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“Breakfast at Tiffany’s” Movie Party

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You’re invited to an evening of of music, food, trivia, and Dayton Dinner Theater’s famous interactive movie experience with a true classic: Breakfast at Tiffany’s!

Themed Meal: A retro brunch spread by our friends at The BlueBerry Cafe

Themed Cocktails TBA: We’ll definitely have lots of Martinis darling…!

Themed Attire: Hit the vintage clothing store or find a 60’s style cocktail or little black dress to go with your hat and giant sunglasses. Gents, grab a skinny tie.

 

HOW TO GO?

Feb 2, 2025 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM

The Brightside, 905 E 3rd St, Dayton, OH

Doors open at 5:45 – Food and live music is available from 6-7 pm – Movie starts at 7 pm. A short intermission for dessert and trivia will start at 8 pm – Movie ends around 9:15 pm.

Alcoholic drinks available for purchase

Tickets $36 – Get tickets here: https://www.daytondinnertheater.com/events/breakfast-at-tiffanys-movie-party

Table reservations only for parties of 6 or more, otherwise we have open seating. For table reservations or other questions, please email Daytondinnertheater@gmail.com

TIFF Day #9 – 2023

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Hello Dayton937,

Today was my final day of screenings for 2023.  Over the past 9 days, I’ve gone to 35 screenings..and I’ve screened 33 films.  How’s that possible?  I walked out of one and I saw one film 2 times.

There are/were so many other films at the festival that I wish I had been able to see – sometimes it was a matter of scheduling, and other times it was a matter of buzz not happening until after the opportunities had passed. HIT MAN, DREAM SCENARIO, AMERICAN FICTION, SING SING, and ZONE OF INTEREST are among the films I hope to catch in the months ahead.  Then there are the films of the season that didn’t screen at TIFF…they either already played at Cannes, Venice or Telluride…or they’ll be screening at NYFF – like PRISCILLA, POOR THINGS, ALL OF US STRANGERS, MAESTRO, FERRARI or KILLERS OF THE FLOWER MOON.  So there’s still a lot to see this year!

My first film today was complicated subject matter. MEMORY, dir Michel Franco (USA) “Past, present, and future collide when Saul (Peter Sarsgaard) follows Sylvia (Jessica Chastain) home from a high school reunion, in this touching and masterful film by director Michel Franco.” (TIFF Catalog)  Without giving too much away, Sarsgaard’s character is dealing with dementia – so his memories are inconsistent and unreliable.  Chastain’s character made accusations as a young person that weren’t believed…so her memories are challenged at every step.  The performances here are strong, but there are clearly moments of improvisation within the script – and some moments/performers are better than others.  Though there’s some great work happening here, I found myself cringing so often at decisions that characters were making…which I found truly upsetting.  But in the end, I guess that would only work if I felt an investment in them.

STRANGE WAY OF LIFE, dir Pedro Almodovar (Spain) – REPEAT VIEWING!  I wanted to see the new Almodovar on the big screen again.  The film is only 30 minutes, so I scurried and chose a front row seat.  I wanted to be consumed by it…it’s Almodovar – so the production design and color palette are incredible, and the guys are all beautiful.  One fun fact about this short is that Almodovar shot it on an old set that Sergio Leone used to shoot three Westerns with Clint Eastwood (so many classic Westerns were shot in Spain…so when uninformed actors like Sam Elliott complain that there’s no place for gay characters in Westerns…and that directors who aren’t from America shouldn’t be making American Westerns – they need a bit of education).  The thrust of this film is mostly to answer a question that was posed in BROKEBACK MOUNTAIN but never answered…and because Almodovar was originally courted to direct BROKEBACK, he decided to answer the question 20 years later. (That said, Almodovar means no disrespect to BROKEBACK.  He says he loves what Ang Lee created.)

My next film was new Blanchett.  I couldn’t skip a chance to see Blanchett at work.  THE NEW BOY, dir. Warwick Thornton (Australia) “Starring Oscar winner Cate Blanchett, this spiritual drama from Warwick Thornton (TIFF ’17’s Sweet Country) hauntingly evokes Australia’s fraught colonial legacy through the story of one very special child.” (TIFF Catalog).  This story is about an Aboriginal boy who is dropped off at at place for orphans in the middle of nowhere Australia where a nun – Sister Eileen (Blanchett) – runs the shop….and Sister Eileen is also charged with converting the boys to Christianity (the pastor who is supposed to be in charge is mysteriously absent).  The boy seems to have a special gift – a little light that he conjures and uses for healing and comfort.  The film is gorgeously shot, relatively quiet and full of great performances.  It shows us what happens when we force our own doctrines on those around us.

What a way to end my festival! My final film was a documentary about one of my favorite filmmakers/filmmaking personalities – the late, incredible Agnes Varda!  VIVA VARDA, dir. Pierre-Henri Gibert (France) “This profile of filmmaker Agnès Varda brings fresh perspectives missing from her autobiographical work, as it covers her oeuvre spanning from her emergence in the French New Wave to acclaimed works such as Vagabond and The Gleaners and I.” (TIFF Catalog). I was a little nervous about this film.  How could a filmmaker create something fresh and new about Varda – she spent the last several years of her career telling us all about her life.   Well…In fact, there was a lot more to tell!  This concise, hour+ documentary is so packed with great material that I want to see it again again – sometimes focusing on the subtitles, sometimes focusing on the visuals…and then going back to the source material and watching the films.  (Next Criterion sale, I’ll be buying the 15-disc set.). Varda was a pioneer and quite a character.  The director introduced the film (and did a Q&A), and he said that the French have pivoted to a positive gaze of Varda’s work due in part to North America’s embrace…France had often written her off and not included her in much talk of the French New Wave until “recently.” I can’t wait to see this film again.

Before walking into  VIVA VARDA tonight, I was already mourning the end of this year’s festival.  I often hear industry folks complaining about being at the festival.  It’s like people complaining about where they live – what a bore.  I have absolutely adored submerging myself in international cinema over the past nine days.  During the last few years, I have truly missed this part of my job…and I’m so glad I was able to come back.

Over the coming days and weeks (and possibly through repeat viewings), I’m sure my feelings on certain films will evolve (sometimes due simply to more rested eyes).  I know that I can be a little rough on films sometimes, but I’ve been honest with my gut responses to all 33 films immediately after seeing them.  Thanks for coming along on the journey with me…I hope to see you back in Dayton.

My best,

Jonathan

TIFF Day #7 – 2023

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Hello Dayton937!

24 hours ago, my schedule for today was slim.  I only had a couple potential screenings scheduled (and they were tentative)…then first thing this morning I mapped out 5 movies.  And a couple of them were fantastic.  It was a very full day!

My first screening of the day was a musical of sorts…all songs/performances are motivated from the radio or a boom box – and characters sing along. CHUCK CHUCK BABY, dir. Janis Pugh (UK). “A film of love, loss, music, and female friendship, set in and around the falling feathers of a chicken processing plant in industrial north Wales.” (TIFF Catalog) This love story is sweet and touching and some of it it is in a rather unlikely setting – a chicken processing plant. Though I found some of the story and motivations a little thin, there’s still a lot to like.

I had only read a little bit about my next film…and nothing had prepared me for it! MOTHER, COUCH, dir. Niclas Larsson (USA). “Three estranged children come together when their mother refuses to move from a couch in a furniture store, in this film boasting all-star talent including Taylor Russell, Ewan McGregor, Ellen Burstyn, F. Murray Abraham, Lara Flynn Boyle, and Rhys Ifans.” (TIFF Catalog) Very shortly after the start, I wondered, “Are we in purgatory?  Is this an existential crisis?  Is this the love-child of Charlie Kaufman and David Lynch?” With an ominous/0ften thriller-like score, this film is a strange one – set in a furniture store selling furniture from the past with current-day prices…but if you stick with with it until the end, it slowly reveals itself and has and you figure it out. I won’t give it away.

Knowing I was going to potentially screen 5 films today, I almost cancelled this one in order to meet up with some friends…but upon reading a bit more about it, I decided to keep on schedule.  The original French title for this film is HLM PUSSY – a codename the young ladies of this film give to themselves – meaning low income housing pussy. I’m so glad I went to see it.  SISTERHOOD, dir. Nora El Hourch (France). “Three teenage girls, inseparable friends, struggle with the aftermath of a pivotal incident that brings to light their differences in race, social class, and cultural privilege, threatening their seemingly invincible bond.” (TIFF Catalog). The performances in this film are incredible…the three young leads are all phenomenal – and I didn’t feel like I was watching performances.  The story of social media and class, and race and privilege are contemporary and so honest.  This is Nora El Hourch’s first feature, and I’m absolutely certain we’ll see more from her – I was shaken and moved and very invested in this great film.

My next film was my third film dealing with WWII…and it’s also based on a real person. IRENA’S VOW, dir. Louise Archambault (Canada, Poland). “In occupied Poland, a former nurse (Sophie Nélisse) risks her own life to shelter a dozen Jewish men and women from the Nazi war machine.” (TIFF Catalog). This is an absolutely fascinating story told with a lot of gloss.  There were some big eye roll moments (like the Jews hidden in the basement preparing food for a dinner party so Irena could keep up with the pace)…that said, there were some good moments of tension, too.  Overall, it wasn’t gritty enough for me to totally get behind it (I also questioned some of its messaging, t00)…but I think it will find an audience – particularly in the Jewish Film Fest circuit.  The historical updates at the end were a treat after seeing the film.

My last film of the day turned out to be a gem….something that really spoke to me. FLIPSIDE, dir. Chris Wilcha (USA). “Chris Wilcha helped adapt This American Life to television. His new documentary embodies the spirit of that show as he tries to save a New Jersey record store, in this comic yet deeply moving reflection on opportunities lost and gained.” (TIFF Catalog). This doc is about so many things…it’s about a filmmaker who has several unfinished projects, it’s about his closets in his parents’ house – full of stuff from his childhood and teenage years, it’s about writing and working, it’s about family, it’s about a dying record store.  In the course of making this film, the filmmaker is able to include segments of many unfinished films (which validates the initial work in some regard), and he went back home to talk with his parents about where he came from and what he’s achieved.  I related so much to this film, and it even had me in tears.  (I have to paraphrase because I can’t read my scrawling handwriting) – at one point in the film, Wilcha talks about being middle-aged and beginning to understand one of life’s great paradoxes…he said you can feel devastating, debilitating heartbreak for not accomplishing certain things you set out to do in life – while also feeling good about where you’re at and the choices you’ve made. This struck a real chord with me, and I hope we can bring this film to town.

 

Thanks for reading!

Jonathan

TIFF Day #6 – 2023

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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

 

TIFF Day #5 – 2023

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Hello Everyone,

My first film of the day was a story I knew in part because we’ve played material over the years at The Dayton LGBT Film Fest  (now known as OUT HERE DAYTON FILM FEST) about Bayard Rustin.  RUSTIN, dir George C. Wolfe (USA). “George C. Wolfe brings Bayard Rustin’s story to life, with a joyous performance by Colman Domingo as the activist who organized the 1963 March on Washington while being forced into the background because of his sexuality.” (TIFF Catalog)  I was a little nervous about this film with its opening scenes.  There was a little too much camera mugging and the tone seemed too easy and light…but I ultimately think it was a device to get the masses hooked into sitting down for a good history lesson. Rustin was ahead of his time for a lot of his reasons, and I hope people of all backgrounds check out this crowd pleasing film.  One line that really stood out for me was when Rustin talks about his detractors.  “The day I was born, I was born a homosexual.  They either believe in freedom and justice for all – or they don’t.”  Domingo is fantastic!

My second film of the day was a public screening, and Elliot Page and director Dominic Savage were in attendance. CLOSE TO YOU, dir. Dominic Savage (Canada, UK). “Sam (Elliot Page) has a chance encounter with an old friend (Hillary Baack) on his way home to a dreaded family reunion that forces him to confront long-buried memories.” (TIFF Catalog) This trans story about a man visiting family who hasn’t been home in almost 5 years has some really incredible moments.  In fact, there’s a moment when my audience burst into applause about 80 minutes into the film.  Savage’s process for filmmaking is to essentially have a draft…he knows where he wants the film to go and the trajectory of the story – but dialog is up to the actors.  Some takes go 20-50 minutes long as actors play their roles and figure out the material together.  Unfortunately, I felt like this rawness didn’t always work…there were some moments that seemed a little too stilted – as though some of the family members had never met (and maybe that’s the point…they never really did get to know each other) – but I can’t help but feel like more editing would help.  This film is worth it for a few key moments and for the original story.

At my next screening, I fell in love.  The three lead character’s in Alexander Payne’s new film are incredible.  THE HOLDOVERS, dir. Alexander Payne (USA). “Paul Giamatti stars in Alexander Payne’s latest about the bond that forms between a strict professor and a belligerent student he’s stuck supervising over the winter holiday at an elite boarding school.” (TIFF Catalog)  The screenplay to this film is gold, and the performances are spectacular.  Underneath the bristling and biting dialog are warm and tender moments that are well-earned. Alexander Payne was in attendance, and he spoke of his love for TIFF audiences.  He said he loves how cinema culture is woven into the fabric of Toronto life…and “for my money, Toronto is the Paris of North America.” Da’Vine Joy Randolph (who also had a very small part in RUSTIN) and Dominic Sessa will hopefully become even bigger stars! I loved this film…and I can’t wait to see it again.

My last film of the day has a big Dayton/Ohio connection.  Produced by Daytonian Karri O’Reilly, this film had a lot of familiar names attached.  I attended the premiere, and Karri was one of the very first people Ethan Hawke thanked.  He said that she “willed this film into being.” WILDCAT, dir. Ethan Hawke (USA). “Ethan Hawke explores the life and art of American author Flannery O’Connor — played by his own daughter, Maya Hawke — in his latest interrogation of the artist’s way.” (TIFF Catalog) This film is a bit complicated as it is about an writer’s process…we hop around from Flannery’s life to her inspirations and her stories – being told on-screen using people from her daily life – so I can already hear some of our customers saying they’re confused.  That said, if you let the film wash over you, the visual styles are different enough to let you understand where you are in Flannery’s early days of writing.  For such an “intimate” story, it’s a really big film…and Karri told me they were able to do it with a very modest budget.  Flannery O’Connor fans, literature fans and people who enjoy thoughtful, well-crafted films will find a lot to love in this film.  The Q&A after the film and the after-party were a blast.  I’ve attached a couple photos for you below.  Maya Hawke, Laura Linney and Christine Dye are all terrific in this film…and they (among numerous other cast and crew) were at the party.

Maya Hawke as Flannery O’Connor in WILDCAT

Photo taken by Soozie Eastman of 502 Film in Louisville. (My hand is in the right corner taking a similar picture, but Soozie’s was better!)

The praises of Daytonian Karri O’Reilly were flowing from Ethan Hawke.  I even overheard “let’s do more” while posing for this pic!

Thanks for reading.  It’s super-late…and I have an 8:30 screening.

My best,

Jonathan

TIFF Day #4 – 2023

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Hello Everyone!

I discovered a great feature about my industry pass which allows me to gain access to even more films.  I was afraid some of my days would only have a couple screenings…but now I’m certain I’ll have at least 3 each day.

Today I screened 4 films and popped into Janus’s industry party where I saw a few familiar faces (sometimes you have to go to Toronto to see people from Columbus and Cincinnati).

UNICORNS, dir. Sally El Hosaini, James Krishna Floyd (UK, USA, Sweden) “An alluring fusion of forbidden romance and colliding cultures, Unicorns stars Ben Hardy and newcomer Jason Patel as two people who might become lovers, if only they can build a bridge between their very different worlds.” (TIFF Catalog) Though rather predictable and familiar, this tale will find an audience based on strong performances – particularly from Ben Hardy.

My second film of the day was such a treat! WICKED LITTLE LETTERS, dir.Thea Sharrock (UK) “Olivia Colman and Jessie Buckley play neighbours who get on each other’s nerves in this dark comedy about a small English town where residents start receiving anonymous, expletive-laden letters, igniting a scandal in their community.” (TIFF Catalog) Because the director and producers (one of whom is Olivia Colman’s husband) had a flight to catch, they were interviewed about the making of the film before we screened it…and I’m so glad I went in with a bit of background.  Based on a true story, this cheeky comedy is laugh-out-loud funny but has so much to say (about gender and even religion).  The absolutely splendid performances and production design/cinematography/costumes make for a terrific film.  Certainly a favorite so far! (I was filled with glee when Eileen Atkins appeared on screen…a personal favorite!)

SEVEN VEILS, dir. Atom Egoyen (Canada). “Atom Egoyan and his Chloe star Amanda Seyfried reunite for this knotty psychodrama about a young theatre director forced to re-examine her own trauma while working on a remount of Salome.” (TIFF Catalog) Fans of opera will certainly like this visually intriguing, behind-the-scenes film about the mounting of a SALOME production – but something was missing for me. I like seeing an artist at work, and I like seeing how a show/performance/film comes together…but I never really felt an honesty in the home-video flashbacks and in Seyfried’s performance to feel like we were getting to a real place.  There were some laughable moments in the material in some of the drama (as in several audience members started laughing) that had me question tone/intention.

My final film of the day was perhaps the most “mainstream” of my selections so far. KNOX GOES AWAY, dir. Michael Keaton (USA). “Michael Keaton directs and plays Knox, a hitman losing his memory, putting him in a race against time to help his estranged son (James Marsden) cover up a messy crime.” (TIFF Catalog) This entertaining film is surprisingly touching with some laughs and tense moments along the way.  I think it will certainly find distribution. This film also stars Al Pacino and a sweet, small role with Marcia Gay Harden.

Off to bed.  Looking forward to WILDCAT and THE HOLDOVERS tomorrow!

Thanks for reading,

Jonathan

TIFF Day #3 – 2023

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Hello Everyone,

Just three screenings today…but a solid day.  It’s hard to believe that 3 days have flown by so quickly.  I’ve seen 11 films, spent time with Jake (before he returned to Dayton earlier today) run into a handful of old friends and colleagues on the street, watched a movie with a filmmaker whose work we’ve screened at OUT HERE DAYTON FILM FEST (formerly known as The Dayton LGBT Film Fest), and still managed to keep up with this blog.  That said, I have yet to do the whole late night party scene…things have changed a bit since I’ve been gone – the festival and myself.

My first film was made in Montreal.  SOLO, dir. Sophie Dupois (Canada). “Set in Montreal’s vivacious drag scene, this tender character study from writer-director Sophie Dupuis (Underground) focuses on a talented young performer whose past and present merge in unexpected ways.” (TIFF Catalog) Simon is a successful makeup artist and drag performer, but when a Oliver, new guy shows up in the dressing room, he sets his eyes on something new.  At first, the chemistry is wonderful – but eventually we realize that Simon is willing to compromise himself for what he thinks he needs in his life..and Oliver is a master manipulator.  This film is well done with great, fleshed out performances…and full of people I “know.”

HIS THREE DAUGHTERS, dir. Azazel Jacobs (USA). “A tense, captivating, and touching portrait of family dynamics starring Carrie Coon, Elizabeth Olsen, and Natasha Lyonne as sisters who converge after their father’s health declines.” (TIFF Catalog) What this film lacks in visual appeal (there are some very strange choices about shooting people up against a blank wall), it makes up for in screenplay and performances.  This little gem’s third act is terrific…and the claustrophobia of being in a relatively small New York apartment for the majority of the film works on a lot of levels in creating tension and drama.  These women are all terrific.

IN CONVERSATION WITH PEDRO ALMODOVAR (with screening of STRANGE WAY OF LIFE, dir. Pedro Almodovar (SPAIN)).  Today’s event with Almodovar was a treat.  Almodovar talked with Cameron Bailey for about 45 minutes about his career – and it was insightful and delightful.  He talked about the “transition” from screwball comedies to melodrama and the industry’s rating system.  Then he screened the short film STRANGE WAY OF LIFE – a gay Western with Ethan Hawke and Pedro Pascal…which Almodovar explained was his sort of answer to BROKEBACK MOUNTAIN (which he had been asked to direct years ago).  “Two lovers reunite after 25 years apart, but secret ulterior motives threaten to spoil the relationship, in this emotional western from Pedro Almodóvar.” (TIFF Catalog)  Pedro then returned to the stage to talk for a bit more before taking questions from the audience.  Sadly, there wasn’t much time for questions and I didn’t get to ask mine.  (Almodovar apologized to the audience that neither of the lead actors would be seen naked in the film.)

 

I’m about to head out and meet one of our Board members for a cocktail this evening.  Susan and her husband are at the festival for the first time, and I’m anxious to hear what they’re seeing and how they like their experience so far.

Until tomorrow!

Thanks for reading,

Jonathan

 

2 Hot New Films at THE NEON – THE BIG SICK and THE HERO

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Hello Everyone!

We’re moving forward in a big way this weekend. If you still need to see THE BEGUILED or BEATRIZ AT DINNER, Thursday will be your last chance to catch them at THE NEON. You also have one last chance to catch Cate Blanchett in MANIFESTO on Wednesday evening. On Friday, we’ll officially begin two hot, new films – THE BIG SICK and THE HERO. (We’ll have a special preview screening of THE BIG SICK on Thursday evening with 10 extra bonus minutes of stand-up from cast members of the film.)

Synopsis for THE BIG SICK: This is the best reviewed romantic comedy in a long, long time. Critics and audiences alike are loving this film, and it’s currently rated “97% Fresh” on rottentomatoes.com! “Based on the real-life courtship between Kumail Nanjiani and Emily V. Gordon, THE BIG SICK tells the story of Pakistan-born aspiring comedian Kumail (Nanjiani), who connects with grad student Emily (Kazan) after one of his standup sets. However, what they thought would be just a one-night stand blossoms into the real thing, which complicates the life that is expected of Kumail by his traditional Muslim parents. When Emily is beset with a mystery illness, it forces Kumail to navigate the medical crisis with her parents, Beth and Terry (Holly Hunter and Ray Romano) who he’s never met, while dealing with the emotional tug-of-war between his family and his heart. THE BIG SICK is directed by Michael Showalter (HELLO MY NAME IS DORIS) and producer by Judd Apatow (TRAINWRECK, THIS IS 40) and Barry Mendel (TRAINWRECK, THE ROYAL TENENBAUMS).” (Lionsgate) Click HERE to visit the film’s official site.

Synopsis for THE HERO: Many of our regulars keep asking “When is that Sam Elliott movie coming?” Well it’s finally here! “Lee Hayden (Sam Elliott) is an aging Western icon with a golden voice, but his best performances are decades behind him. He spends his days reliving old glories and smoking too much weed with his former-co-star-turned-dealer, Jeremy (Nick Offerman), until a surprise cancer diagnosis brings his priorities into sharp focus. He soon strikes up an exciting, contentious relationship with stand-up comic Charlotte (Laura Prepon), and he attempts to reconnect with his estranged daughter, Lucy (Krysten Ritter), all while searching for one final role to cement his legacy.” (The Orchard)

 

Joseph Bargdill of Broken Lamp Productions has rented our space to premiere his new film INCRUENTUS on Thursday, July 27. “Zoe finds herself trapped in a web of lies while she turns into a Vampire. Will she die or be sucked into a web of trickery from her husband and friends or overcome the poison of her infection? INCRUENTUS will have its world premier on July 27th at 7:30pm. Tickets can be purchased now for $7 at THE NEON’s box office. The film will be introduced and followed by a Q&A with the director and producer.” (Broken Lamp Productions)

Dayton filmmaker Alfred Powell is premiering his new documentary with us on Sunday, August 6 at 5:30. “WE BELIEVE IN US is an intriguing true story of a once prominent inner city football power located on the southwest side of Dayton. In a breathtaking manner this raw documentary brilliantly transports you through the daily saga and life a young black coach and his staff and his players during their unpredictable 2015 season. This story simultaneously captures the realism of generational poverty, stigma, stereotypes, and promise while embracing the power of hope and survival. Dunbar High School – where disappointment is often undefeated – provoked this team to make a promise to themselves. When no one else in the world believes in us…We Believe In Us.” (press notes) Tickets are $5 each and are currently available at THE NEON’s Box Office.

Thanks so much for your continued support.
We hope to see you soon,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Tuesday, July 11 – Thursday, July 20:

THE BEGUILED (R) 1 Hr 33 Min
Tuesday & Wednesday (July 11 & 12): 3:00, 5:15, 7:30
Thursday (July 13): 3:00, 5:15
FINAL DAY – July 13!

BEATRIZ AT DINNER (R) 1 Hr 23 Min
Tuesday (July 11): 3:15, 5:20, 7:40
Wednesday (July 12): 3:15, 5:20
Thursday (July 13): 3:15, 5:20, 7:40
FINAL DAY – July 13!

MANIFESTO (NR) 1 Hr 35 Min
Wednesday (July 12): 7:30
FINAL SCREENING!

THE BIG SICK (R) 1 Hr 59 Min
Thursday (July 13): 7:30 Preview with Bonus – THE BIG(GER) SICK
Friday & Saturday (July 14 & 15): 11:50, 2:20, 4:50, 7:30, 9:55
Sunday (July 16): 11:50, 2:20, 4:50, 7:30
Monday – Thursday (July 17-20): 2:45, 5:10, 7:40

THE HERO (R) 1 Hr 33 Min
Friday & Saturday (July 14 & 15): 12:50, 3:00, 5:10, 7:20, 9:30
Sunday (July 16): 12:50, 5:30, 7:40
Monday – Thursday (July 17-20): 3:00, 5:15, 7:30

COMING SOON:
(All Dates Are Tentative. Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear)
TBD – MAUDIE
TBD – A GHOST STORY
TBD – LADY MACBETH
TBD – LANDLINE

Kristen Stewart’s Thriller & Oscar Nom Coming to THE NEON This Weekend

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Hello Everyone!

Once again, we’re moving right along at THE NEON this weekend. If you still need to see Shirley MacLaine in THE LAST WORD or Woody Harrelson in WILSON, Thursday will be your last chance to catch these films at THE NEON. The gorgeous & masterful film FRANTZ (by one of my favorite directors) will stick around for one more week, and we’ll add two new films to the mix. PERSONAL SHOPPER, the new film by Olivier Assayas starring Kristen Stewart, will open Friday for one week. We’ll also open a film that was nominated for “Best Foreign Film” at this year’s Academy Awards – LAND OF MINE – for just three days beginning this Friday. For more details about our current films, please visit www.neonmovies.com

Synopsis for PERSONAL SHOPPER: “Olivier Assayas, the internationally-acclaimed director of CLOUDS OF SILS MARIA and SUMMER HOURS, returns with this ethereal and mysterious ghost story starring Kristen Stewart as a high-fashion personal shopper to the stars who is also a spiritual medium. Grieving the recent death of her twin brother, she haunts his Paris home, determined to make contact with him.” (IFC Films) Richard Roeper of CHICAGO-SUN TIMES wrote, “I can’t explain everything I saw in this film, but I was entertained and enthralled by every second of it.” This film is only scheduled to play for one week!

Synopsis for LAND OF MINE: Nominated for “Best Foreign Film” at this year’s Academy Awards, this powerful film is only scheduled to play for three days this weekend. “As World War Two comes to an end, a group of German POWs, boys rather than men, are captured by the Danish army and forced to engage in a deadly task – to defuse and clear land mines from the Danish coastline. With little or no training, the boys soon discover that the war is far from over. Inspired by real events, LAND OF MINE exposes the untold story of one tragic moment in post-war history.” (Sony Classics) Click HERE to visit the film’s official site.

Vu-Do Swing is now set to bring ALIVE AND KICKING to town on April 26 at 7:30. “ALIVE AND KICKING is a feature-length documentary that takes an inside look into the culture of swing dancing and the characters who make it special. We explore the culture surrounding Swing dance from the emergence of the Lindy Hop to the modern day international phenomenon. The film follows the growth of Swing dance from its purely American roots as an art form, to countries all over the world. Alive and Kicking looks at the lives of the Swing dancers themselves to find their personal stories and why this dance fills them with joy.” Click this LINK to watch a trailer and reserve your ticket.

The 2017 DAYTON JEWISH FILM FESTIVAL has announced their line-up, and it’s terrific. To read all about the numerous films, to watch trailers, to see the schedule of screenings and to purchase advance tickets, please visit the festival’s official website by clicking this LINK. The following list only reflects films that will be screening at THE NEON:
Apr 27 at 7:15pm – ON THE MAP
May 1 at 7:15pm – IN SEARCH OF ISRAELI CUISINE
May 4 at 7:15pm – THE KIND WORDS
May 9 at 7:15pm – KEEP QUIET
May 11 at 7:15pm – SABENA HIJACKING
May 15 at 7:15pm – PERSONA NON GRATA
May 16 at 10am – THE PEOPLE VS. FRITZ BAUER
May 18 at 7:15pm – WOMEN’S BALCONY

On Friday, April 21, we plan to clear the decks and bring two new films to town…and we’ve decided to start them both a little early. COLOSSAL (starring Anne Hathaway) and LOST CITY OF Z (based on the beloved non-fiction book and starring Tom Holland & Robert Pattinson) will both have preview screenings on Thursday, April 20.

Thanks so much for your continued support.
See you soon,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Tuesday, April 11 – Thursday, April 20:

THE LAST WORD (R) 1 Hr 48 Min
Wednesday-Thursday (Apr 12-13): 5:10
FINAL DAY – Apr 13!

WILSON (R) 1 Hr 34 Min
Wednesday-Thursday (Apr 12-13): 3:10, 7:30
FINAL DAY – Apr 13!

FRANTZ (PG-13) 1 Hr 53 Min
Wednesday-Thursday (Apr 12-13): 2:45, 5:15, 7:40
Friday & Saturday (Apr 14 & 15): 3:00, 7:30, 9:45
Sunday (Apr 16): 3:00, 7:30
Monday – Wednesday (Apr 17-19): 2:50, 5:10, 7:30
Thursday (Apr 20): 2:50, 5:10

PERSONAL SHOPPER (R) 1 Hr 45 Min
Friday & Saturday (Apr 14 & 15): 12:15, 2:30, 4:50, 7:15, 9:30
Sunday (Apr 16): 12:15, 2:30, 4:50, 7:15
Monday – Wednesday (Apr 17-19): 3:00, 5:20, 7:40
Thursday (Apr 20): 3:00, 5:20

LAND OF MINE (R) 1 Hr 40 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday (Apr 14-16): 12:45, 5:20

THE LOST CITY OF Z (PG-13) 2 Hrs 21 Min
Preview Screening – Thursday (Apr 20): 7:30

COLOSSAL (R) 1 Hr 50 Min
Preview Screening – Thursday (Apr 20): 7:40

COMING SOON:
(All Dates Are Tentative. Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear)
April 21 – COLOSSAL
April 21 – LOST CITY OF Z
May 5 – THEIR FINEST
May 26 – THE LOVERS
TBD – CEZANNE ET MOI
TBD – MAUDIE
TBD – NORMAN

LA LA LAND is Huge Hit at THE NEON!

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Hello MostMetro,

We’re very excited at THE NEON.  In less than two weeks, LA LA LAND has become our #5 highest grossing film of all time.  To put that in perspective, every other film in our Top 10 played at THE NEON for at least six weeks…so LA LA LAND has performed exceptionally well.  Many thanks to everyone who has helped to make the end of 2016 and the beginning of 2017 such a success.

This weekend, we are holding both LA LA LAND and MANCHESTER BY THE SEA – both of which are certain to be “Best Picture” contenders during this year’s Oscar Race.

To read about everything that’s happening at THE NEON in the next few weeks (as well as to find showtimes for this weekend), please check out our weekly newsletter by following this LINK.

Many thanks for your support!

Jonathan

 

Tom Hanks Fever + Cincinnati & Dayton’s MILES AHEAD at THE NEON!

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26004198166_ffa375b1b8_oHello Everyone,

We’re cleaning house this week!  On Friday, we will start two brand new films. First is Don Cheadle’s MILES AHEAD. This film was shot in Cincinnati and Dayton, and many filmmakers and actors from the region participated in the production (I even had the privilege of being an extra for a day back in 2014). In addition, we’ll open A HOLOGRAM FOR THE KING – starring Tom Hanks. Dayton is currently quite excited about Hanks and his attachment to Wright State University. Interestingly, Stuart McDowell of WSU visited Hanks on the set of HOLOGRAM FOR A KING in Berlin. It was during this meeting that Hanks agreed to put his name on the new “Tom Hanks Center for Motion Pictures” at WSU. (Would you like to win an autographed poster? Keep reading.)

Synopsis for MILES AHEAD: “In the midst of a dazzling and prolific career at the forefront of modern jazz innovation, Miles Davis (Don Cheadle) virtually disappears from public view for a period of five years in the late 1970s. Alone and holed up in his home, he is beset by chronic pain from a deteriorating hip, his musical voice stifled and numbed by drugs and pain medications, his mind haunted by unsettling ghosts from the past.” (taken from Sony Classics) Shot in Cincinnati & Dayton, this improvisation on the life of Miles Davis is a treat for music lovers! Click this LINK to visit the film’s official website.

 

Synopsis for A HOLOGRAM FOR THE KING: This film is based on the beloved novel by Dave Eggers and directed by visionary director Tom Tykwer. “Cultures collide when an American businessman (Tom Hanks) is sent to Saudi Arabia to close what he hopes will be the deal of a lifetime. Baffled by local customs and stymied by an opaque bureaucracy, he eventually finds his footing with the help of a wise-cracking taxi driver (Alexander Black) and a beautiful Saudi doctor (Sarita Choudhury).” (taken from Roadside Attractions) Click this LINK to visit the film’s official website. (More about Hanks, HOLOGRAM and WSU below.)

On Monday, April 25 at 7:30, Gathr Films along with Tricia Rau-Hammond will present a one-time screening of the new documentary MILK. “Through an intimate and artistic lens, MILK brings a universal perspective on the politics, commercialization and controversies surrounding birth and infant feeding over the canvas of stunningly beautiful visuals and poignant voices from around the globe. Inspiring, informative, provocative and sensitive, MILK celebrates bringing a new life into this world with a strong call to action and reflection.” (taken from Press Notes) In addition to the screening, the evening will feature a raffle of prizes from Luna Blue’s Boutique. Advanced tickets must be purchased on the Gathr site by following this LINK. If tickets remain, they will be available at our box office one hour before the screening.

“The seniors from the award winning Motion Picture program at Wright State University are showcasing their thesis work at the annual BIG LENS FILM FESTIVAL. The film festival of new work is scheduled for May 1st, 2016 at 7:30. There will be work from Joe Cook, Alan Lewin, Mitch Centers, Sydney Waltz, Brian Roll, C. B. Hovey, Jessica Barton, Michaela Scholl, Eric Risher, and Liz Lowe. Past participants in Big Lens have won awards at festivals such as Slamdance, Student Academy Awards, and Sundance.” (taken from press notes) Tickets are $7 and can now be purchased at THE NEON’s box office.

Thursday, May 5 at 7:30 has been reserved for a showcase of student work from Stivers School for the Arts. I’ll have more details for you soon!

“The Dayton International Peace Museum invites you to save Sunday, May 8, 2016 at 3:00 p.m. for HIP-HOPERATION. In conjunction with our ‘Invent Peace’ theme, this funny documentary follows the Journey of Seniors from New Zealand as they not only learn to dance Hip Hop, but attend a World Hip Hop Dance Championship in Las Vegas. Enjoy their delight in discovering a new world. Suggested Donation: $10 (includes popcorn!) More info at: daytonpeacemuseum.org or call Jerry at 937-999-7314.” (If you liked YOUNG AT HEART – the documentary about seniors singing rock songs – you’ll love this film.) Check out the trailer by clicking this LINK.

Would you like to win a poster from HOLOGRAM FOR THE KING signed by Tom Hanks? During our run of the film, you can enter your name for a chance to win one. Stuart McDowell helped to get posters autographed for us during yesterday’s festivities at WSU with Hanks – a truly fantastic event! Here are a couple photos I took from the ceremony.

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Thanks for your continued support.
I hope to see you soon at THE NEON,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Friday, April 22 – Thursday, April 28:

MILES AHEAD (R) 1 Hr 40 Min
Friday & Saturday (Apr 22 & 23): 12:50, 3:00, 5:10, 7:30, 9:45
Sunday (Apr 24): 12:50, 3:00, 5:10, 7:30
Monday-Thursday (Apr 25-28): 3:00, 5:10, 7:30

A HOLOGRAM FOR THE KING (R) 1 Hr 37 Min
Friday & Saturday (Apr 22 & 23): 12:30, 2:45, 5:00, 7:20, 9:40
Sunday (Apr 24): 12:30, 2:45, 5:00, 7:20
Monday (Apr 25): 3:10, 5:20
Tuesday-Thursday (Apr 26-28): 3:10, 5:20, 7:40

MILK – BORN INTO THIS WORLD (NR) 1 Hr 30 Min
Monday (Apr 25): 7:30
ONE NIGHT ONLY!

COMING SOON:
(All Dates Are Tentative. Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear.)
TBD – THE DARK HORSE
TBD – KRISHA
TBD – THE CONGRESSMAN
May 6 – SING STREET
May 13 – LOVE AND FRIENDSHIP
May 27 – THE MEDDLER
June 10 – MAGGIE’S PLAN
June 17 – DARK HORSE

WOMAN IN GOLD Opens Friday at THE NEON!

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woman_in_gold_ver3_xlgHello Everyone,

If you still need to see THE WRECKING CREW, IT FOLLOWS or WILD TALES, you’re in luck. We’re going to hold them for one more week (April 16 will be the last day for all three films). In addition, on Friday, we will open a film many of you have been anxious to see – WOMAN IN GOLD. For this week’s remaining showtimes (they’re different than the upcoming week – which are listed below), please visit our website at www.neonmovies.com

Synopsis for WOMAN IN GOLD: “Sixty years after she fled Vienna during World War II, an elderly Jewish woman, Maria Altmann (Helen Mirren), starts her journey to retrieve family possessions seized by the Nazis, among them Klimt’s famous painting ‘The Lady in Gold.’ Together with her inexperienced but plucky young lawyer Randy Schoenberg (Ryan Reynolds), she embarks upon a major battle which takes them all the way to the heart of the Austrian establishment and the U.S. Supreme Court, and forces her to confront difficult truths about the past along the way.” Click this LINK to visit the film’s official site.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9bx3KTGBEaI

LUNAFEST returns this Sunday! “Established in 2000, LUNAFEST connects women, their stories and their causes through film. This traveling film festival spotlights the work of a diverse array of talented women filmmakers with intelligent, funny and thought-provoking themes. 100 percent of all net proceeds are donated to charity. LUNAFEST’s main beneficiary, the Breast Cancer Fund, is dedicated to eliminating the environmental causes of breast cancer. Through education, policy initiatives and other innovative campaigns, the Breast Cancer Fund mobilizes the public to help stop this devastating epidemic affecting 1 in 8 women.” In addition to the traveling line-up, this special screening will include the short film ESTRAGON’S BOOT by local filmmaker Rani Deighe Crowe. LUNAFEST will be held on Sunday, April 12 at 3:00. Tickets (now available at THE NEON) are $5 for students with valid IDs and $10 for general admission. Dayton’s Lunafest is sponsored by The Dayton Women’s Rights Alliance – a feminist organization whose members work to promote and protect the rights of women of all classes, races and cultures. Money raised from this screening will additionally benefit Planned Parenthood of Southwest Ohio. Click this LINK to find out more about this year’s films.

“On Sunday, April 19 at 3:00, join The Dayton International Peace Museum at THE NEON for an upbeat rally to inspire, inform and prepare Team Captains for their essential role in the upcoming May 2 Peace Heroes Walk at RiverScape MetroPark. Featured speaker will be Captain Paul Chappell, author, educator and Peace Leadership Director at the Nuclear Age Peace Foundation. Featured musical entertainment will be Michael and Sandy Bashaw. Artists/musicians Michael and Sandy Bashaw are based in Dayton, Ohio. Michael is a musician, visual artist, and educator. For over 25 years, he has conducted residencies and workshops in hundreds of schools. Sandy began her musical career as a folksinger and recording artist for the Vanguard Recording Society. Both are BMI-affiliated, Emmy-nominated composers. More information about the walk at: PeaceHeroesWalk.org This event is sponsored by the Dayton International Peace Museum and NCCJ of Greater Dayton. It is open to anyone interested in helping organize a team for this year’s Walk.” (taken from The Dayton International Peace Museum press notes)

THE DAYTON JEWISH INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL has grown considerably over the years, and the line-up is always terrific. The following are films that will screen at THE NEON:
Sun, April 26 at 3:10 – 70 HESTER STREET & THE STURGEON QUEENS
Sun, April 26 at 5:00 – ZAYTOUN
Tue, April 28 at 10am – THE OUTRAGEOUS SOPHIE TUCKER
Tue, April 28 at 7:15 – 24 DAYS
Wed, May 6 at 7:15 – DANCING IN JAFFA
Tue, May 12 at 7:15 – FOR A WOMAN
Thu, May 14 at 7:15 – RUN BOY RUN

Visit The Jewish Community Center’s Event Page by clicking this LINK. The official website will include all local screenings and events…and it will be up and running soon!

Montgomery County Food Policy Coalition is brining a special screening of GROWING CITIES to town. “Growing Cities is a film about urban farming in America. At a time when so much negative attention is paid to the food system – from mad cows to factory farms – this film tells the inspiring stories of city-dwellers who are transforming their communities one vacant lot, backyard beehive, and rooftop farm at a time. Join the filmmakers on a cross-county road trip, along the way these growers show that the urban farming movement is about a whole lot more than simply food and that everyone can take part in creating a healthier, more just, and sustainable food system.” This film will screen on Saturday, May 2 at 3:00. Tickets are free, but reservations must be made by call or emailing Emily Bradford at (937)225-6470 or bradforde@mcohio.org

In the next couple weeks, we plan to really keep moving with our traditional engagements. On April 17, we will open TRUE STORY – starring Jonah Hill and James Franco. On April 24, we will open one of my favorite comedies of the past few years – WHILE WE’RE YOUNG.

Thanks for your continued support.

See you soon,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Friday, April 10 – Thursday, April 16:

WOMAN IN GOLD (PG-13) 1 Hr 49 Min
Friday, Saturday: 12:10, 2:30, 5:00, 7:30, 9:50
Sunday: 12:10, 2:30, 5:00, 7:30
Monday – Thursday: 2:55, 5:15, 7:40

WILD TALES (R) 2 Hr 2 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:15
Monday – Thursday: 5:20

THE WRECKING CREW (PG) 1 Hr 40 Min
Friday, Saturday: 2:50, 7:20
Sunday: 7:30
Monday – Thursday: 3:00

IT FOLLOWS (R) 1 Hr 40 Min
Friday & Saturday: 5:10, 9:30
Sunday: 5:20
Monday – Thursday: 7:50

LUNAFEST w/ ESTRAGONS BOOT (NR) 2 Hrs
Sunday: 3:00

COMING SOON:
(All Dates Are Tentative. Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear.)
April 17 – TRUE STORY
April 24 – WHILE WE’RE YOUNG
TBD – RED ARMY
TBD – MERCHANTS OF DOUBT
TBD – GREY GARDENS
TBD – ’71
May 22 – FAR FROM THE MADDING CROWD

UPDATE – MOMMY and IT FOLLOWS Are Opening at THE NEON!

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mommy_ver2Hello Everyone,

Earlier today, I made an announcement about WOMAN IN GOLD opening at THE NEON on April 1…that plan has changed.  The Weinstein Company has made big changes to their release strategy for WOMAN IN GOLD.  After confirming April 1 as its opening date for us, they have yanked it away (from us and numerous other cinemas across the country).  At this time, we don’t know if we will be able to play the film when it finally becomes available in our market.  That said, I have made the appropriate changes to this week’s newsletter below.  Thanks for your understanding – this is very frustrating news (not to mention a terrible waste of time, energy and our valuable on-screen marketing).

We are officially overbooked at THE NEON, and we need to get moving with some titles.  Though LEVIATHAN is one of the best reviewed films we’ve played in a long time (and audiences were in awe this weekend), it didn’t perform well for us…so Thursday will be your last chance to catch it at THE NEON.  On Friday, we will open 2 new films.  Xavier Dolan’s MOMMY will screen once a day starting Friday, and IT FOLLOWS will get a full run (we haven’t played a horror film in a long, long time – this one is getting great reviews).  All that said, we’ll keep bothSECOND BEST EXOTIC MARIGOLD HOTEL and WHAT WE DO IN THE SHADOWS for another week.  For this week’s remaining showtimes (they’re different than the upcoming week – which are listed below), please visit our website at www.neonmovies.com

Synopsis for MOMMY: From Wunderkind Xavier Dolan comes this year’s Oscar submission from Canada – MOMMY. Dolan has won numerous awards at Cannes and around the world for his 5 feature-length films, and he just turned 26. “A feisty widowed single mom finds herself burdened with the full-time custody of her rambunctious 15-year-old ADHD son. As they try to make ends meet, Kyla, the peculiar girl across the street, offers her help. Together, they find a new sense of balance, and hope is regained.” (taken from Roadside Attractions) This is a strictly limited engagement with just a handful of screenings, and we’re one of a few cinemas in Ohio to play it. Don’t miss it! Click this LINK to visit the film’s official site.

Synopsis for IT FOLLOWS: It’s been a long time since THE NEON has screened a horror film, and fans on Facebook seem enthusiastic for the engagement of this critically acclaimed film…let’s see if that excitement really translates to solid box office numbers. “For 19-year-old Jay (Maika Monroe), fall should be about school, boys and weekends out at the lake. But after a seemingly innocent sexual encounter, she finds herself plagued by strange visions and the inescapable sense that someone, or something, is following her. Faced with this burden, Jay and her teenage friends must find a way to escape the horrors that seem to be only a few steps behind.” (taken from RADiUS/Weinstein Co.) Click this LINK to visit the film’s official site.

Don’t forget that tomorrow, Wednesday, March 25, The Alumni Chair in Humanities at UD will present special screenings of Stanley Kubrick’s classic film PATHS OF GLORY – starring Kirk Douglas. Dr. Tony Smith will introduce the award-winning film, and the screenings are free for UD faculty, staff and students. Tickets for the general public are available for a suggested donation of $5. Seating will be on a first come, first serve basis. The movie will screen at 7:30 and 9:30. The presentation of this film is part of the World War I cohort project at UD.

LUNAFEST is Back! On Sunday, April 12 at 3:00, The Dayton Women’s Rights Alliance will present the popular touring festival of short films by, for about women! “Established in 2000 by LUNA, the makers of the Whole Nutrition Bar for Women, LUNAFEST connects women, their stories and their causes through film. This traveling film festival spotlights the work of a diverse array of talented women filmmakers with intelligent, funny and thought-provoking themes. Equally important, LUNAFEST can be used as a ‘fundraiser-in-a-box.’ helping hosts raise money for nonprofits in their own communities, as well as the Breast Cancer Fund. 100 percent of all net proceeds are donated to charity. LUNAFEST’s main beneficiary, the Breast Cancer Fund…Tickets are $5 for students with valid IDs and $10 for general admission. Lunafest is sponsored by The Dayton Women’s Rights Alliance – a feminist organization whose members work to promote and protect the rights of women of all classes, races and cultures. We seek to foster education and activism, and we work with community organizations challenging sexism, racism, homophobia, ageism, classism, poverty and other manifestations of injustice.” (taken from DWRA press notes) Click this LINK to read more about the films.

The Dayton Jewish International Film Festival is preparing another incredible slate of films for you. Screenings will kick off later in April, and the official website will be available soon, but if you want to take a peek at some of the titles, visit The Jewish Community Center’s Event Page by clicking this LINK.

Every year when I come back from The Toronto International Film Festival, people ask me how hard it is to get tickets and participate. While anyone can go to TIFF (you don’t have to be an industry insider), so many people don’t realize that there’s a huge, incredible, well-respected film festival just a few hours away. The Cleveland International Film Festival has grown and grown over the years, and I’ll be attending the final 5 days of the festival – staring tomorrow. Check out the official website to see just how impressive it really is.

I hope you’ll help keep THE NEON nice and busy in my absence, and I hope to see you soon when I get back.

Thanks for your continued support.
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Friday, Mar. 27 – Thursday, April 2:

THE SECOND BEST EXOTIC MARIGOLD HOTEL (PG) 2 Hr 2 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 2:10, 7:30
Monday – Thursday: 2:40

WHAT WE DO IN THE SHADOWS (NR) 1 Hr 26 Min
Friday, Saturday: 12:15, 9:50
Sunday: 12:15
Monday – Thursday: 8:00

MOMMY (R) 2 Hr 19 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 4:40
Monday – Thursday: 5:10

IT FOLLOWS (R) 1 Hr 40 Min
Friday & Saturday: 12:50, 3:00, 5:15, 7:30, 9:45
Sunday: 12:50, 3:00, 5:15, 7:30
Monday – Thursday: 3:10, 5:30, 7:50

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

April 3 – WILD TALES

April 10? – WHILE WE’RE YOUNG
April 17 – TRUE STORY
April ? – RED ARMY
TBD – GREY GARDENS
TBD – WILD TALES
TBD – ’71
TBD – FAR FROM THE MADDING CROWD

15 Oscar Nominees Start Friday at THE NEON

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OSCAR picsHello Everyone,

Over the past few years, more and more people have been interested to see as many of the Oscar nominated films as possible before the ceremony…and now you can get even closer to that goal by having access to all 15 nominated short films. Starting Friday, we will open all three programs of the Oscar Nominated Short Films – ANIMATION, LIVE ACTION and DOCUMENTARY. Showtimes can be found by scrolling to the bottom of this newsletter or by visiting our official site at www.neonmovies.com. In addition, we will hold two other big nominees – THE IMITATION GAME and FOXCATCHER. (As an FYI, the Documentary Program will only play three times over the weekend – it’s a long, challenging and rewarding collection of work…you’ll certainly get your money’s worth.)

Synopsis for OSCAR NOMINATED SHORT FILMS: Each collection of short films contains the 5 nominees for this year’s Academy Award (in the case of the ANIMATION selections, additional noteworthy films have been added in order to create a feature-length program). Though none of the programs are officially rated by the MPAA, I think it’s good to have a “guess” for each program. For the Animation Program, we suggest a rating of “PG” due to one of the films being a bit dark. That said, kids over 8 should not have a problem with any of the material. For the Live Action Program, we suggest a rating of “PG-13” due to some cursing. We think kids over 11 or 12 would be fine. For the Documentary Program, we suggest a rating of “R” due to difficult and disturbing images. (The next to last film in this 2 hour 40 minute program takes place at a slaughterhouse. Though quite powerful, some may find the images rather disturbing.) Click on the image below to visit the official site for the OSCAR NOMINATED SHORTS. On this site, you can view a short clip from each film.

Patrick Larreategui is trying to bring a special screening of CHARLIE VICTOR ROMEO to town. If 68 tickets are reserved by Feb. 6, the screening will move forward – scheduled for Thursday, Feb. 19 at 7:30. “When you board an airplane, who are those people in uniform to whom you entrust your life? What do they really do when things go horribly wrong? Derived entirely from the ‘black box’ transcripts of six major airline emergencies, CHARLIE VICTOR ROMEO puts the audience inside the tension-filled cockpits of actual flights in distress, offering a fascinating portrait of the psychology of crisis and a person’s will to live to the last second. This chilling and groundbreaking production stretches the boundaries of film, theatre, and the traditional documentary with [the filming of] a stage play that recreates transcripts word for word.” Tickets are $10 each and reservations are required via the official link. (Your credit card will only be charged if enough reservations are made in order for the event to move forward as scheduled.)

“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 be purchased at THE NEON beginning Thursday, Jan. 29

Oscar ballots for our Annual FREE Oscar Party will be available in our lobby this weekend. Many thanks to the folks at ThinkTV for agreeing to help us get a broadcast signal for the event!

Thanks for your continued support.

We hope to see you this weekend,

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Friday, Jan. 30 – Thursday, Feb. 5:

THE IMITATION GAME (PG-13) 1 Hr 54 Min
Friday & Saturday: 2:45, 5:00, 7:20, 9:50
Sunday: 2:45, 5:00, 7:20
Monday – Thursday: 3:10, 5:30, 7:50

FOXCATCHER (R) 2 Hr 13 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 4:50
Monday – Thursday: 5:15

OSCAR SHORTS – ANIMATION (NR) 1 Hr 17 Min
Friday, Saturday: 2:50, 9:50
Sunday: 2:50
Monday: 8:00
Tuesday: 3:00
Wednesday: 8:00
Thursday: 3:00

OSCAR SHORTS – LIVE ACTION (NR) 1 Hr 57 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:20, 7:30
Monday: 3:00
Tuesday: 8:00
Wednesday: 3:00
Thursday: 8:00

OSCAR SHORTS – DOCUMENTARY (NR) 2 Hrs 40 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 11:30a.m.

COMING SOON:
(All Dates Are Tentative. Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear.)
Feb. 6 – TWO DAYS, ONE NIGHT
Feb. 13 – STILL ALICE
Feb. 20 – MOMMY
Feb. 20 – MR. TURNER
March 6 – WHAT WE DO IN THE SHADOWS
March 6 – LEVIATHAN
March 13 – RED ARMY
March 27 – WILD TALES
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

FilmDAYTON Festival & 2 Other Hits at THE NEON!

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the-infinite-manHello Everyone,

This is the weekend for the 2014 Eichelberger FilmDayton Festival. With more to offer than just movies (screenings happen at THE NEON), I suggest you take a look at the official site to see what strikes a chord with you. The festival will be screening films for the majority of the weekend in one of our auditoriums, but we will also manage to keep both BOYHOOD and MAGIC IN THE MOONLIGHT running on our other screen. (For this week’s remaining showtimes, visit our website at www.neonmovies.com)

Advance tickets for the FilmDayton screenings must be purchased on-line. Remaining tickets will be sold in our lobby on the day of each screening. Here’s a list of the films that will screen at THE NEON:
Friday, Aug. 22 at 7pm – THE INFINITE MAN
Friday, Aug. 22 at 9pm – FLICK MY CLIP
Saturday, Aug. 23 at Noon – INTERNATIONAL SHORTS
Saturday, Aug. 23 at 2pm – GIVE TO LIVE THE MOVIE
Saturday, Aug. 23 at 4pm – OHIO SHORTS
Saturday, Aug. 23 at 7pm – ZERO MOTIVATION
Sunday, Aug. 24 at 12:30pm – U.S. SHORTS
Sunday, Aug. 24 at 3:15pm – STOMPING GROUND
Sunday, Aug. 24 at 5:30pm – THIS TIME NEXT YEAR
Sunday, Aug. 24 at 8pm – FILMDAYTON AWARDS

On Saturday, August 30 at noon, Roosevelt Class of ’67 will hold a fundraiser with a screening of BUCK AND THE PREACHER. “The film stars several icons who were at the beginning of their careers. Sidney Poitier stars as Buck. This was also the first film that he directed. Harry Belafonte stars as the preacher. His production company, Belafonte Enterprise produced the film with others. Ruby Dee was the wife of Buck. This film was set in Kansas Territory immediately following the Civil War in the late 1860’s. The cost is $20. This includes the movie, glass of wine, soda, and popcorn. Tickets are available at THE NEON.” (taken from press notes)

Start Freedom Dayton is hoping you’ll help tip the scales to bring #StandWithMe to Dayton on Thursday, Sept. 25. This film will only screen if 68 tickets are sold by Friday, Sept. 12. Click this LINK to watch a trailer and reserve your ticket now (if not enough tickets are reserved, your card will never be charged). “Only a 9-year-old would dream that a lemonade stand could free 500 enslaved children. What followed became so much bigger. After seeing a photo of two enslaved boys in Nepal, Vivienne Harr is moved to help in the only way she knows how: by setting up her lemonade stand. With the goal of freeing 500 children from a life of slavery, she sets up her stand every day, rain or shine. As Vivienne’s vision begins to show promise for something greater, her community stands with her – and she develops her own Social Purpose Company. In telling Vivienne’s story, #standwithme examines the realities of modern-day slavery, the role we play in it as consumers, and the importance of knowing the story behind what we buy.” (taken from tugg press notes)

Thanks for your continued support!

We hope to see you this weekend,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Friday, August 22 – Thursday, August 28:

MAGIC IN THE MOONLIGHT (PG-13) 1 Hr 37 Min
Friday: 1:15, 4:30, 7:20, 9:30
Saturday: 1:15, 7:20, 9:30
Sunday: 1:15, 7:20
Monday – Thursday: 3:00, 5:20, 7:40

BOYHOOD (R) 2 Hr 45 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 3:30
Monday – Thursday: 3:30, 7:30

FILMDAYTON FESTIVAL
Click Here for Entire Line-Up

COMING SOON:
(All Dates Are Tentative. Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear.)
Aug 29 – LAND HO!
Aug 29 – CALVARY
TBD – TRIP TO ITALY
TBD – LOVE IS STRANGE
TBD – ALIVE INSIDE
TBD – SKELETON TWINS