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BLUE VALENTINE & Oscar News at THE NEON

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Hello Everyone.

As predicted, MADE IN DAGENHAM only had enough business to stick around for one week…that’s not to say that audiences didn’t love the film – they did. If you still want to catch it, today (1/27) will be its last day. On Friday, we will open the much-anticipated film BLUE VALENTINE – a huge hit at Sundance, Cannes, Toronto and more. Numerous critics have given the film a 100% review, and Michelle Williams just earned an Oscar nomination for her performance.

Speaking of Oscar nominations…NEON titles popped up in several categories. THE KING’S SPEECH, nominated for 12 Academy Awards, is sticking around for another week. Here’s a look at other NEON titles that were recognized:
WINTER’S BONE, THE KIDS ARE ALL RIGHT, 127 HOURS, BLACK SWAN, BLUE VALENTINE, INSIDE JOB, I AM LOVE, ANIMAL KINGDOM, and RESTREPO.
The following films were also nominated…and are booked for the coming weeks:
ANOTHER YEAR, BIUTIFUL, RABBIT HOLE, THE ILLUSIONIST, IN A BETTER WORLD, and BARNEY’S VERSION. (more will likely come)
Details about our annual FREE Oscar Party will be available soon! Hold the date for Sunday, February 27!

Synopsis for BLUE VALENTINE: “BLUE VALENTINE is a story of love found and love lost told in past and present moments in time. Flooded with romantic memories of their courtship, Dean and Cindy use one night to try and save their failing marriage. Ryan Gosling and Michelle Williams star in this honest portrait of a relationship on the rocks.”  Visit the official website by clicking this LINK.

On Thursday, February 3 at 7:15, come to THE NEON for PK Night Dayton, Volume 6. PechaKucha Night was devised in Tokyo in 2003 as an event where people meet, network, and share their creative endeavors with a lively audience. PK Nights are now held in hundreds of cities, inspiring creative people worldwide. The name comes from the Japanese term for the sound of “chit chat”, and rests on a presentation format that is based on a simple idea: 20 images x 20 seconds. It’s a format that makes presentations concise, and keeps things moving at a rapid pace. PechaKucha Night Dayton is on its sixth volume, with presentations from Samantha Enslen, Reade Faulkner, Theresa Gasper, Sherif Hedayat, Sharon Howard, Brandy King, Jay King, and Chris Wire. Following the presenations, stick around for a screening of the thought-provoking and motivating documentary DIVE! Grocery stores around the country are filling their dumpsters with food. Not rotten, spoiled food, but billions of pounds of good, edible food. Follow filmmaker Jeremy Seifert and his circle of friends as they dumpster dive in the back alleys and gated garbage receptacles of L.A.’s supermarkets. In the process, they uncover thousands of dollars worth of good food and an ugly truth about waste in America: grocery stores know they are wasting and most refuse to do anything about it. The cost for this entire event is $5. Presentations start at 7:15 and DIVE! starts at 9:00.

Here’s something special and new for us:
Regional premiere!
Here With Me: Christian Duhamel LIVE in Concert!
Grab a drink at The Neon Bar and join singer/composer Christian Duhamel for an evening of LIVE song and story. Guest artists will contribute their voices to his original music as they bring a new kind of “show time” to THE NEON. One night only! February 8th @ 9:30pm.
Details are still developing, so stay tuned for more information in next week’s newsletter!

BLUE VALENTINE is a true indie. Made with passion and a very modest budget – it took eleven years to go from page to the screen.  Please spread the word to support this indie at a true indie cinema – THE NEON with the best ticket and concession prices in town…not to mention a great beer selection.

Hope to see you soon,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for January 28 – February 3:

BLUE VALENTINE (R) 1 Hr 52 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:15, 2:30, 4:50, 7:20, 9:40
Monday – Thursday: 2:30, 4:50, 7:20, 9:40

THE KING’S SPEECH (R) 1 Hr 58 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:10, 2:30, 5:00, 7:30, 9:50
Monday – Wednesday: 2:30, 5:00, 7:30, 9:50
Thursday: 2:30, 5:00

PK NIGHT DAYTON, Volume 6 (NR)
Thursday: 7:15

COMING SOON:
As always, all dates are tentative.
Due to Oscar Season, we know that many of these dates will change.
In some cases, titles may disappear.

Feb. 4 ANOTHER YEAR
Feb. 11 I LOVE YOU PHILLIP MORRIS
Feb. 18 BARNEY’S VERSION
TBD: RABBIT HOLE, BIUTIFUL, SOMEWHERE
TINY FURNITURE & THE ILLUSIONIST

THE NEON – MADE IN DAGENHAM Set For One Week Only!

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Hello Everyone.

It’s time for us to move along. Today (1/20/2011) will be our last day for BLACK SWAN, and MADE IN DAGENHAM – starring the enchanting Sally Hawkins – will start tomorrow (1/21/2011). That said, you’ll have to move fast if you want to see DAGENHAM…we only plan to have the film for one week…that’s because BLUE VALENTINE is set to open on January 28.

Synopsis for MADE IN DAGENHAM: “Based on a true story, MADE IN DAGENHAM portrays a decisive moment in that decade of upheaval, when the fight for equal rights and pay was led – unexpectedly – by ordinary working-class women with one foot in the kitchen , one foot on the factory floor, and ears glued to the pop coming over the radio and telly from far-off London (19 kilometers and a world away). It’s a vintage “girl-power” tale.” (Sony Pictures Classics) Una LaMarche of The New York Observer writes, “Made in Dagenham is a retro romp with heart, smarts, soul and wit that will restore your faith in the power of the picket line. Peter Travers of Rolling Stone writes, “Sally Hawkins is just plain irresistible in this funny, touching and vital salute to women in the work force.”
Check out this incredible supporting cast…Bob Hoskins, Miranda Richardson and Rosamund Pike!  Visit the official site by clicking this LINK.

In the next couple weeks, we have a few special events (I’m waiting on a description of a ski movie set for early February). In each case, THE NEON has been rented by a person or an organization. Ticket prices are then set by that lessee in accordance with their mission. Here are details that are ready for the press:

“RIDE THE DIVIDE, which was named best adventure film at the 2010 Vail Film Festival, is an inspiring journey about the world’s toughest mountain bike race, which traverses over 2,700 miles along the Continental Divide in the Rocky Mountains. The film weaves the story of the three characters’ experiences with immense mountain beauty and small-town culture as they attempt to ride from Banff, Canada, to a small, dusty crossing on the Mexican border. The tests of endurance and the accomplished moments throughout Ride the Divide prompt us to reflect on our inner desires to live life to the fullest.” The film will play One Night Only – Wednesday, January 26 at 7:30.
Advanced tickets – ($10 each + $1 processing) are only available by visiting this LINK.
Tickets the day of the show will be available at the door for $15 each.
The official site of the film can be found atwww.ridethedivide.com.

On Thursday, February 3 at 7:15, come to THE NEON for PK Night Dayton, Volume 6. PechaKucha Night was devised in Tokyo in 2003 as an event where people meet, network, and share their creative endeavors with a lively audience. PK Nights are now held in hundreds of cities, inspiring creative people worldwide. The name comes from the Japanese term for the sound of “chit chat”, and rests on a presentation format that is based on a simple idea: 20 images x 20 seconds. It’s a format that makes presentations concise, and keeps things moving at a rapid pace. PechaKucha Night Dayton is on its sixth volume, with presentations from Samantha Enslen, Reade Faulkner, Theresa Gasper, Sherif Hedayat, Sharon Howard, Brandy King, Jay King, and Chris Wire. Following the presenations, stick around for a screening of the thought-provoking and motivating documentary DIVE! Grocery stores around the country are filling their dumpsters with food. Not rotten, spoiled food, but billions of pounds of good, edible food. Follow filmmaker Jeremy Seifert and his circle of friends as they dumpster dive in the back alleys and gated garbage receptacles of L.A.’s supermarkets. In the process, they uncover thousands of dollars worth of good food and an ugly truth about waste in America: grocery stores know they are wasting and most refuse to do anything about it. The cost for this entire event is $5. Presentations start at 7:15 and DIVE! starts at 9:00.

Details about our annual FREE Oscar Party will be available soon! Hold the date for Sunday, February 27!

We’re quite excited to start BLUE VALENTINE next Friday. Given a 100% review from numerous critics (and a handful of my friends in other cities), I’m really looking forward to finally seeing it. If you haven’t seen the preview, you can visit the official site by clicking this LINK.

See you soon,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for January 21 – January 27:

MADE IN DAGENHAM (R) 1 Hr 53 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:15, 2:30, 4:50, 7:20, 9:40
Monday – Thursday: 2:30, 4:50, 7:20

THE KING’S SPEECH (R) 1 Hr 51 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:10, 2:30, 5:00, 7:30, 9:50
Monday & Tuesday: 2:30, 5:00, 7:30
Wednesday: 2:30, 5:00
Thursday: 2:30, 5:00, 7:30

RIDE THE DIVIDE (NR)
Wednesday: 7:30

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

Jan. 28 BLUE VALENTINE
Jan. 28 I LOVE YOU PHILIP MORRIS
Feb. 4 THE ILLUSIONIST & ANOTHER YEAR
TBD: RABBIT HOLE, BIUTIFUL, SOMEWHERE
TINY FURNITURE & BARNEY’S VERSION

2 Hits and Events Galore at THE NEON!

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Hello Everyone.

It’s been a long, long time since we’ve had two hits with such longevity. We’re going to hold onto both BLACK SWAN and THE KING’S SPEECH for another week…and we’re currently planning to open MADE IN DAGENHAM on January 21. That said, the Golden Globes this Sunday may end up moving our entire schedule around for the coming weeks…and the upcoming Oscar nominations will also play a part. I’ll keep you posted.

BLACK SWAN Official Site. THE KING’S SPEECH Official Site.

In the next few weeks, we have numerous special events. In each case, THE NEON has been rented by a person or an organization. Ticket prices are then set by that lessee in accordance with their mission. Here are details that are ready for the press:

“Jasmine “Jazz” Taylor, a 2006 alumnus of Stivers School of the Arts and graduate of The Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising (FIDM) in Los Angeles, will premiere the DVD of a fashion show fundraiser that helped further her educational development. The fashion show involved the community and showed the world that dreams can come true if you believe. The show focused on the “A Touch of Jazz” fashion line along with two new up and coming designers: Jamila Jones and Jamae Abney. In addition to the designers, local students were featured; doing anything from dancing, singing, and rapping, to modeling and playing instruments.
Unwrapping The Dream Fashion Show DVD Premiere Release is an opportunity for fashion show participates to fellowship with their peers, family, and friends while watching themselves on the big screen. It will be held Sunday January 16, 2011 at THE NEON – tickets are just $5.” (taken from press notes)

On Wednesday, January 19 at 7:00pm, cityfolk will present a free screening of BILL MONROE: FATHER OF BLUEGRASS MUSIC. “Steve Gebhardt’s film blends footage from rare 1990s performances by the founder of bluegrass music with a trove of interviews with Monroe, Emmy Lou Harris, Ricky Skaggs, Dolly Parton, Paul McCartney and many more. Gebhardt and scriptwriter and bluegrass expert Larry Nager will be on hand to discuss the making of the movie and Monroe’s vast legacy…General admission seating for this screening is available on a first-come, first-served basis.” (taken from press notes) Steve Gebhardt has directed and/or produced numerous music-based documentaries, including LADIES AND GENTLEMEN: THE ROLLING STONES, IMAGINE, and JOHN LENNON LIVE IN NEW YORK CITY.

“RIDE THE DIVIDE, which was named best adventure film at the 2010 Vail Film Festival, is an inspiring journey about the world’s toughest mountain bike race, which traverses over 2,700 miles along the Continental Divide in the Rocky Mountains. The film weaves the story of the three characters’ experiences with immense mountain beauty and small-town culture as they attempt to ride from Banff, Canada, to a small, dusty crossing on the Mexican border. The tests of endurance and the accomplished moments throughout Ride the Divide prompt us to reflect on our inner desires to live life to the fullest.” The film will play One Night Only – Wednesday, January 26 at 7:30.
Advanced tickets – ($10 each + $1 processing) are only available by visiting this link.  Tickets the day of the show will be available at the door for $15 each.

On Thursday, February 3 at 7:15, come to THE NEON for PK Night Dayton, Volume 6. PechaKucha Night was devised in Tokyo in 2003 as an event where people meet, network, and share their creative endeavors with a lively audience. PK Nights are now held in hundreds of cities, inspiring creative people worldwide. The name comes from the Japanese term for the sound of “chit chat”, and rests on a presentation format that is based on a simple idea: 20 images x 20 seconds. It’s a format that makes presentations concise, and keeps things moving at a rapid pace. PechaKucha Night Dayton is on its sixth volume, with presentations from Samantha Enslen, Reade Faulkner, Theresa Gasper, Sherif Hedayat, Sharon Howard, Brandy King, Jay King, and Chris Wire. Following the presenations, stick around for a screening of the thought-provoking and motivating documentary DIVE! Grocery stores around the country are filling their dumpsters with food. Not rotten, spoiled food, but billions of pounds of good, edible food. Follow filmmaker Jeremy Seifert and his circle of friends as they dumpster dive in the back alleys and gated garbage receptacles of L.A.’s supermarkets. In the process, they uncover thousands of dollars worth of good food and an ugly truth about waste in America: grocery stores know they are wasting and most refuse to do anything about it. The cost for this entire event is $5. Presentations start at 7:15 and DIVE! starts at 9:00.

The line-up of films in the coming weeks at THE NEON looks terrific, and there are several that I can’t wait to share with the community. We hope to see you soon.

Take care,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for January 14 – January 20:

BLACK SWAN (R) 1 Hr 48 Min
Friday, Saturday: 12:20, 2:40, 4:50, 7:20, 9:40
Sunday: 12:20, 2:40, 7:30, 9:40
Monday: 3:10, 5:40, 8:00
Tuesday – Thursday: 2:40, 4:50, 7:20

THE KING’S SPEECH (R) 1 Hr 51 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:10, 2:30, 5:00, 7:30, 9:50
Monday: 3:00, 5:30, 8:00
Tuesday: 2:30, 5:00, 7:30
Wednesday: 2:30, 4:50
Thursday: 2:30, 5:00, 7:30

UNWRAPPING THE DREAM – FASHION SHOW DVD RELEASE (NR)
Sunday: 5:30

BILL MONROE: FATHER OF BLUEGRASS MUSIC (NR)
Wednesday: 7:00

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

Jan. 21 MADE IN DAGENHAM
Jan. 28 I LOVE YOU PHILIP MORRIS
Feb. 4 THE ILLUSIONIST & ANOTHER YEAR
TBD: RABBIT HOLE, BIUTIFUL, SOMEWHERE
BLUE VALENTINE, TINY FURNITURE & BARNEY’S VERSION

THE NEON is Flying High!

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Hello Everyone.

Since December 25, THE NEON has seen almost 4,000 customers (a 10-day total of 3898, to be exact)! That’s incredible. Once again, I thank you for your support!

We’re going to hold onto both BLACK SWAN and THE KING’S SPEECH for another week…and we’re currently planning to open MADE IN DAGENHAM on January 14.

Here are a few notes on upcoming special events:

“Jasmine “Jazz” Taylor, a 2006 alumnus of Stivers School of the Arts and graduate of The Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising (FIDM) in Los Angeles, will premiere the DVD of a fashion show fundraiser that helped further her educational development. The fashion show involved the community and showed the world that dreams can come true if you believe. The show focused on the “A Touch of Jazz” fashion line along with two new up and coming designers: Jamila Jones and Jamae Abney. In addition to the designers, local students were featured; doing anything from dancing, singing, and rapping, to modeling and playing instruments.
Unwrapping The Dream Fashion Show DVD Premiere Release is an opportunity for fashion show participates to fellowship with their peers, family, and friends while watching themselves on the big screen. It will be held Sunday January 16, 2011 at THE NEON – tickets are just $5.” (taken from press notes)

On Wednesday, January 19 at 7:00pm, cityfolk will present a free screening of BILL MONROE: FATHER OF BLUEGRASS MUSIC. “Steve Gebhardt’s film blends footage from rare 1990s performances by the founder of bluegrass music with a trove of interviews with Monroe, Emmy Lou Harris, Ricky Skaggs, Dolly Parton, Paul McCartney and many more. Gebhardt and scriptwriter and bluegrass expert Larry Nager will be on hand to discuss the making of the movie and Monroe’s vast legacy…General admission seating for this screening is available on a first-come, first-served basis.” (taken from press notes) Steve Gebhardt has directed and/or produced numerous music-based documentaries, including LADIES AND GENTLEMEN: THE ROLLING STONES, IMAGINE, and JOHN LENNON LIVE IN NEW YORK CITY.

“RIDE THE DIVIDE, which was named best adventure film at the 2010 Vail Film Festival, is an inspiring journey about the world’s toughest mountain bike race, which traverses over 2,700 miles along the Continental Divide in the Rocky Mountains. The film weaves the story of the three characters’ experiences with immense mountain beauty and small-town culture as they attempt to ride from Banff, Canada, to a small, dusty crossing on the Mexican border. The tests of endurance and the accomplished moments throughout Ride the Divide prompt us to reflect on our inner desires to live life to the fullest.” The film will play One Night Only – Wednesday, January 26 at 7:30. The official site of the film can be found at www.ridethedividemovie.com.
TICKETS – $10 (+$1 processing) in advance by visiting this site:
http://www.imathlete.com/events/EventStore.aspx?fEID=7982
$15 at door on day of show!

The line-up of films in the coming weeks at THE NEON looks terrific. We hope to see you soon and often.
(And don’t miss THE KING’S SPEECH!!)

Take care,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for January 7 – January 13:

BLACK SWAN (R) 1 Hr 48 Min
Friday: 12:20, 2:40, 4:50, 7:20, 9:40
Saturday: 2:45, 4:50, 7:20, 9:40
Sunday: 12:20, 2:40, 4:50, 7:20, 9:40
Monday – Thursday: 2:40, 4:50, 7:20

THE KING’S SPEECH (R) 1 Hr 51 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:10, 2:30, 5:00, 7:30, 9:50
Monday – Thursday: 2:30, 5:00, 7:30

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

Jan. 14 MADE IN DAGENHAM
Feb. 4 THE ILLUSIONIST & ANOTHER YEAR
TBD: I LOVE YOU PHILLIP MORRIS, TINY FURNITURE, BIUTIFUL, CASINO JACK, BLUE VALENTINE, RABBIT HOLE & SOMEWHERE

Holiday Success at THE NEON! Thank You!!

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Hello Everyone.

I returned to Dayton on December 24 (after visiting with my folks for a couple days) to find that we had lost exclusivity with our engagement of THE KING’S SPEECH…and I’ll admit I was disappointed and a bit heartbroken. But I shouldn’t have been.
More Daytonians supported THE KING’S SPEECH at THE NEON than at any of the multiplexes…and I thank you for your support! We have had a couple sell-outs and numerous large audiences since the film opened on December 25, and people are absolutely loving the film.
If you haven’t seen it yet, we hope to see you soon!
If you’ve already seen the film, please keep spreading the word…and tell people that THE NEON has the best prices in town.
Visit the official website for the film by clicking this LINK.

BLACK SWAN has flooded the marketplace over the past several days, and our extraordinary ticket sales have started to fall…so we may open MADE IN DAGENHAM a bit earlier than planned (Jan. 7 instead of Jan. 14)…but all that depends on business during the upcoming weekend. I’ll keep you posted.

Here are a couple notes on upcoming special events:

“Jasmine “Jazz” Taylor, a 2006 alumnus of Stivers School of the Arts and graduate of The Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising (FIDM) in Los Angeles, will premiere the DVD of a fashion show fundraiser that helped further her educational development. The fashion show involved the community and showed the world that dreams can come true if you believe. The show focused on the “A Touch of Jazz” fashion line along with two new up and coming designers: Jamila Jones and Jamae Abney. In addition to the designers, local students were featured; doing anything from dancing, singing, and rapping, to modeling and playing instruments.
Unwrapping The Dream Fashion Show DVD Premiere Release is an opportunity for fashion show participates to fellowship with their peers, family, and friends while watching themselves on the big screen. It will be held Sunday January 16, 2011 at THE NEON – tickets are just $5.” (taken from press notes)

“RIDE THE DIVIDE, which was named best adventure film at the 2010 Vail Film Festival, is an inspiring journey about the world’s toughest mountain bike race, which traverses over 2,700 miles along the Continental Divide in the Rocky Mountains. The film weaves the story of the three characters’ experiences with immense mountain beauty and small-town culture as they attempt to ride from Banff, Canada, to a small, dusty crossing on the Mexican border. The tests of endurance and the accomplished moments throughout Ride the Divide prompt us to reflect on our inner desires to live life to the fullest.” The film will play One Night Only – Wednesday, January 26 at 7:30. Advanced tickets are only available by visiting this LINK. The official site of the film can be found at www.ridethedivide.com.

Have a Safe & Happy New Year!
(And don’t miss THE KING’S SPEECH!!)

Take care,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for December 31 – January 6:

BLACK SWAN (R) 1 Hr Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:20, 2:40, 4:50, 7:20, 9:40
Monday – Thursday: 2:40, 4:50, 7:20

THE KING’S SPEECH (R) 1 Hr 51 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:10, 2:30, 5:00, 7:30, 9:50
Monday – Thursday: 2:30, 5:00, 7:30

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

Jan. 7 MADE IN DAGENHAM
Feb. 4 THE ILLUSIONIST & ANOTHER YEAR
TBD: I LOVE YOU PHILLIP MORRIS, TINY FURNITURE, BIUTIFUL,
BLUE VALENTINE, RABBIT HOLE & SOMEWHERE

THE KING’S SPEECH – Exclusively at THE NEON!

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Hello Everyone.

I’m absolutely thrilled to announce that THE KING’S SPEECH will open exclusively at THE NEON on December 25. Being that the 25th is a Saturday, our schedule is a bit strange this week. THE GIRL WHO KICKED THE HORNET’S NEST will play through Friday, THE KING’S SPEECH starts Saturday, and BLACK SWAN will hold.

And speaking of BLACK SWAN…Wow! What a weekend! For a film that opened on multiple screens, BLACK SWAN was our biggest opening of the year. (That said, CRAZY HEART – which we had exclusively for one week back in January – was still our best.)

Synopsis for THE KING’S SPEECH: “England’s Prince Albert (Colin Firth), soon to become King George VI, is plagued by a crippling speech impediment. With her husband soon to take over the throne, Elizabeth (Helena Bonham Carter) hires Lionel Logue, an Australian actor and speech therapist, to help Albert overcome his stammer. An extraordinary friendship develops between the pair as Logue uses unconventional means to teach Albert how to speak with confidence.” (Weinstein Co.) 7 Golden Globe Nominations including BEST PICTURE!

Click here for the official site – http://kingsspeech.com/

We have a special treat for those of you looking to give NEON gift certificates this holiday season. For every $50 of gift certificates you purchase, you will receive a free bag of Candy Cane Granola. This delicious, locally made snack was recently sampled by the staff…and quickly became a favorite. Loaded with peppermint schnapps, white chocolate, dried cranberries and almonds, you might end up keeping this treat for yourself.

Lastly, I want to remind you about 2011 calendars from The Rubi Girls. Calendars are available in our lobby for $20 each – 100% of which goes to local charities. And now we’re offering a special deal so you can stuff everyone’s stockings this year…Calendars are now 2 for $30!
If you’d like to see a little video I put together about the calendar, click on this LINK. If you want to know more about The Rubi Girls, visit www.rubigirls.com.

“Jasmine “Jazz” Taylor, a 2006 alumnus of Stivers School of the Arts and graduate of The Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising (FIDM) in Los Angeles, will premiere the DVD of a fashion show fundraiser that helped further her educational development. The fashion show involved the community and showed the world that dreams can come true if you believe. The show focused on the “A Touch of Jazz” fashion line along with two new up and coming designers: Jamila Jones and Jamae Abney. In addition to the designers, local students were featured; doing anything from dancing, singing, and rapping, to modeling and playing instruments.
Unwrapping The Dream Fashion Show DVD Premiere Release is an opportunity for fashion show participates to fellowship with their peers, family, and friends while watching themselves on the big screen. It will be held Sunday January 16, 2011 at THE NEON – tickets are just $5.” (taken from press notes)

I’ll be here all day on the 25th, so I’m sure I’ll see some of you.
Have a wonderful, warm and safe holiday season.

Take care,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for December 24 – December 30:

BLACK SWAN (R) 1 Hr Min
Friday: 12:20, 2:40, 4:50, 7:20
Saturday: 2:40, 4:50, 7:20, 9:40
Sunday: 12:20, 2:40, 4:50, 7:20, 9:40
Monday – Thursday: 2:40, 4:50, 7:20

THE GIRL WHO KICKED THE HORNET’S NEST (R) 2 Hr 27 Min
Friday: 12:15, 3:00, 6:00

THE KING’S SPEECH (R) 1 Hr 51 Min
Saturday: 2:30, 5:00, 7:30, 9:50
Sunday: 12:10, 2:30, 5:00, 7:30, 9:50
Monday – Thursday: 2:30, 5:00, 7:30, 9:50

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

Jan. 14 MADE IN DAGENHAM
Feb. 4 THE ILLUSIONIST & ANOTHER YEAR
TBD: BLUE VALENTINE, RABBIT HOLE & SOMEWHERE

BLACK SWAN & TAMARA DREWE at The Neon!

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Hello Everyone.

There are two films that so many people have been talking & asking about, and this Friday marks the opening of the first – Darren Aronofsky’s BLACK SWAN, starring Natalie Portman. (The other film – THE KING’S SPEECH – is right around the corner…with 7 Golden Globe Nominations.)
If you still need to see 127 HOURS, you only have until Thursday to see it at THE NEON. (All these films are certain to be Oscar contenders in a couple months…so don’t miss seeing them on the big screen.)

On Friday, in addition to BLACK SWAN, we will open a much smaller film directed by one of my favorite directors – Stephen Frears. TAMARA DREWE, based on a graphic novel that was in turn based on a Thomas Hardy novel – FAR FROM THE MADDING CROWD – will play for one week only. (On a similar note, THE GIRL WHO KICKED THE HORNET’S NEST will only play for one more week.)

Synopsis for BLACK SWAN: “New York City ballet dancer Nina (Natalie Portman) enters into an intense battle of wills with a talented and ambitious new arrival (Mila Kunis) who seems intent on edging her out of the spotlight in this supernatural-flavored psychological thriller from director Darren Aronofsky.” (Jason Buchanon, All Movie Guide) **Nominated for 4 Golden Globe Awards Including Best Picture**  For the official site, visit – http://www.ijustwanttobeperfect.com/

Synopsis for TAMARA DREWE: “Tamara Drewe (Gemma Arterton) was born and raised in Ewedown, a quiet community on the outskirts of London dominated by a writer’s colony run by Nicholas Hardiment (Roger Allam), a best-selling novelist who specializes in crime fiction, and his wife Beth (Tamsin Greig). When Tamara left Ewedown, she was a plain and awkward teenager, but when she returns home for the first time in years, the locals are surprised to discover that time (and a nose job) have turned her into an attractive and alluring woman, and she’Tamara Drewe was adapted from the graphic novel of the same name by Posy Simmonds, which was in turn inspired by Thomas Hardy’s novel Far From the Madding Crowd.” (Mark Deming, All Movie Guide)  For the official site, visit – http://sonyclassics.com/tamaradrewe/

The Children’s Holiday Film Series is about to wrap up! Films are FREE for children 12 and under…and only $2 for adults. This week’s selection is based on the classic book by Dr. Seuss!
Dec. 18 at Noon – THE GRINCH (starring Jim Carrey)

We have a special treat for those of you looking to give NEON gift certificates this holiday season. For every $50 of gift certificates you purchase, you will receive a free bag of Candy Cane Granola. This delicious, locally made snack was recently sampled by the staff…and quickly became a favorite. Loaded with peppermint schnapps, white chocolate, dried cranberries and almonds, you might end up keeping this treat for yourself.

Lastly, I want to remind you about 2011 calendars from The Rubi Girls. Calendars are available in our lobby for $20 each – 100% of which goes to local charities. If you’d like to see a little video I put together about the calendar, click on this LINK . If you want to know more about The Rubi Girls, visit www.rubigirls.com.

We hope to see you very soon.

Take care,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for December 17 – December 23:

BLACK SWAN (R) 1 Hr 48 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:30, 2:50, 5:00, 7:20, 9:40
Monday – Thursday: 2:50, 5:00, 7:20, 9:40

THE GIRL WHO KICKED THE HORNET’S NEST (R) 2 Hr 27 Min
Friday – Thursday: 4:15, 7:00

TAMARA DREWE (R) 1 Hr 51 Min
Friday – Thursday: 2:00, 9:45

THE GRINCH (PG) 1 Hr 37 Min
Saturday: 12:00 (noon)

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

Dec. 25 THE KING’S SPEECH
Jan. 14 MADE IN DAGENHAM
Feb. 4 THE ILLUSIONIST & ANOTHER YEAR
TBD: RABBIT HOLE & SOMEWHERE

The Girl Who Kicked The Hornet’s Nest & Other Great NEON News!

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THIS JUST IN!!!  BLACK SWAN has moved up!  It will now open on December 17th (instead of the 22nd)!

Hello Everyone.

First off, I need to let you know that FAIR GAME will have its last day at THE NEON on Thursday. Folks have been loving this film, but attendance fell drastically this weekend…so it has to go. For remaining showtimes, please visit our website. 127 HOURS will stick around.

Before I move forward with more of this week’s news, I’m delighted to let you know that we have managed to book a film that is destined to be a huge hit with us. THE KING’S SPEECH, which I saw and adored in Toronto, is currently scheduled to open on Dec. 25th. Between KING’S SPEECH and BLACK SWAN, all signs are good that we’ll end 2010 on a fantastic note!

On Friday, we open a film that has already garnered a following. The third and final installment about the girl with the dragon tattoo – THE GIRL WHO KICKED A HORNET’S NEST – “is positively soul-satisfying,” writes Kirk Honeycutt of The Hollywood Reporter. “The movie features a great finish, where three movies’ worth of subplots and characters dovetail into a breathtaking climax and final confrontation…”

Synopsis for THE GIRL WHO KICKED A HORNET’S NEST: “In this last installment, Lisbeth Salander (Noomi Rapace) lies in critical condition, a bullet wound to her head, in the intensive care unit of a Swedish city hospital. She’s fighting for her life in more ways than one: if and when she recovers, she’ll be taken back to Stockholm to stand trial for three murders. With the help of her friend, journalist Mikael Blomkvist (Michael Nyqvist), she will not only have to prove her innocence, but also identify and denounce those in authority who have allowed the vulnerable, like herself, to suffer abuse and violence. And, on her own, she will plot revenge – against the man who tried to kill her, and the corrupt government institutions that very nearly destroyed her life.” (Music Box Films) OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Please be certain to pay close attention to showtimes. Due to recent trends and the duration of our upcoming attractions, showtimes are not the same from day to day. Sunday through Thursday will not have late screenings. (Upcoming showtimes are listed below.)

The Children’s Holiday Film Series is already underway, and the snow last Saturday seemed to cement the idea that the holidays are upon us! Films are FREE for children 12 and under…and only $2 for adults. This week’s selection has become a holiday favorite for many!
Here’s what’s left:
Dec. 11 at Noon – ELF (comedy starring Will Ferrell)
Dec. 18 at Noon – THE GRINCH (the beloved Dr. Seuss tale starring Jim Carrey)

Most of you who frequent THE NEON know Diana – she’s our assistant manager who is responsible for the beautiful menu boards in our concession area. Way above and beyond her inventory duties, Diana decided to come up with a delicious menu of holiday drinks – ranging from traditional Eggnog (*spiked, of course*) to Candy Cane Hot Cocoa. Check out the special menu during your next visit.

Lastly, we have a special treat for those of you looking to give NEON gift certificates this holiday season. For every $50 of gift certificates you purchase, you will receive a free bag of Candy Cane Granola. This delicious, locally made snack was recently sampled by the staff…and quickly became a favorite. Loaded with peppermint schnapps, white chocolate, dried cranberries and almonds, you might end up keeping this treat for yourself.

We hope to see you very soon.

Take care,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for December 10 – December 16:

127 HOURS (R) 1 Hr 34 Min
Friday: 12:50, 3:00, 5:10, 7:20, 9:30
Saturday: 3:00, 5:10, 7:20, 9:30
Sunday: 12:50, 3:00, 5:10, 7:30
Monday – Thursday: 3:00, 5:10, 7:30

THE GIRL WHO KICKED THE HORNET’S NEST (R) 2 Hr 27 Min
Friday & Saturday: 1:00, 4:00, 7:00, 9:45
Sunday – Thursday: 2:20, 5:10, 8:00

ELF (PG) 1 Hr 37 Min
Saturday: 12:00 (noon)

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

Dec. 17 BLACK SWAN
Dec. 25 THE KING’S SPEECH
Jan. 14 MADE IN DAGENHAM
TBD: RABBIT HOLE, TAMARA DREWE & SOMEWHERE

Holiday Film Series & More at THE NEON

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Hello Everyone.

This newsletter will be short and sweet. We’ve got 2 great films…and they’re both performing very well…so they’re gonna stick around. 127 HOURS and FAIR GAME were a great mix for us over the Thanksgiving holiday weekend. If you still need to see either one, hurry on down!

The Downtown Holiday Festival will begin this year’s Children’s Holiday Film Series on Saturday! Films are FREE for children 12 and under…and only $2 for adults. This week’s selection is a film that is absolute magic on the big screen. Though not often thought of as a holiday film, MEET ME IN ST. LOUIS is a perfect film for the whole family – and how can you go wrong with Judy Garland singing the bittersweet American standard “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas?”
Here’s the full line-up:
Dec. 4 at Noon – MEET ME IN ST. LOUIS (“Clang, clang, clang went the trolley…”)
Dec. 11 at Noon – ELF (comedy starring Will Ferrell)
Dec. 18 at Noon – THE GRINCH (the beloved Dr. Seuss tale starring Jim Carrey)

December 1st  was World AIDS Day…a day to reflect on the lives of those who have passed from HIV/AIDS complications…and a day to remember that the fight isn’t over. New cases, especially in young demographics, are on the rise. THE RUBI GIRLS, known for their work with various HIV/AIDS charities, have unveiled their 2011 wall calendar – and they’re now available in our lobby. Calendars are just $20 each, and 100% of that amount will go to charities in the Miami Valley. If you still need a 2011 calendar…or you’re looking for a fun, unique gift…check out the calendar next time you’re here. Last year’s edition sold out, and this year’s edition is even more wonderful! If you’re an out-of-town subscriber to this newsletter, you can always visit www.arcohio.org to buy your calendar on-line – where 100% stays with AIDS Resource Center Ohio.
Special thanks to those of you who wrote to me upon hearing the story about The Rubi Girls during “All Things Considered” on WYSO.

We hope to see you very soon.

Take care,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for December 3 – December 9:

127 HOURS (R) 1 Hr 34 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:50, 3:00, 5:10, 7:20, 9:30
Monday – Thursday: 3:00, 5:10, 7:20, 9:30

FAIR GAME (PG-13) 1 Hr 48 Min
Friday: 12:20, 2:40, 5:00, 7:30, 9:45
Saturday: 2:50, 5:00, 7:30, 9:45
Sunday: 12:20, 2:40, 5:00, 7:30, 9:45
Monday – Thursday: 2:40, 5:00, 7:30, 9:45

MEET ME IN ST. LOUIS (NR) 1 Hr 54 Min
Saturday: 12:00 (noon)

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

Dec. 10 THE GIRL WHO KICKED A HORNET’S NEST      Dec. 17 TAMARA DREW
Dec. 22 BLACK SWAN    Dec. 25 THE KING’S SPEECH     Jan. 14 MADE IN DAGENHAM

TBD: RABBIT HOLE

Toronto – THE FILMS – Day #3 (and THE STARS (galore))

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Today was minimal in regards to number of films screened…due to circumstances beyond my control.  But the 2 films I did screen were wonderful.  (I paid $15 for a cab to get me to a screening of 127 HOURS on time…only to find out that it had been pushed back – which conflicted with my next screening.)  Alas, I only saw two films and attended one hell of a party!

First off, I saw a film that Weinstein Co. has picked up – THE KING’S SPEECH – starring Colin Firth, Geoffrey Rush and Helena Bonham Cater.  The film is fantastic!  Based on a true story of the relationship between the stammering Duke of York and his speech therapist, the title refers not only to the speeches given by the Duke (& future King)…but also to the everyday speaking voice of the protagonist.  If we manage to get it at THE NEON, it will be a hit!  The audience was applauding during the film…and certainly after.  It’s truly wonderul – with award-worthy performances all around.  The film was directed by Tom Hooper (director of DAMNED UNITED).

Later in the day, I attended Mark Romanek’s NEVER LET ME GO – based on the novel by Kazuo Ishiguro (Mark directed ONE HOUR PHOTO and numerous incredible music videos).  The film is a revisionist historical piece…but also science-fiction.  That said, the “science-fiction” element doesn’t contain monsters or aliens, but rather a different evolution of medicine.  The movie stars Carey Mulligan (AN EDUCATION), Andrew Garfield (IMAGINARIUM OF DOCTOR PARNASUS), and Keira Knightley (ATONEMENT), and it is beautifully done.  It’s a quiet film with a strong punch that is quite clearly about all of us (and with strong supporting actors, too).

Lastly, I just got home from a party sponsored by Fox Searchlight – a distributor who has been a great partner with THE NEON (responsible for SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE, SIDEWAYS, YOUNG @ HEART, LITTLE MISS SUNSHINE, ONCE, THE WRESTLER, (500) DAYS OF SUMMER, and CRAZY HEART).  This was the star-sighting party of the year!!  Upon arrival, I grabbed a cocktail and struck up a conversation with Mark Olsen of the L.A. Times.  He’s a really nice guy, and we talked about the arthouse cinema and the decline of the young demographic.  I then chatted with Danny Boyle (director of SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE).  I told him of my admiration for many of his films (especially MILLIONS – which he said “was a dry-run for SLUMDOG”…and of our gratitude for the success of SLUMDOG.  Once again, a nice guy.  I spoke briefly with  James Franco (we talked about MILK, HOWL, and his grandmother who lives in Shaker Heights), Marion Cotillard (she’s so sweet and down-to-earth), and I had numerous people compliment me on my jacket including Mark Romanek (it really is pretty wonderful…I’d been saving it for a special occasion).  Leonard Maltin was there, a radiant Hillary Swank was there.  An adorable Carey Mulligan was there.  I got a wink from Andrew Garfield.  The adorable Justin Long was there.  The list goes on and on.  In fact, I know there were several more stars who I recognized…but simply can’t name.  It was quite a night…and I love that my bar-tab essentially only amounted to my taxi ride back to the B&B.

Off to bed.  More soon!