a piece of his brain, lightly pan seared. Don’t look for this on any Food Adventure menus, anytime soon.
20—WHAT EVER HAPPENED TO BABY JANE – “RATS IN THE CELLAR”:
Bette Davis is a vengeful servant in this dark 1962 film also starring Joan Crawford. Blanch’s Lunch scene is unforgettable.To this day whenever we see a covered dish… we just don’t know what lurks beneath! She could have at least served her some side dishes with this meal, don’t you think ? Heartless wench!
21—KRAMER vs KRAMER – “FRENCH TOAST”:
A newly separated dad finds out that making his son’s favorite breakfast is not so simple. Also, it reiterates the importance of hot pads. Later in the movie you see the pair have come full circle and have turned breakfast into a well oiled machine… It is a sad scene because they have just found out they are going to be separated again by a judge’s order in divorce court. You’ll never look at French toast the same again….
22—RAGING BULL – “DON’T OVERCOOK MY STEAK”:
A look into an abusive Italian boxer’s relationship with his wife. When she has had enough of his grief she serves him his dinner, he flips out in return. Just remember this was based on a true story. Robert Deniro won a Best Actor Oscar for his performance of real life fighter, Jake LaMotta. The film was shot in black and white.
23—TALLADEGA NIGHTS – “DINNER PRAYER”:
A politically incorrect, yet very funny take on a NASCAR family saying a prayer before their meal. Hilarity ensues. Some of the best one liners on this list are in this scene. Not for the easily offended.
24—BRUNO – “PETE ROSE’S SUSHI”:
Although this scene was in the credits. It is one of the most hilarious food scenes ever. Pete Rose is brought in for what he thinks is a legit interview. There is no furniture so he has to sit on people, and the scene climax is dinner being served. The catch is, the sushi is laid out on the prone body of a hairy , large man. Bon appetite Pete! His reaction is priceless, as is his response. Now we know why he prefers Montgomery Inn.
25—A CHRISTMAS STORY – “CHINESE CHRISTMAS DINNER”:
Who could forget the waiters singing “Deck the Halls” to the family at Christmas dinner? This cult classic is a part of the holiday season each year. Also, we learn that Peking Duck is Chinese Turkey to a kid!
26—BLAZING SADDLES – “CAMPFIRE DINNER”:
See what happens when the cowboys sit down at the campfire after days of eating pork n beans. One of the first gas scenes in motion picture history. Lesson, if you have been eating beans, don’t turn your back to the camp fire. “How bout some more beans Mr Taggart?” — I’d say you’ve had enough…
27—THE PRINCESS BRIDE– WINE WITH VIZZINI:
The battle of wits has begun. Which glass is poisoned with the deadly iocaine powder? One of funniest character scenes in the movie. The unforgettable line, “Never go in against a Sicilian when death is on the line! hahahahaha… (plop)” This scene had to make the list…
28— ARTHUR – “DINNER WITH A HOOKER”:
This one is broken up into 3 clips. a) Arthur meets his date for the evening. b) Arthur realizes his date’s occupation c) Dinner ends and Arthur’s aunt Pearl is across the dining room. This movie is a riot and the upscale restaurant scene is worthy of a top spot on this list. “Are you a hooka? Jezzus I forgot, I just thought I was doing great with you.” Probably not the thing to say in a posh, elegant eatery. We miss Dudley Moore.
29— THE BLUES BROTHERS – “FINE DINING RESTAURANT SCENE”:
The genius of Dan Akroyd and John Belushi’s characters in the most unexpected of places. Nothing says threatening your friends to join your band by showing up at their work and threatening to disrupt the entire place. Well.. actually disrupting the entire place and disturbing the entire dining room. All because they are putting the band back together and need the waiter in their horn section.
30— HARRY POTTER AND THE SORCERER’S STONE – “FEAST at HOGWARTS”:
A giant feast in the hall has Harry Potter and his friends in awe. Does anyone know a Pepto Bismol spell? And you know it’s not a dinner party until “Nearly Headless Nick” shows up. Eat up Harry, your adventure awaits…
31— TOMMY BOY – “MY PRETTY NEW PET”:
Chris Farley’s scene in a diner, where he tells a
waitress why he ruins everything he touches. David Spade’s comments on Shrimp Cocktail are also classic. Farley wins the sympathy of the waitress who fires up the deep fryer to make Tommy Boy some chicken wings. “Tommy likey, Tommy want wingy..” Some people are now calling Big Ragu “biscuit” because of this scene.
32— MRS DOUBTFIRE – “PIE ON HER FACE”:
Without his female mask, Robin Williams’ character has to do some quick thinking when a guest stops by to visit Mrs Doubtfire. Thankfully a pie in the refrigerator helps save the day.
Putting whip cream on his face from the pie, Mrs. Doubtfire appears, apologizing for wearing her nightly meringue mask, part of her beauty regiment.” A great scene, where she even drop a bit of the mask cream into her guests coffee.
33—CADDYSHACK – “BABY RUTH IN THE POOL”:
When someone flings a candy bar into the pool, paranoia ensues. People bail and finally Spaulding snorkles up to the BabyRuth bar and screams “Doodie!” Another great food related joke from the movie is Rodney Dangerfield in the Country Club restaurant saying “This steak still has marks where the jockey was hitting it.” Or how about Rodney in the pro shop saying “buy a hat like this and you get a
34—THE UNTOUCHABLES- “BAT DINNER”:
Who could forget this intense movie clip? Robert Deniro’s classic scene playing Al Capone talking to his men, about baseball. This conversation has a surprise ending at dinner. It might be hard to eat dessert after this scene.
35—RESERVOIR DOGS – “I DON’T TIP”:
Steve Buscemi goes on a rant in this Quenten Tarantino film about gratuity. “Mr Pink” is pretty much every waiter and waitresses worst nightmare. A classic roundtable ensues of crooks and murderers discussing the finer points of manners.
36— BEAUTY AND THE BEAST – “BE OUR GUEST”:
Animated classic scene with marching of the banquet food. When your candle holders, plates and tea kettle start singing about how they are tired of collecting dust. It is time to throw a dinner party. One of Hungry Jax’s favorite scenes.
37— YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN – “DINNER WITH THE BLIND MAN”:
Nothing pisses a Frankenstein monster off more that hot soup dumped on his crotch, a mishandled toast, and lighting his finger and cigar at once. This comical scene based on the original horror classic is unforgettable. Peter Boyle and Gene Hackman are perfect in this one.
38—BACK TO THE FUTURE – “TAB, PEPSI FREE”:
Oh the change in language a few decades can cause. Marty McFly newly stuck in 1954, stumbles into a diner and learns it is more difficult to order something to drink than he expects. Then he realizes he is sitting next to his 18 year old dad.
39— ELF – “THE FOUR FOOD GROUPS”:
We learn from Will Ferrell that the four food groups are indeed candy, candy canes, candy corn and syrup. We had it all wrong! Oh well, the Christmas season is a time for learning, so we will try maple syrup on spaghetti during our next pasta night.
40— THE JERK – “SNAILS ON HER PLATE”:
Steve Martin’s character flips out when he orders escargot then goes ballistic because there are snails on the plate. “You would think at a fancy restaurant like this, at these prices you would be able to keep the snails off the food.” Equally funny is the line “2 boobs, that’s what he takes us for.” Watch the clip and you will see why. Also, check this clip of Navin’s birthday meal “Tuna fish salad on white bread with mayonnaise, a Tab and a couple of twinkies.”
41—ANCHORMAN – “A LITTLE JAZZ FLUTE”:
Ron Burgandy wows the dinner crowd like only he can. Suave 70’s style and seductive sultry flute notes is all he needs. “A little ham and eggs comin at ya.” If only every restaurant had jazz flute night.
42—ANNIE HALL – “LOBSTERS ON THE LOOSE”:
Woody Allen and Diane Keaton’s </strong>characters, try to cook live lobsters. The result is they are both scared to handle to
live creatures and they somehow end up crawling away on the kitchen floor, behind the refrigerator. Woody’s worried comments only add to the comedy.
43— MY BEST FRIENDS WEDDING – “I SAY A LITTLE PRAYER FOR YOU”:
When Julia Robert’s character attends an engagement dinner, her friend breaks out an old Dionne Warwick/ Bert Bacharach song. The result is the entire table singing an unforgettable
version of “Say a Little Prayer.” This scene was an instant classic, and propelled the career of Rupert Everett as well. Feast and song, every Food Adventure should be so fun.
44—STAND BY ME – “BARF-O-RAMA”:
A story of revenge is the reason for this scene. Never in the history of cinema has their been more people puking on camera in a scene. A pie eating contest gone wrong at the county fair is the premise of this legendary “barf” story. People projectile vomiting blueberry pies, for your viewing pleasure
45— BETTER OFF DEAD- “FRENCH BREAD, PERU”:
A foreign exchange student is welcomed to the USA by her host family in an absurd display of “french” food. This underrated teen movie classic, addresses obsession, foreign students, and paperboys just trying to collect… two dollars.
46— SIXTEEN CANDLES – “DINNER WITH GRANDPARENTS”:
Long duck Dong tries Keesh pie and explains at the dinner party that he pushes the lawnmower so Grandpa’s “Hyena” don’t get disturbed. This John Hughes classic shows the tough life of a teenage in the 80’s being embarrassed by your parents and grandparents, all while chasing the guy of your dreams.
47—GROUNDHOG DAY – “BIG BREAKFAST”:
Living the same day over and over can cause you problems. But one of the benefits is you can eat whatever you want to, and it doesnt matter. Bill Murray drinks out of the coffee pitcher, orders donuts and pancakes, all in a day’s breakfast.
48—FERRIS BUELLER’S DAY OFF – “SAUSAGE KING SCENE”:
When trying to get seated at a posh restaurant, Ferris looks at the guest book and sees the name “Abe Fromann.” When he tells the host, he realizes he has just claimed to be the sausage king of Chicago. This was one of Ferris’ few failures of the day.
49— THE NUTTY PROFESSOR – “KLUMPS DINNER and FART SCENE”:
When you invite the Klumps to dinner, you might want to make sure you have some renuiz-it air freshener on hand. Even little “Herc-a-leees” gets into the gas game. Eddie Murphy plays almost every character in this scene.
50— ROAD TRIP – “YOUR FRENCH TOAST IS ALMOST DONE”:
Before you say your waiter is a nice guy, make sure he isn’t dipping your French toast in his underpants to steam it. Horatio Sans is that waiter. Not Oscar worthy, but a scene you won’t soon forget.
51— MY BIG FAT GREEK WEDDING – “BUNDT CAKE”:
The fun of language barriers and cultural differences is exposed in this scene. A simple
gesture, such as giving a cake for a gift causes an English lesson and confusion. Next time, just bring the Greek family a bottle of Ouzo. OPA !
52— AMERICAN PIE – “ITS JUST LIKE WARM APPLE PIE”:
When asking his friends what it is like losing his virginity, his friend tells him it is like warm apple pie. Somehow this leads to him being caught by his dad while making it with a pie. Ahh the things parents have to deal with.
53— MONTY PYTHON’S THE MEANING OF LIFE – “BIG GUY IN A RESTAURANT”:
A large, “difficult” customer in every way, in an upscale restaurant sets the scene. This clip shows the inherent humor in the actions of waiters in posh restaurants, literally putting up with everything a client does. Enjoy the surprise ending.
54— NATIONAL LAMPOONS VACATION – “THE DOG WENT ON THE PICNIC BASKET”:
No worse time to realize you are eating a sandwich soaked in dog pizz, than when you are flirting with supermodel Christie Brinkley. Chevy Chase’s dance moves with wheat bread
are the best in the business.
55— ACE VENTURA 2- “DO I HAVE SOMETHING IN MY TEETH?“:
The over the top comedy of Jim Carrey on display in another one liner. This one involves food and holds the records for most asparagus in a mouth in movie history.
56—THE WOLF OF WALL STREET – “CHEST POUND at the RESTAURANT”:
You’re at a high rise restaurant, and your business associate starts humming and pounding his chest. In between the olives and martinis you listen to his speech. Is he crazy or a genius? You decide.
57— DIRTY ROTTEN SCOUNDRELS – “RUPRECHT”:
A great scene with Steve Martin and Michael Caine as they plan to scam a woman out of her riches. You wont look at applesauce and corked forks the same way ever again.
58— AS GOOD AS IT GETS – “RESTAURANT”:
When you have obsessive compulsive disorder like Jack Nicholson does in this film, someone sitting in your favorite restaurant table can be a bit difficult to deal with. There are so many good food scenes in this movie. From the many deli scenes, to using bacon for dog treats, it was hard to pin down one favorite moment.
59—NAPOLEON DYNAMITE – “TINA, EAT THE FOOD”:
What is more strange, Napoleon Dynamite or the fact that he has a Llama as a pet. The disgusted main character hates everything, including feeding the pet. “Tina you fat lard, come get some dinner.” Aaahh the frustrated life of a high school kid.
60—THE BIG LEBOWSKI – “GROCERY SCENE”:
The dude, in a bath robe at the grocery, decides to open a carton of half & half for a test smell. This is the opening scene of the movie. Sometimes there’s a man, who’s the man for his time and place and apparently the laziest man in Los Angeles county.
Honorable Mention: a) “The Donut Bribe Scene” in the Canadian classic movie “STRANGE BREW.” It is the famous scene that brought us the phrase ” It’s a jelly .” This film made Bob and Doug Mckenzie cult classic heroes, and introduced us to a whole new vocabulary of slang phrases like “who horked our clothes?” and “How’s it going eh?.” Ahh, such International education value from these beer loving “brothers!”
b) “Fink vs the Stomach Hot Dog Eating Contest” from the movie “MEATBALLS” It stars Bill Murray as the best summer camp counselor of all time. Look at those steaming wienies… Could this be the year that Fink beats the other camp eater, simply known as “The Stomach.” Watch the whole movie and learn why … “It just doesn’t matter…. it just doesn’t matter…it just doesn’t matter.”
So that’s it – our favorite food scenes. Did we forget any? Were there any on this list you disagree with ? Comment below.
Enjoy the Oscars and remember to grab some Mikesells for the night. Also – “like” Food Adventures on Facebook by Clicking HERE. Like all movie stars, we are also on TWITTER as well. Please “follow” us.
Cleaning House – 2 New Films & MOONLIGHT (aka Oscar Season) News at THE NEON!
Hello Everyone!
We’re going completely international this weekend with two exciting, new films – both of which we didn’t think we’d be able to accommodate but many of you have been asking about. At last we’re able to move forward with a film based on the beloved, international bestseller A MAN CALLED OVE as well as the new film from Park Chan-wook – THE HANDMAIDEN (based on the British novel FINGERSMITH). If you still need to see CHRISTINE, CERTAIN WOMEN or KING COBRA, Thursday will be your last chance to see them at THE NEON.
Synopsis for A MAN CALLED OVE: “Stepping from the pages of Fredrik Backman’s international best-selling novel, Ove is the quintessential angry old man next door. An isolated retiree with strict principles and a short fuse, who spends his days enforcing block association rules that only he cares about, and visiting his wife’s grave, Ove has given up on life. Enter a boisterous young family next door who accidentally flattens Ove’s mailbox while moving in and earning his special brand of ire. Yet from this inauspicious beginning an unlikely friendship forms and we come to understand Ove’s past happiness and heartbreaks. What emerges is a heartwarming tale of unreliable first impressions and the gentle reminder that life is sweeter when it’s shared. One of Sweden’s biggest locally-produced box office hits ever, director Hannes Holm finds the beating heart of his source material and Swedish star Rolf Lassgard, whose performance won him the Best Actor award at the 2016 Seattle International Film Festival, affectingly embodies the lovable curmudgeon Ove.” (Music Box Films) THE NEW YORK TIMES called this film “cinematic comfort food,” and I think our audiences are going to love it!
Synopsis for THE HANDMAIDEN: “From PARK Chan-wook, the celebrated director of OLDBOY, LADY VENGEANCE and STOKER, comes a ravishing new crime drama. PARK presents a gripping and sensual tale of two women – a young Japanese Lady living on a secluded estate, and a Korean woman who is hired to serve as her new handmaiden, but is secretly plotting with a conman to defraud her of a large inheritance. Inspired by the novel Fingersmith by British author Sarah Waters, THE HANDMAIDEN borrows the most dynamic elements of its source material and combines it with PARK Chan-wook’s singular vision to create an unforgettable viewing experience.” (Magnolia Pictures) Click this LINK to visit the film’s official site.
For descriptions and showtimes of any current attractions, please visit our website at www.neonmovies.com
The past 30 days have seen whirlwinds of visiting artists and amazing screenings. From The Dayton LGBT Film Fest to TORREY PINES and this Saturday’s incredible screening of SHORTBUS, I couldn’t be more happy with what we’ve been able to achieve right here in Dayton, Ohio. Many thanks to everyone who has supported these incredible events!
Don’t forget about this Thursday’s special screening. Dayton Tech Guide & Launch Runner are joining forces to bring GENERATION STARTUP to town for a one-time screening on Thursday, Nov. 10 at 5:30. “GENERATION STARTUP takes us to the front lines of entrepreneurship in America, capturing the struggles and triumphs of six recent college graduates who put everything on the line to build startups in Detroit…” Click this LINK to reserve your ticket on the official tugg website. If tickets remain on the day of the screening, we will be able to sell them at our box office starting one hour before the show.
Our friends at 4Mary.org are bringing APPARITION HILL to Dayton. “Join 4Mary.Org for a night at the movies! A few years ago, 4Mary.Org organized screenings of the independent film THE TRIUMPH, and it was a terrific success. Now, from the same director, comes the new feature film APPARITION HILL about an unlikely group of pilgrims who journey to the same little-known village of Medjugorje. Three screenings have been scheduled at THE NEON: Mon Nov 21 at 7:30pm, Thurs Dec 8 at 7:30pm, and Mon Dec 12 at 7:30pm. Tickets are $10 each and are only available online via this LINK. All proceeds benefit the 4Mary Youth Pilgrimage to Fatima in 2017. For more info, contact [email protected]” (taken from press notes) To watch a trailer for this film, click this LINK.
And now for some great news! MOONLIGHT is set to open on Nov. 18. This incredible film was one of my “Top 3” films at this year’s Toronto International Film Festival…and it is one of the absolute best reviewed films of the year. I think this film clearly marks the beginning of Oscar Season, and we’ve been able to secure a preview screening on Thursday, Nov. 17 at 7:40. Tickets will be on sale this weekend. Visit the film’s OFFICIAL WEBSITE to learn all about it.
It’s almost time for the Family Holiday Film Series. On Saturdays in December, we’ll present films that are suitable for the entire family…for only $2 a ticket (and FREE for children 12 and under). I’ll provide more details in next week’s newsletter.
Thanks so much for your continued support!
We hope to see you soon,
Jonathan
SHOWTIMES for Tuesday, Nov. 8 – Thursday, Nov. 17:
CERTAIN WOMEN (R) 1 Hr 47 Min
Monday-Thursday (Nov 8-10): 2:50, 7:30
FINAL DAY – Nov. 10!
CHRISTINE (R) 1 Hr 55 Min
Tuesday, Wednesday (Nov 8 & 9): 2:45, 5:20, 7:50
Thursday (Nov 10): 2:45, 7:50
FINAL DAY – Nov. 10!
KING COBRA (NR) 1 Hr 31 Min
Tuesday-Thursday (Nov 8-10): 5:20
FINAL DAY – Nov. 10!
GENERATION STARTUP (NR) 1 Hr 33 Min
Thursday (Nov 10): 5:30
One Screening Only!
A MAN CALLED OVE (PG-13) 1 Hr 56 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday (Nov 11-13): 12:00, 2:30, 5:00, 7:30
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday (Nov 14-16): 2:45, 5:15, 7:40
Thursday (Nov 17): 2:45, 5:15
THE HANDMAIDEN (NR) 2 Hrs 25 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday (Nov 11-13): 1:00, 4:00, 7:00
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday (Nov 14-16): 3:30, 7:15
Thursday (Nov 17): 3:30
MOONLIGHT (R) 1 Hr 50 Min
Thursday (Nov 17) – Preview Screening – 7:40
COMING SOON:
(All Dates Are Tentative. Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear.)
Nov. 23 – LOVING
Dec. 21 – LION
TBD – EAGLE HUNTRESS
TBD – NOCTURNAL ANIMALS
TBD – LA LA LAND
TBD – MANCHESTER BY THE SEA
TBD – JACKIE
Oscar Nominee TIMBUKTU Opens & FREE Oscar Party Details at THE NEON!
Hello 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