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“Elf” Movie Party

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We Did It!! The worlds greatest movie party. (congratulations everybody)

Celebrate the Holidays with Music, Meal, Trivia, and Dayton Dinner Theater’s famous interactive movie experience with the classic, heartwarming, and hilarious comedy Elf!

**Themed Food: You smell like beef and cheese sliders, Santa’s Sausage Gravy over a Buddy Biscuit, Maplelicious Chicken & Waffles, potato hash, fresh fruit, sausage, candy canes, candy corns, and donuts!

Themed Drinks:

Angry Elf -Jalapeno-infused tequila, triple sec, housemade marg mix.
Mailroom Syrup – Bourbon, peach, iced tea
Ninnymuggin $5 Beer Special- Shiner Cheer
Who Needs a Hug N.A.- Strawberry Lemonade
Themed Attire: Let’s just say that this is one time you can express your affinity for Elf attire and actually be cool.

HOW TO GO?

Dec 01, 2024, 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM

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

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

Alcoholic drinks available for purchase

Tickets $36 – Get tickets here: https://www.daytondinnertheater.com/events/elf-movie-party-1

Table reservations only for parties of 6 or more, otherwise we have open seating. For table reservations or other questions, please email [email protected]

**These menu items are subject to change

 

Mystery Night features “Clue” Movie Party

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Join Dayton Dinner Theater for a night shrouded in mystery, featuring themed food, drinks, music, trivia, and an interactive screening of the classic film Clue! This exciting event, held at The Brightside, includes creative pizza from Dayton Pizza Factory, a delightful salad, an appetizer, and dessert crafted by Baker Benji. Alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase.

Award-winning and nationally known actor Andrew Mitakides will be leading an interactive murder mystery skit. Musician Matt will be performing live mystery songs and playing name that tune.

And of course, costumes are encouraged. Choose your favorite character to wear!

Doors open at 5:45 pm, with food and live music from 6 to 7 pm. The movie begins at 7 pm, followed by a brief intermission for dessert and trivia at 8 pm, concluding the film around 9:15 PM.

HOW TO GO?

Nov 24, 2024 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM

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

Tickets $28 – available here: https://www.daytondinnertheater.com/events/clue-mystery-movie-party

Table reservations only for parties of 6 or more, otherwise we have open seating. For table reservations or other questions, please email   [email protected]

Kahoot! Movie Trivia with GCBDD: Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Inside Out & High School Musical 📕🧠🎓

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Join us at the Wandering Griffin for a fun-filled evening of Kahoot Movie Trivia on Sunday, September 17th, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM, hosted by the Greene County Board of Developmental Disabilities! Test your knowledge on some of your favourite family films—Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Inside Out, and High School Musical—as you compete for the top spot in this interactive trivia game.

This event also supports a fantastic cause! All proceeds from the charity tap will go to Greenebucs, an incredible organization dedicated to providing adaptive bicycles to individuals with disabilities. For every beer on tap sold during the event, $1 will go directly towards supporting Greenebucs.

Don’t miss this chance to have a great time with friends and family while making a meaningful impact in our community. See you there!

#CharityTap #Fundraiser #GreeneCounty #Fairborn #FairbornOH #Dayton #DaytonOH #Beavercreek #BeavercreekOH #DaytonOhio #FairbornOhio #BeavercreekOhio #GCBDD #DiaryOfAWimpyKid #HighSchoolMusical #InsideOut #Trivia #TriviaNight #CraftBrewery #BreweryEvents #OhioCraftBeer #EventsNearMe

TIFF Day #9 – 2023

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Hello Dayton937,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

My best,

Jonathan

TIFF Day #8 – 2023 – 30 Films Screened So Far

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Hello Dayton937!

Today was looking slim initially.  My only official film on the books today was NYAD – everything else came as surprises…and we all know that not all surprises are good.

My first film was from Cuba. WILD WOMAN, dir. Alán González (Cuba). “Yolanda, a Cuban woman, goes from dancing her heart out at a house party to running against the clock to find her son and skip town once a video circulates from that gathering that seems to incriminate her.” (TIFF Catalog)  Not only did I feel like this film was missing a reel (that doesn’t really happen anymore), it also is as much about the landscape as it is about the main character.  Though the lead actress was quite compelling and gives an honest and rather heartbreaking performance, not everyone is as good. I ultimately was only slightly invested to find out “what happens” at the end, and I don’t see this film breaking out.

My next film was my first “early departure” from TIFF.  If you’re new to my blog, you might not know that I don’t review or name names for films that I don’t finish.  I don’t think it’s fair to write reviews for films that I don’t watch from beginning to end.  In this case, the idiot dialog and some really poor performances (it seemed like every line was said with a knowing smile) made me cringe a lot…and my eyes were starting to hurt from rolling so much.  It was noted at the start that it was being presented courtesy of Paramount+, so maybe you’ll stumble upon it there one day – let me know if you watch a movie with some really big stars there in the near future.

Next up was a film I was anxious to see…and it didn’t disappoint. NYAD, dir. Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi, Jimmy Chin (USA). “Annette Bening and Jodie Foster dive into the dangerous waters of the Florida Straits, in this film based on the true story of the woman who, at the age of 64, became the first person to swim from Cuba to the US without a shark cage.” (TIFF Catalog) This film was directed by the folks who brought us the incredible doc FREE SOLO – and it’s their first time directing a narrative.  They’s got the chops to do it…and with Bening and Foster as the talent, it turns into crowd-pleasing gold. As a bonus, Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi & the real Bonnie (Nyad’s best friend turned coach) were in attendance to introduce the film and partake in a Q&A after.  It was spectacular, and Bening is so very present and alive in this performance!  The film is inspiring on a lot of levels, and every now and then, I saw a little glimmer of my friend Julia Reichert in Annette Bening. I’m sad that most people will see this on Netflix…it deserves a big screen with good sound.

I tried to get a ticket to the film AMERICAN FICTION tonight, but demand was too high – and even though I waited over an hour, at least 100 of us were turned away…so instead, I chose a documentary about a performer I admire but didn’t know much about. LIL NAS X: LONG LIVE MONTERO, dir. Carlos López Estrada, Zac Manuel (USA). “Watch superstar Lil Nas X transcend genres and defy expectations in this revealing, jubilant, and inspiring musical documentary.”  This documentary, though certainly a PR piece, shined some light on a performer who is breaking down barriers.  I admire how unabashedly queer and flamboyant Lil Nas has become in the public eye over the past couple years, and it was nice to get some background on him as well as explore some production moments of the tour I wasn’t able to attend.  For all the quick fame and money that has come his way, Lil Nas still seems a bit naive but also grounded on some level…and that’s refreshing.  Madonna makes a quick appearance in the doc – which certainly seems to give a nod to TRUTH OR DARE – which was groundbreaking 30+ years ago.

Tomorrow is my last full day of screenings.  On some level, it’s hard to believe it’s winding down…on another, it seems like I’ve been here for months.

Thanks for reading!

Jonathan

TIFF Day #7 – 2023

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Hello Dayton937!

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

Thanks for reading!

Jonathan

TIFF Day #6 – 2023

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Hello Everyone.

I saw three films today, and that has my count up to 22 over the past  6 days.

I started my day with the biggest sob of the fest so far. ONE LIFE, dir James Hawes (UK). “Sir Anthony Hopkins stars as Sir Nicholas Winton, a British stockbroker who helped rescue hundreds of children from Europe on the verge of the Second World War, an act of compassion that was almost forgotten for 50 years.” (TIFF Catalog). Some might think this little film is too easy or on-the-nose…and I would understand where they’re coming from…but I don’t agree.  This film works and achieves exactly what it set out to do.   The narrative has parallel story lines – a more contemporary story about a man cleaning his office and remembering his past…and the memories come to life of the work he did just before WWII.  It’s powerful…it’s inspiring…it speaks to current political and humanitarian issues.  With handsome photography, score and production design, I know this would be a hit with our audience.  I’m showing two pics from this film because Hopkins isn’t the only big star in this film.

My next film covered some similar territory as ONE LIFE – but this biopic is itching to get Kate Winslet another Oscar nomination. LEE, dir. Ellen Kuras (UK). “Oscar winner Kate Winslet stars in this fascinating portrait of the great American war correspondent Lee Miller, whose singular talent and ferocious tenacity gave us some of the 20th century’s most indelible images.” (TIFF catalog) Lee Miller was a model turned photographer, and she most famously worked as a war correspondent for British Vogue.  The film is set up as Miller is being interviewed about her life and career – so the life story is told through flashbacks that are motivated by photos that she is showing her interviewer (played by Josh O’Connor from THE CROWN).  I questioned some tonal “shifts” in the film, but ultimately thought it was a strong endeavor and spurred my interest to learn more about the subject.  Some people might feel cheated by the last 15 minutes…I rather liked the ending (as well as the contextual photos and “update” at the end).

My final film today was a mini crowdpleaser – complete with audience applause in the middle of the movie…but sadly, it’s not the next JOJO RABBIT.  NEXT GOAL WINS, dir. Taika Waititi (USA). “Michael Fassbender, Elisabeth Moss, and Oscar Kightley star in Taika Waititi’s comedy about the American Samoa soccer team’s attempt to make a World Cup — 12 years after their infamous 31-0 loss in a 2002 World Cup qualifying match.” (TIFF catalog) This film treads familiar territory.  In fact, it’s so familiar that some of the jokes seem lifted directly from TED LASSO.  It’s an underdog story, and you really start rooting for the losing team – and I did find myself on the edge of my seat a few times.  Unfortunately, there were moments when Michael Fassbender’s disposition changed on a dime – and I questioned a few times if I had fallen asleep and missed something.  Regardless, there’s still a lot to like about this rag-tag soccer team, and I think audiences will embrace the movie together on the big screen…but it’s not great. (And I kinda hate that Waititi put himself in the film…his intro is so unnecessary, and his caricature is cringe-worthy.)

No big parties or anything crazy tonight.  I’m going to write THE NEON’s newsletter and hopefully get a good night’s slepp.

Thanks for reading!

Jonathan

 

TIFF Day #5 – 2023

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Hello Everyone,

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

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

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

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

Maya Hawke as Flannery O’Connor in WILDCAT

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

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

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

My best,

Jonathan

TIFF Day #4 – 2023

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Hello Everyone!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thanks for reading,

Jonathan

TIFF Day #3 – 2023

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Hello Everyone,

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

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

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

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

 

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

Until tomorrow!

Thanks for reading,

Jonathan

 

TIFF 2023 – Day #1

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Hello Everyone,

Off to the races.  I had five screenings on the agenda for today – 3 with industry folks and 2 with the general public.  Of the five, one was a real winner…and one had a lot of merit but could have been trimmed by 30 minutes (I know some critics will greatly disagree with me on that).

LAST SUMMER, dir Catherine Breillat (France).  My first film of the day was from a director who is quite used to working with taboo subject matter…and this was no exception. “In the latest film by French provocateur Catherine Breillat, a prominent lawyer’s passionate affair with her 17-year-old stepson threatens both her career and family.”  (TIFF Catalog)  In the opening scene of this (intentionally) cringe-inducing film, the protagonist is dealing with an underage client who is preparing for court.  She tells the girl, “in court, the victims often become the accused” – which sets a certain tone for the rest of the film.  Though the film certainly has some memorable moments and worked on some levels,  there were multiple decisions for a lingering camera which became frustrating and laborious.  And in the end, I ultimately didn’t buy the attraction and thus the affair – so the film really didn’t work for me.

THE CRITIC, dir Anand Tucker (United Kingdom).  Next up was a rather handsomely designed period film with Ian McKellan chewing up the dimly lit scenery. “Gemma Arterton and Ian McKellen star as adversaries forced to take desperate measures to save their careers, in this scintillating tale of ambition and deceit in the theatre world.” (TIFF Catalog). Though lovely to look at, I found some of the story a bit hard to follow initially…this was due in part to tiredness and the fact that all interior scenes at night appeared to be lit with a 20 watt bulb…which had me a little confused keeping track of characters who mostly appeared in shadows.  Though McKellan is having a ball, he is sadly better than the material.    It’s a noir-ish story which doesn’t quite commit to the genre.

FLORA AND SON, dir John Carney (US & Ireland).  My winner for the day was this little gem! “The latest from writer-director John Carney (ONCE, SING STREET) features a revelatory performance from Eve Hewson as a young mother trying to connect with her teenage son through a shared love of music.” (TIFF Catalog) The rough-around-the-edges characters are so wonderful in this heartwarming (and occasionally crass) story about an Irish woman who ends up taking on-line guitar lessons from a guy in California (played by Joseph Gordon Levitt) while trying to build a relationship with her son.  Lots of laughs and several tears…it really works.  (NOTE: We may bring this to THE NEON at the end of the month.)

ANATOMY OF A FALL, dir. Justine Triet (France). “Winner of this year’s Palme d’Or, and starring German actress Sandra Hüller, Justine Triet’s Anatomy of a Fall is a riveting portrait of a complex woman put on trial for the murder of her spouse.” (TIFF Catalog) (One big detail of the short synopsis from the catalog is the fact that the only potential witness of what transpired is the woman’s visually impaired son.)  I’ve heard a lot of great things about this (mostly) courtroom drama, and it works on a lot of levels…but boy, oh boy – it’s longer than it needs to be.  (And this was the 2nd film today which thematically explored a victim being put on trial during court proceedings.)  One of the strongest moments of the film is a tennis-match-like argument that is fascinating for its character development.  A solid film with an outstanding lead performance (but don’t go in the slightest bit tired).

NORTH STAR, dir. Kristin Scott Thomas (United Kingdom).  This is Kristin Scott Thomas’s directorial debut, and I was sadly a bit disappointed.  I considered leaving early and just going to bed…but I’m glad I didn’t.  There’s a 10-minute scene in a cemetery that’s worth the whole film (and I’d bet my next paycheck it’s the scene that was the genesis for the entire movie).  Some funny moments.  Some touching moments.  But I could have easily seen this as a short film.

NORTH STAR – directed by Kristin Scott Thomas

And now it’s time for bed!  Bright and early tomorrow!

Thanks for reading!!

Jonathan

P.S.  Here’s a little picture of me and Jake just before heading into the NORTH STAR screening.

 

2nd National Cinema Day – $4 Movies This Sunday

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Still haven’t seen “Barbie” or “Oppenheimer”? This Sunday, you’ll be able to catch up for $4 a ticket in movie theaters nationwide.

Theater owners announced Monday that the second annual National Cinema Day will be held Sunday, Aug. 27. For one day, all movies — in all formats and at all showtimes — will be $4 at participating theaters. More than 3,000 theaters are participating, which accounts for most of the cinemas in the U.S., including the leading chains AMC and Regal.

Some of the chains even have deals on concessions. AMC is offering a small-popcorn-and-drink combo for $5; at Regal, the same combo is only $4. You can get a drink at Angelika for $4, and Cinemark is giving every guest a dollar off any popcorn, soda, or candy.

It’s the second straight year theaters are trotting out the one-day event at the tail end of summer. Last year’s inaugural National Cinema Day, put on by the Cinema Foundation, a nonprofit affiliate of the National Association of Theater Owners, was judged an enormous success. An estimated 8.1 million moviegoers bought $3 tickets on Saturday, Sept. 3.  The discount gimmick turned into the highest attended day of the year for theaters. A normally quiet time instead saw cinemas crowded with moviegoers — and theaters sold plenty of popcorn. This year, the day is moving up slightly on the calendar, shifting from Saturday to Sunday, and costs $1 more.

Dayton Dinner Theater announces 2022-2023 Schedule

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Get excited, The Dayton Dinner Theater is back with its much-awaited interactive movie party season for 2022 – 2023! It’s a great way to spend time with family and friends when the days are short and nights are long. Make the most of it by sipping the sublime themed drinks with your loved ones, while flaunting your movie-themed attire. What more do you need when you can have classic movies, gourmet food, and specially concocted drinks to enjoy with your friends, family, or that special someone?

What to expect from a Dayton Dinner Theater event? First off, make sure you indulge in the creatively themed food provided by Brock Masterson catering. While you indulge in the delicacies, you can feast your ears to live music and soundtrack presentations featuring acts by the likes of The University of Dayton Jazz Ensemble and acclaimed musician and producer Denny Wilson.

A big improvement from year’s past is the themed cocktail selections.The Brightside’s new Bar Manager, Suzy Switzer, has come up with a whole range of delicious offerings.

That’s not all. As it’s an interactive movie party, organizers will feature famous interactive quote and fun participation activities, pop-up fun facts, and our not-so-famous, but equally entertaining, theme-spotting drinking game. Enjoy some lip-smacking-themed desserts while you’re at it! To add the cherry on the cake, there are special surprises for the top costume contest participants.

Now let’s talk about the prices. “Inflation may have gone up, but our tickets have stayed the same price :)”. Book your tickets at just $35 but with so many added entertaining activities. Visit www.daytondinnertheater.com for more information. To make sure that we can serve you with all our scrumptious food, tickets must be booked in advance.

The annual movie series commences on Wednesday, November 30 with an all-time holiday favorite movie Elf at The Brightside Music & Event Venue from 6-9pm.

This year’s list is dominated by comedy and clever and witty classics. See the full schedule below.

Dayton Dinner Theater Season Schedule:

Wednesday, Nov 30, 2022 – Dayton Dinner Theater premiere featuring Elf movie party and live music

Wednesday, Dec 7, 2022 – Dayton Dinner Theater featuring the 80’s classic Christmas Vacation & live music

Sunday, Dec 11, 2022 – Dayton Dinner Theater featuring A Christmas Story and live music

Sunday, Jan 15, 2023 – Dayton Dinner Theater premiere featuring Raiders of the Lost Ark

Sunday, Jan 29, 2023 – Dayton Dinner Theater premiere featuring The Princess Bride & live jazz

Sunday, Feb 12, 2023 – Dayton Dinner Theater featuring Grease & live music

Sunday, Feb 26, 2023 – Dayton Dinner Theater featuring Dazed and Confused

Sunday, March 12, 2023 – Dayton Dinner Theater featuring The Big Lebowski

*All events take place at The Brightside Music & Event Venue located at 905 E 3rd St, Dayton.

For more information, visit: www.daytondinnertheater.com

Dayton Dinner Theater presents “Airplane!”

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Dayton Dinner Theater presents “Airplane!” See a classic favorite on the big screen in a fun group, interactive setting on Sunday, February 27th at The Brightside Music & Event Venue.

Enjoy Chef-inspired themed food, desserts, and cocktails from Brock Masterson. Before the movie, organizers have arranged for live-themed music featuring the renowned Dr. Willie Morris and the University of Dayton Jazz Ensemble.

During the movie, show your skills with DDT’s famous interactive quote contest, fun facts, theme spotting, and a trivia contest during intermission. Although these movie parties are geared more towards adults, they are family-friendly.

When? Feb 27, 2022, 6:00 PM – 9:10 PM. Doors open at 5:45pm. Food and live music are available from 6-7pm, the movie starts at 7pm,  a short intermission for dessert and trivia will start at 8pm. The movie ends around 9 pm.

Where? The Brightside Event Center, 905 E 3rd St, Dayton, OH 45402
Note: Table reservations only for parties of 6 or more, otherwise, we have open seating.

Cost: $35 tickets available at daytondinnertheater.com. Advance tickets are required.

About the Event:

Themed Food: TBA (last time we had a choice of steak or fish…. I had the lasagna)

Themed Drinks: TBA (we cater to those with a drinking problem)

Themed Attire: pick your occupation… doctor, pilot, stewardess, auto pilot, or Hare Krishna salesman

Dayton Dinner Theater presents “The Princess Bride”

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Dayton Dinner Theater presents “The Princess Bride”! See a classic family favorrite on the big screen in a fun group, interactive setting at The Brightside Music & Event Venue.

Enjoy Chef-inspired themed food, desserts, and cocktails from Brock Masterson. Before the movie, organizers have arranged for live-themed music featuring the renowned Dr. Willie Morris and the University of Dayton Jazz Ensemble.

During the movie, show your skills with DDT’s famous interactive quote contest, fun facts, theme spotting, and a trivia contest during intermission. Although these movie parties are geared more towards adults, they are family-friendly.

When? Jan 30, 6:00 PM – 9:20 PM. Doors open at 5:45pm. Food and live music are available from 6-7pm, the movie starts at 7pm,  a short intermission for dessert and trivia will start at 8pm. The movie ends around 9 pm.

Where? The Brightside Event Center, 905 E 3rd St, Dayton, OH 45402
Note: Table reservations only for parties of 6 or more, otherwise, we have open seating.

Cost: $35 tickets available at daytondinnertheater.com. Advance tickets are required.

About the Event:

Themed Food: TBA (maybe some stew, something that looks like mutton, something w/fire in the name, and maybe a peanut?)

Themed Drinks: The Battle of Wits (sparkling grape juice, vodka, cherry, pixie stick poison), The Buttercup (Butterscotch liquor, light cream, rum, cinnamon stick stirrer)

Themed Attire: You can be a Prince, a Pirate, a Princess, a Pauper, a Giant, or a Swordsman.  If you dress up as a ROUS, we will give you extra cheese.

 

Dayton Dinner Theater features fun group viewing of “The Wizard of Oz”

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Dayton Dinner Theater features The Wizard of Oz! See the classic that transcends time and place on the big screen in a fun group, interactive setting at The Brightside Music & Event Venue.

Enjoy Chef-inspired themed food, desserts, and cocktails from Brock Masterson. Before the movie, we have live-themed music featuring the renowned Dr. Willie Morris and the University of Dayton Jazz Ensemble. During the movie, we feature our famous interactive quote contest, fun facts, theme spotting, and a trivia contest during intermission. Although our movie parties are geared more towards adults, they are family-friendly.

When? Jan 16, 6:00 PM – 9:20 PM. Doors open at 5:45pm. Food and live music are available from 6-7pm, the movie starts at 7pm,  a short intermission for dessert and trivia will start at 8pm. The movie ends around 9 pm.

Where? The Brightside Event Center, 905 E 3rd St, Dayton, OH 45402
Note: Table reservations only for parties of 6 or more, otherwise, we have open seating.

Cost: $35 tickets available at daytondinnertheater.com. Advance tickets are required.

About the Event

Themed Food: TBA (taste the rainbow, no dust bowl cuisine)

Themed Drink: TBA (maybe something emerald or that you drink from a ruby slipper)

Themed Attire: Take your pick of characters, but please ….. NO BLUE MONKEYS WITH LIPSTICK