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Don’t Miss THE DESCENDANTS at THE NEON!

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Hello Everyone,

If you still need to catch TAKE SHELTER or MARGIN CALL, tomorrow (11/22) will be your last chance to see them at THE NEON.  On Wednesday, we open my favorite American film of the year – THE DESCENDANTS – directed by Alexander Payne and starring George Clooney.  I fell in love with this film at The Toronto International Film Festival,  and it has nothing to do with the fact that George Clooney was three feet away from me at the after-party.  As funny as it is touching, this film has been given a 100% review from The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, The Chicago-Sun Times, USA Today, Entertainment Weekly, Rolling Stone, The Hollywood Reporter and many more.  I think it’s a shoe-in to be nominated for “Best Picture” this year.

Synopsis for THE DESCENDANTS:  “Matt King is an indifferent husband and father of two girls, who is forced to re-examine his past and embrace his future when his wife suffers a boating accident off of Waikiki. The event leads to a rapprochement with his young daughters while Matt wrestles with a decision to sell the family’s land handed down from Hawaiian royalty and missionaries.” (Fox Searchlight)   Click HERE to visit the film’s official website.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-OBvd5MgPYA’]

Upcoming dates are changing all around, and it’s quite possible that The Weinstein Company may give us MY WEEK WITH MARILYN on December 2…but we’ll have to wait and see.

And don’t forget that we’ll be hosting holiday films on Saturdays in December…sponsored by The Downtown Dayton Partnership, DP&L and THE NEON.  The movies begin at noon and are free for children 12 and under; other tickets are only $2 each.  On December 3, we will play MIRACLE ON 34th STREET (original 1947 version).  On December 10 – POLAR EXPRESS.  And lastly, on December 17, we will play A CHRISTMAS STORY.  All of these movies will be presented via digital video projection.

For remaining showtimes for this week, visit www.neonmovies.com.

Wishing you a wonderful Thanksgiving.

Hope to see you very soon,

Jonathan

 

SHOWTIMES forWed. November 23 – Thur. December 1:

THE DESCENDANTS (R) 1 Hrs 55 Min

Wednesday & Thursday: 2:40, 5:00, 7:20, 9:45

Friday,Saturday, Sunday:  12:15, 2:40, 5:00, 7:20, 9:45

Monday – Thursday:  2:40, 5:00, 7:20, 9:45

 MARTHA MARCY MAY MARLENE (R) 1 Hr 42 Min

Wednesday & Thursday: 3:00, 5:15, 7:30, 9:50

Friday,Saturday, Sunday:  12:45, 3:00, 5:15, 7:30, 9:50

Monday – Thursday:  3:00, 5:15, 7:30, 9:50

COMING SOON:

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

In some cases, titles may disappear.

Dec. 2 (?)  MY WEEK WITH MARILYN

TBD   THE SKIN I LIVE IN

TBD   MELANCHOLIA

TBD   WEEKEND

Dec. 25   THE ARTIST

TBD   THE HEDGEHOG

Jan. 20   SHAME

Jan. 20   CARNAGE

Jan. 27   A DANGEROUS METHOD

Sundance Hit MARTHA MARCY MAY MARLENE Opens Tomorrow at THE NEON!

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Hello Everyone,

Schedule-wise, we’ve got an odd week coming.  On Friday, we will open the Sundance hit MARTHA MARCY MAY MARLENE.  We’ll also hold both MARGIN CALL and TAKE SHELTER…but only for part of the week.  On Wednesday (Nov. 23) we will open THE DESCENDANTS…but I’ll wait until next week’s update to tell you lots more about that film (if you can’t wait, check out the official site).

Synopsis for MARTHA MARCY MAY MARLENE:  “MARTHA MARCY MAY MARLENE is a powerful psychological thriller starring Elizabeth Olsen as Martha, a young woman rapidly unraveling amidst her attempt to reclaim a normal life after fleeing from a cult and its charismatic leader. Seeking help from her estranged older sister Lucy and brother-in-law, Martha is unable and unwilling to reveal the truth about her disappearance. When her memories trigger a chilling paranoia that her former cult could still be pursuing her, the line between Martha’s reality and delusion begins to blur.” (Fox Searchlight)  I had the chance to briefly speak with Elizabeth Olsen at this year’s Toronto Film Festival.  She was quite approachable and grounded, but I can tell that she’s going to be a big star.  Her performance in this film is fantastic!  Many people are calling the film “This year’s WINTER’S BONE.”  Click this LINK to visit the film’s official website.

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

And don’t forget that we’ll be hosting holiday films on Saturdays in December…sponsored by The Downtown Dayton Partnership, DP&L and THE NEON.  The movies begin at noon and are free for children 12 and under; other tickets are only $2 each.  On December 3, we will play MIRACLE ON 34th STREET (original 1947 version).  On December 10 – POLAR EXPRESS.  And lastly, on December 17, we will play A CHRISTMAS STORY.  All of these movies will be presented via digital video projection.

Here’s some great news.  THE ARTIST, an absolutely delightful film, has been scheduled to open exclusively at THE NEON on December 25!  If you watch CBS Sunday Morning, you more than likely saw the segment this past weekend.  If you don’t know anything about the film, check out the trailer for this black & white treat.

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

Hope to see you very soon,

Jonathan

 

SHOWTIMES for Fri. Nov 18 – Tue. Nov 22:

MARGIN CALL (R) 1 Hrs 47 Min

Friday,Saturday, Sunday:  12:20, 2:40, 7:20

Monday & Tuesday:  2:40, 7:20

TAKE SHELTER (R) 2 Hrs

Friday,Saturday, Sunday:  5:00, 9:40

Monday & Tuesday: 5:00

MARTHA MARCY MAY MARLENE (R) 1 Hr 42 Min

Friday,Saturday, Sunday:  12:45, 3:00, 5:15, 7:30, 9:50

Monday & Tuesday:  3:00, 5:15, 7:30

COMING SOON:

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

In some cases, titles may disappear.

Nov. 23  THE DESCENDANTS

TBD   THE SKIN I LIVE IN

TBD   MELANCHOLIA

Dec. 16   WEEKEND

Dec. 25   THE ARTIST

TBD   THE HEDGEHOG

MARGIN CALL Opens Friday at THE NEON!

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Hello Everyone,

Opening weekend of TAKE SHELTER was perfect.  We had a couple full houses, and folks have really been liking the film.  Many thanks to all of you who attended our special Q&As with Tyler Davidson – having the chance to pose questions and gain further insight into the film was a great opportunity, and I’m so glad many of you were able to come out.

TAKE SHELTER will hold over for another week, and we’ll open a new film about the 2008 Wall Street collapse – MARGIN CALL – on Friday (the cast of this film is enough reason to see it…but the reviews are great, too).  If you still need to see THE WAY, Thursday will be your last chance to see it at THE NEON.

Synopsis for MARGIN CALL:  “This tense Wall Street thriller follows the staff of a high-powered brokerage firm in the 24 hours before the stock market crash of 2008. Featuring an all-star cast, Margin Call was one of the most talked about films of the Sundance Film Festival and was also the Opening Night selection of New Directors/New Films.” (Roadside Attractions)  Click this LINK to visit the film’s official website.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1jQoScJFNj0′]

The Ohio Liberty Film Festival is gearing up for its third year this November.  With numerous presenters and sponsors, the festival is able to make admission free to all of their screenings.  Click this LINK to see the entire line-up for various venues around town.  The following are movies that will play at THE NEON:  Friday, Nov. 11 at 3:00 – THE GREAT DICTATOR (The Charlie Chaplin classic).  Saturday, Nov. 12 at 1:30 – AS FAR AS MY FEET WILL CARRY ME. Sunday, Nov. 13 at 1:30 – PATTON.

There is only 1 film left for Living City’s VAMPIRE retrospective.  Single tickets will be available at the door before the screening for $8 each.  BRAM STOKER’S DRACULA (1992 – 35mm) will play November 14 at 7:30.

“Help support DATV and be inspired by short films that aim to make a difference in our lives. DATV presents the MEDIA THAT MATTERS SHORT FILM SHOWCASE on Thursday, November 17th at 7:30pm…The festival features 12 jury selected short films that tackle a broad range of social issues with humor, humanity and honesty in 12 minutes or less.  Special thanks to our sponsor Merrill Lynch Global Wealth Management OGDM Group – Centerville, Ohio…Proceeds from the event will benefit DATV.  DATV’s mission is to be a community forum that empowers all citizens to learn, create and express their ideas through electronic media…”  (taken from press notes)  Visit the official site for this event.  Tickets are already available at our box office for $10 each.

The rest of November is great!  With MARGIN CALL, MARTHA MARCY MAY MARLENE (the huge Sundance hit – being called “this year’s WINTER’S BONE”) and THE DESCENDANTS (an incredible film directed by Alexander Payne & starring George Clooney), I think we’ll be seeing a lot of you over the coming weeks!

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0_k3wCsOgqk’]

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CWHNXJ1K4yA’]

And don’t forget that we’ll be hosting holiday films on Saturdays in December…flyers are in our lobby now, and I’ll give you a full update next week.

For remaining showtimes for this week visit our site.

Hope to see you very soon,

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Nov 11 – Nov 17:

MARGIN CALL (R) 1 Hrs 47 Min

Friday: 12:20, 2:45, 5:00, 7:20, 9:40

Saturday, Sunday: 2:45, 5:00, 7:20, 9:40

Monday – Wednesday: 2:45, 5:00, 7:20

Thursday: 2:45, 5:00

TAKE SHELTER (R) 2 Hrs

Friday – Sunday: 12:30, 5:10, 7:30, 9:50

Monday: 2:50, 5:10

Tuesday – Thursday: 2:50, 5:10, 7:30

OHIO LIBERTY FILM FEST

The Great Dictoator (125 minutes) – Fri. at 3:00

As Far As My Feet Will Carry Me (158 min) – Sat. at 1:30

Patton (172 min) – Sun. at 1:30

BRAM STOKER’S DRACULA (R) 2 Hrs 8 Min

Monday: 7:30

MEDIA THAT MATTERS (NR)

Thursday: 7:30

COMING SOON:

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

In some cases, titles may disappear.

Nov. 18  MARTHA MARCY MAY MARLENE

Nov. 23  THE DESCENDANTS

Dec. 16   WEEKEND

 

 

 

 

 

TBD   THE ARTIST

TBD   THE SKIN I LIVE IN

 

TBD   MELANCHOLIA

TBD   THE HEDGEHOG

TAKE SHELTER – One of the Best of the Year – Opens Friday!

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Hello Everyone,

I hope you’re making plans to see TAKE SHELTER this weekend (read the DMM Film Review here).  This Ohio-made film was one of my absolute favorites from this year’s Toronto International Film Festival (I screened 34 films over the course of 9 days), and it has been garnering awards and great reviews around the world.  As a special treat, producer Tyler Davidson will be joining us for Q&As following a few screenings…and there’s no additional charge for these tickets (which are on sale now at our box office).  Showtimes with Q&As are noted below.

Thursday will be your last chance to see the charming French film with Gerard Depardieu and Gisele Casadesus – MY AFTERNOONS WITH MARGUERITTE.  Hurry down if you still need to see it.  Though audiences are loving this film, it hasn’t done well enough to stick around.

Synopsis for TAKE SHELTER:  “Curtis LaForche lives in a small town in Ohio with his wife, Samantha, and daughter, Hannah, a six-year-old deaf girl. When Curtis begins to have terrifying dreams, he keeps the visions to himself, channeling his anxiety into obsessively building a storm shelter in his backyard. His seemingly inexplicable behavior concerns and confounds those closest to him, but the resulting strain on his marriage and tension within his community can’t compare with Curtis’s privately held fear of what his dreams may truly signify.” (Sony Pictures Classics)  Visit the film’s official website.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I5U4TtYpKIc’]

There are only 2 films left for Living City’s VAMPIRE retrospective…and both will be presented via 35mm.  Single tickets will be available at the door before each screening for $8 each.  Here are the remaining dates and films:

November 7 at 7:30 – INTERVIEW WITH THE VAMPIRE (35mm)

November 14 at 7:30 – BRAM STOKER’S DRACULA (1992 – 35mm).

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R1G5M4xliI4′]

The Ohio Liberty Film Festival is gearing up for its third year this November.  With numerous presenters and sponsors, the festival is able to make admission free to all of their screenings.  Click the link to see the entire line-up for various venues around town.

The following are movies that will play at THE NEON:

Friday, Nov. 11 at 3:00 – THE GREAT DICTATOR (The Charlie Chaplin classic)

Saturday, Nov. 12 at 1:30 – AS FAR AS MY FEET WILL CARRY ME

Sunday, Nov. 13 at 1:30 – PATTON

“Help support DATV and be inspired by short films that aim to make a difference in our lives. DATV presents the MEDIA THAT MATTERS SHORT FILM SHOWCASE on Thursday, November 17th at 7:30pm…The festival features 12 jury selected short films that tackle a broad range of social issues with humor, humanity and honesty in 12 minutes or less.  Special thanks to our sponsor Merrill Lynch Global Wealth Management OGDM Group – Centerville, Ohio…Proceeds from the event will benefit DATV.  DATV’s mission is to be a community forum that empowers all citizens to learn, create and express their ideas through electronic media…”  (taken from press notes)  Visit the official site for this event.  Tickets are already available at our box office for $10 each.

We’ve already booked the perfect film for Thanksgiving weekend.  Alexander Payne’s new film THE DESCENDANTS (starring George Clooney) is fantastic!  In fact, I think it’s Payne’s best film yet.  Thanksgiving weekend is a crucial movie-going weekend for cinemas…and we hope you’ll make plans to see this great film with us!  To find out more about the film, visit the official site.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CWHNXJ1K4yA’]

For remaining showtimes for this week visit our site.

Hope to see you this weekend,

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Nov 4 – Nov 10:

THE WAY (PG-13) 2 Hrs 1 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:15, 2:40, 5:00, 7:30, 9:50

Monday: 2:45, 5:10

Tuesday – Thursday: 2:45, 5:10, 7:40

TAKE SHELTER (R) 2 Hrs

* – indicates a screening with special Q&A

Friday: 1:30, 4:15, 7:00*, 9:40

Saturday: 1:30, 4:15*, 7:00*, 9:40

Sunday: 1:30, 4:15, 7:00, 9:40

Monday – Thursday: 3:00, 5:30, 8:00

INTERVIEW WITH THE VAMPIRE (R) 2 Hrs 3 Min

Monday: 7:30

COMING SOON:

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

In some cases, titles may disappear.

Nov. 11   MARGIN CALL

Nov. 18  MARTHA MARCY MAY MARLENE

Nov. 23  THE DESCENDANTS

Dec. 16   WEEKEND

TBD   THE SKIN I LIVE IN

TBD   MELANCHOLIA

TBD   THE HEDGEHOG

THE WAY, THE DEVIL’S DOUBLE & Big NEON News!

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Hello Everyone,

We’re cleaning house this week.  If you still need to see THE FUTURE, RESTLESS or SENNA, you only have through tomorrow (October 20) to see them at THE NEON.  On Friday, we open two new films.  First is a film from Emilio Estevez – starring his father Martin Sheen – THE WAY.  On our other screen, we’ll open a film based on a true story about the body double for Saddam Hussein’s son – THE DEVIL’S DOUBLE.

Synopsis for THE WAY:  “THE WAY is a powerful and inspirational story about family, friends, and the challenges we face while navigating this ever-changing and complicated world. Martin Sheen plays Tom, an American doctor who comes to St. Jean Pied de Port, France to collect the remains of his adult son (played by Emilio Estevez), killed in the Pyrenees in a storm while walking the Camino de Santiago, also known as The Way of Saint James. Rather than return home, Tom decides to embark on the historical pilgrimage to honor his son’s desire to finish the journey. What Tom doesn’t plan on is the profound impact the journey will have on him and his ‘California Bubble Life.'” (taken from the official site)  Many of you have heard about this film because Sheen & Estevez recently came through Dayton promoting it.  We hope you’ll help us make this film a success in their hometown!

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o5VZKWcgw6c’]

Synopsis for THE DEVIL’S DOUBLE: “Summoned from the frontline to Saddam Hussein’s palace, Iraqi army lieutenant Latif Yahia is thrust into the highest echelons of the ‘royal family’ when he’s ordered to become the body double to Saddam’s son – a reckless, sadistic party-boy with a rabid hunger for sex and brutality. With his and his family’s lives at stake, Latif must surrender his former self forever as he learns to walk, talk and act. But nothing could have prepared him for the horror of the Black Prince’s psychotic, drug-addled life of fast cars, easy women and impulsive violence…” (Herrick Entertainment) Click the link to visit the film’s official site.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qhlQOg9abRk’]

Next Monday will be the 2nd of Living City’s VAMPIRE retrospective.  Single tickets will be available at the door before each screening for $8 each.  Here are the remaining dates and films:

October 24 – DRACULA (1931, starring Bela Lugosi – 35mm)

October 31 – THE LOST BOYS (digital video projection)

November 7 – INTERVIEW WITH THE VAMPIRE (35mm)

November 14 – BRAM STOKER’S DRACULA (1992 – 35mm).

Here’s some great news!  TAKE SHELTER was one of my favorite films from this year’s Toronto International Film Festival.  It has been receiving much-deserved international acclaim, and I hope we hear a lot more about it come Oscar time.  The performances are incredible, the story is great, and the photography is wonderful.  On top of all that, the film was made in Ohio!  We’re so glad to announce that we will bring producer Tyler Davidson to town during opening weekend.  Mr. Davidson will be able to introduce the film and conduct Q&As following select screenings.  Stay tuned to my updates for the latest details as they develop.  Meanwhile, visit the film’s official site .

On November 17, DATV has rented our space to host their annual MEDIA THAT MATTERS event.  Tickets are already available at our box office for $10 each.  Mark your calendars now, and I’ll include more details in next week’s update…but if you want to read more, visit their official site.

For remaining showtimes for this week visit THE NEON’s site.

Hope to see you very soon,

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for October 21 – October 27:

THE WAY (PG-13) 2 Hrs 1 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:15, 2:40, 5:00, 7:30, 9:50

Monday – Thursday:  3:00, 5:30, 8:00

THE DEVIL’S DOUBLE (R) 1 Hr 49 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:30, 2:45, 5:00, 7:20, 9:40

Monday: 3:00, 5:15

Tuesday – Thursday: 3:00, 5:15, 7:30

DRACULA (NR) 1 Hr 15 Min

Monday: 7:30

COMING SOON:

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

In some cases, titles may disappear.

Nov. 4  TAKE SHELTER

Nov. ?  MARGIN CALL

Nov. 18  MARTHA MARCY MAY MARLENE

Nov. 25   THE SKIN I LIVE IN

Dec. 2   MELANCHOLIA

TBD   WEEKEND

TBD   THE HEDGEHOG

TBD   MY AFTERNOONS WITH MARGUERITTE


The Future, Restless & Big NEON News!

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Hello Everyone,

If you still need to see LIFE, ABOVE ALL or HIGHER GROUND, you only have today (Thursday, October 13) to see them at THE NEON.  On Friday, we open two new films.  First is the new film from Miranda July – THE FUTURE.  The second is the new film from Gus Van Sant – RESTLESS.  Of course there’s lots more to announce…but I’ll get to that in a minute.  As a warning, it’s quite possible that both of our new films will only play for a week.  So hurry down if you want to see them!

Synopsis for THE FUTURE:  “When Sophie and Jason decide to adopt a stray cat, their perspective on life changes radically, literally altering the course of time and space and testing their faith in each other and themselves.” (Roadside Attractions)  From visual artist and filmmaker Miranda July comes the follow-up film to her incredible first feature ME AND YOU AND EVERYONE WE KNOW.  Visit the film’s official site.

Synopsis for RESTLESS: “Eccentric funeral crasher Enoch (Henry Hopper) finds his ideal soul mate in beautiful but mysterious Annabelle (Mia Wasikowska), who claims to work in a hospital but harbors a sensitive secret. Later, after Enoch opens up to Annabelle about his only friend, an outspoken ghost named Hiroshi, their fledgling romance is put to the ultimate test. Director Gus Van Sant teams with playwright Jason Lew to adapt Lew’s play of the same name.” (All Movie Guide) Visit the film’s official site .

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u2FuwJh8DSs’]

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p7t29dNoTxs’]

Monday will kick off Living City’s VAMPIRE retrospective.  First off is a classic with David Bowie, Catherine Deneuve and Susan Sarandon – THE HUNGER.  The series will include 5 Films over the course of 5 Mondays at 7:30.  Single tickets will be available at the door before each screening for $8 each.  Festival passes – good for all 5 screnings – are already available at our box office for just $30 (members of FilmDayton will receive $5 off the festival pass price).   Here are the dates and films:

October 17 – THE HUNGER (digital video projection)

October 24 – DRACULA (1931, starring Bela Lugosi – 35mm)

October 31 – THE LOST BOYS (digital video projection)

November 7 – INTERVIEW WITH THE VAMPIRE (35mm)

November 14 – BRAM STOKER’S DRACULA (1992 – 35mm).

Within the past 24 hours, we finally received confirmation that we can open THE WAY on October 21 (“the Martin Sheen film” as so many people has referred to it).  You more than likely saw or read details about Sheen and his son Emilio Estevez (who directed the film) visiting Dayton (their hometown) as they toured the country with this film.  Since then, we’ve received numerous calls about the film having a traditional engagement – but we could never get the distributor to commit to opening with us.  Alas it’s now set – so please help us spread the word.  THE WAY will open next Friday!

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o5VZKWcgw6c’]

In the next few days, I hope to also have some good news regarding TAKE SHELTER.  This film, one of my absolute favorites from this year’s Toronto Film Festival, was shot in Ohio and has been garnering awards and kudos around the world.  Once Sony Classics confirms our opening date, I’ll get busy trying to secure some special details for audiences at THE NEON.   I’ll keep you posted!

For remaining showtimes for this week visit THE NEON’s site.

Hope to see you this weekend,

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for October 14 – October 20:

SENNA (PG-13) 1 Hr 46 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 1:00, 5:15

Monday – Thursday:  5:30

RESTLESS (PG-13) 1 Hr 31 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 1:00, 3:00, 5:15, 7:20, 9:30

Monday: 3:15, 5:20

Tuesday – Thursday: 3:15, 5:20, 7:45

THE FUTURE (R) 1 Hr 31 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 3:15, 7:30, 9:40

Monday – Thursday: 3:15, 7:50

THE HUNGER (R) 1 Hr 37 Min

Monday: 7:30

COMING SOON:

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

In some cases, titles may disappear.

Oct. 14  THE WAY

Oct. 21   THE DEVIL’S DOUBLE

Oct. 28   THE HEDGEHOG

(check out the Trailer for THE HEDGEHOG…I love it!)

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-bLq4ehVo7c’]

Oct. 28   MY AFTERNOONS WITH MARGUERITTE

Nov. 4  TAKE SHELTER

Nov. 18  MARTHA MARCY MAY MARLENE

Nov. 25   THE SKIN I LIVE IN

Nov. ?   MARGIN CALL

Dec. 2   MELANCHOLIA

TBD   WEEKEND

SENNA and LIFE, ABOVE ALL at The Neon

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Hello Everyone,

We’re opening two new films this weekend.  First is a documentary for which we have received numerous requests – perhaps as many as we received for BUCK.  This time, instead of a horse trainer, the subject is regarded as “the best driver who ever lived” – SENNA.  We will also open a small African film which will only play for one week.  If you’ve been to THE NEON recently, I’m almost certain you’ve seen a trailer for LIFE, ABOVE ALL – a film for which Robert Ebert gave a 100% review.

Synopsis for SENNA:  “Senna’s remarkable story, charting his physical and spiritual achievements on the track and off, his quest for perfection, and the mythical status he has since attained, is the subject of SENNA, a documentary feature that spans the racing legend’s years as an F1 driver, from his opening season in 1984 to his final, tragic race a decade later. Far more than a film for F1 fans, SENNA unfolds a remarkable story in a remarkable manner, eschewing many standard documentary techniques in favour of a more cinematic approach that makes full use of astounding footage, much of which is drawn from F1 archives and is previously unseen.” (Working Title Films)  Click this LINK to visit the film’s official site.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t6rvBiYBL-w&feature=fvst’]

Synopsis for LIFE, ABOVE ALL: “Just after the death of her newly-born sister, Chanda, 12 years old, learns of a rumor that spreads like wildfire through her small, dust-ridden village near Johannesburg. It destroys her family and forces her mother to flee. Sensing that the gossip stems from prejudice and superstition, Chanda leaves home and school in search of her mother and the truth.” (Sony Pictures Classics) Click this LINK to visit the film’s official site.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3GtWfPQ98Qk’]

Living City is gearing up for their VAMPIRE retrospective.  The series will include 5 Films over the course of 5 Mondays at 7:30 – beginning October 17.  Single tickets will be available at the door before each screening for $8 each.  A festival pass – good for all 5 screnings – will be available this weekend for just $30  (members of FilmDayton will receive $5 off the festival pass price).   Here are the dates and films:

October 17 – THE HUNGER

October 24 – DRACULA (1931, starring Bela Lugosi)

October 31 – THE LOST BOYS

November 7 – INTERVIEW WITH THE VAMPIRE

November 14 – BRAM STOKER’S DRACULA (1992).

Hope to see you this weekend,

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for October 7 – October 13:

SENNA (PG-13) 1 Hr 46 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:20, 2:45, 5:10, 7:30, 9:45

Monday – Thursday:  3:00, 5:20, 7:50

LIFE, ABOVE ALL (PG-13) 1 Hr 40 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday:  12:30, 5:00

Monday – Thursday: 5:30

HIGHER GROUND (R) 1 Hr 49 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 2:40, 7:20, 9:40

Monday – Thursday: 3:10, 7:40

COMING SOON:

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

In some cases, titles may disappear.

Oct. 14  RESTLESS

Oct. 14  THE FUTURE

Oct. 21   THE DEVIL’S DOUBLE

Nov. 4  TAKE SHELTER

Nov. 18  MARTHA MARCY MAY MARLENE

Nov. 25   THE SKIN I LIVE IN

Nov. ?   MARGIN CALL

Dec. 2   MELANCHOLIA

TBD   WEEKEND

Toronto – THE FILMS – Day #2

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Hello Again,

Today was full once again…and I’m going to try and keep this “brief.”  I saw 5 films – and overall, it was a better day than yesterday.

First off, I saw MARTHA MARCY MAY MARLENE – starring Elizabeth Olsen (sister to the Olsen twins) & John Hawkes (from WINTER’S BONE).  Many people will relate WINTER’S to MARTHA.  There’s a similar backwoods tone to the film…and it’s a very human thriller…but that’s it.  This film about a girl who has escaped a cult and has difficulty assimilating into traditional “American manners” is at first quietly unsettling and eventually becomes terrifying.  Olsen is fantastic, and I’ll be concerned anytime I hear pine cones on my roof.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0_k3wCsOgqk’]

Next I saw A DANGEROUS METHOD – the new film from David Cronenberg.  I liked the trailer.  On paper, the film seems ready-made for me – A period piece with high production values, actors I like, interesting subject matter (Jung & Freud), Christopher Hampton as screenwriter…but there was something about the film that didn’t make it work for me.  Knightley’s accent was a bit hard to take – but otherwise, her performance was fantastic.  I found Cassel a bit hard to take, but Fassbender was wonderful.  I just couldn’t find a way into the film – though some are already declaring it a masterpiece.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=664eq7BXQcM’]

Next I saw THE KID WITH A BIKE – the new film from the Dardenne Brothers (directors of LORNA’S SILENCE).  The most naturalistic narrative I’ve seen so far…and it’s such a simple story that is heartbreaking without really playing moments for tears.  This movie is about a boy who is left alone at a group home.  He’s certain his father is at home – but it’s evident that his father has left and even sold the boy’s bike.  Enter a woman who takes an interest in the boy and agrees to let him stay with her on the weekends.  It’s simple.  It’s great.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ce3t1YIYokY’]

And then there’s THE ARTIST.  I saw this at a public screening – the director and lead actor introduced the film…and it’s really, really terrific.  Beautifully shot.  Great performances.  And the story is a hybrid of A STAR IS BORN, SINGIN’ IN THE RAIN and SUNSET BOULEVARD…but silent!  I’ll let the trailer do the rest.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O8K9AZcSQJE’]

THE ARTIST got a late start…so I had to leave early.  I got up from my seat about 5 minutes before it was over and went to the back of the auditorium.  I asked the usher if the other screening (in a theatre upstairs) had started seating yet.  She said, “No,” so I asked if I could continue watching from the back.  Moments before it ended, I had to get out in order to make it to my screening on time.  The usher led me to a back door which wouldn’t interfere with the light of the theatre.  Upon opening the door, there she was…just six feet in front of me – being ushered to the elevator for my next screening.  Tilda Swinton!  One of my favorite actresses of ALL TIME.  Absolutely stunning!

I made it to my last screening with just a few minutes to spare, and I got a front row seat.  (I’ll upload my pictures sometimes soon.)  WE NEED TO TALK ABOUT KEVIN is based on a famous book about a mother reflecting on how she raised her son – and how it might have led to his violent behavior.  It’s edgy, it’s non-linear, and it is somewhat experimental.  Directed by Lynne Ramsay, this film is a rough ride.  Interestingly, I think the musing are akin to Lars von Trier…but with Ramsay, the product is organic.  It feels richer, more honest and less contrived.  Swinton is brilliant in this film (as is Ezra Miller), and I’m still thinking about it.  I’m so delighted that I got see Swinton in person…EDWARD II, ORLANDO, THE DEEP END, I AM LOVE…I could go on!

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZLRgAe2jLaw’]

Off to bed.

Until tomorrow,

Jonathan

TRIBE CALLED QUEST Documentary Opens + Toronto-Bound

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Hello Everyone.

THE TRIP did moderate business over the weekend…just enough to stick around for another week.  That said, SARAH’S KEY is still performing quite well.  In addition to these two films, we will open something new for one week only…a music documentary by actor and filmmaker Michael Rapaport.

Synopsis for BEATS, RHYMES & LIFE – THE TRAVELS OF A TRIBE CALLED QUEST: “Michael Rapaport sets out on tour with A Tribe Called Quest in 2008, when they reunited to perform sold-out concerts across the country, almost ten years after the release of their last album, The Love Movement. As he travels with the band members, Rapaport captures the story of how tenuous their relationship has become; how their personal differences and unresolved conflicts continue to be a threat to their creative cohesion. When mounting tensions erupt backstage during a show in San Francisco, we get a behind-the-scenes look at their journey and contributions as a band and what currently is at stake for these long-time friends collaborators.” (Sony Picture Classics)  Click this LINK to visit the official site.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bbCT6_HAOmM’]

On Friday, September 16 at 9:30pm, come to THE NEON for PK Night Dayton, Volume 8– sponsored by AIA Dayton, a chapter of The American Institute of Architects.  Pecha Kucha Night was devised in Tokyo in 2003 as an event where people meet, network, and share their creative endeavors with a lively audience.  PK Nights are now held in hundreds of cities, including Dayton. Presenters share 20 images but with only 20 seconds per image, the timed format keeps presentations lively and concise.  Volume 8 will feature architects from around the region along with Dayton’s own Jane Black, London Coe, and Terry Welker.  The cost for this event is $5, and tickets are already available at our box office.

The 6th Annual Downtown Dayton LGBT Film Festival is in the final prep stages, and festival passes are currently on sale at our box office (single tickets go on sale Sept. 8).  5 visiting artists are already booked to visit the festival (all 5 are being flown in from L.A.), and our opening night party is shaping up to be something special.

To visit the official website for the festival, visit www.daytonlgbt.com.  The image above is from a French movie called TOMBOY – the film has one of the best child performances you will ever see.  Here’s the trailer:

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=onYkjprd-t8′]

I leave for the Toronto International Film Festival Wednesday morning…and I can hardly wait!  If you’d like to read about the films I’m seeing, the stars I’ve sighted, and the parties I’m attending, please visit DaytonMostMetro’s site by visiting the link starting on Thursday:  http://www.daytonmostmetro.com/tag/toronto-film-fest Just a few of the films I’m terribly excited to see are SHAME (with Michael Fassbender), ALBERT NOBBS (with Glenn Close), Almodovar’s THE SKIN I LIVE IN, Cronenberg’s A DANGEROUS METHOD, a new silent film from France called THE ARTIST, and the new film from Nadine Labaki (director of CARAMEL).

Please keep the staff busy in my absence.

Take care,

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Sept. 9 – September 15:

SARAH’S KEY (PG-13) 1 Hr 51 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:20, 2:40, 5:00, 7:20, 9:40

Monday – Thursday:  3:00, 5:30, 8:00

BEATS, RHYMES & LIFE:

THE TRAVELS OF A TRIBE CALLED QUEST (R) 1 Hr 37 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 5:10, 9:50

Monday – Thursday: 8:15

THE TRIP (NR) 1 Hr 47 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:30, 2:50, 7:30

Monday – Thursday: 3:30, 6:00

COMING SOON:

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

In some cases, titles may disappear.

Sept. 16  THE GUARD

Sept 23   HIGHER GROUND

Sept. 30   THE FUTURE

Oct. 7   RESTLESS

Oct. 7   SENNA

Nov. 4  TAKE SHELTER

Nov. 18  MARTHA MARCY MAY MARLENE

Nov. 25   THE SKIN I LIVE IN

TBD   THE WHISTLEBLOWER

TBD   LIFE ABOVE ALL