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Toronto – Day #3 – 2013

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Hello!

Well…I’m really exhausted this morning…but it’s my own fault.  I was simply having too much fun last night, and I didn’t get to bed until about 2:00.  I then got up at 6:00am and darted out the door to land in this line by 6:50.  The Fox Searchlight Party was last night, and it was a winner. The cocktails were good, the food was exceptional (though I couldn’t bring myself to sample everything), and the mingling was perfect.  The party was celebrating 4 films that the distributor will release this year – BELLE, DOM HEMINGWAY, ENOUGH SAID, and 12 YEARS A SLAVE.  I met and chatted with several folks, and the party was full of industry folks including numerous stars (like Michael Fassbender, Alfre Woodard, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Paul Giamatti, Tom Felton, Sarah Paulson and more).

And now the films from yesterday.  I saw three.

First off was HATESHIP LOVESHIP – a film by Liza Johnson starring Kristen Wiig and Guy Pearce.  This film has a Dayton connection…the production design (done very well!) was by Hannah Beachler – graduate of WSU’s Motion Picture Program.  The story is about a socially awkward woman – Johanna –  who is hired to take care of a teenage girl with a mother who has died and somewhat absent father (the girl lives with her grandfather – played by Nick Nolte).  Upon receiving a note from the girl’s father, Johanna responds with a letter that is ultimately hijacked by the girl and her friend.  They devise a scheme where they respond to Johanna via e-mail and make her think that the father has developed a crush and is ultimately falling in love.  It’s a cruel, teenage prank, and Johanna goes headfirst into the “relationship.” Though not without some wonderful moments, I didn’t love this film.  I felt that it had some tone issues and had a few moments that I just didn’t buy.  It’s nice to see Wiig do some serious material, but it was a bit of a challenge to hear her deliver some monotone, unaffected delivery and not be swept back to former SNL characters.

hateshiploveship_02

12 YEARS A SLAVE – I finally saw a really amazing film…one that will clearly be nominated for Best Picture along with numerous acting nominations.  This new film by Steve McQueen (director of HUNGER and SHAME) is a masterpiece – based on the memoir by Solomon Northup.  Northup was a free African American who was kidnapped in 1841 and sold into slavery.  The film is harrowing and beautifully done, and the performances are rich and complex.  After the screening, a Q&A with McQueen and several actors provided some eloquent insight into the production.  Upon talking about the films of McQueen, Michael Fassbender said something that sums up the challenging material that McQueen often addresses, “As an audience member, you have to contribute.  It’s not a passive experience.”  Those are the films I love.  I don’t want to be spoon fed, and McQueen always presents material that requires some work and introspection.  One issue that I don’t think too many people want to talk  about is the use of the Bible in the film.  Slave owners often refer to it – justifying their rights by the Biblical text.  This is not unlike people who continue to use the Bible to promote their hate-filled agendas today.  Without making it a focus, I think McQueen wants us to consider how we approach this book.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iiw1cYXQw4g’]

THERESE was the last film I saw yesterday.  Based on the novel THERESE RAQUIN by Emile Zola, this film stars Elizabeth Olsen, Tom Felton, and Jessica Lang – who were all present for a Q&A following the film – along with director Charlie Stratton.  This period story (which ultimately became the basis for THE POSTMAN ALWAYS RINGS TWICE), is about a sexually repressed young woman who must marry a sickly cousin.  Upon meeting an old family friend, she has a sexual awakening and yearns to be set free from the confines of her current surroundings.  This film is a bit clunky, but the production values are lovely and the performances are solid.  The director mentioned one thing that attracted him to the story – it’s rare to go into a film where you change who you’re rooting for several times.  I think that’s rather interesting…and I need to think about it.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XCLBkM4OfSY’]

A few of you asked which film I walked out of yesterday.  You’ll have to ask me in person…as I don’t reveal the titles of films that I don’t watch in their entirety.

More soon!  Thanks for reading!

SHAME “The Sex Addiction Film” Starts Friday at THE NEON!

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Hello Everyone,

A SEPARATION performed just well enough for it to stick around a second week.  If you haven’t seen this film yet, I hope you’ll hurry out to see it!   Across the boards, A SEPARATION was one of the very best reviewed films of last year (far better than any of the nominees for “Best Picture”).  Professor Charles Derry recently sent me a note regarding the film.  In it, he wrote, “I think the most perceptive way of looking at this film is by comparing it to some of the great films by Jean Renoir, who famously said, in a variety of different versions: ‘The real hell of life is that everyone has their reasons.’  And this film shows exactly that: everyone, in their own way, is right, and because of that, we empathize with everyone, and yet all that results is conflict and separation.”  Derry also mentioned that Woody Allen recently stated that he considered A SEPARATION to be the best film of the year.

If you still haven’t seen it (or need to see it again), THE ARTIST is on its way out.  Today (March 8) will be your last chance to catch it at THE NEON.  On Friday (March 9), we will begin a limited engagement of the new film starring Michael Fassbender – SHAME.

Synopsis for SHAME: “Brandon is a New Yorker who shuns intimacy with women but feeds his desires with a compulsive addiction to sex. When his wayward younger sister moves into his apartment stirring memories of their shared painful past, Brandon’s insular life spirals out of control.”  This film stars incredible performances by both Michael Fassbender and Carey Mulligan (Mulligan’s performance of “New York, New York” is one of the best vocal performances I’ve seen in a film for quite some time).  Click on this LINK to visit the official site.  (You might recall Fassbender from FISH TANK or the recent JANE EYRE…and Carey Mulligan from AN EDUCATION and NEVER LET ME GO.)  Note:  This film is rated NC-17 for explicit sexual content.  THE NEON will be carding anyone who appears to be under 18 for admission to this film.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Op9iQiB_ANI’]

Here’s a second trailer – different in tone – that features Mulligan’s performance.

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

On Thursday, March 22 at 7:30, Keener Farm has rented our space for a special screening of the acclaimed documentary AMERICAN MEAT.  “The film explains our current industrial meat system and shows the feedlots and confinement operations – not through hidden cameras but through the eyes of the farmers who live and work there. The film then shifts to the burgeoning sustainable, local-food movement made up of farmers, food advocates, chefs and everyday folks who could change everything about the way meat reaches the American table…Sustainable farming is expanding exponentially as Americans learn more about their food and how to connect with local farmers…”  (taken from press notes)  The screening will be preceded by a meet and greet with appetizers provided by Olive: An Urban Dive (beginning at 6:30), and a panel discussion with the filmmaker as well as local farmers & restaurateurs will follow the screening.  Admission is free (first come, first serve), but donations will gladly be accepted to help offset costs.

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

For this week’s remaining showtimes, please visit our official site.

Thanks for your continued support.

We hope to see you soon,

Jonathan

 

P.S.  We now have TWITTER.  If you use this application, we hope you’ll follow us – @neonmovies

SHOWTIMES for Fri. March 9 – Thur. March 15:

A SEPARATION (PG-13) 2 Hr 03 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday:  1:30, 4:00, 7:00, 9:30

Monday – Thursday:  2:40, 5:10, 8:00

 

SHAME (NC-17) 1 Hr 41 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:40, 2:50, 5:10, 7:30, 9:30

Monday – Thursday: 2:50, 5:10, 7:30

COMING SOON:

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

TBD   THE HEDGEHOG

TBD   PARIAH

TBD   BEING FLYNN 

March 23   IN DARKNESS

March ?   WE NEED TO TALK ABOUT KEVIN

April ?  FOOTNOTE

Spring   SALMON FISHING IN THE YEMEN

Spring  BEST EXOTIC MARIGOLD HOTEL

Oscar Winner A SEPARATION Starts Friday!

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Hello Everyone,

I’m sad to report that the community has not embraced PINA well enough for it to stick around a second week.  If you still need to see this artful and inspiring film, you only have today (Thursday, March 1) to see it at THE NEON.  Though I’m sad to see this film leave, I am happy to announce that we will open the Oscar-winning film A SEPARATION on Friday!   THE ARTIST, winner of 5 Academy Awards including “Best Picture,” will continue its run.

Synopsis for A SEPARATION: “Set in contemporary Iran, A Separation is a compelling drama about the dissolution of a marriage. Simin wants to leave Iran with her husband Nader and daughter Termeh. Simin sues for divorce when Nader refuses to leave behind his Alzheimer-suffering father. Her request having failed, Simin returns to her parents’ home, but Termeh decides to stay with Nader. When Nader hires a young woman to assist with his father in his wife’s absence, he hopes that his life will return to a normal state. However, when he discovers that the new maid has been lying to him, he realizes that there is more on the line than just his marriage.”  (Taken from Sony Pictures Classics)

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=58Onuy5USTc’]

A SEPARATION – official site

THE ARTIST – official site

On Thursday, March 22 at 7:30, Keener Farm has rented our space for a special screening of the acclaimed documentary AMERICAN MEAT.  “The film explains our current industrial meat system and shows the feedlots and confinement operations – not through hidden cameras but through the eyes of the farmers who live and work there. The film then shifts to the burgeoning sustainable, local-food movement made up of farmers, food advocates, chefs and everyday folks who could change everything about the way meat reaches the American table…Sustainable farming is expanding exponentially as Americans learn more about their food and how to connect with local farmers…”  (taken from press notes)  The screening will be preceded by a meet and greet with appetizers provided by Olive: An Urban Dive (beginning at 6:30), and a panel discussion with the filmmaker as well as local farmers & restaurateurs will follow the screening.  Admission is free (first come, first serve), but donations will gladly be accepted to help offset costs.

Our Annual Oscar Party was a success.  Many thanks to those of you who came out and participated in the fun evening, and many additional thanks to our friends at ThinkTV and Square One Salon & Spa for helping to make our evening a big hit.
For this week’s remaining showtimes, please visit www.neonmovies.com.

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

P.S.  We now have TWITTER.  If you use this application, we hope you’ll follow us. @neonmovies

SHOWTIMES for Fri. March 2 – Thur. March 8:

A SEPARATION (PG-13) 2 Hr 03 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday:  1:30, 4:00, 7:00, 9:30
Monday – Thursday:  2:40, 5:10, 8:00

THE ARTIST (PG-13) 1 Hr 40 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:40, 2:50, 5:10, 7:30, 9:30
Monday – Thursday: 2:50, 5:10, 7:30

COMING SOON:
As always, all dates are tentative.  Many of these dates will change.
In some rare cases, titles may disappear.
March 9   SHAME
TBD   THE HEDGEHOG
TBD   PARIAH
March 23   IN DARKNESS
March ?   WE NEED TO TALK ABOUT KEVIN
April ?  FOOTNOTE
Spring   SALMON FISHING IN THE YEMEN
Spring  BEST EXOTIC MARIGOLD HOTEL

Oscar Nominee ALBERT NOBBS Starts Friday at THE NEON

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Hello Everyone,

We’re moving forward this weekend with the new film starring Glenn Close –ALBERT NOBBS – nominated for 3 Oscars.  If you still need to see A DANGEROUS METHOD, you only have until Thursday to see it at THE NEON. That said, we will continue to hold THE ARTIST – which has now become a “certified hit” at THE NEON.

Synopsis for ALBERT NOBBS: “Albert Nobbs is a woman passing as a man in order to work and survive in 19th century Ireland. Some thirty years after donning men’s clothing, she finds herself trapped in a prison of her own making.” Nominated for 3 Oscars – including Glenn Close for Best Actress.  Visit the official site.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iGX_JKjG1dM’]

I’m delighted to announce that PINA is now officially on our schedule.  One of my absolute favorite films from 2011, this rich documentary about Pina Bausch, directed by Wim Wenders, will wow you – whether you’re familiar with Pina’s gorgeous choreography or not.  We may open this film as soon as February 24…so stay tuned!  (PINA will be presented at THE NEON via traditional 35mm, 2D projection.)

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CNuQVS7q7-A’]

On Saturday, February 25 at noon, The Junior Leaguers Club, Inc. will host a benefit screening of THUNDER SOUL.  “THUNDER SOUL follows the extraordinary alumni from Houston’s storied Kashmere High School Stage Band, who return home after 35 years to play a tribute concert for the 92-year-old “Prof,” their beloved band leader who broke the color barrier and transformed the school’s struggling jazz band into a world-class funk powerhouse in the early 1970s.” (taken from press notes)  Adult tickets (which include a glass of wine as well as soda & popcorn) are $30 each.  Student tickets (which include soda and popcorn) are $15 each.  For more information, please call (937)219-7501.  Proceeds from this event will go to The Junior Leaguers Scholarship Fund.  To check out more about THUNDER SOUL, visit the official site.

In regards to the Oscars, we’re getting set for our annual party on Sunday, February 26!  Once again, our friends at ThinkTV will help us to get a strong signal for the broadcast, and our friends at Square One Salon & Spa will give us a nice gift basket for our grand prize.  In addition, we’ll be giving out dvds, screenplays and soundtracks throughout the evening for randomly drawn correct guesses.  You must be present to win any prizes, and seating will begin at approximately 7pm – admission is FREE!  Ballots are already available in our lobby.

For remaining showtimes for this week (including Thursday’s special screening of RACE TO NOWHERE, presented by The Miami Valley School), visit www.neonmovies.com.

Thanks for your continued support.

We hope to see you soon,

Jonathan

 

 

SHOWTIMES for Fri. February 10 – Thur. February 16:

ALBERT NOBBS (R) 1 Hrs 53 Min

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

Monday – Thursday:  2:40, 5:00, 7:20

 

THE ARTIST (PG-13) 1 Hr 40 Min

 Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:40, 2:50, 5:10, 7:30, 9:30

Monday – Thursday: 2:50, 5:10, 7:30 

COMING SOON:

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

Feb. 24  PINA

TBD   THE HEDGEHOG 

TBD   SHAME

TBD   PARIAH 

March 9   A SEPARATION 

March 23   IN DARKNESS

March ?   WE NEED TO TALK ABOUT KEVIN

April ?  FOOTNOTE

A DANGEROUS METHOD Opens Friday at THE NEON!

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Hello Everyone,

I had an absolutely wonderful time in Utah. The conference (The Art House Convergence) was full of great networking and lots of invaluable information. After the conference, I managed to see a handful of films at The Sundance Film Festival and a collection of shorts at The Slamdance Film Festival (which included a short film from one of our previous employees – Liz Cambron…congrats to Liz for a great, sold-out screening!!).

If you still need to see TINKER TAILOR SOLDIER SPY (nominated for 3 Oscars), you only have until Thursday to see it at THE NEON. We will certainly hold onto THE ARTIST – nominated for 10 Oscars (including “Best Picture”). Audiences are loving this film.

On Friday, we will open a film that has been requested by several of you (and snubbed by the Academy) – A DANGEROUS METHOD. Directed by David Cronenberg and starring Michael Fassbender (FISH TANK, JANE EYRE and upcoming SHAME), Viggo Mortensen (A HISTORY OF VIOLENCE, THE ROAD) and Keira Knightley (ATONEMENT, NEVER LET ME GO), this is the story of Jung and Freud and the woman who came between them.

Synopsis for A DANGEROUS METHOD: “On the eve of World War I, Zurich and Vienna are the setting for a dark tale of sexual and intellectual discovery. Drawn from true-life events, A Dangerous Method takes a glimpse into the turbulent relationships between fledgling psychiatrist Carl Jung, his mentor Sigmund Freud and Sabina Spielrein, the troubled but beautiful young woman who comes between them. Into the mix comes Otto Gross, a debauched patient who is determined to push the boundaries. In this exploration of sensuality, ambition and deceit set the scene for the pivotal moment when Jung, Freud and Sabina come together and split apart, forever changing the face of modern thought” (taken from Sony Classics)

Visit the official website by clicking this LINK.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pjyP9DjUdVk’]

“The Miami Valley School, Dayton’s only independent, college-preparatory school is proud to present a special one-time only screening of RACE TO NOWHERE on Thursday, Feb. 9, 2012. Considered to be the counter film to Waiting for Superman, RACE TO NOWHERE addresses the academic pressures facing students today and what we can do about it. Featuring heartbreaking stories of young people who have been pushed to the brink, educators who are burned out and worried that students are not developing the skills they need, and parents who are trying to do what’s best for their kids, RACE TO NOWHERE points to the silent epidemic in our school: Students are pressured to perform and not necessarily to learn critical thinking skills…To see the trailer, please go to www.racetonowhere.com.  This is a free event and all are welcome!  Thursday, February 9, 2012 – Reception at 6:30 pm and screening begins at 7:30 pm, followed with Q & A session.” (taken from Miami Valley School press release)

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uem73imvn9Y’]

On Saturday, February 25 at noon, The Junior Leaguers Club, Inc. will host a benefit screening of THUNDER SOUL. “THUNDER SOUL follows the extraordinary alumni from Houston’s storied Kashmere High School Stage Band, who return home after 35 years to play a tribute concert for the 92-year-old “Prof,” their beloved band leader who broke the color barrier and transformed the school’s struggling jazz band into a world-class funk powerhouse in the early 1970s.” (taken from press notes) Adult tickets (which include a glass of wine as well as soda & popcorn) are $30 each. Student tickets (which include soda and popcorn) are $15 each. For more information, please call (937)219-7501. Proceeds from this event will go to The Junior Leaguers Scholarship Fund. To check out more about THUNDER SOUL, visit the official site.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hiodQURIe0M’]

See you soon,

Jonathan

 

SHOWTIMES for Fri. January 27 – Thur. February 2:

A DANGEROUS METHOD (R) 1 Hrs 39 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:50, 3:00, 5:15, 7:30, 9:40

Monday – Thursday: 3:00, 5:15, 7:30

THE ARTIST (PG-13) 1 Hr 40 Min

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

Saturday: 12:30, 5:20, 7:20, 9:30

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

Monday – Thursday: 2:45, 5:00, 7:20

CALL OF THE SCENIC RIVER: AN OHIO JOURNEY

Saturday: 3:00 – This Screening Has SOLD OUT!

COMING SOON:

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

In some cases, titles may disappear.

Feb. ? ALBERT NOBBS

TBD THE HEDGEHOG

TBD SHAME

TBD A SEPARATION

March 16 WE NEED TO TALK ABOUT KEVIN

Holding Steady and New News at THE NEON

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Hello Everyone,

We had a very solid opening for TINKER TAILOR SOLDIER SPY, and I want to thank all of you who came out to support opening weekend at The Neon!  TTSS will stick around, and we are going to hold MY WEEK WITH MARILYN for one more week (Jan. 19 will be MARILYN’s final day).  Unfortunately, I have to report that we needed to move the opening date of CARNAGE, but the distributor didn’t want to wait for us…so we have to pass on playing it.  That said, the road will be clear for us to open THE ARTIST on January 20 as planned.

Click HERE for TINKER TAILOR’s official site.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6SRGi6GCt4k’]

On Saturday, January 28 at 3:00, our large auditorium has been rented to screen CALL OF THE SCENIC RIVER: AN OHIO JOURNEY.  “This film is the story of Ohio’s most natural waterways. Although few people realize that Ohio was the first state to declare a Scenic Rivers Program in March of 1968, Ohio’s program continues to lead river conservation because of it’s respect of private property, it’s commitment to designating the most ecologically intact systems, and it’s popular volunteer opportunities. Filmed by Ohio cinematographers, Mike King and Adam White, with underwater footage by Tom Mayor, – alumni of Wright State University’s Motion Picture Program – the film captures the stunning and natural beauty of these watershed eco-systems. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Rivers Unlimited, the nation’s oldest river conservation organization. RSVP and tickets ($10/ticket) may be purchased from the film’s website – CLICK LINK.”  (taken from press notes)

On Saturday, February 25 at noon, The Junior Leaguers Club, Inc. will host a benefit screening of THUNDER SOUL.  “THUNDER SOUL follows the extraordinary alumni from Houston’s storied Kashmere High School Stage Band, who return home after 35 years to play a tribute concert for the 92-year-old “Prof,” their beloved band leader who broke the color barrier and transformed the school’s struggling jazz band into a world-class funk powerhouse in the early 1970s.” (taken from press notes)  Adult tickets (which include a glass of wine as well as soda & popcorn) are $30 each.  Student tickets (which include soda and popcorn) are $15 each.  For more information, please call (937)219-7501.  Proceeds from this event will go to The Junior Leaguers Scholarship Fund.  To check out more about THUNDER SOUL, visit the official site.

On Sunday morning, I’ll be heading to a conference for operators and owners of arthouse cinemas from across the country.  The conference is in Utah, so I’ll stick around for the first couple days of the Sundance Film Festival, too.  Please keep the staff nice and busy while I’m gone.

See you soon,

Jonathan

 

SHOWTIMES for

Fri. January 13 – Thur. January 19:

TINKER TAILOR SOLDIER SPY (R) 2 Hrs 07 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday:  1:15, 4:15, 7:15, 9:45

Monday: 3:30, 5:45, 8:15

Tuesday – Thursday:  2:30, 5:15, 8:00

MY WEEK WITH MARILYN (R) 1 Hr 39 Min

Friday: 12:50, 3:00, 5:10, 7:20, 9:30

Saturday: 12:50, 5:10, 7:20, 9:30

Sunday:  12:50, 3:00, 5:10, 7:20, 9:30

Monday: 3:30, 5:45, 8:00

Tuesday – Thursday:  3:00, 5:10, 7:20

COMING SOON:

As always, all dates are tentative.

Many of these dates will change.

In some cases, titles may disappear.

Jan. 20   THE ARTIST

TBD   THE HEDGEHOG

TBD   SHAME

TBD   A DANGEROUS METHOD

TBD   A SEPARATION

THE NEON is Going Strong!

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Hello Everyone,

Things are really hoppin’ at THE NEON.  Yesterday (Monday) was busier than any day over the holiday weekend…and we have more than 60 people in the auditorium for MY WEEK WITH MARILYN as I write this note (for a Tuesday afternoon, that’s incredible).

As it stands, we’re going to hold steady next week with THE DESCENDANTS and MY WEEK WITH MARILYN.  On January 6, we plan to open TINKER TAILOR SOLDIER SPY.  (Click each title to visit that film’s official site…and watch the trailers below.)

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

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zJygETCXpR8′]

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Aco15ScXCwA’]

As we head into 2012, I’d like to thank you so much for your constant support of THE NEON.  We will end 2011 in the black, and it’s quite possible that it will be our best year ever (we didn’t think 2010 could be beat)…I’ll keep you posted.  Without your patronage and your positive word-of-mouth, we wouldn’t still be here.  Thank you so much!!

Wishing you a wonderful, fun & safe New Year’s!

We hope to see you soon at THE NEON,

Jonathan

 

SHOWTIMES for  Fri. December 30 – Thur. January 5:

THE DESCENDANTS (R) 1 Hrs 55 Min

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

Monday – Thursday:  2:40, 5:00, 7:20

MY WEEK WITH MARILYN (R) 1 Hr 39 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 cases, titles may disappear.

Jan. 6   TINKER TAILOR SOLDIER SPY

Jan. 13   CARNAGE

Jan. 20   THE ARTIST

TBD   THE HEDGEHOG

TBD  SHAME

TBD   A DANGEROUS METHOD

MY WEEK WITH MARILYN at THE NEON!

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Hello Everyone,

If you still need to see WEEKEND or MELANCHOLIA, you only have today (Dec. 22) to see them at THE NEON.  Even though I was a bit disappointed at the turn-out for WEEKEND, I’m so glad we brought it to THE NEON for a week.  It helps us maintain our status as a true arthouse cinema when we can bring films of this caliber that don’t have much of a marketing budget (meaning it’s a hard-to-find gem that didn’t get much play in the Midwest).  Just after I sent out last week’s newsletter, A.O. Scott of The New York Times listed WEEKEND as one of the best films of the year…and I’m in agreement.  For remaining showtimes for this week, please visit our official NEON site – www.neonmovies.com

Tomorrow (Dec. 23), we will open MY WEEK WITH MARILYN.  This is a film that was supposed to open several weeks ago…but the distributor decided to delay rolling it out into smaller markets in hopes of garnering award season buzz.  And that’s what has happened.  The movie has been nominated for 3 Golden Globes – “Best Picture: Comedy or Musical,” “Best Actress – Michelle Williams,” and “Best Supporting Actor – Kenneth Branagh.”  And don’t forget that the cast also includes Judi Dench (a favorite of NEON regulars) and Emma Watson (from the Harry Potter franchise).

Synopsis for MY WEEK WITH MARILYN:  ” In the early summer of 1956, 23 year-old Colin Clark, just down from Oxford and determined to make his way in the film business, worked as a lowly assistant on the set of ‘The Prince and the Showgirl’. The film that famously united Sir Laurence Olivier and Marilyn Monroe, who was also on honeymoon with her new husband, the playwright Aurthur Miller. Nearly 40 years on, his diary account The Prince, the Showgirl and Me was published, but one week was missing and this was published some years later as My Week with Marilyn – this is the story of that week. When Arthur Miller leaves England, the coast is clear for Colin to introduce Marilyn to some of the pleasures of British life; an idyllic week in which he escorted a Monroe desperate to get away from her retinue of Hollywood hangers-on and the pressures of work.” (The Weinstein Company)   This film received an “R” rating due only to adult language…so we’re hoping the rating doesn’t hold back families with teens from coming over the holidays.  Visit the Official Website.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pbmFLbDBwF0′]

Have you tried one of our new wines?  In addition to the Woodbridge Merlot and Chardonnay, we are trying Carernet Sauvignon and Moscato.  If you want to make certain that we keep these two wines in the mix, please order a glass during your next visit.

AIDS Resource Center Ohio has asked us to help them sell raffle tickets for their upcoming RED event (Reach, Empower & Dream of a world without HIV/AIDS) in the Spring.  First place is a trip to Paris.  Second place is a trip to stay in the Paris Hotel in Las Vegas.  Tickets are $25 each or $100 for six.  We currently have these for sale at our box office…and they make a nice, last-minute gift.  I plan to buy a handful and tell people, “I’ve made a donation to ARC Ohio, and you might win a trip to Paris.”

Opening dates for our upcoming titles continue to move around.  As of right now, our next big film will be TINKER TAILOR SOLDIER SPY starring Gary Oldman on Jan. 6.

We hope to see you soon at THE NEON,

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for

Fri. December 23 – Thur. December 29:

THE DESCENDANTS (R) 1 Hrs 55 Min

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

Saturday: 12:15, 2:40, 5:00, 7:20

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

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

MY WEEK WITH MARILYN (R) 1 Hr 39 Min

Friday: 12:50, 3:00, 5:10, 7:20, 9:30

Saturday: 12:50, 3:00, 5:10, 7:20

Sunday:  12:50, 3:00, 5:10, 7:20, 9:30

Monday – Thursday:  3:00, 5:10, 7:20, 9:30

COMING SOON:

As always, all dates are tentative.

Many of these dates will change.

In some cases, titles may disappear.

TBD   THE HEDGEHOG

Jan. 6   TINKER TAILOR SOLDIER SPY

Jan. 13   CARNAGE

Jan. 20   THE ARTIST  

Jan. 20   SHAME

Jan. 20   A DANGEROUS METHOD

WEEKEND This Weekend at THE NEON

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Hello Everyone,

Even though we’re going to hold both of our current attractions – THE DESCENDANTS and MELANCHOLIA – we are going to open a new film on Friday.  WEEKEND – which was the sold-out, closing film of this year’s Downtown Dayton LGBT Film Festival  – has been winning awards around the world.  In addition, it’s one of my favorite films of the year.  Eric Hynes of the The Village Voice wrote, “Naturalistic without being ineloquent, heartfelt yet unsentimental, WEEKEND is the rarest of birds: a movie romance that rings true.”  David Edelstein of New York Magazine wrote, “I hate to damage so fragile a work with overpraise, but, gay or straight, if you don’t see yourself in this movie, you need to get a life.”  This film has not screened much in Ohio…we’re hoping you’ll help support one of the small, true indie gems of the year.

Synopsis for WEEKEND:  “After meeting one lonely Friday night at a bar, Russell and Glen find themselves caught up in an lost weekend full of sex, drugs, and intimate conversation. Although they have conflicting ideas of what it is they want from life and certainly how to get it, they form a startling emotional connection that will resonate throughout their lives.” (Sundance Selects)

Click this link to visit the film’s official website.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-GYFIwAURH4′]

I’m delighted to announce that MY WEEK WITH MARILYN has now been set to open on December 23.  It seems like the date might really stick this time (but I’ll keep you posted regardless).  Just remember that we’re open 365 days a year…so we hope to be part of your plans during the holidays.

This Saturday marks the last of The Holiday Family Movie Series…sponsored by The Downtown Dayton Partnership, DP&L and THE NEON.  The film begins at noon and is free for children 12 and under; other tickets are only $2 each.  This Saturday’s movie is A CHRISTMAS STORY.  Last week’s screening was a huge success…so come early for a good seat (doors open at 11:30).  (presented via digital video projection)

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

Have you tried one of our new wines?  In addition to the Woodbridge Merlot and Chardonnay, we are trying Carernet Sauvignon and Moscato.  If you want to make certain that we keep these two wines in the mix, please order a glass during your next visit.

When shopping for the holidays, don’t forget that NEON Gift Certificates are a perfect gift for film lovers…and for people who still need to be introduced to us.  For every $50 worth of gift certificates you purchase, we’ll give you a hearty-sized bag of Candy Cane Granola…making your gift all the sweeter.

NYC was a blast.  Thanks to all of you who sent well-wishes!

See you soon at THE NEON,

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Fri. December 16 – Thur. December 22:  

THE DESCENDANTS (R) 1 Hrs 55 Min

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

Monday – Thursday:  2:40, 5:00, 7:20

MELANCHOLIA (R) 2 Hr 16 Min

Friday: 1:00, 4:00, 9:30

Saturday: 4:00, 9:30

Sunday:  1:00, 4:00, 9:30

Monday – Thursday:  2:30, 5:15

WEEKEND (NR) 1 Hr 37 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 7:15

Mon-Thur: 8:00

A CHRISTMAS STORY  (PG) 1 Hr 40 Min

Saturday: 12:00 (Noon)

COMING SOON:

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

In some cases, titles may disappear.

Dec. 23  MY WEEK WITH MARILYN

TBD   THE HEDGEHOG

TBD   THE ARTIST

Jan. 13   TINKER TAILOR SOLDIER SPY

Jan. 20   SHAME

Jan. 20   CARNAGE

Jan. 27   A DANGEROUS METHOD

WEEKEND – One week only!  Starts Friday!

MY WEEK WITH MARILYN…Opening Next week!

Toronto – THE FILM – Day #4, Part 1

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OK…

Once again, I find myself getting in much too late to type a full recap…so I’ll make it short and sweet…with more to come.

The Tilda Swinton Interview/Q&A was a divine experience.  The 75 minutes flew by – I could have stayed for hours!!!

BARRYMORE – a film with Christopher Plummer reprising his role as John Barrymore (from his one-man-show on Broadway) – was solid, but not cinematic enough to get a theatrical release.  I think it will make a better Masterpiece Theatre evening.

Next, I saw SHAME – the new Steve McQueen film starring Michael Fassbender.  A film about sexual addiction, this film is highly charged and quite wonderful.  Fassbender and McQueen were at the screening.  I was in the front row.  Below is a clip.

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

The last film I saw today was the new Pedro Almodovar film – THE SKIN I LIVE IN.  I won’t say too much…as I’m a little sad that I knew plot points before seeing the film.  The movie is 100x’s better than the trailer (which is below) – and I suggest not knowing a whole lot about the plot.  Just enjoy Pedro’s new highly stylized thriller that is both shocking and emotionally charged.  Both leads – Antonio Benderas & Elena Anaya – introduced the film.  Once again, I was in the front row!

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EolQSTTTpI4′]

Additional sightings…IndieWire conducted interviews in the industry lounge today with Morgan Spurlock and Emily Blunt (along with the director from YOUR SISTER’S SISTER – also known for HUMPDAY).

More tomorrow!!

Jonathan