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Toronto Film Fest – Day #9

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Hello Everyone,

I saw 2 final films today…which took my final count to 29 full screenings (there were 3 partial screenings, too).

First off, I saw a lovely new adaptation of GREAT EXPECTATIONS by Mike Newell (director of ENCHANTED APRIL, FOUR WEDDINGS AND A FUNERAL, and a whole lot more).  This adaptation, though clearly condensed in order to be told in 2 hours, is an old-school, literal adaptation with lovely photography, great costumes and a wonderful score.  The cast is wonderful – Ralph Fiennes as Magwitch, Helena Bonham Carter as Miss Havisham and Jeremy Irvine as “older” Pip (he was the star of WAR HORSE).   Interestingly, Young Pip is played by Jeremy Irvine’s younger brother Toby, and he’ll have quite a career should he decide to continue acting.  Sally Hawkins (who is always delightful to see) plays Mrs. Joe.  This adaptation will be well received by NEON regulars…though it has been picked up by a brand new distributor – so we hope we can establish a good relationship with them.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=10W1rOJ6aME’]

For my last film of the festival, I saw Lee Daniels’  (director of PRECIOUS) latest film – THE PAPERBOY.  Though Nicole Kidman and Zac Efron give “nice” performances, the material is all over the map.  The film is seriously fractured with tone and themes shifting from scene to scene.  Some of the cutting seems strange and forced – leading me to believe that coverage wasn’t good or performances weren’t always up to par.  Eric Kohn of IndieWire wrote, “Lee Daniels’ THE PAPERBOY is a rare case of serious commitment to outright silliness…It’s possible to enjoy aspects of THE PAPERBOY if you assume a certain self-awareness behind the campier bits, but even then, the movie drowns in an overwhelming barrage of excess.”  Though Efron was present at the screening, Kidman was not.  Is she distancing herself from the picture?  We’ll never know.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m2GMwWaDSr0′]

In the coming days, I’ll write one last Toronto wrap-up…and I’ll include some personal photographs from the trip.  So check back again on Tuesday or Wednesday – once I’ve had a bit of time to catch up on sleep, wash my clothes, get back to work and process all 29 films I screened.

Thanks for reading!

Jonathan

Toronto Film Fest – Day #8

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Hello Everyone,

I only saw two film in their entirety today…I started a third, but I due to not connecting with the characters, I decided that a nap was in my best interest.

First off, I saw LOVE, MARILYN -a documentary about Marilyn Monroe – based on personal journals and personal letters that were recently discovered in storage (in addition to writings and interviews from friends and colleagues).  Big stars – like Glenn Close, Ellen Burstyn, Hope Davis, Viola Davis, Ben Foster and Lindsay Lohan – read the letters.  The movie reveals a tormented, insightful star who seemed to know exactly what was happening around her.  That said, the performances of the readings were distracting.  Instead of voice-over, the actors perform the pieces via green screen – and their images are transposed over backdrops, archival footage, etc.  I found it to be rather annoying.  However, the archival material and interviews seemed more organic and worth the ride.

PASSION, the latest film from Brian De Palma, is a laughable thriller based on the French film LOVE CRIME.  The movie stars Rachel McAdams and Noomi Rapace, and it starts out very confusing.  The two lead actresses look to be the same age – though one is the corporate boss and the other is an assistant.  The chemistry between these two is rather flat, and the tone changes to camp rather quickly.  The music cues and other cheap devices used to confuse the audience are abysmal.  The movie is about how Rapace’s character plots revenge on her boss after she stole one of her ideas in order to advance with the company.  In a word, this film is bad.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xaSVR4pCKT4′]

In the evening, I went to see Madonna’s latest show at the Air Canada Center.  It was a complete blast – and quite a brilliant display of cutting-edge stage craft and lighting.

2 more films tomorrow…and I’m looking forward to both!

Thanks for reading!

Jonathan

Toronto Film Fest – Day #7

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I’m Back!

Wow…though my eyes are starting to blur a bit and my feet are slightly dragging, I’m still makin’ it to all the screenings I’ve got on the docket.

First of the day was Terrence Malick’s TO THE WONDER.  You might remember that THE TREE OF LIFE earned the title of most walk-outs in NEON history…and I think this film might give TREE OF LIFE a run for its money.  This visually lovely and poetic film is quite experimental…and it not only feels like a follow-up to TOL, it feels repetitive.  With identical shots from TOL, some similar “plot” lines and similar tone, this film will have both fans and detractors.  I heard one woman late this afternoon say to her friend, “I saw TO THE WONDER this morning.  It’s the worst movie I’ve EVER seen.”  The film is a rumination on relationships.  It has some wonderful moments, but I ultimately found the film to be tedious.  If I had to watch Olga Kurylenko skip through one more wheat field or twirl around down one more grocery store aisle, I might have to end it all (see below).  Ben Affleck seemed to phone in his performance (or perhaps he just wasn’t given much to do), and Rachel McAdams is certainly not the lead of this film (regardless of the marketing you might see).

Next I saw STILL – a Canadian film directed by Michael McGowen…starring James Cromwell and Genevieve Bojuld (Bojuld made a surprise appearance during the introduction of the film – it was a delight to see her).  This film is about how an elderly man is building an accessible home on his land for himself and his wife…and how the authorities keep handing him building violations.  The reason the man is building the house is because of the deteriorating health of his wife.  The director talked about how he read about this story from the headlines…and how he worked directly with the family in order to bring the film to life.  It’s a lovely, quiet film with great performances, a great score, and a wonderful backdrop of the Canadian landscape.

PEACHES DOES HERSELF was next on the list.  This film is the a record of a performance done by the rock star/performance artist Peaches.  Originally from Toronto, Peaches has been a part of the Berlin art scene for years.  This transexually charged performance had its highs and lows with some moments that had me (as well as a few folks beside me) in fits of hysterical laughter (some of it was like a train wreck), but it wouldn’t work well at all in a traditional engagement.  That said, it might find an audience at midnight screenings – especially for fans of the Peaches catalog.

My last screening of the night was SUICIDE SHOP – a life-affirming, French, animated, musical film about suicide.  Huh?  It’s true.  This sweet and funny film was directed by Patrice LeConte (RIDICULE and GIRL ON A BRIDGE), and it’s about a shop that sells anything needed to end one’s life.  Due to the recession, sales are up, and the gloomy family are happy to help folks find their preferred method of exiting the world.  The arrival of a new son throws the shop into a tailspin.  Why?  Because he’s too darn jovial.  Though I saw the film in 3D, it’s absolutely not necessary.  Unfortunately, I thought the film lost a little steam in the second and third act (and it’s only 80 minutes).  In addition, I don’t know who the film is for.  It’s full of adult themes, but the narrative arc is rather slight.  That said, I’m still glad I saw it…some of it is wonderful.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=75gJaI_7eMM’]

Tomorrow I’ll see 2 or 3 films…and then I’m going to a non-TIFF-related event.  I’ll see Madonna in concert, and I have a great seat.

More to come.

Thanks for reading!

Jonathan

FAREWELL MY QUEEN at THE NEON + TIFF News

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Hello Everyone,

The Toronto International Film Festival has been terrific. I’m heading into my seventh day of screenings, and I’ve already seen 21 films. Though a nightly allotment of 4 to 5 hours of sleep is starting to wear me down, I’m having a great time. I’ve met Francois Ozon and Sally Potter (2 directors I greatly admire), and I’ve attended screenings the were introduced by (and sometimes with Q&As by) Susanne Bier, Keira Knightley, Susan Sarandon, Ben Wishaw, Tom Hanks, Dustin Hoffman, Kristin Scott Thomas, and my absolute favorite star encounter – Maggie Smith. If you’re interested to know about the movies I’ve seen, check out my other blog postings on this site.  I’ll post some personal pictures upon my return to Dayton.

At THE NEON, we’re moving forward this week. If you still need to see THE INTOUCHABLES, Thursday will be your last chance. On Friday, we will open the period drama FAREWELL, MY QUEEN. ROBOT & FRANK had a very solid opening weekend (Thank you!) – it will stick around for another week. (remaining showtimes for this week can be found at our site: neonmovies.com)

Synopsis for FAREWELL, MY QUEEN: “Based on the best-selling novel by Chantal Thomas, the film stars Léa Seydoux as one of Marie’s ladies-in-waiting, seemingly innocent but quietly working her way into her mistress’s special favors, until history tosses her fate onto a decidedly different path. With the action moving effortlessly from the gilded drawing rooms of the nobles to the back quarters of those who serve them, this is a period film at once accurate and sumptuous in its visual details and modern in its emotions. Diane Kruger gives her best performance to date as the ill-fated Queen and Virginie Ledoyen is the Queen’s special friend Gabrielle de Polignac.” (taken from Cohen Media Group) Kenneth Turan of The Los Angeles Times wrote, “Matching the strength of these actresses and their personal drama is the film’s masterful sense of time and place – the way it makes us feel that this was how it was during four pivotal days in July 1789 as the wheels came off the French monarchy.” Mike LeSalle of The San Francisco Chronicle wrote, “Other films about Marie Antoinette have had their moments, but Benoît Jacquot’s Farewell, My Queen is the first to give a real sense of what it must have felt like to live inside that palace as the walls were caving in.” Visit the official website.

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

Tickets are already available for this year’s Downtown Dayton LGBT Film Festival, and there are a few films you won’t want to miss – including the opening night film GAYBY (which includes admission to the opening night party at The Crowne Plaza). Jonathan Lisecki, director of GAYBY, will attend our festival. In addition, Travis Matthews, director of I WANT YOUR LOVE, will be able to do some research for his new project while he’s in the region! Read all about the films on the official website. The 7th Annual Fest is set for Sept. 28-30. Watch the trailers and mark your calendars…it’s gonna be great! Special thanks to DAYTON MOST METRO, WYSO and DAYTON DAILY NEWS for already committing to provide stories about this year’s films.

And on the horizon is our benefit to assist with our digital conversion – set for October 14 (if you didn’t read that e-mail, you can check it out here). Thanks so much for your kind words and encouragement! Tickets can now be purchased at our box office and on-line via paypal. If you’re not able to attend our benefit, you can also make a donation on the benefit page.

All the best.
I hope to see you soon,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Fri. Sept. 14 – Thu. Sept. 20:

ROBOT & FRANK (PG-13) 1 Hr 29 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:50, 3:00, 5:10, 7:20, 9:30
Monday – Wednesday: 3:00, 5:10, 7:20
Thursday: 3:00, 5:10

FAREWELL, MY QUEEN (R) 1 Hr 52 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:40, 2:50, 5:00, 7:15, 9:30
Monday – Thursday: 2:50, 5:00, 7:15

COMING SOON:
As always, all dates are tentative.
Many of these dates will change.
In some rare cases, titles may disappear.
Sept. 21 THE MASTER
Sept. 21 ARBITRAGE
Sept. 28-30 DOWNTOWN DAYTON LGBT FILM FESTIVAL
Oct. 5 SLEEPWALK WITH ME
Oct. ? SEARCHING FOR SUGAR MAN
TBD THE QUEEN OF VERSAILLES
TBD 2 DAYS IN NEW YORK

Toronto Film Fest – Day #6

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Hello Again.

It’s day #6…the days are flying by.

I started off the morning with FRANCES HA – the new film from Noah Baumbach (director or THE SQUID AND THE WHALE, GREENBERG and MARGOT AT THE WEDDING).  Greta Gerwig stars as Frances – a kindred spirit, down-on-her luck, professional dancer in NYC.  The film is about her relationships and always-shifting residence.  We grit our teeth as we watch her make mistakes (turning down jobs because she’s too proud, her alcohol intake, how she deals with men, etc.) and we truly like spending time with her even though she can certainly banter on while getting intoxicated.  The writing and lead performance are what make this black/white film work, but I don’t think some of our regulars at THE NEON will connect with the material.  (That said, I liked it quite a bit…and the music cues are delightful.)

Next up was a film that I was very excited to see – HYDE PARK ON HUDSON – starring Bill Murray and Laura Linney.  This film appeared to be the next KING’S SPEECH (after seeing the marketing), but it’s not as magical as I had hoped.  Don’t get me wrong…it’s a wonderful little film – it’s just not the next big thing.  This is the movie about FDR and his extramarital relationship.  It’s also about the weekend when the King & Queen of England visited…and the bond between the USA and Great Britain was forever changed.  The photography is lovely, the performances are great…in addition to a couple other notes, I wish there was more of Eleanor.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rzl3CkzQ5UM’]

Lastly, I saw DEAD EUROPE – a film about a son who goes to spread his father’s ashes in Greece only to begin discovering dark family secrets.  Now residing in Australia, the young man’s travels take him all over Europe and get him into some disturbing situations.  The premise and first  1/2 of this film were quite promising.  Unfortunately, the 3rd act became a little bombastic, and I started to care less for the characters as I thought the plot became a little too over-the-top. That said, I think it’s important to expose deep-seeded racism and hatred…and this film is full of it.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XrNnofw8CQw’]

There was one other film I started today.  But after 15 minutes, I couldn’t stand it.  The description was misleading, and the material was not at all to my liking.  I had planned on 4 films – alas I only really saw three and had a nice dinner instead (eating right is something that generally doesn’t happen during this trip).

More tomorrow!  Thanks for reading,

Jonathan

 

 

Toronto Film Fest – Day #5

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Hello Everyone,

I have to make a confession.  Because we’re opening THE MASTER on Sept. 21, it has not been a priority for me to see during TIFF…especially because it’s always slated up against something else that I want to see.  That said, I did see the first 70 minutes today…and I found it quite engaging.  I’ll be anxious to see the rest!

The first film I saw today (in its entirety) was THANKS FOR SHARING – a dramedy about sex addiction.  Though there are lots of really funny moments, this film really does take the sex addiction part quite seriously.  Mark Ruffalo and Tim Robbins star along with relative newcomer Josh Gad …with supporting roles by Gwyneth Paltrow and Pink! (who is wonderful).  The film is directed by Stuart Blumberg.  Though this is his directorial debut, Blumberg has had his hand in filmmaking for a while.  (He wrote THE KIDS ARE ALL RIGHT a couple years ago.)  Though I thought this film was too long (I realize that I’m beginning to sound like Harvey Weinstein – who is famous for chopping filmmakers’ films), I do think it’s pretty good for the most part…and very audience friendly.

Next I saw the new film by Edward Burns – A FITZGERALD FAMILY CHRISTMAS.  This film started out on a really strong note.  It was an honest, insightfully funny film about a dysfunctional family during the holidays.  Sadly, the film went in a couple directions that were very problematic, and the movie ultimately didn’t work for me.  However, there are a couple characters that made the film worth watching…particularly Anita Gillette (known recently as Liz Lemon’s mother on 30 ROCK).

Lastly, I saw what might be at the top of the list so far for me.  Francois Ozon’s new film is spectacular.  IN THE HOUSE is the story of a schoolboy who has taken an interest in writing and his grammar teacher who is helping him hone his craft.  As the boy continues to write a story about his voyeuristic observations regarding a family in his neighborhood, the teacher becomes more invested in knowing what happens next…all the while teaching the boy what works and doesn’t work narratively.  It’s a twisted, inventive story…and it’s as funny as it is thrilling.  Both Francois Ozon and Kristin Scott Thomas were at the screening.  I loved it!

Sadly, there are no trailers for the films I screened today…so I’ll leave you with one for THE MASTER.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fJ1O1vb9AUU’]

Thanks for reading!!!

Jonathan

Toronto Film Fest – Day #4

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Hello!

I’m gonna try and make this short and sweet…as it’s already late and I need to wake by 6am again tomorrow.

It was quite a day.  4 films…all (mostly) good.

First off, I saw David O. Russell’s SILVER LININGS PLAYBOOK (Russell did I HEART HUCKABEES, FLIRTING WITH DISASTER and – starring Bradley Cooper, Jennifer Lawrence and Robert DeNiro.  This dysfunctional family comedy about mental illness was full of laughs – mostly due to honest observations.  I wish it had been a little shorter, but ultimately I think it will be  crowd-pleaser. (editorial note – I think that the pairing of obsessing over sports paired mental illness issues is an interesting marriage)

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lj5_FhLaaQQ’]

A ROYAL AFFAIR is a period drama about Queen Caroline of Denmark in the late 18th Century.  She married into the monarchy, and her husband was a childish, self-absorbed man.  Caroline had an affair with the royal physician, and they managed to make numerous changes to government.  The photography and set/costume design of this film are delicious, and the lead actress – Alicia Vikander – is absolutely stunning (she’s also in ANNA KARENINA).

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RiHnVMHk6YU’]

This evening, I saw the film that will undoubtedly be dubbed “The Next Marigold Hotel.”  QUARTET – Dustin Hoffman’s directorial debut – stars Maggie Smith, Bill Connolly, Pauline Collins, and Tom Courtenay.  This little film is an absolute delight!  It’s about a retirement home for retired musicians…and in addition to the 4 lead actors, it stars numerous singers and musicians in their 70’s 80’s and 90’s (Hoffman wanted real musical artists to live in his scenes – not just actors playing musicians) .  Tonight was it’s world premiere, and I must confess something….  I’ve seen people go insane for movie stars over the years.  Johnny Depp.  Brad Pitt.  Angelina Jolie.  People scream, the jump up and down, and sometimes they even cry.  Tonight, when Maggie Smith was standing 10 feet away from me, tears streamed down my face.  From THE PRIME OF MISS JEAN BRODIE  to ROOM WITH A VIEW…from THE V.I.P.s to DOWNTON ABBEY, I have loved Dame Maggie for decades, and it was a complete thrill to see her in person!  The Q&A with the principal cast as well as Hoffman was a night to remember, and the film is going to be a hit with our audience.

Lastly, I saw LOVE IS ALL YOU NEED –  the latest film from Sussane Bier (director of BROTHERS, IN A BETTER WORLD and OPEN HEARTS).  (Interestingly, the original Danish title would be translated into THE BALD HAIRDRESSER.)  This film is much lighter than Bier’s recent work.  There are some serious subjects on the table – but there are also a lot of laughs.  Bier, along with lead actress Trine Dyrholm (also in A ROYAL AFFAIR) and Pierce Brosnan, introduced the film and did a Q&A.  Though I liked most of this film, I also thought it was a little too long given the subject/story.  That said, Dyrholm is a joy to watch.

Off to bed!  Thanks for reading!

Jonathan

Toronto Film Fest – Day #2

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Hello Everyone,

Another full day.

After my ticket line-up this morning, I went to see the Claude Miller’s final film starring Audrey Tautou – THERESE DESQUEYROUX.  It’s a quiet costume drama with rising currents of tension throughout.  I’m a big fan of Merchant Ivory films like HOWARDS END, MAURICE and REMAINS OF THE DAY – and though this film doesn’t deal as much with class as those films, and the score is very understated (by comparison to Richard Robbins’ Merchant Ivory scores) – I think the approach to design, period accuracy and dedication is similar.  This is the story of a woman who unhappily marries because she thinks it’s what was meant to do…even though she thinks emancipated thoughts.  Though many might find the pace too slow, I really fell inside the frame and thought it was a wonderful story of struggle for freedom – with no 100% likable character within reach.  Below is a clip…as there is no trailer yet.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8c0gUNddZD0′]

Next I saw THE PERKS OF BEING A WALLFLOWER – a wonderful little film that proves that Emma Watson will easily make the transition from the child star of the HARRY POTTER franchise to serious actress.  This high school story might seem like traditional, angsty material, but it’s handled very well, and the script is great.  Ezra Miller (from WE NEED TO TALK ABOUT KEVIN) has a wonderful supporting role, and lead – Logan Lerman – is really someone to watch…subtle & focused.  I’m not sure how Summit (the distributor) will handle this film – while at first glance it appears to be modern John Hughes…but I actually think it’s more thoughtful, honest & serious.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aog8680PVmU’]

And then came ANNA KARENINA – the new film by Joe Wright (ATONEMENT), starring Keira Knightley and Jude Law with a screenplay by Tom Stoppard.  I was excited about this film.  Though it eventually paid off, it took me 15-20 minutes to “get used” to/become invested in this highly stylized adaptation.  80% of the film takes place in a theatre — on a stage, in the wings, in the lobby, in the rafters, etc. (the other material is shot outdoors).  It’s a rather experimental film.  I call it equal parts Derek Jarman’s EDWARD II and Baz Luhrman’s MOULIN ROUGE.  It has exquisite costuming, set design, score, and screenplay…and the actors are doing some great work.  That said, even with this cast, it’s not a film meant for the multiplexes…we’ll see how Focus handles it this fall.  Joe Wright, Keira Knightley, Jude Law, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, and Olivia Williams were there.  When Knightley was asked if playing the part of Anna was intimidating (since it’s been played by some great actresses in the past), she responded, “I think every role is intimidating.  But Elizabeth Bennet was more so. Women want to be Elizabeth Bennet…people don’t tend to want to be Anna Karenina.”  Just watching this clip below makes me want to see the film again from the beginning.  There are some key issues that take place in the beginning…and I need to see it with fresh eyes.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IhGxs7cipDo’]

The most thoughtful Q&A of the day came after the screening of Sally Potter’s GINGER & ROSA.  I think this is Potter’s most “traditional” film in regards to storytelling style.  It’s set in the 60’s, and it’s the story of 2 best friends who are growing up in the age of the nuclear threat and the Cuban Missile Crisis.  It’s a coming-of-age story, and Elle Fanning does some incredible work.  This was the first time many people involved with the film had seen it.  Potter, Fanning, Christina Hendricks, Alice Englert, and Alesandro Nivola were all there…and it is a beautifully told story.  (I’m hoping that the Q&A surfaces on youtube sometime soon…Potter, Fanning and Nivola all had wonderful things to say.)

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XD_pJgNRj9s’]

It was a great day…and now it’s time for bed.

Thanks for reading!!

Jonathan

 

Toronto Film Fest – Day #1

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Hello Everyone,

It has been a busy day full of screenings and fun run-ins.  I’ve seen 4 films, chatted with a few people who I met at this year’s ArtHouse Convergence in Utah, spotted a couple of my favorite critics, and secured more tickets for the next couple days.

I woke this morning at 6:00am and hopped on the subway by 6:45 in order to secure myself a place in line for tickets.  I got my first picks and then headed into a screening of a South Korean film called IN ANOTHER COUNTRY with the always fantastic Isabelle Huppert.  The story is about a girl who is writing a screenplay about a vacation town and a series of visitors – all played by Huppert.  Though there are moments of charm and an understanding of what it’s like to be foreign (communication gaps, inability to read certain characters of handwriting, etc.), this movie didn’t work entirely for me.  Some of the camera work turned me off, and the repetition of thematic material (though I understand that was the point) between each tourist was a little exhausting.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eYwxpcuyuG0′]

Next I saw LAURENCE ANYWAY – the new film from Xavier Dolan (director of I KILLED MY MOTHER and HEARTBEATS).  This is the story of the relationship between a man and woman…and what happens to their relationship once the man announces that he will have a sex change.  There’s an interesting movie inside this movie…but at 2 hours and 40 minutes, it’s way too long and a bit of a tonal mess…with long stretches of realism, several moments of editing like an 80’s music video (ala HEARTBEATS) and a handful of visual metaphors that are lovely – but didn’t sync with the film (like W.E. last year, I’d like the opportunity to re-edit this film).  All that said, the last 10 minutes are magical (I’m glad I stuck around).  Though Melvil Poupaud (from TIME TO LEAVE) does nice work as the transgender male to female character, Suzanne Clement who does the best work in this film (she was the mother in I KILLED MY MOTHER, she was also in a great Canadian film called IT WASN’T ME, I SWEAR).  Though not a huge fan of this film, I’ll be anxious to see what Dolan does next.  I loved his first 2 films, and he’s only in his early 20’s.

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

Then I saw AMOUR – the latest and most accessible film from Michael Haneke (THE WHITE RIBBON, FUNNY GAMES, BENNY’S VIDEO, THE PIANO TEACHER, and more).  This Cannes winner is terribly heartbreaking and the most realistic, lovely, devastating, sweet, and honest depiction of an older couple I have ever seen.  In this case, they’re dealing with a recently onset illness…and the wife’s desire to never be taken to the hospital again.  (Isabelle Huppert has a small role…so she’s in the lead for most films I’ve seen with the same actress at TIFF.)  This film is being released by Sony Classics, so I’m sure THE NEON will bring it to town.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ekjfj8sLFqs’]

Lastly, I saw RUST AND BONE – the film I mentioned in yesterday’s update.  I was not a big fan of A PROPHET – the director’s last film.  And though I don’t completely embrace this film (physical, bloody violence almost always turns me off), I do see the brilliant artistry at work.  It’s really nice to see that a director that is so full of a need to portray hideous violence is also able to show us warmth and gentleness.  This film is about a father who is down on his luck and the orca trainer he meets at a club one night (brilliantly played by Marion Cotillard).  Within the first act, there’s an accident at Marineland, and Cotillard’s character loses both her legs.  This film is brutal…but it’s filled with honesty and wonderful moments.  The photography is fantastic and the sound design is out of this world.  Because Sony Classics has picked it up, I’m guessing it will come our way at THE NEON…and I’m guessing you’ll hear more about it come award season.  Cotillard, Mattias Schoenaerts (the lead male) and director Jacques Audiard were all at the screening.  Check out the newer trailer for this film at imdb.com

Thanks for reading.  I’m off to bed.

More tomorrow,

Jonathan

Toronto Film Fest – PreFest

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Hello Everyone.

After numerous delays (due to heavy fog in Dayton and Detroit), I’m back on schedule.

I took a taxi from the airport to the Hyatt Regency on King Street West just in time to get my accreditation before they closed for the evening.  I  was also able to get a couple tickets for public screenings tomorrow and Friday.  In addition to numerous press and industry screenings, I’ll see RUST AND BONE on Thursday (starring Marion Cotillard, directed by Jacques Audiard (A PROPHET)) and ANNA KARENINA on Friday  (starring Keira Knightley and Jude Law, directed by Joe Wright (ATONEMENT)).

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

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rPGLRO3fZnQ’]

I’ll average 3+ films a day over the next 8.5 days, and I’ve got a list of films I can’t wait to see…but I’m also anxious to see films that aren’t being talked about yet.

Check back for daily updates.  I’m off to read my catalog and started picking out more titles…then to bed before midnight (which won’t happen again during this trip).

All the best,

Jonathan

ROBOT AND FRANK Opens Friday at THE NEON

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Hello Everyone,

Once again, we’re moving forward this weekend…but not quite as we had planned. Though we outperformed all the multiplexes with CELESTE AND JESSE FOREVER (Thank you, NEON regulars!!), it opened far wider than we had ever anticipated (a total of 4 screens in town). Because of that, combined with the fact that THE INTOUCHABLES had a fantastic weekend, we have decided

“Celeste and Jesse” Starts Today at The Neon!

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Hello Everyone,

We’re moving along this weekend. Today we open a smart, new comedy starring Andy Samberg and Rashida Jones – CELESTE AND JESSE FOREVER (the film was written by Jones, too).
THE INTOUCHABLES will hold for one more week.

Synopsis for CELESTE AND JESSE FOREVER: “Celeste is convinced that divorcing Jesse is the right thing to do — she is on her way up, he is on his way nowhere, and if they do it now instead of later, they can remain supportive friends. Jesse passively accepts this transition into friendship, even though he is still in love with her. As the reality of their separation sets in, Celeste slowly and painfully realizes she has been cavalier about their relationship, and her decision, which once seemed mature and progressive, now seems impulsive and selfish. But her timing with Jesse is less than fortuitous. While navigating the turbulent changes in their lives and in their hearts, these two learn that in order to truly love someone, you may have to let them go.” (Sony Pictures Classics)  Visit the official website.

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

The Downtown Dayton LGBT Film Festival has just confirmed that 2 directors will attend this year’s festival. Jonathan Lisecki, director of the opening night film GAYBY plans to attend. In addition, Travis Matthews, director of I WANT YOUR LOVE, will book his flight tomorrow. Read all about the films on the official website! The 7th Annual Fest is set for Sept. 28-30. Watch the trailers and mark your calendars…it’s gonna be great! Special thanks to DAYTON MOST METRO, WYSO and DAYTON DAILY NEWS for already committing to provide stories about this year’s films.  (Due to explicit content, viewers must be 18 and older for I WANT YOUR LOVE.)

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JFo63Xhas1k’]

Folks have already been responding to the news of our benefit – set for October 14 (if you didn’t read that newsletter, you can check it out here). Thanks so much for your kind words and encouragement! Tickets can now be purchased at our box office and on-line via paypal. If you’re not able to attend our benefit, you can also make a donation on the benefit page.

Next week, I’ll be off to The Toronto International Film Festival. In my next newsletter, I’ll provide you with a link where you can keep up with my daily screenings. I’ve barely had time to look at the line-up, but I’m already excited about a few films.

FilmDayton had a great festival over the weekend. Thanks to everyone who came out and supported their screenings…and their mission.

We hope to see you soon,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Fri. Aug. 31 – Thu. Sept. 6:

CELESTE AND JESSE FOREVER (R) 1 Hr 32 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:50, 3:00, 5:10, 7:20, 9:30
Monday – Thursday: 3:00, 5:10, 7:20, 9:30

THE INTOUCHABLES (R) 1 Hr 52 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:20, 2:45, 5:10, 7:30, 9:45
Monday – Thursday: 3:00, 5:30, 8:00

COMING SOON:
As always, all dates are tentative.
Many of these dates will change.
In some rare cases, titles may disappear.
Sept. 7 ROBOT AND FRANK
Sept. 14 FAREWELL, MY QUEEN
Sept. 21 THE MASTER
Sept. 21 ARBITRAGE
Sept. 28-30 DOWNTOWN DAYTON LGBT FILM FESTIVAL
Oct. 5 SEARCHING FOR SUGAR MAN
Oct. ? SLEEPWALK WITH ME
TBD THE QUEEN OF VERSAILLES
TBD 2 DAYS IN NEW YORK
TBD SLEEPWALK WITH ME

THE NEON Announces Benefit with AMELIE

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Hello Everyone,

In October, THE NEON plans to shut down for a few days in order to install new digital projectors. Though we’d love to keep our 35mm projectors running, we’re being “forced” by the industry to make this change in order to stay in business. Within the coming year, bigger distributors will stop making 35mm prints, and their titles (like THE KING’S SPEECH, THE BEST EXOTIC MARIGOLD HOTEL, MOONRISE KINGDOM, etc.) keep us in business…and subsequently allow us to play smaller gems like THE KID WITH A BIKE and I AM LOVE.

In addition to exploring the options and trying to obtain an understanding of the new technology (this has been a big learning curve for me), there comes the challenge of paying for this new equipment. The cost will be approximately $140,000. We will be able to borrow some of this, and we have some money saved…but we have about a $25,000 gap.

The multiplexes are obtaining financial assistance from distributors to make these costly changes, but for us to maintain our community-driven mission (which includes film festivals, assisting local artists and organizations with special screenings, etc.), these programs don’t work for us.

On October 14, we will have a benefit at THE NEON to assist with the transition to digital projection. We will screen the film AMELIE on 35mm, and 3 of Dayton’s best restaurants will provide appetizers – Meadowlark, Coco’s Bistro & Roost and Heidelberg Distributors have given us a couple cases of wine.   In addition, we’ll hold a small auction of film-related items with Dayton roots. (Martin Sheen has given us some fun items, Allison Janney is on-board to provide us with something, and J. Todd Anderson will donate a storyboard from one of the Coen Brothers’ films to auction. And there’s more to come!)

Here’s our benefit announcement that you might start seeing around town:

Though we’ll be sad to see our 35mm projectors go away, we’re excited about some of the changes that will come along with our new equipment. THE NEON will finally be able to offer hearing assisted devices! We’ll also be able to occasionally offer screenings with closed captions for the hearing impaired (and I know some of our customers prefer subtitles when accents are hard to discern). We’ve got lots of options, and we’re looking forward to the new opportunities.

Within the next couple weeks, we will have a live website for purchasing tickets to our benefit…but I wanted you to know that tickets will go on sale at our box office on Wednesday, August 22.
THE INDIE LOVER Ticket is $100 – This ticket gets you your first beer or wine, appetizers from 3 great restaurants, and the screening of AMELIE.
THE EXECUTIVE PRODUCER Ticket is $150 – This ticket comes with unlimited beer and wine, delicious appetizers, the screening of AMELIE and 1 Entry into our drawing for Naming Rights of our large auditorium. We think it will be a fun night!

Thanks for taking the time to read through the lengthy post!

My regular newsletter will arrive later this week.

We’ll see you soon at the movies.
All the best,
Jonathan

YOUR SISTER’S SISTER Starts Friday at THE NEON

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Hello Everyone,

We’re changing things up this weekend! If you haven’t seen BEASTS OF THE SOUTHERN WILD – one of the best reviewed films of the year – then you should hurry down to THE NEON. Thursday will be your last chance to see it with us. On Friday, we will open YOUR SISTER’S SISTER – the new film from Lynn Shelton. In addition, we’ll hold THE INTOUCHABLES…it had a terrific weekend.

Synopsis for YOUR SISTER’S SISTER: “Your Sister’s Sister is a new comedy about romance, grief and sibling rivalry. A year after his brother Tom’s death, Jack is still struggling emotionally. When he makes a scene at a memorial party, Tom’s best friend Iris offers up her family cabin on an island in the Pacific Northwest so Jack can seek catharsis in solitude. Once there, however, he runs into Iris’ sister Hannah who is reeling from the abrupt end of a seven-year relationship and finds solace in Tom’s unexpected presence. A blurry evening of drinking concludes with an awkward sexual incident, made worse by Iris’ sudden presence at the cabin the next morning. A twisted tale of ever-complicated relationships is set in motion with raw, hilarious and emotional performances from the all-star cast.” (taken from IFC Films) Visit the official website.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JlbKcGn9M1M’]

The Greater Dayton Association of Black Journalists will host a community discussion about the Anthony Sowell serial murder case this Saturday at 11am at THE NEON. A discussion of the societal conditions that allowed the murders to go unnoticed will be discussed following a preview of the documentary ELEVEN. The film is about the Imperial Avenue killings in Cleveland’s Mount Pleasant neighborhood in 2009. Stanley Donaldson, a reporter for The Cleveland Plain Dealer, will be on hand along with co-director Khalil Pedizsai. Donaldson wrote newspaper articles about the murders. He is also a producer for the documentary. Please help us spread the word about this free community discussion.

Tickets are on sale for FilmDayton Festival – set for August 24-26. Take a look at their SITE and see what they have to offer. In addition to film screenings at THE NEON, the festival will offer workshops and special events around town. I’m anxious to see quite a few films on their line-up. TRASH DANCE, COMPLIANCE, and THESE AMAZING SHADOWS look great. This is their 4th Annual Fest…let’s help them make it a big success.

And speaking of festivals, The Downtown Dayton LGBT Film Festival has a fresh new website. HERE it is! It’s our biggest and best line-up yet, and we’re now in the process of securing guest artists to attend the festival (I can’t wait to make some big announcements in the coming days). The 7th Annual Fest is set for Sept. 28-30. Visit the site, watch the trailers and mark your calendars…it’s gonna be great!

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

SHOWTIMES for
Fri. Aug. 17 – Thu. Aug. 23:

YOUR SISTER’S SISTER (R) 1 Hr 30 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 1:00, 3:10, 5:15, 7:20, 9:30
Monday – Thursday: 3:10, 5:15, 7:20

THE INTOUCHABLES (R) 1 Hr 52 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:20, 2:45, 5:10, 7:30, 9:45
Monday – Thursday: 2:45, 5:10, 7:30

ELEVEN (NR) 30 Min + Discussion
Saturday: 11:00am

COMING SOON:
As always, all dates are tentative.
Many of these dates will change.
In some rare cases, titles may disappear.
Aug 31 FAREWELL, MY QUEEN
Aug 31 CELESTE AND JESSE FOREVER
TBD WHERE DO WE GO NOW?
Sept. 14 ROBOT AND FRANK
Sept. 21 ARBITRAGE
TBD THE QUEEN OF VERSAILLES
TBD 2 DAYS IN NEW YORK
TBD SLEEPWALK WITH ME

Take a Ride on the Wonderland Express

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Written by Mark Martel, FilmDayton volunteer

A mysterious device fashioned from a garage door opener changes the perspectives of four different people as they experience and are transformed by its power.  Part psychological drama, part comedy and with a dash of science fiction, The Wonderland Express premiered at the StarLite Film Fest in Winter Garden, Florida in early 2012 and won its first award. The film was invited back for a summer festival there and has been an audience favorite on the festival circuit all across the country.

Now it’s homecoming. The Wonderland Express makes its local premiere at the 2012 FilmDayton Festival in downtown Dayton at the Neon Movies on Saturday, Aug 25th. The 11 a.m. matinee screening will include the shorts The Medal and Always Believe.

Directed by Daytonian Greg Nichols, the Express stars an all-local cast including Shawn Green, Ryan Singer, Natasha Randall, Craig Roberts, and Charles Larkowski.  Nichols and Green also produced the film with Rachel Wilson.

All of the actors in the film have roots in the Cincinnati/Dayton, Ohio theatre community and have extensive past experience in improvisation.  Writer/director Greg Nichols, and cast members Shawn Green and Ryan Singer were involved in the same improv group from 1998 to 2003, and their tight interplay shows onscreen.  Although the film began as a full script, most of the dialog was improvised during filming.  Cast member Natasha Randall was recently seen in the 2010 Sundance Festival Selection Take Shelter, another Ohio independent film.  Singer currently resides in Los Angeles, CA and is a feature performer of nationally touring comedian Marc Maron.

The core of the film lies in how the characters interact with a strange device and its influence on their normal everyday lives.  In this world of cell phones and GPS, today’s science can seem like magic to the average person, which is how the characters view their experiences with the device in the film as it changes their lives.  With limited understanding or preparation, their individual experiences are what lead them to different ends.

Read more about the national accolades for The Wonderland Express, the improvisation techniques used by actors, and a focus on simplicity and skill; the full article is available and tickets are on sale NOW.

The Wonderland Express will screen as part of the FilmDayton Festival on Saturday, August 25 at 11 AM at the Neon.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4MS_FnKbt0E’]

Upcoming at The Neon: “The Invisible War”, “Eleven” and Special Announcements

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Hello Everyone,

We’re holding steady this week. If you still need to see TO ROME WITH LOVE or MOONRISE KINGDOM, this will more than likely be your last week to see these films at THE NEON. In addition, we will hold BEASTS OF THE SOUTHERN WILD. Though this film didn’t perform as well as we had hoped, audiences have really embraced it…and we hope positive word-of-mouth will help build attendance.

Check out the website for BEASTS OF THE SOUTHERN WILD.

Air Force Veteran Jachlin Williams will be hosting two screenings of the new, award-winning documentary THE INVISIBLE WAR at THE NEON. The first is this Sunday, August 5 and the second is on Thursday, August 16. “A groundbreaking investigative documentary about one of our country’s most shameful and best-kept secrets, THE INVISIBLE WAR reveals the epidemic of rape within the U.S. Military. Today, a female soldier in Iraq or Afghanistan is more likely to be raped by a fellow soldier than killed by enemy fire. Tracing the powerfully emotional stories of several young veterans, the film reveals the systemic cover-up of the crimes they have suffered and follows their struggles to rebuild their lives and careers. These screenings are part of a campaign to tell survivors of sexual military trauma that they are not invisible.” These screenings are free. Tickets will be given on a first-come, first-serve basis – one ticket per person on the day of each screening.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ECOqpv45tIo’]

The Greater Dayton Association of Black Journalists will host a community discussion about the Anthony Sowell serial murder case Saturday, August 18 at 11am at THE NEON. A discussion of the societal conditions that allowed the murders to go unnoticed will be discussed following a preview of the documentary ELEVEN. The film is about the Imperial Avenue killings in Cleveland’s Mount Pleasant neighborhood in 2009. Stanley Donaldson, a reporter for The Cleveland Plain Dealer, will be on hand along with co-director Khalil Pedizsai. Donaldson wrote newspaper articles about the murders. He is also a producer for the documentary. Please help us spread the word about this free community discussion.

Very soon, I’ll be able to give you details about our benefit on October 14. Slowly but surely, we’re getting details in place so we can make a big announcement (here are a few wonderful details – Meadowlark, Coco’s Bistro & Roost have already confirmed to provide appetizers). This benefit will help us as we transition from 35mm to digital projection – a costly but necessary endeavor.

Did you see that FilmDayton revealed their line-up for their 4th Annual Festival? Check out their site to see the latest. This fest is set for August 24-26, and I can’t wait to see COMPLIANCE. Postcards with the complete line-up are also available at our box office.

And speaking of festivals, The Downtown Dayton LGBT Film Festival is ready to announce this year’s line-up. HERE is is! It’s our biggest and best yet, and we’re now in the process of securing guest artists to attend the festival. The 7th Annual Fest is set for Sept. 28-30. Visit the site, watch the trailers and mark your calendars…it’s gonna be great! (Please contact me if you or your business might be interested in sponsoring this annual event.)

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

SHOWTIMES for Fri. Aug. 3 – Thu. Aug. 9:

BEASTS OF THE SOUTHERN WILD (PG-13) 1 Hr 33 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:45, 3:00, 5:10, 7:20, 9:30
Monday – Thursday: 3:00, 5:10, 7:20, 9:30

TO ROME WITH LOVE (R) 1 Hr 42 Min
Friday, Saturday: 2:50, 7:30
Sunday: 7:30
Monday – Thursday: 2:50, 7:30

MOONRISE KINGDOM (PG-13) 1 Hr 34 Min
Friday: 12:40, 5:20, 9:40
Saturday: 12:40, 5:20
Sunday: 12:40, 5:20, 9:40
Monday – Thursday: 5:20, 9:40

FOREVER FLAVOR (NR) 60 Min
(this special event is a locally-produced rollerblading video …tickets $5 each…
no additional details were provided by the filmmakers)
Saturday: 10:00pm

THE INVISIBLE WAR (NR) 1 Hr 33 Min + Discussion
Sunday: 3:00

COMING SOON:
As always, all dates are tentative.
Many of these dates will change.
In some rare cases, titles may disappear.
August 10 THE INTOUCHABLES
TBD YOUR SISTER’S SISTER
late Aug FAREWELL, MY QUEEN
TBD WHERE DO WE GO NOW?
Sept. 14 ROBOT AND FRANK
TBD THE QUEEN OF VERSAILLES
TBD 2 DAYS IN NEW YORK