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Cleaning House – 2 New Films & MOONLIGHT (aka Oscar Season) News at THE NEON!

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man-called-ove-webHello Everyone!

We’re going completely international this weekend with two exciting, new films – both of which we didn’t think we’d be able to accommodate but many of you have been asking about. At last we’re able to move forward with a film based on the beloved, international bestseller A MAN CALLED OVE as well as the new film from Park Chan-wook – THE HANDMAIDEN (based on the British novel FINGERSMITH). If you still need to see CHRISTINE, CERTAIN WOMEN or KING COBRA, Thursday will be your last chance to see them at THE NEON.

Synopsis for A MAN CALLED OVE: “Stepping from the pages of Fredrik Backman’s international best-selling novel, Ove is the quintessential angry old man next door. An isolated retiree with strict principles and a short fuse, who spends his days enforcing block association rules that only he cares about, and visiting his wife’s grave, Ove has given up on life. Enter a boisterous young family next door who accidentally flattens Ove’s mailbox while moving in and earning his special brand of ire. Yet from this inauspicious beginning an unlikely friendship forms and we come to understand Ove’s past happiness and heartbreaks. What emerges is a heartwarming tale of unreliable first impressions and the gentle reminder that life is sweeter when it’s shared. One of Sweden’s biggest locally-produced box office hits ever, director Hannes Holm finds the beating heart of his source material and Swedish star Rolf Lassgard, whose performance won him the Best Actor award at the 2016 Seattle International Film Festival, affectingly embodies the lovable curmudgeon Ove.” (Music Box Films) THE NEW YORK TIMES called this film “cinematic comfort food,” and I think our audiences are going to love it!

Synopsis for THE HANDMAIDEN: “From PARK Chan-wook, the celebrated director of OLDBOY, LADY VENGEANCE and STOKER, comes a ravishing new crime drama. PARK presents a gripping and sensual tale of two women – a young Japanese Lady living on a secluded estate, and a Korean woman who is hired to serve as her new handmaiden, but is secretly plotting with a conman to defraud her of a large inheritance. Inspired by the novel Fingersmith by British author Sarah Waters, THE HANDMAIDEN borrows the most dynamic elements of its source material and combines it with PARK Chan-wook’s singular vision to create an unforgettable viewing experience.” (Magnolia Pictures) Click this LINK to visit the film’s official site.

For descriptions and showtimes of any current attractions, please visit our website at www.neonmovies.com

The past 30 days have seen whirlwinds of visiting artists and amazing screenings. From The Dayton LGBT Film Fest to TORREY PINES and this Saturday’s incredible screening of SHORTBUS, I couldn’t be more happy with what we’ve been able to achieve right here in Dayton, Ohio. Many thanks to everyone who has supported these incredible events!

Don’t forget about this Thursday’s special screening. Dayton Tech Guide & Launch Runner are joining forces to bring GENERATION STARTUP to town for a one-time screening on Thursday, Nov. 10 at 5:30. “GENERATION STARTUP takes us to the front lines of entrepreneurship in America, capturing the struggles and triumphs of six recent college graduates who put everything on the line to build startups in Detroit…” Click this LINK to reserve your ticket on the official tugg website. If tickets remain on the day of the screening, we will be able to sell them at our box office starting one hour before the show.

Our friends at 4Mary.org are bringing APPARITION HILL to Dayton. “Join 4Mary.Org for a night at the movies! A few years ago, 4Mary.Org organized screenings of the independent film THE TRIUMPH, and it was a terrific success. Now, from the same director, comes the new feature film APPARITION HILL about an unlikely group of pilgrims who journey to the same little-known village of Medjugorje. Three screenings have been scheduled at THE NEON: Mon Nov 21 at 7:30pm, Thurs Dec 8 at 7:30pm, and Mon Dec 12 at 7:30pm. Tickets are $10 each and are only available online via this LINK. All proceeds benefit the 4Mary Youth Pilgrimage to Fatima in 2017. For more info, contact [email protected]” (taken from press notes) To watch a trailer for this film, click this LINK.

And now for some great news! MOONLIGHT is set to open on Nov. 18. This incredible film was one of my “Top 3” films at this year’s Toronto International Film Festival…and it is one of the absolute best reviewed films of the year. I think this film clearly marks the beginning of Oscar Season, and we’ve been able to secure a preview screening on Thursday, Nov. 17 at 7:40. Tickets will be on sale this weekend. Visit the film’s OFFICIAL WEBSITE to learn all about it.

It’s almost time for the Family Holiday Film Series. On Saturdays in December, we’ll present films that are suitable for the entire family…for only $2 a ticket (and FREE for children 12 and under). I’ll provide more details in next week’s newsletter.

Thanks so much for your continued support!

We hope to see you soon,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Tuesday, Nov. 8 – Thursday, Nov. 17:

CERTAIN WOMEN (R) 1 Hr 47 Min
Monday-Thursday (Nov 8-10): 2:50, 7:30
FINAL DAY – Nov. 10!

CHRISTINE (R) 1 Hr 55 Min
Tuesday, Wednesday (Nov 8 & 9): 2:45, 5:20, 7:50
Thursday (Nov 10): 2:45, 7:50
FINAL DAY – Nov. 10!

KING COBRA (NR) 1 Hr 31 Min
Tuesday-Thursday (Nov 8-10): 5:20
FINAL DAY – Nov. 10!

GENERATION STARTUP (NR) 1 Hr 33 Min
Thursday (Nov 10): 5:30
One Screening Only!

A MAN CALLED OVE (PG-13) 1 Hr 56 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday (Nov 11-13): 12:00, 2:30, 5:00, 7:30
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday (Nov 14-16): 2:45, 5:15, 7:40
Thursday (Nov 17): 2:45, 5:15

THE HANDMAIDEN (NR) 2 Hrs 25 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday (Nov 11-13): 1:00, 4:00, 7:00
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday (Nov 14-16): 3:30, 7:15
Thursday (Nov 17): 3:30

MOONLIGHT (R) 1 Hr 50 Min
Thursday (Nov 17) – Preview Screening – 7:40

COMING SOON:
(All Dates Are Tentative. Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear.)
Nov. 23 – LOVING
Dec. 21 – LION
TBD – EAGLE HUNTRESS
TBD – NOCTURNAL ANIMALS
TBD – LA LA LAND
TBD – MANCHESTER BY THE SEA
TBD – JACKIE

TIFF 2016 – Arrival & Prep

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tiff_logo_cmykHello Everyone.

I made it to Toronto with minimal delays…and made my way to the Industry offices to pick up my credentials and begin the madness.  This is just an intro!  Watching movies actually starts tomorrow (Thursday, Sept. 8).

I always give myself a buffer day when traveling to Toronto for TIFF.  It can come in handy if you have flight delays, ridiculous lines in customs or you’re carrying an expired passport (that was a nightmare 2 years ago)…that extra day can make certain that you don’t miss any of the good stuff.

If all goes as planned, tomorrow will be a busy day with 4 films – including the splashy Opening Night film with a friend who I first met when he was a guest of The Dayton LGBT Film Festival.  If all goes as planned, tomorrow’s screenings include new work by Kenneth Lonergan, Terence Davies and Olivier Assayas.

In the next couple hours, I’ll grab a bite to eat, check into my apartment and continue to plan my schedule for the next 9 days.

Here are trailers for a few films I can’t wait to see:

Check back in Friday morning…that’s when I’ll have my Thursday wrap-up posted.

Thanks for reading!

Jonathan

ABSOLUTELY FABULOUS & Lots of Fun News at THE NEON!

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absolutely-fabulous-posterHello Everyone,

I’m sorry to say that TICKLED tanked this weekend…but interestingly, folks have loved it! (Some of our staffers have even said it’s one of their favorites we’ve shown this year.) If you still need to see it, Thursday will be your last chance to see it with us. We will hold MUSIC OF STRANGERS and DARK HORSE for one final week! On Thursday evening, we will open the highly anticipated comedy ABSOLUTELY FABULOUS – a film based on the beloved British sitcom. (On Friday, July 29, we’ll open Woody Allen’s latest – CAFE SOCIETY.)

Synopsis for ABSOLUTELY FABULOUS: “Edina and Patsy are still oozing glitz and glamor, living the high life they are accustomed to; shopping, drinking and clubbing their way around London’s trendiest hot-spots. Blamed for a major incident at an uber fashionable launch party, they become entangled in a media storm and are relentlessly pursued by the paparazzi. Fleeing penniless to the glamorous playground of the super-rich, the French Riviera, they hatch a plan to make their escape permanent and live the high life forever more!” (Fox Searchlight) Join us on Sunday afternoon at 12:50 & 3:00 (we’ll open at 11:30am) for AN ABSOLUTELY FABULOUS BUBBLY BRUNCH! We’ll have bottles of bubbly for sale and you can grab a bite from Pa’s Pork Foodtruck! Amelia Robinson & Alexis Larsen will be your “Patsy & Edina” for the afternoon – giving lots of fun prizes! (Many thanks to Lisa Grigsby of Dayton Most Metro for putting us in touch with Pa’s Pork!) Click this LINK to visit the film’s official website.

PUSH Dayton has rented our space to bring a one-time screening of TRAPPED to THE NEON on Thur, Aug. 4 at 7:30. “On June 27, 2016, the Supreme Court ruled in Whole Woman’s Health v. Hellerstedt, that restrictions on abortion clinics in Texas posed an undue burden on women seeking abortions. TRAPPED, a documentary by Dawn Porter, follows the struggles of the clinic workers and lawyers who are on the front lines of a battle to keep abortion safe and legal for millions of American women. US. reproductive health clinics are fighting to remain open. Since 2010, 288 TRAP (Targeted Regulations of Abortion Providers) laws have been passed by conservative state legislatures. Unable to comply with these far-reaching and medically unnecessary measures, clinics have taken their fight to the courts. What do these restrictions mean for the women of the United States? Their doctors? What’s the collateral damage when legislation plays politics with women’s health? PUSH (Professionals United for Sexual Health) is a Dayton-based advocacy group that raises funding and awareness for Planned Parenthood Southwest Ohio.” Ticket details coming soon. Sponsored by Harmony Creek United Church of Christ, Drunk Think Tank, Blue Jacket Books, and Mark E. Owens, Dayton Clerk of Court.” Tickets are $5 each and are only available by clicking this LINK. If tickets remain, they will be available in our lobby one hour before the screening.

Local filmmaker Gino Pasi and his team are hosting a special screening of his new film on Thursday, August 11. “THE ARCHIVIST, a short-film written, produced, and directed by Pasi, tells the story of the brief and unusual relationship of Virginia Hirsch and Archie Vecchio, two people unable to forsake the past. The halcyon days of Virginia Hirsch’s youth are quickly fading no matter how hard she tries to hold on to them. For Archie Vechhio, history is much easier to navigate than the complicated present. When these two people meet, however, the past is buried and the present engaged. And both Virginia and Archie come to realize that living life to the fullest in the “here and now” means taking action – action that won’t come easy for either. Tickets available now at THE NEON’s box office for $5. One Time Only Public Showing! 9PM, Thursday, August 11, 2016.” (This film will screen earlier in the evening for invited guests.)

Our “NEON Lumbar Supporter” campaign is off to a pretty good start. Many thanks to those of you who have contributed to the cause! So far, we’ve “sold” 21 chairs toward our goal of 100. This project will cost us $50,000, and you can read all about it by clicking this LINK. Donations can be accepted on-line, but we can also take donations in person…we’d love to chat with you and have you try out the new sample chairs in our lobby.

Thanks so much for your continued support,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Tuesday, July 19 – Thursday, July 28:

TICKLED (R) 1 Hr 32 Min
Tuesday-Wednesday (July 19-20): 3:10, 7:20
Thursday (July 21): 3:10
FINAL DAY – July 21!

DARK HORSE (PG) 1 Hr 25 Min
Tuesday-Thursday (July 19-21): 5:15
Friday, Saturday, Sunday (July 22-24): 5:00
Monday-Thursday (July 25-28): 5:20
FINAL DAY – July 28!

THE MUSIC OF STRANGERS (PG-13) 1 Hr 36 Min
Tuesday-Thursday (July 19-21): 3:00, 5:20, 7:40
Friday & Saturday (July 22 & 23): 12:30, 2:45, 7:20, 9:30
Sunday (July 24): 12:30, 2:45, 7:20
Monday-Thursday (July 25-28): 3:00, 7:40

ABSOLUTELY FABULOUS (R) 1 Hr 30 Min
Thursday (July 21 – Sneak Preview): 7:30
Friday & Saturday (July 22 & 23): 12:50, 3:00, 5:15, 7:30, 9:45
Sunday (July 24): 12:50, 3:00, 5:15, 7:30
Monday-Thursday (July 25-28): 3:00, 5:15, 7:30

COMING SOON:
(All Dates Are Tentative. Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear.)
July 29 – CAFE SOCIETY
Aug 5 – HUNT FOR THE WILDERPEOPLE
Aug 12 – EAT THAT QUESTION
Aug 19 – GLEASON
Aug 26 – OUR LITTLE SISTER
Sept 2 – EQUITY
Sept 23 – THE HOLLARS

Beloved DARK HORSE Opens Friday at THE NEON! WEINER and MAN WHO KNEW INFINITY Continue!

By

dark-horse-poster-lgHello Everyone,

We had a great holiday weekend at THE NEON. Thanks to everyone who came out. Though critics had luke-warm reviews of OUR KIND OF TRAITOR, many of our regulars truly enjoyed the film. In addition, THE MAN WHO KNEW INFINITY had a couple sell-outs over the weekend – it’s a film that has incredible word-of-mouth business. And then there’s WEINER – a documentary like you’ve never seen before. We will keep all three films for another week, and we’ll add a brand new film into the mix – DARK HORSE. This delightful documentary is currently rated “97% Fresh” on rottentomatoes.

Synopsis for DARK HORSE: “Set in a former mining village in Wales, DARK HORSE is the inspirational true story of a group of friends from a working men’s club who decide to take on the elite ‘sport of kings’ and breed themselves a racehorse. Raised on a slagheap allotment, their foal grows into an unlikely champion, beating the finest thoroughbreds in the land, before suffering a near fatal accident. Nursed back to health by the love of his owners – for whom he’s become a source of inspiration and hope – he makes a remarkable recovery, returning to the track for a heart-stopping comeback.” (Taken from Sony Classics) Click this LINK to visit the film’s official website.

 

Many thanks for everyone who came out to see CLOSET MONSTER last week. Though it wasn’t a sell-out, audience response was fantastic.  And I’m happy to report that we raised over $650 to send to victims’ families of the Orlando nightclub tragedy.

PUSH Dayton has rented our space to bring a one-time screening of TRAPPED to THE NEON on Thur, Aug. 4 at 7:30. “On June 27, 2016, the Supreme Court ruled in Whole Woman’s Health v. Hellerstedt, that restrictions on abortion clinics in Texas posed an undue burden on women seeking abortions. TRAPPED, a documentary by Dawn Porter, follows the struggles of the clinic workers and lawyers who are on the front lines of a battle to keep abortion safe and legal for millions of American women. US. reproductive health clinics are fighting to remain open. Since 2010, 288 TRAP (Targeted Regulations of Abortion Providers) laws have been passed by conservative state legislatures. Unable to comply with these far-reaching and medically unnecessary measures, clinics have taken their fight to the courts. What do these restrictions mean for the women of the United States? Their doctors? What’s the collateral damage when legislation plays politics with women’s health? PUSH (Professionals United for Sexual Health) is a Dayton-based advocacy group that raises funding and awareness for Planned Parenthood Southwest Ohio.” Ticket details coming soon. Sponsored by Harmony Creek United Church of Christ, Drunk Think Tank, Blue Jacket Books, and Mark E. Owens, Dayton Clerk of Court.” Tickets are $5 each and are only available by clicking the official link above.

Local filmmaker Gino Pasi and his team are hosting a special screening of his new film on Thursday, August 11. “THE ARCHIVIST, a short-film written, produced, and directed by Pasi, tells the story of the brief and unusual relationship of Virginia Hirsch and Archie Vecchio, two people unable to forsake the past. The halcyon days of Virginia Hirsch’s youth are quickly fading no matter how hard she tries to hold on to them. For Archie Vechhio, history is much easier to navigate than the complicated present. When these two people meet, however, the past is buried and the present engaged. And both Virginia and Archie come to realize that living life to the fullest in the “here and now” means taking action – action that won’t come easy for either. Tickets available now at THE NEON’s box office or at the door the night of the showing for $5. One Time Only Public Showing! 9PM, Thursday, August 11, 2016.” (This film will screen earlier in the evening for invited guests.)

If you’re a FaceBook user and a fan of ABSOLUTELY FABULOUS, be sure to visit our FaceBook page…There’s a contest you’ll likely want to enter. (More AbFab contests to come!)

Next week, I will roll out our campaign to assist with installing brand new chairs at THE NEON. A handful of people have already mentioned that they’d like to help – and that makes me quite hopeful. If you’d like to become a “NEON Lumbar Supporter,” you’ll find out all about it in next week’s newsletter.

We hope to see you soon!
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Tuesday, July 5 – Thursday, July 14:

THE MAN WHO KNEW INFINITY (PG-13) 1 Hr 48 Min
Tuesday – Thursday (July 5-7): 3:00, 7:20
Friday, Saturday, Sunday (July 8-10): 3:00
Monday-Thursday (July 11-14): 5:15

WEINER (R) 1 Hr 36 Min
Tuesday – Thursday (July 5-7): 5:15
Friday, Saturday, Sunday (July 8-10): 5:00
Monday-Thursday (July 11-14): 5:20

OUR KIND OF TRAITOR (R) 1 Hr 47 Min
Tuesday – Thursday (July 5-7): 3:00, 5:20, 7:40
Friday & Saturday (July 8 & 9): 12:20, 2:40, 7:20, 9:40
Sunday (July 10): 12:20, 2:40, 7:20
Monday-Thursday (July 11-14): 3:00, 7:40

DARK HORSE (PG) 1 Hr 25 Min
Friday & Saturday (July 8 & 9): 12:50, 5:20, 7:30, 9:30
Sunday (July 10): 12:50, 5:20, 7:30
Monday-Thursday (July 11-14): 3:10, 7:30

COMING SOON:
(All Dates Are Tentative. Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear.)
July 15 – MUSIC OF STRANGERS
July 22 – ABSOLUTELY FABULOUS
July 29 – CAFE SOCIETY
TBD – CAPTAIN FANTASTIC
Aug 5 – HUNT FOR THE WILDERPEOPLE
Aug 12 – EAT THAT QUESTION
Aug 26 – OUR LITTLE SISTER
Sept 2 – EQUITY
Sept 23 – THE HOLLARS

Susan Sarandon in THE MEDDLER, SING STREET Continues + MADONNA at THE NEON!

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The_Meddler_-_PosterHello Everyone,

If you still need to see CITY OF GOLD, it won’t be at THE NEON much longer. It will only screen for one matinee per day over the weekend. On Friday, we will open a film that many of you will adore – THE MEDDLER – starring Susan Sarandon, Rose Byrne and a great supporting performance by J.K. Simmons. SING STREET is going to stick around for one more week! (If you’ve already seen this gem, please help us spread the word!)

Synopsis for THE MEDDLER: “With a new iPhone, an apartment near the Grove, and a comfortable bank account left to her by her beloved late husband, Marnie Minervini (Susan Sarandon) has happily relocated from New Jersey to LosAngeles to be near her daughter Lori (Rose Byrne), a successful (but still single) screenwriter, and smother her with motherly love. But when the dozens of texts, unexpected visits, and conversations dominated by unsolicited advice force Lori to draw strict personal boundaries, Marnie finds ways to channel her eternal optimism and forceful generosity to change the lives of others – as well as her own – and find a new purpose in life.” (Sony Pictures Classics) Click this LINK to visit the film’s official website.

I can hardly believe it, but the documentary TRUTH OR DARE is now 25 years old! Take a Holiday with Madonna and her entourage as we celebrate the film’s anniversary on the big screen…one of the great concert films of the past 30 years…and an incredibly important film to me when I first saw it at age 17! “This documentary chronicles Madonna’s controversial 1990 ‘Blonde Ambition’ international tour (which ROLLING STONE has recently called “the best concert tour of the 1990’s”). The film is a behind-the-scenes look at Madonna’s relationships with her dancers and crew, her then-boyfriend Warren Beatty, and her family and friends, achieving an intimate glimpse into the boundary-pushing singer’s drive and individuality.” Gene Siskel said it was “One of the best and most entertaining films of the year.” Come dressed as Madonna or wear your favorite Madonna T-shirt for discounts at the Concession Stand! Tickets are now on sale. TRUTH OR DARE will screen this Thursday, May 19 at 7:30 and Saturday, May 21 at 10pm.  Watch the original (“scandalous” albeit censored) trailer from 25 years ago:

“Massie Creek Paddlers and Tomfoolery Outdoors are pleased to announce the Dayton screening of THE REEL PADDLING FILM FESTIVAL WORLD TOUR. The festival is an international adventure film tour presenting the world’s best paddling films of the year – categories include: whitewater, sea kayaking, canoeing, SUP, action and lifestyle. Audiences will see hairy whitewater action, sea kayakers exploring remote coastlines, northern river canoe expeditions, international river travel films, motivating environmental documentaries, grueling kayak fishing battles and hilarious short films capturing the lighter side of paddling life. Join us on May 25 at 7:30 for the best paddling films of the year.” Tickets are $10 in advance and are only available at this LINK. If tickets remain on the day of the show, they will be $15 each and available at our box office one hour before showtime.

“LUNAFEST, a national festival of women’s films, comes to Dayton for the 7th time Sunday June 5 at 3:00 at THE NEON. The program features six award-winning short films that are international in scope, plus a short film by local filmmaker Aisha Ford. The films examine women’s stories told through the lens of women filmmakers in places ranging from Dayton, Ohio to the Philippines, Cuba and Iran. The diverse, thought-provoking stories for 2016 include challenges facing a woman boxer, a deaf woman dealing with cancer, the effects of drug addiction, raising a transgender child and more. Funds raised by this event will go to the Breast Cancer Fund and to Planned Parenthood Southwest Ohio Region. Tickets are $10.00 ($5.00 for students) and donations over this amount are gratefully accepted. The event is sponsored nationally by Luna and locally by Dayton Women’s Rights Alliance & the Dayton chapter of the American Association of University Women. Tickets can be purchased in advance at THE NEON.” (taken from press notes) To read about each of this year’s films, visit this LINK. And here’s a trailer for Aisha Ford’s film WREN:

https://vimeo.com/149449892

Eric Totel has partnered with Tugg to hopefully bring the film RANGE 15 to town on Wednesday, June 15 at 7:30. As of this posting, they still need to sell 17 tickets in order to make the screening a reality. Here’s a synopsis: “A group of veterans wake up after a night of partying to find out that the zombie apocalypse has spread across the United States. Together, they must fight their way across the country in order to find a cure for the outbreak and restore freedom before it’s too late.” To watch a trailer and/or secure your ticket, visit this screening’s OFFICIAL PAGE. (If not enough tickets are reserved, the screening will not take place and your card will never be charged.)

If you were at THE NEON this weekend, you’ve already seen a sample of the chairs we’re hoping to purchase and install this September. Because we’re not a non-profit, I don’t like to seek or accept donations…but for this big project, we are going to ask for some assistance. (Interestingly, a couple people have approached me over the past year and asked how they might be able to help us financially – this is the way!) This June, I’ll start a campaign to help us raise a bit of extra money in order to make our auditoriums more comfortable for everyone – finally including our guests in wheelchairs. Stay tuned for updates!

Next week, we will bring Whit Stillman’s LOVE & FRIENDSHIP to town. This film is based on the novella LADY SUSAN by Jane Austen, and it is currently rated “100% Fresh” on rottentomatoes.com – a score that almost never happens! We will have a special sneak preview screening of the film on Thursday, May 26.

Thanks for your continued support.

See you soon!
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Tuesday, May 17- Thursday, May 26:

KRISHA (R) 1 Hr 23 Min
Tuesday – Thursday (May 17-19): 5:15
FINAL DAY – May 19!

CITY OF GOLD (R) 1 Hr 36 Min
Tuesday & Wednesday (May 17 &18): 3:00, 7:15
Thursday (May 19): 3:00
Friday, Saturday, Sunday (May 20-22): 12:30
FINAL DAY – May 22!

SING STREET (PG-13) 1 Hr 46 Min
Monday – Thursday (May 16-19): 3:10, 5:30, 7:50
Friday (May 20): 2:50, 5:10, 7:20, 9:40
Saturday – Wednesday (May 21-25): 2:50, 5:10, 7:20
Thursday (May 26): 2:50, 5:10

MADONNA: TRUTH OR DARE (R) 2 Hrs
Thursday (May 19): 7:30
Saturday (May 21): 10:00

THE MEDDLER (PG-13) 1 Hr 40 Min
Friday & Saturday (May 20 & 21): 12:45, 3:00, 5:15, 7:30, 9:45
Sunday (May 22): 12:45, 3:00, 5:15, 7:30
Monday & Tuesday (May 23 & 24): 3:00, 5:15, 7:30
Wednesday (May 25): 3:00, 5:15
Thursday (May 26): 3:00, 5:15, 7:30

LOVE & FRIENDSHIP (PG) 1 Hr 32 Min
Thursday (May 26) – Preview Screening – 7:30

COMING SOON:
(All Dates Are Tentative. Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear.)
May 27 – LOVE & FRIENDSHIP
TBD – A BIGGER SPLASH
June 10 – MAGGIE’S PLAN
June 17 – DARK HORSE
TBD – HUNT FOR THE WILDERPEOPLE
TBD – SWISS ARMY MAN
TBD – CAPTAIN FANTASTIC
July 22 – ABSOLUTELY FABULOUS
July 29 – CAFE SOCIETY

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

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26004198166_ffa375b1b8_oHello Everyone,

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

New Michael Moore Film Now Playing at THE NEON!

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Where_to_Invade_Next-727341632-largeHello Everyone,

We just opened a documentary that is insightful, optimistic and terribly funny – Michael Moore’s WHERE TO INVADE NEXT. Knowing Moore’s work, you might look at the title and feel as though you already know where this film is going…but it’s actually quite a different tone (more below). In addition, we’re holding ANOMALISA as well as the OSCAR NOMINATED SHORTS (we’ve even brought back the documentaries for a few screenings). On February 19, we will open the new highly-anticipated Maggie Smith film – THE LADY IN THE VAN.

Synopsis for WHERE TO INVADE NEXT: “WHERE TO INVADE NEXT is an expansive, rib-tickling, and subversive comedy in which Moore, playing the role of ‘invader,’ visits a host of nations to learn how the U.S. could improve its own prospects. The creator of FAHRENHEIT 9/11 and BOWLING FOR COLUMBINE is back with this hilarious and eye-opening call to arms. Turns out the solutions to America’s most entrenched problems already existed in the world – they’re just waiting to be co-opted.” (taken from Drafthouse Films) Entertainment Weekly wrote, “Where to Invade Next is so heartfelt and sincere, it’s tempting to say that Moore’s mellowed with age. But beneath its innocent-abroad optimism, the film has a stinging truth that’s hard to ignore.” Click this LINK to visit the film’s official site.

Our friends at ThinkTV are helping us once again to get a signal for our Annual FREE Oscar Party! This year’s telecast will happen on Sunday, February 28, and Ballots (where you can predict the winners for awesome prizes) are now available in our lobby. Our friends at Square One Salon & Spa are once again donating a fantastic prize that will part of our Grand Prize – “The Star Treatment.” Keep tuning in for more details!

“The Junior Leaguers Club of Dayton will sponsor a screening of OPPOSITE FIELD on March 5, 2016 at Noon. This is the club’s fifth annual fundraiser at THE NEON, and this movie is a classic underdog sports story about an Ugandan Little League team. This documentary is inspiring and will have the audience displaying a wide range of emotions as the team makes history as the first African team hosted by the Little League World Series. This is a great film for adults and our youth. The funds raised will go into the Junior Leaguers Club scholarship fund. The tickets are $30 for adults (which include movie, glass of wine, glass of soda, and popcorn) and $15 for students (which include soda and popcorn). Tickets can be purchased at THE NEON. Guest speakers for this screening will be Mr. Ron Johnson, president First Dayton Little League and Mr. Keith Byars, former NFL professional player and a little league player in his youth.” (taken from press notes)

Due to the upcoming holiday, we will have later hours on Sunday and earlier hours on Monday. Please see all of our upcoming showtimes below.

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

SHOWTIMES for Saturday, Feb. 13 – Thursday, Feb. 18:

OSCAR NOMINATED SHORTS: ANIMATION (NR) 1 Hr 26 Min
Saturday, Sunday (Feb 13-14): 9:30
Monday (Feb 15): No Screening
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday (Feb 16-18): 3:15

OSCAR NOMINATED SHORTS: LIVE ACTION (NR) 1 Hr 47 Min
Friday – Thursday (Feb 12-18): 5:10

ANOMALISA (R) 1 Hr 30 Min
Saturday, Sunday, Monday (Feb 13-15): 12:00, 7:30
Tuesday (Feb 16): 7:30
Wednesday (Feb 17): No Screening
Thursday (Feb 18): 7:30

OSCAR NOMINATED SHORTS: DOCUMENTARY (NR) 2 Hr 44 Min
Saturday, Sunday, Monday (Feb 13-15): 1:50
Tuesday (Feb 16): No Screening
Wednesday (Feb 17): 7:30
Thursday (Feb 18): No Screening

WHERE TO INVADE NEXT (R) 1 Hr 59 Min
Saturday, Sunday (Feb 13 & 14): 11:50, 2:20, 4:50, 7:20, 9:50
Monday (Feb 15): 11:50, 2:20, 4:50, 7:20
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday (Feb 16-18): 2:50, 5:20, 7:45

COMING SOON:
(All Dates Are Tentative. Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear.)
Feb. 19 – LADY IN THE VAN (Maggie Smith – need we say more?)
Mar. 4 – JANIS: LITTLE GIRL BLUE
TBD – 45 YEARS (Oscar Nomination for Charlotte Rampling)
TBD – SON OF SAUL (Oscar Nominated “Best Foreign Film”)
March 25 – KNIGHT OF CUPS
April 1 – I SAW THE LIGHT
TBD – THE LOBSTER, DEMOLITION, THE BRONZE

BLANCHETT & REDFORD in TRUTH + Big Changes at THE NEON!

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f15d409ef0d2dd66517a60e998226f3b74edbf29Hello Everyone,

Cate Blanchett & Robert Redford! Need I say more? If you’re like me, you’re already invested! Tomorrow (Oct. 30) we open TRUTH – the new film starring these two incredible actors! (In the coming weeks, I’ll hopefully have more details for you about CAROL – the film with Blanchett I’ve been anticipating for more than a year.) If you still need to see EXPERIMENTER or COMING HOME, you’ll need to hurry. Today is the last day for both of these films at THE NEON. If you need showtimes for today, please visit our website – www.neonmovies.com Showtimes for the upcoming weekend/week are below.

I’ve recently had several people ask me why movies aren’t sticking around longer…customers are wondering why wonderful films (like COMING HOME and PHOENIX and MERU) are leaving after such short runs. Simply put, it almost always means films aren’t performing well. We haven’t had a hit in quite a while, and the independent industry is feeling this across the board. As I write this, distributors are frantically changing their distribution strategies for upcoming films – opening dates are shifting (some forward, some backward), and some titles may disappear entirely from our “Coming Soon” list. These date moves make it all the harder on small venues like THE NEON to effectively market upcoming engagements. I truly appreciate you keeping your eyes on this newsletter (and even our website and facebook) for the latest developments.

Synopsis for TRUTH: “On the morning of September 9, 2004, veteran CBS News producer MARY MAPES (Cate Blanchett) believed she had every reason to feel proud of a broadcast journalism job well done. By the end of the day, Mapes, CBS News, and the venerable CBS News anchor DAN RATHER (Robert Redford) would be under harsh scrutiny. The evening before, 60 Minutes II had aired an investigative report, produced by Mapes and reported on-air by Rather, that purported to reveal new evidence proving that President George W. Bush had possibly shirked his duty during his service as a Texas Air National Guard pilot from 1968 to 1974.” (taken from Sony Classics) Stephen Holden of THE NEW YORK TIMES wrote, “TRUTH is a gripping, beautifully executed journalistic thriller about the events that ended Dan Rather’s career as a CBS anchorman.” Click this LINK to visit the film’s official site.

Don’t forget that we’ve just opened MEET THE PATELS!
Synopsis for MEET THE PATELS: “A laugh-out-loud real life romantic comedy about Ravi Patel, an almost-30-year-old Indian-American who enters a love triangle between the woman of his dreams…and his parents. This hilarious and heartwarming film reveals how love is a family affair.” (taken from Alchemy Releasing) VARIETY calls the film “Sharp” and “Riotously funny.” Click this LINK to visit the film’s official site.

On Thursday, Nov. 5 at 7:30, Dayton native Tann Moore is bringing a selection of short films to town. “The Dayton Onyx Cinefest (D.O.C.) is a cinefest designed to broaden the horizons of local artists by bringing the culture of film to the African- American arts community and consumers of African-American entertainment in Dayton, Ohio. The fest’s goal is to encourage, educate and enhance the fine-arts related careers of emerging and established local filmmakers of color through a public exhibition and eventual competition program. The desire is to be instrumental in the process of discovering and launching independent films and filmmakers by bringing them to the attention of the public and broader industry. Additionally, attendees will have access to informational seminars and workshops covering a variety of topics including: independent film production, writing for independent film, and will have access to online tutorial programs designed to inform and educate local actors.” Tickets are $20 each and are available via the official site or at THE NEON’s Box Office.

On Sunday, November 15 at 3:00, The Dayton International Peace Museum will have a special screening of SEEKING THE TRUTH IN THE BALKANS. This screening is in commemoration of the 20th anniversary of the Dayton Peace Accords, and tickets will be on a first come first serve basis on the day of the screening for a requested minimum donations of $10. “In the 1990s, the former state of Yugoslavia devolved into chaos as various segments of the country declared independence, inflaming age-old ethnic tensions and the worst genocide to occur in Europe since World War II. During the midst of the conflict, the UN Security Council created the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY) to prosecute genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity. The ICTY was the first international criminal tribunal since Nuremberg. Now, 23 years later as the ICTY is wrapping up its cases, this prize-winning documentary explores the legacy of this landmark experiment in international law and asks if truth, peace, justice or reconciliation were attained by interviewing over 100 persons most impacted by the decisions of the Tribunal. The trailer for the film can be seen by clicking this LINK.

“Up And Running of Dayton has partnered with Trails in Motion to bring exciting films and documentaries about trail running to the Dayton Area on Wednesday, November 18 at 7:30. All proceeds from this event will go to Girls On The Run of Dayton. Each year, the TRAILS IN MOTION FILM TOUR brings a collection of the finest trail running films to passionate audiences around the world. Trails in Motion strives to present a varied montage of high quality film content from dynamic film makers in this genre, and also aims to develop a global community that brings together like minded trail runners and outdoor enthusiasts in a visual celebration of the sport. All hosted by people who love to share this ‘dirty art’ with their local running communities.” (taken from press notes) Tickets, just $12 each, are available at THE NEON’s box office, at Up And Running stores in Dayton and Troy or via this Speedy Feet LINK.

I’ve already had a handful of requests regarding this year’s holiday film selections. I will announce this year’s line-up in next week’s newsletter!

Thanks for your continued support!
Hope to see you soon,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Friday, Oct. 30 – Thursday, Nov. 5:

TRUTH (R) 2 Hr 5 Min
Friday & Saturday: 1:00, 4:00, 7:15, 9:45
Sunday: 1:00, 4:00, 7:15
Monday – Thursday: 2:45, 5:15, 7:45

MEET THE PATELS (PG) 1 Hr 18 Min
Friday & Saturday: 1:10, 3:10, 5:15, 7:20, 9:30
Sunday: 1:10, 3:10, 5:15, 7:20
Monday – Wednesday: 3:10, 5:15, 7:20
Thursday: 3:10, 5:15

DAYTON ONYX CINEFEST (NR)
Thursday: 7:30

COMING SOON:
(All Dates Are Tentative. Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear.)
Nov. 6 – LABYRINTH OF LIES
Nov. 13 – SUFFRAGETTE
Nov. 25 – BROOKLYN
TBD – ROOM
Possible Titles: SPOTLIGHT, THE DANISH GIRL, CAROL, TRUMBO, YOUTH

TIFF 2015 – Day #7

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room_posterHello Everyone.

Today was a rough start.  One of the boys at IndieWire threw a little party last night, and I got in very, very late…so getting out of bed at 6:30 was a challenge.  But I made it…and managed to squeeze in a nice nap mid day. So everything worked out fine.

First off, I saw THE MAN WHO KNEW INFINITY, directed by Matthew Brown.  This is a film about an Indian mathematician whose theories revolutionized his field…and the his hardships in having them heard due to racial tensions in England.  The movie stars Dev Patel and Jeremy Irons, and this is certainly Patel’s most subtle and best role since SLUMDOG. Though I found some material a little hokey, it’s ultimately a solid period piece that will be a crowd-pleaser. (There is not yet a trailer for this film.)

the-man-who-knew-infinity

ROOM, directed by L Abrahamson is fantastic.  This is the story of a young woman and her son who are being held captive in a small garden shack.  The little boy turns 5 early in the film, and the “Room,” his mother and the man who visits regularly (their captor) are the only things the boy knows of the world.  Though they have television, he’s been raised to believe that everything there is make-believe.  I had quite a response to this film.  My entire body was trembling during the scene when the boy’s mother created a plan for the boy to escape.  I haven’t had this type of bodily response to a film in a long, long time.  (I’m not going to tell you anything more about the plot.  Just trust me…it’s great.)

I SMILE BACK, directed by Adam Salky, was next on the list.  Sarah Silverman is getting a lot of praise for this brave, raw performance – and it’s well-deserved.  This is the story of a married mother of two who is battling mental illness and substance abuse.  It’s a gritty film, and the story is actually simple.  Though performances are strong across the board, and I think the film is well done, there was something keeping me from really connecting.

My final film of the day was MISS SHARON JONES!, directed by Barbara Kopple.  This documentary is about the legendary singer and her battle with Cancer.  Kopple is one of a handful of directors who had a film premiere at the very first Toronto Film Fest (then known as “The Festival of Festivals”) – the film was HARLAN COUNTY, USA, and it went on to win the Academy Award.  This film is full of great music and Jones’ soaring spirit.  During industry screenings, audience response is quite minimal…this one was followed by a nice round of applause.  (I’ll soon be acquiring some Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings music.)

USA - MUSIC - Sharon Jones

I no longer have to get in line super early, so I get to sleep in until 7:45 tomorrow.   I’m looking forward to that extra sleep.

Thanks for reading,

Jonathan

 

DIARY OF A TEENAGE GIRL & Important Parking News at THE NEON

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https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=teenage+girl+trailer+sony+classics
Hello Everyone.

A new, wonderful film that has garnered amazing critical response is now playing at THE NEON – THE DIARY OF A TEENAGE GIRL. In addition, we are holding the incredible film with Jason Segel – THE END OF THE TOUR as well as our biggest hit of 2015 – MR. HOLMES. To read more about our held-over titles, please visit our website at www.neonmovies.com.

Synopsis for THE DIARY OF A TEENAGE GIRL: “Like most teenage girls, Minnie Goetze (Bel Powley) is longing for love, acceptance and a sense of purpose in the world. Minnie begins a complex love affair with her mother’s (Kristen Wiig) boyfriend, “the handsomest man in the world,” Monroe (Alexander Skarsgard). What follows is a sharp, funny and provocative account of one girl’s sexual and artistic awakening, without judgment.” (taken from Sony Classics) Given 100% reviews from The New York Times, The Los Angeles Times, Washington Post and many more. Entertainment Weekly wrote, “…there are moments you’ll ache for Minnie and other ones where you’ll want to lock her away – it rings much truer than most coming-of-age stories.” Peter Travers of Rolling Stone wrote, “Powley is sensational, expertly blending hilarity and heartbreak. Her scenes with Wiig, sublime in her hard-won gravity, are unique and unforgettable. Just like the movie.” Click this LINK to visit the film’s official website.

The Deaf Community Resource Center is bringing a special, one-time screening of THE DEAF CLUB to town on Thursday, Sept. 24 at 7:30. This movie is completely done in sign language (though subtitles are available for those who don’t sign). “Deaf people have it all – friends, romance, fights, etc. – at their own club, where everyone uses sign language. Suddenly, the members face a situation where their precious club may have to close. Can they save the deaf club? Almost the entire production team is deaf or hard of hearing.” (taken from press notes) Tickets, just $10 each, will be available at THE NEON’s box office beginning Monday, Aug 24.

On Saturday, September 26 at Noon, Twentig, Inc. will host a special benefit screening and discussion of the film BELLE.” BELLE is a historical fictionalization of a true story about Dido Elizabeth Belle who was born of mixed race in the West Indies. She lived with her great uncle William Murray, the first Earl of Mansfield, Lord Chief Justice of England. Lord Mansfield’s decision on a case in 1786 in the English Courts led to the abolition of slavery in Britain. The film was inspired by the 1779 painting of Belle beside her cousin Lady Elizabeth Murray at Kenwood House.” (taken from press notes) Tickets are $30 each and come with admission to the film, the post-film discussion, a glass of wine and popcorn.

As many of you have noticed, we now share our parking lot with Drake’s Gym (a boxing and CrossFit gym now located in the former Greyhound building). This Saturday, the gym is hosting a big fundraising boxing match in our shared parking lot. This means that parking will not be available in that lot all day on Saturday. Please remember that we do validate for the Convention Center Parking Lot on Saturdays…so give yourselves a little extra time to find parking if you’re coming to see a film on Saturday afternoon/evening.

Thanks for your continued support.
We hope to see you this weekend!
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Friday, August 28 – Thursday, September 3:

THE END OF THE TOUR (R) 1 Hr 46 Min
Friday, Saturday: 2:30, 7:15, 9:40
Sunday: 2:30, 7:15
Monday – Thursday: 2:45, 7:40

MR. HOLMES (PG) 1 Hr 45 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:15, 4:50
Monday – Thursday: 5:15

THE DIARY OF A TEENAGE GIRL (R) 1 Hr 42 Min
Friday, Saturday: 12:20, 2:40, 5:00, 7:20, 9:40
Sunday: 12:20, 2:40, 5:00, 7:20
Monday – Thursday: 3:00, 5:20, 7:40

COMING SOON:
(All Dates Are Tentative. Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear.)
Sept. 4 – MISTRESS AMERICA
Sept. 11 – MERU
Sept. 18 – LEARNING TO DRIVE
Sept. 25 – GRANDMA
Oct. 2 – PHOENIX
TBD – JIMMY’S HALL

Jack Black, James Marsden & Elaine Paige – See New Films at THE NEON

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The-D-Train-Poster-691x1024-600x889Hello Everyone,

Today we opened the Sundance hit THE D TRAIN – a new comedy starring Jack Black and James Marsden. On Wednesday, May 13, we will have a one-night-only screening of I’M STILL HERE: ELAINE PAIGE.  In addition, this week we’re holding onto my favorite comedy in a long, long time – WHILE WE’RE YOUNG (starring Ben Stiller and Naomi Watts) and got the last two films for this year’s DAYTON JEWISH FILM FESTIVAL. GREY GARDENS (the original) starts next Friday!

Synopsis for THE D TRAIN: “All his life, Dan Landsman (Jack Black) has never been the cool guy. That’s about to change – if he can convince Oliver Lawless (James Marsden), the most popular guy from his high school who’s now the face of a national Banana Boat ad campaign, to show up with him to their class reunion. A man on a mission, Dan travels from Pittsburgh to LA and spins a web of lies to recruit Lawless. But he gets more than he bargains for as the unpredictable Lawless proceeds to take over his home, career, and entire life.” (IFC Films) Click this LINK to visit the film’s official site.

THE DAYTON JEWISH INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL has a terrific line-up this year, and it is already at the half-way point. Here’s a list of remaining screenings at THE NEON:
Tue, May 12 at 7:15 – FOR A WOMAN
Thu, May 14 at 7:15 – RUN BOY RUN
The official website for the festival has lots more details. You can read about all the films, watch trailers and discover all that the festival has to offer. Check it out by visiting this LINK.

On Wednesday, May 13 at 7:30, we will have a one-time screening of I’M STILL HERE – ELAINE PAIGE AT THE ROYAL ALBERT HALL. Tickets are just now starting to move! “The incomparable Elaine Paige brings her sell-out Farewell Concert from the Royal Albert Hall to the big screen accompanied by a live orchestra featuring special guests. Filmed for cinema, the concert features the BBC Concert Orchestra, with Elaine performing the highlights of her extraordinary 50 year career, including “Memory,” “I Know Him so Well” and “As If We Never Said Goodbye.” The evening will finish with special footage including a Q&A and more intimate performance with special guests recently captured in London.” (taken from press notes) General Admission tickets just $12. Senior tickets just $10. Tickets for this event can be purchased on-line via this LINK. They are also available at our box office (without the surcharge).

“Stivers School for the Arts-Film & Animation Studio Presents THE SHOWCASE. This compilation of short films includes live action & animation and ranges from comedy to documentary. Some of these films have already won regional and state awards. Following the show, there will be a Q & A with the student filmmakers. All proceeds go towards updating equipment in the Stivers Film and Animation studio. The Showcase runs one night only – Wednesday, May 20th at 7:30pm. Tickets are$5.00 in advance and $7.00 on the day of the event.. Tickets are now available at THE NEON’s box office and Stivers School for the Arts. Please join us for an evening of entertainment as we celebrate this next generation of filmmakers.” (taken from press release)

On Tuesday, May 26 at 7:30, T.J.’s Place of Hope will host a screening of I AM A GIRL. This film is “an inspirational feature length documentary that paints a clear picture of the reality of what it means to be a girl in the 21st century. Feminism may have promised equality and sought a better and fairer world for women but the reality is that girls make up almost a quarter of the world’s population yet still face the greatest discrimination of any group in the world. Technology and science offer unimaginable potential but we still struggle to ensure men and women are afforded equal opportunities. Yet in spite of these obstacles, girls have found extraordinary ways to persevere and in our documentary we hear their stories of strength, hope, courage and a refusal to be second best.” (taken from Gathr press notes) Advanced tickets are $10 each and must be purchased on Gathr’s website. If tickets remain on the day of the event, they will be available at our box office one hour before the screening. Click this LINK to visit the site and purchase your ticket.

Next Friday, we will begin limited screenings of the newly restored, 40th Anniversary edition of GREY GARDENS – one of my favorite documentaries of all time. I’ve heard people in our lobby say “I saw that on HBO, why are they playing it?” This isn’t the made for HBO narrative film starring Drew Barrymore & Jessica Lang, this is the original documentary on which that film was based. This film has been the basis for numerous books, the HBO film and even a Broadway musical. You’ll not want to miss the opportunity to see this classic film on a big screen!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ijPIfZt72vc

Thanks for your continued support.
See you soon,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Friday, May 8 – Thursday, May 14:

THE D TRAIN (R) 1 Hr 37 Min
Friday & Saturday: 12:40, 3:00, 5:15, 7:30, 9:45
Sunday: 12:40, 3:00, 5:15, 7:30
Monday – Wednesday: 2:50, 5:10, 7:30
Thursday: 2:50, 5:10

WHILE WE’RE YOUNG (R) 1 Hr 37 Min
Friday, Saturday: 12:00, 2:20, 4:50, 7:20, 9:40
Sunday: 12:00, 2:20, 4:50, 7:20
Monday: 3:00, 5:15, 7:30
Tuesday & Wednesday: 3:00, 5:15
Thursday: 3:00, 5:15, 7:30

DAYTON JEWISH FILM FESTIVAL
(see list above for specific titles)
Tuesday: 7:15
Thursday: 7:15

I’M STILL HERE: ELAINE PAIGE (NR) 2 Hrs
Wednesday: 7:30

COMING SOON:
(All Dates Are Tentative. Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear.)
May 15: GREY GARDENS
May 22 – FAR FROM THE MADDING CROWD
TBD – CLOUDS OF SILS MARIA
IRIS
SUNSHINE SUPERMAN
SALT OF THE EARTH
LAMBERT & STAMP
SAINT LAURENT
ALOFT
Early July – ME AND EARL AND THE DYING GIRL

EX MACHINA Opens Friday & Jewish Film Fest Starts This Weekend at THE NEON!

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ex-machina-poster-v01Hello Everyone,

If you still need to see WOMAN IN GOLD, a film that many of our regulars are absolutely loving, you only have until Thursday to see it at THE NEON. On Friday, we will open a new sci-fi film about artificial intelligence – one that seems all the more scary after having heard a story about a similar subject on NPR. EX MACHINA has been garnering rave reviews, and it certainly looks sophisticated and thought provoking…it also holds the record for the biggest opening of 2015 in larger markets. We have our fingers crossed that Dayton audiences are interested! TRUE STORY will stick around for another week, and WHILE WE’RE YOUNG will open on May 1. For this week’s remaining showtimes (they’re different than the upcoming week – which are listed below), please visit our website at www.neonmovies.com

Synopsis for EX MACHINA: “Alex Garland, writer of 28 Days Later and Sunshine, makes his directorial debut with the stylish and cerebral thriller, EX MACHINA. Caleb Smith, a programmer at an internet-search giant, wins a competition to spend a week at the private mountain estate of the company’s brilliant and reclusive CEO, Nathan Bateman (Oscar Isaac). Upon his arrival, Caleb learns that Nathan has chosen him to be the human component in a Turing Test-charging him with evaluating the capabilities, and ultimately the consciousness, of Nathan’s latest experiment in artificial intelligence. That experiment is Ava, a breathtaking A.I. whose emotional intelligence proves more sophisticated – and more deceptive – than the two men could have imagined.” (A24) Click this LINK to visit the film’s official site.

THE DAYTON JEWISH INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL has grown considerably over the years, and the line-up is always terrific. Screenings at THE NEON begin this Sunday:
Sun, April 26 at 3:10 – 70 HESTER STREET & THE STURGEON QUEENS.
Sun, April 26 at 5:00 – ZAYTOUN.
Tue, April 28 at 10am – THE OUTRAGEOUS SOPHIE TUCKER.
Tue, April 28 at 7:15 – 24 DAYS.
Wed, May 6 at 7:15 – DANCING IN JAFFA.
Tue, May 12 at 7:15 – FOR A WOMAN.
Thu, May 14 at 7:15 – RUN BOY RUN.
The official website for the festival is now up and running! You can read about all the films, watch trailers and discover all that the festival has to offer. Check it out by visiting this LINK.

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

On Wednesday, May 13 at 7:30, we will have a one-time screening of I’M STILL HERE – ELAINE PAIGE AT THE ROYAL ALBERT HALL. “The incomparable Elaine Paige brings her sell-out Farewell Concert from the Royal Albert Hall to the big screen accompanied by a live orchestra featuring special guests. Filmed for cinema, the concert features the BBC Concert Orchestra, with Elaine performing the highlights of her extraordinary 50 year career, including “Memory,” “I Know Him so Well” and “As If We Never Said Goodbye.” The evening will finish with special footage including a Q&A and more intimate performance with special guests recently captured in London.” (taken from press notes) General Admission tickets just $12. Senior tickets just $10. Tickets for this event can be purchased on-line via this LINK. They are also available at our box office (without the surcharge).

“Stivers School for the Arts-Film & Animation Studio Presents THE SHOWCASE. This compilation of short films includes live action & animation and ranges from comedy to documentary. Some of these films have already won regional and state awards. Following the show, there will be a Q & A with the student filmmakers. All proceeds go towards updating equipment in the Stivers Film and Animation studio. The Showcase runs one night only – Wednesday, May 20th at 7:30pm. Tickets are$5.00 in advance and $7.00 on the day of the event.. Tickets will soon be available at THE NEON’s box office and Stivers School for the Arts. Please join us for an evening of entertainment as we celebrate this next generation of filmmakers.” (taken from press release)

Thanks for your continued support.

See you soon,

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Friday, April 24 – Thursday, April 30:

EX MACHINA (R) 1 Hr 48 Min
Friday, Saturday: 12:10, 2:30, 5:00, 7:30, 9:50
Sunday: 12:10, 2:30, 5:30, 7:30
Monday – Thursday: 2:55, 5:15, 7:40

TRUE STORY (R) 1 Hr 40 Min
Friday, Saturday: 12:00, 2:20, 4:50, 7:20, 9:45
Sunday: 12:00, 7:30
Monday: 2:40, 5:10, 7:30
Tuesday: 2:40, 5:10
Wednesday & Thursday: 2:40, 5:10, 7:30

DAYTON JEWISH FILM FESTIVAL
(see list above for specific titles)
Sunday: 3:10, 5:00
Tuesday: 10am, 7:15

COMING SOON:
(All Dates Are Tentative. Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear.)
May 1 – WHILE WE’RE YOUNG
TBD- RED ARMY
TBD – MERCHANTS OF DOUBT
TBD – GREY GARDENS
TBD – ’71
May 22 – FAR FROM THE MADDING CROWD
TBD – ME AND EARL AND THE DYING GIRL

WOMAN IN GOLD Opens Friday at THE NEON!

By

woman_in_gold_ver3_xlgHello Everyone,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thanks for your continued support.

See you soon,
Jonathan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By

mommy_ver2Hello Everyone,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thanks for your continued support.
Jonathan

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

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

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

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

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

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

April 3 – WILD TALES

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

Golden Globe Winner LEVIATHAN Opens March 20th at THE NEON!

By

leviathan_poster1Hello Everyone,

Even though WHAT WE DO IN THE SHADOWS and THE SECOND BEST EXOTIC MARIGOLD HOTEL are performing well enough to stick around, we’re still going to throw something new into the mix for a handful of screenings. LEVIATHAN is one of the best reviewed films we’ve shown in a long time, and it was the winner of this year’s Golden Globe for “Best Foreign Language Film.” For this week’s remaining showtimes (they’re different than the upcoming week – which are listed below), please visit our website at www.neonmovies.com

 

Synopsis for LEVIATHAN: “Kolia lives in a small town near the Barents Sea in North Russia. He has his own auto-repair shop. His shop stands right next to the house where he lives with his young wife Lilya and his son from a previous marriage. Vadim Shelevyat, the Mayor of the town, wants to take away Kolia’s business, his house and his land. First he tries buying off Kolia, but Kolia cannot stand losing everything he has, not only the land, but also all the beauty that has surrounded him from the day of his birth. So Vadim Shelevyat starts being more aggressive.” (taken from Sony Classics) Click this LINK to visit the film’s official site.

Last weekend’s special screening of TWO HEARTS AS ONE was a huge, sold-out success – puncuated with a big round of applause. Because of the demand for tickets, The Turkish American Society of Dayton has added another screening this Sunday at 3:00. Tickets are $10 each and can be purchased now at our box office. “This powerful film – one of the most expensive productions in Turkish film history – is based on a true story. Starting in 1940’s Soviet Russia, and continuing into 1990’s, this is the story of four hearts which couldn’t be stopped by distances and years. …Presented in Turkish, with English subtitles.” (Taken from press notes) Check out the trailer below. The film is lovely!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=154LpFZZBnI

Don’t forget that THE REEL PADDING FILM FESTIVAL is just a couple days away – this Thursday at 7:30. Click the official link or visit our box office to get your advanced tickets. (And I just got the inside scoop. Attendees over 21 will be treated to a free beer!)

On Wednesday, March 25, The Alumni Chair in Humanities at UD will present special screenings of Stanley Kubrick’s classic film PATHS OF GLORY – starring Kirk Douglas. Dr. Tony Smith will introduce the award-winning film, and the screenings are free for UD faculty, staff and students. Tickets for the general public are available for a suggested donation of $5. Seating will be on a first come, first serve basis. The movie will screen at 7:30 and 9:30. The presentation of this film is part of the World War I cohort project at UD.

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

Thanks for your continued support.
See you soon,

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Friday, Mar. 20 – Thursday, Mar. 26:

THE SECOND BEST EXOTIC MARIGOLD HOTEL (PG) 2 Hr 2 Min
Friday, Saturday: 11:10, 1:40, 4:15, 6:50, 9:20
Sunday: 12:15, 5:30, 7:50
Monday & Tuesday: 2:40, 5:10, 7:40
Wednesday: 2:40, 5:10
Thursday: 2:40, 5:10, 7:40

WHAT WE DO IN THE SHADOWS (NR) 1 Hr 26 Min
Friday, Saturday: 12:10, 2:20 7:20, 9:30
Sunday: 12:10, 2:20 7:20
Monday – Thursday: 3:15, 8:00

LEVIATHAN (R) 2 Hr 20 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 4:30
Monday – Thursday: 5:15

TWO HEARTS AS ONE (NR) 2 Hr 6 Min
Sunday: 3:00

PATHS OF GLORY (NR) 1 Hr 28 Min
Wednesday: 7:30, 9:30

COMING SOON:

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

March 27 – IT FOLLOWS
April 1 – WOMAN IN GOLD
April 10 – WHILE WE’RE YOUNG
April ? – RED ARMY
April ? – MOMMY
April ? – WILD TALES
TBD – GREY GARDENS
TBD – WILD TALES
TBD – ’71
TBD – TRUE STORY
TBD – FAR FROM THE MADDENING CROWD

WHAT WE DO IN THE SHADOWS – From FLIGHT OF CONCHORDS Creators – Opens Friday!

By

What-We-Do-in-the-Shadows-1Hello Everyone,

If you still need to see MR. TURNER or STILL ALICE, you’ll need to hurry. Thursday will be the last chance to catch them at THE NEON. (For this week’s showtimes, please visit our website at www.neonmovies.com.) Of course we’ll certainly be holding onto THE SECOND BEST EXOTIC MARIGOLD HOTEL! Many thanks to all of you who came out to support this film during opening weekend. We had the best results in town, and we couldn’t do it without such a great, loyal following. Thank you!

On Friday, we will open a new comedy that’s in the same “vein” as SPINAL TAP and BEST IN SHOW. It’s an award-winning vampire mockumentary called WHAT WE DO IN THE SHADOWS, and critics and audiences alike have been loving it.

Synopsis for WHAT WE DO IN THE SHADOWS: “WHAT WE DO IN THE SHADOWS chronicles the adventures of four vampire roommates trying to get by in a modern world that’s not always hospitable to the undead. Clement and Waititi, creators of the HBO hit series “Flight of the Conchords,” co-wrote, co-directed, and co-star in this hilarious send-up in which an endearingly unhip quartet of friends reveal to us or, rather, to the documentary crew that’s filming them, the details of their daily-make that nightly-routine. Ranging in age from 183 to 8,000, and in appearance from adorably youthful to Nosferatu-crusty, they squabble over household chores, struggle to keep up with the latest trends in technology and fashion, antagonize the local werewolves, cruise clubs for lovely ladies, and deal with the rigors of living on a very, very strict diet.” (taken from Paladin) Click this LINK to visit the film’s official site.

“This Sunday at 3:00, The Turkish American Society is proud to present a special, one-time screening of director Hasan Kiraç’s TWO HEARTS AS ONE (Birlesen Gönüller). This powerful film – one of the most expensive productions in Turkish film history – is based on a true story. Starting in 1940’s Soviet Russia, and continuing into 1990’s, this is the story of four hearts which couldn’t be stopped by distances and years. Newlyweds Niyaz and Cennet are forced to separate when war rears a violent and chaotic head. Niyaz is taken to Red Army to fight on the Soviet side, while Cennet is sent to a camp when the Nazis took over their village…Woven into the narrative is the story of Yunus and Dilek, a loving couple from Turkey who leave for Almaty, then the capital of Kazakhstan, in the 1990’s. Ambitious Yunus is planning to build a school, but he has no resources at all. His wife Dilek sympathizes and supports him, but their enduring poverty wears her patience and resolve – until a chance encounter provides some much-needed perspective. Tickets for this special event are $10 and are now available at THE NEON’s box office. Presented in Turkish, with English subtitles.” (Taken from press notes) Check out the trailer. It looks lovely! Tickets are going quickly!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=154LpFZZBnI

“Tomfoolery Outdoors and the Massie Creek Paddlers have partnered to bring the best paddling films of the year to Dayton on Thursday, March 19 at 7:30. Tickets are $10 in advance and $15 at the door the day of the screening. Rapid Media’s 10th annual Reel Paddling Film Festival showcases the world’s best paddling films to audiences in Canada, United States and around the world. The festival inspires more people to explore rivers, lakes and oceans, push physical and emotional extremes, embrace the lifestyle and appreciate the heritage of the wild places we paddle. Locally, we are giving a percentage of the proceedsOhio’s Great Corridor Association. Learn how you can love, play and stay on the Great Miami River at www.ohiosgreatcorridor.com. THE REEL PADDING FILM FESTIVAL is a film contest awarding winning films in 10 categories. The winners and other shortlisted films are then toured to more than 100 cities around the world, screening for an audience of more than 30,000 outdoor adventure enthusiasts and their friends and families.” Click the official LINK or visit our box office to get your advanced tickets. Evening sponsors include Mudlick Tap House, Global Water Consortium and City of Dayton Water.

UD NIGHT AT THE NEON! On Wednesday, March 25, The Alumni Chair in Humanities at UD will present special screenings of Stanley Kubrick’s classic film PATHS OF GLORY – starring Kirk Douglas. Dr. Tony Smith will introduce the award-winning film, and the screenings are free for UD faculty, staff and students. Tickets for the general public are available for a suggested donation of $5. Seating will be on a first come, first serve basis. The movie will screen at 7:30 and 9:30. The presentation of this film is part of the World War I cohort project at UD.

Thanks for your continued support.
See you soon,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Friday, Mar. 13 – Thursday, Mar. 19:

THE SECOND BEST EXOTIC MARIGOLD HOTEL (PG) 2 Hr 2 Min
Friday, Saturday: 11:10, 1:40, 4:20, 7:00, 9:30
Sunday: 11:10, 1:40, 4:20, 7:00
Monday – Wednesday: 12:00, 2:30, 5:10, 7:40
Thursday: 12:00, 2:30, 5:10

WHAT WE DO IN THE SHADOWS (NR) 1 Hr 26 Min
Friday, Saturday: 11:10, 1:10, 3:10, 5:20, 7:30, 9:40
Sunday: 11:10, 1:10, 5:30, 7:30
Monday – Thursday: 1:00, 3:10, 5:20, 7:30

TWO HEARTS AS ONE (NR) 2 Hr 6 Min
Sunday: 3:00

REEL PADDLING FILM FESTIVAL (NR) 2 Hr 30 Min
Thursday: 7:30

COMING SOON:

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

March ? – LEVIATHAN
March ? – RED ARMY
April 3 – WOMAN IN GOLD
TBD – MOMMY
March ? – WILD TALES
TBD – GREY GARDENS