lgbt

TIFF 2014 – Day #3

September 7, 2014 By Jonathan McNeal

Saturday, Sept. 6, 2014

Hello Again,

THE RIOT CLUB was my first P&I screening of the day. It’s the new film from Lone Scherfig – director of AN EDUCATION (the “Best Picture” Oscar nominee that made Carey Mulligan a full-fledged star). This is a film about a “posh” club of young men at Oxford. They’re a terribly attractive, elite group (the limit for the club is 10) who are and smart, charismatic, “well-bred,” and quite self righteous. The movie is about their search for 2 new members and their annual dinner that allows them to indulge in debauchery. There’s underlying tension during the whole film that truly becomes terrifying in the third act. Overall, the film is a well done look at class and abuse of privilege.

THE NEW GIRLFRIEND is the new film from one of my favorite filmmakers, Francois Ozon (UNDER THE SAND, 8 WOMEN, SWIMMING POOL, TIME TO LEAVE, IN THE HOUSE). Ozon, like Woody Allen, has a new film almost every year. Some are brilliant (see all of the films listed above) and some are not (though even ANGEL, RICKY and HIDEAWAY have their merits). THE NEW GIRLFRIEND is about a woman who has become depressed after the death of her best friend. After working through some pain, she summons the courage to visit her friend’s husband only to discover some secrets that will change her life (I don’t want to give away too much.) This story is based on a novel by Ruth Rendell, and her work has been adapted by other favorite filmmakers like Pedro Almodovar and Claude Chabrol. Sadly, this film has some major tone issues…but I was intrigued enough to stick around and see what happened.

Sadly, there’s no trailer with subtitles yet, but here’s the French trailer:

PRIDE was my only public screening for the day, and it has already been booked for THE NEON this Fall. With a stellar cast of British NEON regulars (not to mention thematic elements that interest me), it was a film I had to put on my list. Just look at this cast: Bill Nighy (BEST EXOTIC MARIGOLD HOTEL, NOTES ON A SCANDAL), Imelda Staunton (VERA DRAKE, ANOTHER YEAR), Paddy Considine (IN AMERICA). The movie, based on a true story, is about a coal miners’ strike in the UK in 1984 – and how a group of gay and lesbian people began collecting money for the cause. From watching the trailer, I thought I’d be in for a fun, charming ride…but the trailer doesn’t do the film justice. Instead I got a moving, inspiring, uplifting and heartbreaking film. There weren’t many dry eyes in the house. I think this film could go on to win the audience award – as 1000+ people in today’s audience were on their feet cheering for quite a while. When the curator introduced not only the cast but some of the real life people on whom the film is based, the crowd went wild. A truly, truly wonderful film! (Below is a little pic I snapped of the Q&A.)

Thanks for checking in,

Jonathan

Colin Firth & Emma Stone in Woody Allen’s MAGIC IN THE MOONLIGHT at THE NEON!

August 14, 2014 By Jonathan McNeal

Hello Everyone,

Woody Allen’s last three films – MIDNIGHT IN PARIS, TO ROME WITH LOVE and BLUE JASMINE – have all been big hits at THE NEON. On Friday, we will open Allen’s latest film – a 1920’s romantic comedy starring Colin Frith and Emma Stone – MAGIC IN THE MOONLIGHT. BOYHOOD – the best-reviewed film of the year – will stick around for another week.

Synopsis for MAGIC IN THE MOONLIGHT: “Chinese conjuror Wei Ling Soo is the most celebrated magician of his age, but few know that he is the stage persona of Stanley Crawford (Colin Firth), a grouchy and arrogant Englishman with a sky-high opinion of himself and an aversion to phony spiritualists’ claims. Persuaded by his friend, Howard Burkan (Simon McBurney), Stanley goes on a mission to the Cote d’Azur mansion of the Catledge family: mother Grace (Jacki Weaver), son Brice (Hamish Linklater), and daughter Caroline (Erica Leerhsen). He presents himself as a businessman named Stanley Taplinger in order to debunk the alluring young clairvoyant Sophie Baker (Emma Stone) who is staying there with her mother (Marcia Gay Harden)…What follows is a series of events that are magical in every sense of the word and send the characters reeling. In the end, the biggest trick MAGIC IN THE MOONLIGHT plays is the one that fools us all.” (taken from Sony Pictures Classics) Click this LINK to visit the film’s official site.

The FilmDayton Film Festival is just around the corner – August 22-24. The full schedule has been released and festival passes and single tickets are now available on-line. Check out the line-up and purchase your tickets at the festival’s Official Site. In addition to screenings that will be held at THE NEON, there are a number of other special programs happening downtown. Here’s a list of what’s happening 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 Pointier 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)

Mark your calendars now for The Dayton LGBT Film Festival – set for October 10-12. I met with the festival committee on Sunday for our epic, hash-it-out, planning meeting…and we came up with a really strong line-up of films. That said, I’m still awaiting confirmation from a couple titles before I can make big announcements. However, I can announce this – our Opening Night film – THE WAY HE LOOKS, sponsored by Square One Salon & Spa – is a huge crowd pleaser that has been winning awards all around the world. I hope you’ll hurry down to get tickets once they go on sale!

Thanks for your continued support!
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Friday, August 15 – Thursday, August 21:

MAGIC IN THE MOONLIGHT (PG-13) 1 Hr 37 Min
Friday, Saturday: 12:40, 2:50, 5:00, 7:20, 9:30
Sunday: 12:40, 2:50, 5:00, 7:20
Monday & Tuesday: 3:00, 5:20, 7:40
Wednesday: 3:00, 5:20, 8:30
Thursday: 3:00, 5:20, 7:40

BOYHOOD (R) 2 Hr 45 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 1:00, 4:30, 8:00
Monday – Thursday: 3:30, 7:30

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

ONLY LOVERS LEFT ALIVE and FOR NO GOOD REASON To Augment Successful BELLE and CHEF at THE NEON!

June 11, 2014 By Jonathan McNeal Leave a Comment

Hello Everyone,

Even though we’re managing to hold BELLE and CHEF for another week, we’re adding 2 new films to the mix. The documentary about Ralph Steadman – FOR NO GOOD REASON – will have just three screenings over the weekend, and Jim Jarmusch’s new vampire film (with the always-thrilling Tilda Swinton) – ONLY LOVERS LEFT ALIVE – will start limited screenings on Friday.

Synopsis for ONLY LOVERS LEFT ALIVE: “Jim Jarmusch’s ONLY LOVERS LEFT ALIVE tells the tale of two fragile and sensitive vampires, Adam (Tom Hiddleston) and Eve (Tilda Swinton), who have been lovers for centuries. Both are cultured intellectuals with an all-embracing passion for music, literature and science, who have evolved to a level where they no longer kill for sustenance, but still retain their innate wildness. Adam, a reclusive underground musician hiding out in the ruins of contemporary Detroit, despairs about human civilization’s decline, and worries about future survival. Eve, who is perhaps 3000 years old to Adam’s 500, takes a longer view of history and is more optimistic. She leaves her home in the ancient city of Tangier to come to his side.” (taken from Sony Pictures Classics) Click this LINK to visit the film’s official site.

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Synopsis for FOR NO GOOD REASON: “Experience 15 years in the life of acclaimed illustrator Ralph Steadman, whose surreal, often confrontational artwork is frequently associated with Gonzo journalist Hunter S. Thompson thanks to such books as Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas and The Curse of Lono. A look back at Steadman’s remarkable career offers a glimpse into his vivid imagination as interviews with Johnny Depp, Terry Gilliam, Richard E. Grant, Tim Robbins and others offer insight into the man behind the legend. Meanwhile, Steadman watches as his drawings are brought to life through the magic of animation for the very first time.” (Jason Buchanan, Rovi) Click this LINK to visit the film’s official site.

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“Start Freedom Dayton, a film series started by Peace on Fifth to raise awareness about human trafficking, returns next Thursday, June 19th at 7:30 pm with the newest movie about human trafficking – TRICKED. The sex trafficking industry rakes in $3 billion dollars a year and with little awareness for the general population. TRICKED, released in December 2013, is set on the streets of the US as a clear witness to the domestic sex trafficking ‘game.’ This is a very powerful movie. Age appropriate for 12+, however children should have some level of awareness and emotional maturity. For more information call Peace on Fifth at 937.367.7215 or email [email protected]. To learn more about TRICKED and to see a trailer, visit the official site. All advanced tickets are available exclusively at Peace on Fifth (234 S Dutoit St., St. Anne’s Hill) for an $8 suggested donation.” (taken from Peace on Fifth press release)

The Montgomery County Food Policy Coalition is hosting a screening of FOOD PATRIOTS on Saturday, June 21 at 3:00. “Touched by their teenage son’s battle with a foodborne superbug, filmmakers Jeff & Jennifer Spitz document their family’s struggle to raise backyard chickens, grow food, and transform into Food Patriots. FOOD PATRIOTS features people from all walks of life who are trying to change the way Americans eat and buy food, and educate the next generation of consumers.” Admission is free and open to the public – to save a spot, please RSVP to Emily Bradford at (937)225-6470 or [email protected]

On Wednesday, June 25 at 7:30, THE NEON is happy to host a one-night screening of the new documentary TO BE TAKEI. This is part of Dayton PRIDE’s month-long LGBT Pride celebration. “Over seven decades, actor and activist George Takei boldly journeyed from a WWII internment camp, to the helm of the starship Enterprise, to the daily news feeds of five million Facebook fans. Join George and his husband Brad on this star’s playful and profound trek for life, liberty, and love. Best known for playing Sulu on the original Star Trek TV series and six movies that followed, George Takei is unlikely social media royalty. Unofficially dubbed the King of Facebook, he counts over 5 million fans in his online empire – including Trekkies, Howard Stern listeners, and the LGBTQ community – who devour his quirky mix of kitten jokes, Star Trek references, heartfelt messages, and sci-fi/fantasy memes…” (taken from press notes) Tickets, just $8 each, are now available at our box office.

On Thursday, June 26 at 7:30, we will host a preview screening of the new short film FOR FRANCIS. “When Matt Flynn (David Beck) discovers that his son Francis’s second grade teacher Ms. Walker (Kathy Patterson) gave his son a dress to wear, Matt becomes enraged and confronts the school. This very special preview screening on June 26th is in large part for donors in the Dayton area who contributed to the FOR FRANCIS fundraising campaign last fall. The film has already captured the attention of many prominent figures in the entertainment industry, including Emmy Award Winner Tim Gunn, who is one of the film’s Executive Producers. The character of ‘Ms. Walker’ in FOR FRANCIS is inspired by David Beck’s junior high English teacher, Denise Walker, of St. Charles School, in Kettering, Ohio. Although a work of fiction, the story of FOR FRANCIS is inspired by the real life Mrs. Walker’s positive influence on David’s life. Please RSVP to [email protected] for free tickets. Donations are welcome, and walk-ins will be accepted for $7. The donations will be used to help cover the cost of theater rentals and festival submissions.” (taken from Press Notes)

A special, one-time screening of STAND CLEAR OF THE CLOSING DOORS has been requested for Sunday, June 29 at 5:15…but it will only move forward if at least 50 tickets are reserved by Friday, June 20. Click this official LINK to reserve your ticket. “STAND CLEAR OF THE CLOSING DOORS tells the story of Ricky, a 13-year old boy with Asperger’s Syndrome who gets lost one day in the New York City subway system. While his mother frantically searches for him above ground, the sensory-sensitive Ricky is exposed to the cacophony, eccentricity, and menace found in New York’s underground (including some scenes shot during Hurricane Sandy, which came to figure into the film’s story), resulting in a truly authentic view into both the wonders and the horrors of what lies below.”

Thanks for your continued interest and enthusiastic support.

We hope to see you soon!

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Friday, June 13 – Thursday, June 19:

BELLE (PG) 1 Hr Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:20, 2:40, 5:00, 7:20
Monday – Thursday: 3:00, 5:20

CHEF (R) 1 Hr Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 2:30, 5:00, 7:30, 9:50
Monday – Thursday: 2:45, 5:10, 7:40

ONLY LOVERS LEFT ALIVE (R) 2 Hrs 3 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 9:40
Monday – Wednesday: 7:45

FOR NO GOOD REASON (R) 1 Hr 29 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:30

TRICKED (NR) 1 Hr 15 Min + Discussion
Thursday: 7:30

COMING SOON:

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

June 20 – FED UP
June 20 – SUPERMENSCH: LEGEND OF SHEP GORDON
June 27 – OBVIOUS CHILD
June 27 – JODOROWSKY’S DUNE
July 4 – A HARD DAY’S NIGHT
July 25 – THIRD PERSON
Aug. 8 – BOYHOOD
Aug. 15 – MAGIC IN THE MOONLIGHT
Aug. 29 – LAND HO

Sunny Drake To Perform Transgender Seeking… at Antioch College

February 12, 2014 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

Sunny Drake (photo by Tania Anderson)

The Antioch College performance program is hosting Transgender Seeking…, a solo performance by artist Sunny Drake on Friday, February 21, at 7:00 p.m. in the Glen Helen Auditorium.

Drake, an award-winning Australian queer and transgender theater maker, performer and educator will explore queer relationships as “the space between our big political visions and our messy lives in trying to live up to them.”

Recently featured in Gscene Gay Magazine, writer Eric Page wrote, “Drake is one of those rare provocative performers who are uber-smart but ultra cozy at heart… one of the most interesting and touching performances I’ve seen in a while.”

Based in Toronto, Drake has toured his work extensively in Canada, Europe and the United States. He recently won the SummerWorks RBC Professional Artist Award (Canada’s biggest juried theater festival), and was honored by NOW Magazine (Toronto) for “Outstanding Performance” and “Outstanding Design.”

Transgender Seeking… has been generously supported by Antioch College’s Community Council, and is free and open to the public. For more information, please contact Gabrielle Civil, associate professor of performance, at [email protected].

BLUE IS THE WARMEST COLOR Opens at THE NEON!

January 2, 2014 By Jonathan McNeal Leave a Comment

Hello Everyone,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Jonathan

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

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

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

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

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

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

8th Annual LGBT Film Festival – The Full Line-Up & Visiting Filmmaker News!

October 5, 2013 By Jonathan McNeal Leave a Comment

Festival Passes have sold out, but single tickets remain for The 8th Annual Dayton LGBT Film Festival – scheduled for Oct. 11, 12 & 13 at THE NEON in Downtown Dayton.

The exciting weekend will kick off on Friday, October 11 at 7:30 with G.B.F. – sponsored by Square One Salon & Spa. From the maker of JAWBREAKER comes another hysterical satire of high school clique culture – this time focusing on the latest fashion accessory – the G.B.F. (Gay Best Friend). Attendees will be invited to the Opening Night Party at CADC on the corner of East 4th and St. Clair – where they’ll be greeted with complimentary appetizers from Roost Modern Italian and live music by Sandy & Michael Bashaw. The opening night party is sponsored by Sue Spiegel and Lisa Hanauer.

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On Saturday, the films will continue at 1:00 with BRIDEGROOM – sponsored by PFLAG Dayton. This touching documentary recounts a romance between a young couple…and how one man was forbidden from attending the funeral of his lover. (This documentary started as a youtube video called “It Could Happen To You” – which has attracted close to 4 million viewers.)

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Always a festival favorite, at 3:00, TOP DRAWER SHORTS will showcase the latest and best in short films from across the country and around the world. This program is sponsored by The Human Race Theatre Company’s production of “Torch Song Trilogy.” Below is the trailer for DIK.

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REACHING FOR THE MOON, a beautiful period piece, chronicles the long-lasting love affair between poet Elizabeth Bishop and architect Lota de Macedo Soares. This film has won numerous audience awards and has played at prestigious film festivals around the world. It is sponsored by The Greater Dayton LGBT Center and starts at 7:15 on Saturday evening.

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Later on Saturday night, the festival will play a fresh and fun documentary about the cult legend and John Waters favorite – I AM DIVINE. Sponsored by MJ’s Café & Johnny, this film will begin at 9:45.

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On Sunday afternoon, the festival will continue with THE NEW BLACK at 3:00. This film, sponsored by The Miami Valley Fair Housing Association, tells the story of how the African-American community is grappling with the gay rights issue in light of the recent gay marriage movement and the fight over civil rights…and it has a local connection. Steve Bognar of Yellow Springs shot a portion of this film!

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The closing film – THE HAPPY SAD – will screen on Sunday, October 13 at 5:15. In the age of polyamory and blurred lines of sexuality, what really makes for a happy relationship? Two young couples in New York – one black and gay, one white and heterosexual – find themselves intertwined as they create new relationship norms, explore sexual identity, and redefine monogamy in this captivating new film directed by Rodney Evens (Brother to Brother). Sponsored by Marion’s Piazza, this wonderful film has been playing at film festivals all summer.

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In addition to a line-up of critically acclaimed new films from across the country and around the world, this year’s movie-goers will be treated introductions and Q&A’s from at least two visiting filmmakers.

Darren Stein, director of the Opening Night Film G.B.F., will be flying in from Los Angeles. Last week, G.B.F. screened in Atlanta, and he’ll be off to Austin after the Dayton premiere. In addition to film and television work in California, one of Stein’s well-known films, JAWBREAKER, is currently being turned into a musical in NYC.

Guy Shalem, the award-winning director of the short film SOMETHING REAL, will also attend the festival. SOMETHING REAL is a celebrity packed short with a musical twist about today’s contemporary bar scene. The film marks Shalem’s first collaboration with Tony award winning composer and lyricist Jeff Marx (AVENUE Q) and 5-time Grammy-award winning producer, composer and lyricist, Mervyn Warren. Shalem has heard great things about the film community in Dayton, and he’s excited to get to town.

The Dayton LGBT Film Festival wishes to extend a special thanks to AIDS Resource Center Ohio for their sponsorship and assistance in bringing these filmmakers to town. Additional sponsors include Ken Byers, Kurt Fleagle & Warren Riffle, and Chase Whiteside.

The Downtown Dayton LGBT Film Festival presents films that have thematic ties to the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community – stories that aren’t often represented or celebrated in mainstream media. This year’s selections were picked from over 100 films, and though many of these films will not find mainstream distribution, they are strong pieces of work that merit being seen by a wider audience. The festival encourages film lovers from around the Miami Valley to support these strong films.

Single tickets – just $8 each – are moving fast.

THE NEON is located at 130 E. 5th Street in downtown Dayton. For more information about the festival, including full descriptions, links to official sites & trailers, and ticketing details, please visit www.daytonlgbt.com.

SALINGER and THE HUNT Open Friday at THE NEON!

September 24, 2013 By Jonathan McNeal Leave a Comment

Hello Everyone,

We’re moving right along, and I think it’s fair to say that we’ve got something for everyone this weekend. In addition to holding AUSTENLAND and BLUE JASMINE for one more week, we will open the documentary SALINGER and the highly acclaimed film from Denmark –THE HUNT. For remaining showtimes for this week, visit our official site at www.neonmovies.com.

Synopsis for SALINGER: “SALINGER features interviews with 150 subjects including Salinger’s friends, colleagues and members of his inner circle who have never spoken on the record before as well as film footage, photographs and other material that has never been seen. Additionally, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Edward Norton, John Cusack, Danny DeVito, John Guare, Martin Sheen, David Milch, Robert Towne, Tom Wolfe, E.L. Doctorow, Gore Vidal and Pulitzer Prize winners A. Scott Berg and Elizabeth Frank talk about Salinger’s influence on their lives, their work and the broader culture. The film is the first work to get beyond the Catcher in the Rye author’s meticulously built up wall: his childhood, painstaking work methods, marriages, private world and the secrets he left behind after his death in 2010.” (taken from The Weinstein Company) Click HERE to visit the film’s official site.

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Synopsis for THE HUNT: “Mads Mikkelsen (NBC’s Hannibal, A ROYAL AFFAIR) won the Best Actor Award at the 2012 Cannes Film Festival for his penetrating portrayal of Lucas, a former school teacher who has been forced to start over having overcome a tough divorce and the loss of his job. Just as things are starting to go his way, his life is shattered when an untruthful remark throws his small community into a collective state of hysteria. As the lie spreads, Lucas is forced to fight a lonely fight for his life and dignity.” (taken from Magnolia Pictures) Click HERE to visit the film’s official site.

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THE DAYTON LGBT FILM FESTIVAL is heading into its 8th year, and we’ve just secured flights for 2 visiting filmmakers (with hopefully more to come). The dates are set for October 11-13, and the line-up is fantastic. The committee has been working on this year’s festival since April, and we’re proud of the response – festival passes are already flying. The official site is up and running, and you can visit our Facebook Page for last-minute and fun postings. We hope you’ll look at our site and find something you’d like to see…if you’re into thought-provoking documentaries or period films or satirical comedies, we’ve got it covered. Single tickets go on sale this Wednesday, Sept. 25…it’s certain to be an amazing festival!

I’m sure many of you have seen the trailer for one of the best reviewed comedies of the year – Nicole Holofcener’s ENOUGH SAID, starring Julia Louis-Dreyfus and James Gandolfini. I’m delighted to announce that it has moved up…it is now set to open next Friday (Oct. 4).

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

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Fri, Sept. 27 – Thurs, Oct. 3:

BLUE JASMINE (PG-13) 1 Hr 38 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 2:50, 9:45
Monday – Thursday: 5:30

THE HUNT (R) 1 Hr 55 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:30, 5:00, 7:20
Monday – Thursday: 3:10, 7:50

AUSTENLAND (PG-13) 1 Hr 37 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:45, 5:10
Monday – Thursday: 5:20

SALINGER (PG-13) 2 Hrs
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 2:50, 7:15, 9:45
Monday – Thursday: 3:00, 7:45

COMING SOON:
As always, all dates are tentative. Many of these dates will change.
In some rare cases, titles may disappear.
Oct. 4 – ENOUGH SAID
Oct. 11 – THE PATIENCE STONE
Oct. 18 – INEQUALITY FOR ALL
Oct. 25 – WADJDA
Nov. 22- KILL YOUR DARLINGS
Nov. 22 –DALLAS BUYERS CLUB
TBD – CUTIE AND THE BOXER

BEFORE MIDNIGHT – Best Reviewed Film of the Year – Opens at THE NEON!

June 13, 2013 By Jonathan McNeal Leave a Comment

Hello Everyone,

For those of you who haven’t seen RENOIR yet (or those of you who need to see it again), we’re going to hold the film for one screening per day on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Sunday will be its last day…so hurry down. On Friday, we will open the best reviewed film of the year…and in my opinion, the best film I’ve seen all year – BEFORE MIDNIGHT. In addition, we will hold the new Noah Baumbach comedy FRANCES HA. For this week’s remaining showtimes, visit our website at www.neonmovies.com.

Synopsis for BEFORE MIDNIGHT: BEFORE MIDNIGHT is the best reviewed film of the year – with current scores of 98% on Rottentomatoes.com and 96% on Metascritic.com (check out all the 100% reviews by clicking this LINK). Don’t miss this honest, relatable, and touching film on the big screen. “In this follow-up to Before Sunrise and Before Sunset, we meet Jesse and Celine nine years later in Greece. Almost two decades have passed since their first meeting on that train bound for Vienna.” (taken from Sony Classics) Click this LINK to visit the film’s official site. This film is rich with intelligent dialog and great performances, and it works whether you’ve seen the 2 previous films or not.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kv6JWoVKlGY’]

There are still tickets available for our special screening of I DO – taking place on Thursday, June 20 at 7:30. As the Supreme Court decides on civil rights issues that will effect thousands of US Citizens, this film couldn’t come at a more important time. (I saw this film at The Cleveland International Film Festival, and the audience adored it!) “A gay Brit living in New York is deprived of his immigration status, and risks losing his family and life in the U.S. He marries his lesbian best friend to remain in the country and stay with his family, but things get complicated when he meets the love of his life and is forced to make an impossible choice.” This one night only screening is part of Dayton’s PRIDE festivities. Tickets are $9 for General Admission. Members of The Greater Dayton LGBT Center get in for $7 (with valid membership card). Tickets are on sale now at THE NEON’s box office.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=92tXGsF6s4Q’]

“Start Freedom Dayton is at it again – this time with a screening BORN INTO BROTHELS, the 77th Oscar winner for Best Feature Documentary. Come see the movie and stay for the post-screening discussion led by Melinda Haggerty, Ohio’s Director of Children’s Initiatives, the juvenile justice arm of the Office of Mike DeWine. Advance tickets are available at Peace on Fifth for $7.50 (located at 508 E. Fifth Street). Tickets on the day of the show will cost $10 at THE NEON.” (Peace on Fifth press notes.) Born into Brothels is the chronicle [of two documentary filmmakers and] their time in Sonagchi, Calcutta and the relationships they developed with children of prostitutes who work the city’s notorious red light district.

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

See you soon!

All the best,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Fri. June 14 – Thur. June 20:

BEFORE MIDNIGHT (R) 1 Hr 48 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:20, 2:40, 5:00, 7:20, 9:40
Monday – Thursday: 3:00, 5:20, 7:45

RENOIR (R) 1 Hr 51 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:40

FRANCES HA (R) 1 Hr 26 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 3:00, 5:15, 7:30, 9:40
Monday – Wednesday: 3:00, 5:15, 7:30
Thursday: 3:00, 5:15

I DO (NR) 1 Hr 31 Min
Thursday: 7:30

COMING SOON:
As always, all dates are tentative. Many of these dates will change.
In some rare cases, titles may disappear.
June 21 – THE EAST
June 28 – LOVE IS ALL YOU NEED
July 12 – 20 FEET FROM STARDOM
July 26 – THE WAY WAY BACK
Aug 2 – I’M SO EXCITED
Aug 23 – BLUE JASMINE
TBD – GINGER AND ROSA
TBD – KON TIKI
TBD – FROM UP ON POPPY HILL
TBD – IN THE HOUSE

THE NEON Opens FRANCES HA – Best Reviewed Comedy of the Year!

June 5, 2013 By Jonathan McNeal Leave a Comment

Hello Everyone,

If you still need to see MUD or TO THE WONDER, you’ll only have until Thursday (June 6) to see them at THE NEON. On Friday (June 7), we will open the new comedy FRANCES HA – directed by Noah Baumbach (director of THE SQUID AND THE WHALE). This new comedy has been receiving fantastic reviews (100% reviews from The New York Times, The Los Angeles Times and The Washington Post to name a few), and I think it is equal parts early Woody Allen and Francois Truffaut. In addition to this new movie, the beautiful film RENOIR will stick around for another week. For this week’s remaining showtimes, visit our website at www.neonmovies.com.

Synopsis for FRANCES HA: “Frances (Greta Gerwig) lives in New York, but she doesn’t really have an apartment. Frances is an apprentice for a dance company, but shes not really a dancer. Frances has a best friend named Sophie, but they aren’t really speaking anymore. Frances throws herself headlong into her dreams, even as their possible reality dwindles. Frances wants so much more than she has but lives her life with unaccountable joy and lightness. FRANCES HA is a modern comic fable that explores New York, friendship, class, ambition, failure, and redemption.” (taken from IFC Films) Click this LINK to visit the film’s fun, official site.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TafQAp72jGY’]

Our special screening of GIRL RISING sold out…and many people were disappointed that they didn’t get tickets. Don’t let that happen to you for our upcoming screening of I DO. There are still tickets available for Thursday, June 20 at 7:30. (I saw this film at The Cleveland International Film Festival, and the audience adored it!) “A gay Brit living in New York is deprived of his immigration status, and risks losing his family and life in the U.S. He marries his lesbian best friend to remain in the country and stay with his family, but things get complicated when he meets the love of his life and is forced to make an impossible choice.” This one night only screening is part of Dayton’s PRIDE festivities. Tickets are $9 for General Admission. Members of The Greater Dayton LGBT Center get in for $7 (with valid membership card). Tickets are on sale now at THE NEON’s box office. Check out this trailer…if it intrigues you in the slightest, then I think you’ll love the film (as the trailer doesn’t really do the film justice).

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=92tXGsF6s4Q’]

All the best,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Fri. June 7 – Thur. June 13:

RENOIR (R) 1 Hr 51 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:20, 2:45, 5:10, 7:30, 9:45
Monday – Thursday: 2:45, 5:10, 7:30

FRANCES HA (R) 1 Hr 26 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:50, 3:00, 5:10, 7:20, 9:30
Monday – Thursday: 3:00, 5:10, 7:20

COMING SOON:
As always, all dates are tentative. Many of these dates will change.
In some rare cases, titles may disappear.
June 14 – BEFORE MIDNIGHT

AT ANY PRICE and STARBUCK + 2 Hold-Overs…And Please Vote NEON.

May 23, 2013 By Jonathan McNeal Leave a Comment

Hello Everyone,

2 new films are heading to THE NEON for the holiday weekend – AT ANY PRICE and STARBUCK. That said, we’ll hold onto THE SAPPHIRES and MUD for another week. (NO screened for the last time on Thursday (May 23).) Please pay close attention to showtimes for the upcoming week (which are listed below). Due to the holiday, they change around a little more than usual.

Every year, The Dayton Daily News holds a contest for “Best Movie Theater.” Last year, we forgot to remind you, but we still ended up with quite a few votes. This year, I put it on the calendar. Please visit the site below to enter you vote. You can only vote once from each computer…and we won’t bribe you or bother you again for votes (unless of course you’re on facebook…where we’ll put a couple reminders throughout the week). Here’s the LINK. Thank you!

Synopsis for STARBUCK: “At 42, David lives the life of an irresponsible adolescent. He coasts through life with minimal effort and maintains a complicated relationship with Valerie, a young policewoman. Just as she tells him she’s pregnant, David’s past resurfaces. Twenty years earlier, he began providing sperm to a fertility clinic in exchange for money. He discovers he’s the father of 533 children, 142 of whom have filed a class action lawsuit to determine the identity of their biological father, known only by the pseudonym Starbuck.” (taken from EOne) Click this LINK to visit the film’s official site. I think the trailer will make you want to see this film!

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_8XKccuB_ao’]

Synopsis for AT ANY PRICE: “In the competitive world of modern agriculture, ambitious HENRY WHIPPLE (Dennis Quaid) wants his rebellious son DEAN (Zac Efron) to help expand his family’s farming empire. However, Dean has his sights set on becoming a professional race car driver. When a high-stakes investigation into their business is exposed, father and son are pushed into an unexpected crisis that threatens the family’s entire livelihood.” (taken from Sony Pictures Classics) Click this LINK to visit the film’s official site. This film was directed by one of America’s most well-received, young directors.

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

Film #4 in Start Freedom Dayton’s film series – CALL + RESPONSE – is scheduled for next Thursday, May 30 at 7:30. “Organized by Justin Dillon, an artist, public speaker, abolitionist, founder and CEO of Slavery Footprint, CALL + RESPONSE is a documentary about human trafficking that combines musicians, celebrities, national abolitionists and political figures to shine a light on human trafficking concerns in the US and abroad. Tickets are $10 day of show at THE NEON or advance tickets are $8 (available exclusively at Peace on Fifth – 508 E. 5th – 937.367-7215). For information about Peace on Fifth or Start Freedom Dayton visit the official site. CALL + RESPONSE is sponsored by Fairly Simple.” (taken from the press release)

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mS-0CHXfyIk’]

Only 50 seats remain for our upcoming special screening of GIRL RISING. For more about this film, click this LINK. This is the site where you can watch the trailer, read about the film and reserve your ticket. The screening is set to take place on Wednesday, June 5 at 7:30. Advanced tickets are only available on the website listed above. If tickets remain, we will be able to sell them at the door on the night of the show. Watch the trailer…this film looks terrific!

On Thursday, June 20 at 7:30, we will host a special screening of the new film I DO. (I saw this film at The Cleveland International Film Festival, and the audience adored it!) “A gay Brit living in New York is deprived of his immigration status, and risks losing his family and life in the U.S. He marries his lesbian best friend to remain in the country and stay with his family, but things get complicated when he meets the love of his life and is forced to make an impossible choice.” This one night only screening is part of Dayton’s PRIDE festivities. Tickets are $9 for General Admission. Members of The Greater Dayton LGBT Center get in for $7 (with valid membership card). Tickets are on sale now at THE NEON’s box office.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=92tXGsF6s4Q’]

Thanks for your many well-wishes during my European holiday. I had a magnificent time in Germany (visiting old friends & “family” from my time as an exchange student) and Spain (visiting one of my dearest friends in Barcelona). As I anticipated, Diana and Mike did a great job holding down the fort at THE NEON. Many thanks to them…their work makes it possible for me to escape now and then.

See you soon!

All the best,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Fri. May 24 – Thur, May 30:

MUD (PG-13) 2 Hr 10 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 1:30, 7:10, 9:45
Monday: 1:30, 7:10
Tuesday & Wednesday: 2:30, 7:45
Thursday: 2:30

THE SAPPHIRES (PG-13) 1 Hr 43 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Monday: 4:30
Tuesday – Thursday: 5:10

STARBUCK (R) 1 Hr 49 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Monday: 12:30, 5:15
Tuesday – Thursday: 5:15

AT ANY PRICE (R) 1 Hr 45 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 2:50, 7:30, 9:45
Monday – Thursday: 2:50, 7:30

CALL + RESPONSE (PG-13) 1 hr 26 Min + discussion

Thursday: 7:30

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

May 31 – RENOIR
June 7 – LOVE IS ALL YOU NEED
June 14 – BEFORE MIDNIGHT
June 28 – THE EAST
July 26 – THE WAY WAY BACK
TBD – GINGER AND ROSA
TBD – KON TIKI
TBD – FROM UP ON POPPY HILL
TBD – FRANCES HA
TBD – IN THE HOUSE
TBD – TO THE WONDER

Oscar Nominated NO Starts Friday at THE NEON

May 15, 2013 By Jonathan McNeal Leave a Comment

Hello Everyone,

We’re adding something to the mix this weekend, but you’ll only have one week to catch NO – the feature film from Chile starring Gael Garcia Bernal. NO was nominated for “Best Foreign Film” at this year’s Oscars, and it won an award at last year’s Cannes Film Festival. It also received 100% reviews from Entertainment Weekly, The Chicago Sun-Times, and Time Out New York. We will hold MUD and THE SAPPHIRES (though showtimes are changing). For this week’s remaining showtimes, visit our website at www.neonmovies.com.

Synopsis for NO: “In 1988, Chilean military dictator Augusto Pinochet, due to international pressure, is forced to call a referendum on his presidency. The country will vote YES or NO to Pinochet extending his rule for another eight years. Opposition leaders for the NO persuade a brash young advertising executive, Rene Saavedra (Gael Garcia Bernal), to spearhead their campaign. With scant resources and under scrutiny by the despot’s minions, Saavedra and his team devise an audacious plan to win the election and set Chile free.” (taken from The Weinstein Company) Click this LINK to visit the film’s official site.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=veHCHhRx3Vk’]

In the 13 years of The Dayton Jewish International Film Festival, this year was the best ever. Many thanks to all of you who supported this great fest. MELTING AWAY and MY BEST ENEMY tied for the audience favorite of “Best Feature.”

Film #4 in Start Freedom Dayton’s film series – CALL + RESPONSE – is scheduled for May 30 at 7:30. “Organized by Justin Dillon, an artist, public speaker, abolitionist, founder and CEO of Slavery Footprint, CALL + RESPONSE is a documentary about human trafficking that combines musicians, celebrities, national abolitionists and political figures to shine a light on human trafficking concerns in the US and abroad. Tickets are $10 day of show at THE NEON or advance tickets are $8 (available exclusively at Peace on Fifth – 508 E. 5th – 937.367-7215). For information about Peace on Fifth or Start Freedom Dayton visit the official site. CALL + RESPONSE is sponsored by Fairly Simple.” (taken from the press release)

I’m happy to announce that the we’re good to go with the screening of GIRL RISING. For more about this film, click this LINK. This is the site where you can watch the trailer, read about the film and reserve your ticket. The screening is set to take place on Wednesday, June 5 at 7:30. Advanced tickets are only available on the website listed above. If tickets remain, we will be able to sell them at the door on the night of the show. Watch the trailer…this film looks terrific!

On Thursday, June 20 at 7:30, we will host a special screening of the new film I DO. (I just saw this film at The Cleveland International Film Festival, and the audience adored it!) “A gay Brit living in New York is deprived of his immigration status, and risks losing his family and life in the U.S. He marries his lesbian best friend to remain in the country and stay with his family, but things get complicated when he meets the love of his life and is forced to make an impossible choice.” This one night only screening is part of Dayton’s PRIDE festivities. Tickets are $9 for General Admission. Members of The Greater Dayton LGBT Center get in for $7 (with valid membership card). Tickets are on sale now at THE NEON’s box office.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=92tXGsF6s4Q’]

I am currently on vacation in Europe. I’ve been saying that I would take this trip for the past 8-9 years. I’m finally doing it. Thanks for keeping THE NEON staff company in my absence.

See you soon!

All the best,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Fri. May 17 – Thur, May 23:

MUD (PG-13) 2 Hr 10 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 1:00, 4:00, 7:10, 9:45
Monday – Thursday: 2:30, 5:15, 7:45

THE SAPPHIRES (PG-13) 1 Hr 43 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:30, 5:10, 7:30
Monday – Thursday: 5:10, 7:30

NO (R) 1 Hr 58 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 2:45, 9:45
Monday – Thursday: 2:45

COMING SOON:
As always, all dates are tentative. Many of these dates will change.
In some rare cases, titles may disappear.
May 24 – STARBUCK
May 24 – AT ANY PRICE
May 31 – RENOIR
June 7 – LOVE IS ALL YOU NEED
June 14 – BEFORE MIDNIGHT
June 28 – THE EAST
TBD – GINGER AND ROSA
TBD – KON TIKI
TBD – FROM UP ON POPPY HILL
TBD – FRANCES HA
TBD – IN THE HOUSE
TBD – TO THE WONDER

TRANCE & PLACE BEYOND THE PINES + Special Events at THE NEON!

April 18, 2013 By Jonathan McNeal Leave a Comment

Hello Everyone,

I just got back from The Cleveland International Film Festival, and I had a magnificent time. Over the course of 5 days, I saw 15 films and met a couple filmmakers I greatly admire. Several of you have asked how one goes about visiting the Toronto Film Fest. Though I wouldn’t dissuade you from attending that fest, I’d be remiss if I didn’t encourage you to attend this great festival which is just a few hours away. This year, there were 180 features and 165 shorts to chose from, and this incredible fest just keeps growing. Keep your eye on it next spring!

THE PLACE BEYOND THE PINES had a terrific weekend at THE NEON, but TRANCE fell short of our expectations. That said, we’ll hold both films…but TRANCE will more than likely only play for one more week. For this week’s remaining showtimes, visit our official site: www.neonmovies.com.

Check out this featurette from PLACE BEYOND THE PINES:

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x8X1WSiedaI’]

And check out this featurette from TRANCE:

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-5e1yaIXYg4′]

The 13th Dayton Jewish International Film Festival is here, and you can visit our lobby to pick up a brochure for this year’s festival . To visit the website and purchase advanced tickets, click this LINK. 8 films from this festival will screen at THE NEON, and the line-up looks terrific! Here are the dates and times:
Thu, Apr 18 at 7:30 – THE OTHER SON (preceded by Opening Reception at 7pm)
Sun, Apr 21 at 3:00 – MY BEST ENEMY
Tue, Apr 23 at 7:15 – MELTING AWAY
Thu, Apr 25 at 7:15 – NICKY’S FAMILY
Tue, Apr 30 at 7:15 – NAOMI
Thu, May 2 at 7:15 – LEA & DARIA
Tue, May 7 at 10am – TORN
Thu, May 9 at 7:15 – A BOTTLE IN THE GAZA SEA

“In celebration of National Record Store Day, GHETTOBLASTER MAGAZINE in partnership with DAYTON MUSIC FEST have organized a free screening of Brendan Toller’s I NEED THAT RECORD! THE DEATH (OR POSSIBLE SURVIVAL) OF THE INDEPENDENT RECORD STORE on Saturday, April 20 at 10:15 pm. “Greedy record labels, media consolidation, homogenized radio, big box stores, Ecommerce and the digital revolution all pose threats on the very well being of our favorite record stores and the music industry at large. Will these stores die? Will they survive? Featuring interviews with THURSTON MOORE of Sonic Youth, Ian MacKaye of Fugazi/Minor Threat, activist/author NOAM CHOMSKY, MIKE WATT of the Minutemen, PAT CARNEY of the Black Keys and many indie record stores across the U.S. of A!” Bring your receipts from earlier that day from the many local businesses participating with special Record Store Day discounts and get entered to win one of two DAYTON INDIE BUSINESSES SHOPPING SPREES! This screening is FREE…first come, first serve. Sponsored by BLIND BOB’S, OMEGA MUSIC, THAI9, AND 5TH STREET WINE & DELI.” (taken from press notes)

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OePVFP7NJrQ’]

“The India Foundation celebrates One Hundred Years of Indian Cinema: 1913 – 2013 with a Tribute to Dada Saheb Phalke – Father of the Indian Cinema. The first Indian silent film produced, written and directed by Mr. Phalke was released in Bombay on May 3, 1913. A screening of selected clips entitled Silent Movies – Early Years will be presented on Saturday, May 4th at Noon (the collection includes digitized clips from Phalke’s RAJA HARISHCHANDRA and KALIYA MARDAN (1919) and clips from the only surviving Bengali silent film JAMAI BABU (Son-in-Law) by Kalipada Das). A reception preceding the screening will begin at 11:30a.m. Admission is only $5. The National Film Archives of India has graciously made the present collection possible.” (taken from press notes)

We’ve got a gathr screening on the horizon. This time, it’s for a film called GIRL RISING. For more about this film, click this LINK. This is the site where you can watch the trailer, read about the film and reserve your ticket. The screening will only take place if 50 people reserve a ticket by May 26 (the screening is tentatively scheduled to take place on Wednesday, June 5 at 7:30). Watch the trailer…this film looks terrific!

In next week’s newsletter, I’ll tell let you know about film #4 in Start Freedom Dayton’s film series – scheduled for May 30.

Check out our COMING SOON list below. THE SAPPHIRES had to be pushed back (we’re hoping you’ll help make that film a Dayton success when it opens), and I’m sure many of you will be happy to see that RENOIR will open in late May!

All the best,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Fri. April 19 – Thur, April 25:

THE PLACE BEYOND THE PINES (R) 2 Hr 20 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 1:00, 4:00, 7:00, 9:45
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday: 1:45, 4:40, 7:45
Thursday: 1:45, 4:30

TRANCE (R) 1 Hr 41 Min
Friday: 12:50, 3:00, 5:10, 7:20, 9:30
Saturday: 12:50, 3:00, 5:10, 7:20
Sunday: 12:50, 5:10, 7:20, 9:30
Monday: 3:00, 5:10, 7:20
Tuesday: 3:00, 5:10
Wednesday & Thursday: 3:00, 5:10, 7:20

I NEED THAT RECORD! (NR) 1 Hr 17 Min
Saturday: 10:15

DAYTON JEWISH INTERNATIONAL FILM FEST
Sunday at 3:00 – MY BEST ENEMY
Tuesday at 7:15 – MELTING AWAY
Thursday at 7:15 – NICKY’S FAMILY

COMING SOON:

As always, all dates are tentative. Many of these dates will change.

In some rare cases, titles may disappear.

April 26 – THE COMPANY YOU KEEP
April 26 – MUD
May 10 – THE SAPPHIRES
May ? – STARBUCK
May ? – TO THE WONDER
May 24 – AT ANY PRICE
May 31 – RENOIR
June 7 – LOVE IS ALL YOU NEED
TBD – GINGER AND ROSA
TBD – KON TIKI
TBD – FROM UP ON POPPY HILL
TBD – FRANCES HA
TBD – IN THE HOUSE
TBD – NO

FAREWELL MY QUEEN at THE NEON + TIFF News

September 12, 2012 By Jonathan McNeal Leave a Comment

Hello Everyone,

The Toronto International Film Festival has been terrific. I’m heading into my seventh day of screenings, and I’ve already seen 21 films. Though a nightly allotment of 4 to 5 hours of sleep is starting to wear me down, I’m having a great time. I’ve met Francois Ozon and Sally Potter (2 directors I greatly admire), and I’ve attended screenings the were introduced by (and sometimes with Q&As by) Susanne Bier, Keira Knightley, Susan Sarandon, Ben Wishaw, Tom Hanks, Dustin Hoffman, Kristin Scott Thomas, and my absolute favorite star encounter – Maggie Smith. If you’re interested to know about the movies I’ve seen, check out my other blog postings on this site. I’ll post some personal pictures upon my return to Dayton.

At THE NEON, we’re moving forward this week. If you still need to see THE INTOUCHABLES, Thursday will be your last chance. On Friday, we will open the period drama FAREWELL, MY QUEEN. ROBOT & FRANK had a very solid opening weekend (Thank you!) – it will stick around for another week. (remaining showtimes for this week can be found at our site: neonmovies.com)

Synopsis for FAREWELL, MY QUEEN: “Based on the best-selling novel by Chantal Thomas, the film stars Léa Seydoux as one of Marie’s ladies-in-waiting, seemingly innocent but quietly working her way into her mistress’s special favors, until history tosses her fate onto a decidedly different path. With the action moving effortlessly from the gilded drawing rooms of the nobles to the back quarters of those who serve them, this is a period film at once accurate and sumptuous in its visual details and modern in its emotions. Diane Kruger gives her best performance to date as the ill-fated Queen and Virginie Ledoyen is the Queen’s special friend Gabrielle de Polignac.” (taken from Cohen Media Group) Kenneth Turan of The Los Angeles Times wrote, “Matching the strength of these actresses and their personal drama is the film’s masterful sense of time and place – the way it makes us feel that this was how it was during four pivotal days in July 1789 as the wheels came off the French monarchy.” Mike LeSalle of The San Francisco Chronicle wrote, “Other films about Marie Antoinette have had their moments, but Benoît Jacquot’s Farewell, My Queen is the first to give a real sense of what it must have felt like to live inside that palace as the walls were caving in.” Visit the official website.

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

Tickets are already available for this year’s Downtown Dayton LGBT Film Festival, and there are a few films you won’t want to miss – including the opening night film GAYBY (which includes admission to the opening night party at The Crowne Plaza). Jonathan Lisecki, director of GAYBY, will attend our festival. In addition, Travis Matthews, director of I WANT YOUR LOVE, will be able to do some research for his new project while he’s in the region! Read all about the films on the official website. The 7th Annual Fest is set for Sept. 28-30. Watch the trailers and mark your calendars…it’s gonna be great! Special thanks to DAYTON MOST METRO, WYSO and DAYTON DAILY NEWS for already committing to provide stories about this year’s films.

And on the horizon is our benefit to assist with our digital conversion – set for October 14 (if you didn’t read that e-mail, you can check it out here). Thanks so much for your kind words and encouragement! Tickets can now be purchased at our box office and on-line via paypal. If you’re not able to attend our benefit, you can also make a donation on the benefit page.

All the best.
I hope to see you soon,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Fri. Sept. 14 – Thu. Sept. 20:

ROBOT & FRANK (PG-13) 1 Hr 29 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:50, 3:00, 5:10, 7:20, 9:30
Monday – Wednesday: 3:00, 5:10, 7:20
Thursday: 3:00, 5:10

FAREWELL, MY QUEEN (R) 1 Hr 52 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:40, 2:50, 5:00, 7:15, 9:30
Monday – Thursday: 2:50, 5:00, 7:15

COMING SOON:
As always, all dates are tentative.
Many of these dates will change.
In some rare cases, titles may disappear.
Sept. 21 THE MASTER
Sept. 21 ARBITRAGE
Sept. 28-30 DOWNTOWN DAYTON LGBT FILM FESTIVAL
Oct. 5 SLEEPWALK WITH ME
Oct. ? SEARCHING FOR SUGAR MAN
TBD THE QUEEN OF VERSAILLES
TBD 2 DAYS IN NEW YORK

YOUR SISTER’S SISTER Starts Friday at THE NEON

August 15, 2012 By Jonathan McNeal Leave a Comment

Hello Everyone,

We’re changing things up this weekend! If you haven’t seen BEASTS OF THE SOUTHERN WILD – one of the best reviewed films of the year – then you should hurry down to THE NEON. Thursday will be your last chance to see it with us. On Friday, we will open YOUR SISTER’S SISTER – the new film from Lynn Shelton. In addition, we’ll hold THE INTOUCHABLES…it had a terrific weekend.

Synopsis for YOUR SISTER’S SISTER: “Your Sister’s Sister is a new comedy about romance, grief and sibling rivalry. A year after his brother Tom’s death, Jack is still struggling emotionally. When he makes a scene at a memorial party, Tom’s best friend Iris offers up her family cabin on an island in the Pacific Northwest so Jack can seek catharsis in solitude. Once there, however, he runs into Iris’ sister Hannah who is reeling from the abrupt end of a seven-year relationship and finds solace in Tom’s unexpected presence. A blurry evening of drinking concludes with an awkward sexual incident, made worse by Iris’ sudden presence at the cabin the next morning. A twisted tale of ever-complicated relationships is set in motion with raw, hilarious and emotional performances from the all-star cast.” (taken from IFC Films) Visit the official website.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JlbKcGn9M1M’]

The Greater Dayton Association of Black Journalists will host a community discussion about the Anthony Sowell serial murder case this Saturday at 11am at THE NEON. A discussion of the societal conditions that allowed the murders to go unnoticed will be discussed following a preview of the documentary ELEVEN. The film is about the Imperial Avenue killings in Cleveland’s Mount Pleasant neighborhood in 2009. Stanley Donaldson, a reporter for The Cleveland Plain Dealer, will be on hand along with co-director Khalil Pedizsai. Donaldson wrote newspaper articles about the murders. He is also a producer for the documentary. Please help us spread the word about this free community discussion.

Tickets are on sale for FilmDayton Festival – set for August 24-26. Take a look at their SITE and see what they have to offer. In addition to film screenings at THE NEON, the festival will offer workshops and special events around town. I’m anxious to see quite a few films on their line-up. TRASH DANCE, COMPLIANCE, and THESE AMAZING SHADOWS look great. This is their 4th Annual Fest…let’s help them make it a big success.

And speaking of festivals, The Downtown Dayton LGBT Film Festival has a fresh new website. HERE it is! It’s our biggest and best line-up yet, and we’re now in the process of securing guest artists to attend the festival (I can’t wait to make some big announcements in the coming days). The 7th Annual Fest is set for Sept. 28-30. Visit the site, watch the trailers and mark your calendars…it’s gonna be great!

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

SHOWTIMES for
Fri. Aug. 17 – Thu. Aug. 23:

YOUR SISTER’S SISTER (R) 1 Hr 30 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 1:00, 3:10, 5:15, 7:20, 9:30
Monday – Thursday: 3:10, 5:15, 7:20

THE INTOUCHABLES (R) 1 Hr 52 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:20, 2:45, 5:10, 7:30, 9:45
Monday – Thursday: 2:45, 5:10, 7:30

ELEVEN (NR) 30 Min + Discussion
Saturday: 11:00am

COMING SOON:
As always, all dates are tentative.
Many of these dates will change.
In some rare cases, titles may disappear.
Aug 31 FAREWELL, MY QUEEN
Aug 31 CELESTE AND JESSE FOREVER
TBD WHERE DO WE GO NOW?
Sept. 14 ROBOT AND FRANK
Sept. 21 ARBITRAGE
TBD THE QUEEN OF VERSAILLES
TBD 2 DAYS IN NEW YORK
TBD SLEEPWALK WITH ME

International Sensation THE INTOUCHABLES Opens Friday at THE NEON

August 8, 2012 By Jonathan McNeal Leave a Comment

Hello Everyone,

It’s time to move along. Two films that made our summer one to remember will end their runs on Thursday. If you still need to see (or maybe for a 2nd or 3rd time) MOONRISE KINGDOM or TO ROME WITH LOVE, Thursday will be your last chance to see them at THE NEON. On Friday, we will finally open a film that many of you have been waiting for – THE INTOUCHABLES. BEASTS OF THE SOUTHERN WILD will stick around for another week. (for remaining showtimes for this week, visit our site at neonmovies.com)

Synopsis for THE INTOUCHABLES: “An irreverent, uplifting comedy about friendship, trust and human possibility, The Intouchables has broken box office records in its native France and across Europe. Based on a true story of friendship between a handicap millionaire (Francois Cluzet) and his street smart ex-con caretaker (Omar Sy), The Intouchables depicts an unlikely camaraderie rooted in honesty and humor between two individuals who, on the surface, would seem to have nothing in common.” (taken from The Weinstein Co.) Visit the official website.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hsPHXVnt27g’]

Air Force Veteran Jachlin Williams will host one more screening of the new, award-winning documentary THE INVISIBLE WAR at THE NEON – Thursday, August 16 at 7:30. “A groundbreaking investigative documentary about one of our country’s most shameful and best-kept secrets, THE INVISIBLE WAR reveals the epidemic of rape within the U.S. Military. Today, a female soldier in Iraq or Afghanistan is more likely to be raped by a fellow soldier than killed by enemy fire. Tracing the powerfully emotional stories of several young veterans, the film reveals the systemic cover-up of the crimes they have suffered and follows their struggles to rebuild their lives and careers. These screenings are part of a campaign to tell survivors of sexual military trauma that they are not invisible.” This screenings is free. Tickets will be given on a first-come, first-serve basis – one ticket per person on the day of the screening. (Sunday’s emotionally charged screening was wonderfully received. Please spread the word.)

The Greater Dayton Association of Black Journalists will host a community discussion about the Anthony Sowell serial murder case Saturday, August 18 at 11am at THE NEON. A discussion of the societal conditions that allowed the murders to go unnoticed will be discussed following a preview of the documentary ELEVEN. The film is about the Imperial Avenue killings in Cleveland’s Mount Pleasant neighborhood in 2009. Stanley Donaldson, a reporter for The Cleveland Plain Dealer, will be on hand along with co-director Khalil Pedizsai. Donaldson wrote newspaper articles about the murders. He is also a producer for the documentary. Please help us spread the word about this free community discussion.

Very soon, I’ll be able to give you details about our benefit on October 14. More and more details are slowly coming together (here’s a late-breaking detail…MARTIN SHEEN has just provided us with a few incredible items for our auction). This benefit will help us as we transition from 35mm to digital projection – a costly but necessary endeavor.

Tickets are on sale for FilmDayton Festival – set for August 24-26. Take a look at their SITE and see what they have to offer. In addition to film screenings at THE NEON, the festival will offer workshops and special events around town. This is their 4th Annual Fest…let’s help them make it a big success.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z8PFf2a_yIk’]

And speaking of festivals, The Downtown Dayton LGBT Film Festival has a fresh new website. HERE it is! It’s our biggest and best line-up yet, and we’re now in the process of securing guest artists to attend the festival. The 7th Annual Fest is set for Sept. 28-30. Visit the site, watch the trailers and mark your calendars…it’s gonna be great!

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

SHOWTIMES for
Fri. Aug. 10 – Thu. Aug. 16:

BEASTS OF THE SOUTHERN WILD (PG-13) 1 Hr 33 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:45, 3:00, 5:10, 7:20, 9:30
Monday – Wednesday: 3:00, 5:10, 7:20
Thursday: 3:00, 5:10

THE INTOUCHABLES (R) 1 Hr 52 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:20, 2:45, 5:10, 7:30, 9:45
Monday – Thursday: 2:45, 5:10, 7:30

THE INVISIBLE WAR (NR) 1 Hr 33 Min + Discussion
Thursday: 7:30

COMING SOON:
As always, all dates are tentative.
Many of these dates will change. In some rare cases, titles may disappear.
Aug 17 YOUR SISTER’S SISTER
Aug 31 FAREWELL, MY QUEEN
Aug 31 CELESTE AND JESSE FOREVER
TBD WHERE DO WE GO NOW?
Sept. 14 ROBOT AND FRANK
Sept. 21 ARBITRAGE
TBD THE QUEEN OF VERSAILLES
TBD 2 DAYS IN NEW YORK
TBD SLEEPWALK WITH ME

Upcoming at The Neon: “The Invisible War”, “Eleven” and Special Announcements

August 1, 2012 By Jonathan McNeal Leave a Comment

Hello Everyone,

We’re holding steady this week. If you still need to see TO ROME WITH LOVE or MOONRISE KINGDOM, this will more than likely be your last week to see these films at THE NEON. In addition, we will hold BEASTS OF THE SOUTHERN WILD. Though this film didn’t perform as well as we had hoped, audiences have really embraced it…and we hope positive word-of-mouth will help build attendance.

Check out the website for BEASTS OF THE SOUTHERN WILD.

Air Force Veteran Jachlin Williams will be hosting two screenings of the new, award-winning documentary THE INVISIBLE WAR at THE NEON. The first is this Sunday, August 5 and the second is on Thursday, August 16. “A groundbreaking investigative documentary about one of our country’s most shameful and best-kept secrets, THE INVISIBLE WAR reveals the epidemic of rape within the U.S. Military. Today, a female soldier in Iraq or Afghanistan is more likely to be raped by a fellow soldier than killed by enemy fire. Tracing the powerfully emotional stories of several young veterans, the film reveals the systemic cover-up of the crimes they have suffered and follows their struggles to rebuild their lives and careers. These screenings are part of a campaign to tell survivors of sexual military trauma that they are not invisible.” These screenings are free. Tickets will be given on a first-come, first-serve basis – one ticket per person on the day of each screening.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ECOqpv45tIo’]

Very soon, I’ll be able to give you details about our benefit on October 14. Slowly but surely, we’re getting details in place so we can make a big announcement (here are a few wonderful details – Meadowlark, Coco’s Bistro & Roost have already confirmed to provide appetizers). This benefit will help us as we transition from 35mm to digital projection – a costly but necessary endeavor.

Did you see that FilmDayton revealed their line-up for their 4th Annual Festival? Check out their site to see the latest. This fest is set for August 24-26, and I can’t wait to see COMPLIANCE. Postcards with the complete line-up are also available at our box office.

And speaking of festivals, The Downtown Dayton LGBT Film Festival is ready to announce this year’s line-up. HERE is is! It’s our biggest and best yet, and we’re now in the process of securing guest artists to attend the festival. The 7th Annual Fest is set for Sept. 28-30. Visit the site, watch the trailers and mark your calendars…it’s gonna be great! (Please contact me if you or your business might be interested in sponsoring this annual event.)

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

SHOWTIMES for Fri. Aug. 3 – Thu. Aug. 9:

BEASTS OF THE SOUTHERN WILD (PG-13) 1 Hr 33 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:45, 3:00, 5:10, 7:20, 9:30
Monday – Thursday: 3:00, 5:10, 7:20, 9:30

TO ROME WITH LOVE (R) 1 Hr 42 Min
Friday, Saturday: 2:50, 7:30
Sunday: 7:30
Monday – Thursday: 2:50, 7:30

MOONRISE KINGDOM (PG-13) 1 Hr 34 Min
Friday: 12:40, 5:20, 9:40
Saturday: 12:40, 5:20
Sunday: 12:40, 5:20, 9:40
Monday – Thursday: 5:20, 9:40

FOREVER FLAVOR (NR) 60 Min
(this special event is a locally-produced rollerblading video …tickets $5 each…
no additional details were provided by the filmmakers)
Saturday: 10:00pm

THE INVISIBLE WAR (NR) 1 Hr 33 Min + Discussion
Sunday: 3:00

COMING SOON:
As always, all dates are tentative.
Many of these dates will change.
In some rare cases, titles may disappear.
August 10 THE INTOUCHABLES
TBD YOUR SISTER’S SISTER
late Aug FAREWELL, MY QUEEN
TBD WHERE DO WE GO NOW?
Sept. 14 ROBOT AND FRANK
TBD THE QUEEN OF VERSAILLES
TBD 2 DAYS IN NEW YORK