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Toronto – THE FILMS – Day #3 Part 1

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OK…I just got home from a party…it’s 2AM…I’ll give you more details tomorrow!

Just wanted to let you know a couple quick things.

Alexander Payne’s THE DESCENDANTS – of which I saw the “official world premiere” tonight – is absolutely wonderful.  I suspect that it will be nominated for “Best Picture.” (the picture in this post is not mine – I found by doing a google image search…it’s from the National Post’s website…that said, it’s from earlier today).

I saw three films today.  Andrea Arnold’s new adaptation of WUTHERING HEIGHTS (she’s responsible for one of my favorite films of recent years – FISH TANK), Todd Solondz’s new film DARK HORSE and Alexander Payne’s THE DESCENDANTS.

I’ll write more soon.

For now, enjoy the following trailer…

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

Toronto – THE FILMS – Day #2

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Hello Again,

Today was full once again…and I’m going to try and keep this “brief.”  I saw 5 films – and overall, it was a better day than yesterday.

First off, I saw MARTHA MARCY MAY MARLENE – starring Elizabeth Olsen (sister to the Olsen twins) & John Hawkes (from WINTER’S BONE).  Many people will relate WINTER’S to MARTHA.  There’s a similar backwoods tone to the film…and it’s a very human thriller…but that’s it.  This film about a girl who has escaped a cult and has difficulty assimilating into traditional “American manners” is at first quietly unsettling and eventually becomes terrifying.  Olsen is fantastic, and I’ll be concerned anytime I hear pine cones on my roof.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0_k3wCsOgqk’]

Next I saw A DANGEROUS METHOD – the new film from David Cronenberg.  I liked the trailer.  On paper, the film seems ready-made for me – A period piece with high production values, actors I like, interesting subject matter (Jung & Freud), Christopher Hampton as screenwriter…but there was something about the film that didn’t make it work for me.  Knightley’s accent was a bit hard to take – but otherwise, her performance was fantastic.  I found Cassel a bit hard to take, but Fassbender was wonderful.  I just couldn’t find a way into the film – though some are already declaring it a masterpiece.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=664eq7BXQcM’]

Next I saw THE KID WITH A BIKE – the new film from the Dardenne Brothers (directors of LORNA’S SILENCE).  The most naturalistic narrative I’ve seen so far…and it’s such a simple story that is heartbreaking without really playing moments for tears.  This movie is about a boy who is left alone at a group home.  He’s certain his father is at home – but it’s evident that his father has left and even sold the boy’s bike.  Enter a woman who takes an interest in the boy and agrees to let him stay with her on the weekends.  It’s simple.  It’s great.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ce3t1YIYokY’]

And then there’s THE ARTIST.  I saw this at a public screening – the director and lead actor introduced the film…and it’s really, really terrific.  Beautifully shot.  Great performances.  And the story is a hybrid of A STAR IS BORN, SINGIN’ IN THE RAIN and SUNSET BOULEVARD…but silent!  I’ll let the trailer do the rest.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O8K9AZcSQJE’]

THE ARTIST got a late start…so I had to leave early.  I got up from my seat about 5 minutes before it was over and went to the back of the auditorium.  I asked the usher if the other screening (in a theatre upstairs) had started seating yet.  She said, “No,” so I asked if I could continue watching from the back.  Moments before it ended, I had to get out in order to make it to my screening on time.  The usher led me to a back door which wouldn’t interfere with the light of the theatre.  Upon opening the door, there she was…just six feet in front of me – being ushered to the elevator for my next screening.  Tilda Swinton!  One of my favorite actresses of ALL TIME.  Absolutely stunning!

I made it to my last screening with just a few minutes to spare, and I got a front row seat.  (I’ll upload my pictures sometimes soon.)  WE NEED TO TALK ABOUT KEVIN is based on a famous book about a mother reflecting on how she raised her son – and how it might have led to his violent behavior.  It’s edgy, it’s non-linear, and it is somewhat experimental.  Directed by Lynne Ramsay, this film is a rough ride.  Interestingly, I think the musing are akin to Lars von Trier…but with Ramsay, the product is organic.  It feels richer, more honest and less contrived.  Swinton is brilliant in this film (as is Ezra Miller), and I’m still thinking about it.  I’m so delighted that I got see Swinton in person…EDWARD II, ORLANDO, THE DEEP END, I AM LOVE…I could go on!

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZLRgAe2jLaw’]

Off to bed.

Until tomorrow,

Jonathan

Toronto – THE FILMS Day #1

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Hello Everyone,

I’m gonna keep this ever-so-slightly short.  It’s already after midnight…and I made the most of today.  Get ready.  I saw 5 films!!

First off, I saw Lars von Trier’s MELANCHOLIA.  I’ll start by saying I love DANCER IN THE DARK and I’m quite fond of DOGVILLE.  That said, I’m not a fan of MELANCHOLIA!  There is some truly beautiful photography and there are a couple wonderful moments.  In addition, the themes are compelling…but von Trier’s “meditation” on the collision of worlds (both figuratively and literally) is a serious story with lots of dark, comedic moments…and the two parts of the film (part one focuses on the marriage night of Kirsten Dunst’s character…the second focuses on the fear that  Charlotte Gainsbourg’s character has about a planet crashing into earth) are actually quite disjointed. Ultimately, I felt quite aggravated by most of the time – and not in a good way.

Next I saw Nadine Labaki’s new film WHERE DO WE GO NOW (she made the film CARAMEL – which I love).  Though there are a couple moments that caused me to raise an eyebrow, I ultimately found this film quite wonderful.  The women are absolutely delightful.  The story is about a small village that has essentially been shut off from the rest of the world (except for a small path/bridge that is quite scary to cross).  The village, inhabited by Muslims & Christians, have learned to live in harmony.  When they find out that there is unrest in the surrounding world, they begin to fight again…and the women decide they’ll do whatever necessary to keep their men alive.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2NO_8Nyk-qQ’]

Next I saw THE IDES OF MARCH.  This will get a wide release in the coming weeks.  I mostly saw it because I had time, because it was shot in Cincinnati, and because I’ll be at a party with George Clooney on Saturday night (he directed it).  Except for the slight tabloid-feeling story, I actually think the film is quite solid.  The performances are good (I love Gossling) and the dialog is well-written.  For the first 30 minutes of the film, I was ready to vote for Clooney for president.  (there is also a Dayton connection)

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

For the fourth film, I saw PINA.  I posted a trailer to this film last night.  PINA was today’s highlight.  The film, under the direction of Wim Wenders (responsible for PARIS, TEXAS and WINGS OF DESIRE) is complete magic.  I’ve been moved by dance before…but never like this!  (Here is yesterday’s POSTING if you want to check out that trailer.)  Wenders introduced the film, and he put the piece into perspective.  He and Pina had been talking about making this film for 20 years.  She died before it could happen, but people twisted Wenders’ arms and he decided to move forward.  This film acts at once as a eulogy…and also a way to keep Pina alive.

Lastly, I saw RESTLESS – the new film from Gus Van Sant – starring Mia Wasikowska (from THE KIDS ARE ALL RIGHT and JANE EYRE) and Henry Hopper (Dennis Hopper’s son).  The story is about a boy obsessed with funerals who meets a girl (full of life) with terminal Cancer.  Mia glows at every turn, and there are a couple very good moments…but ultimately, this film had me sighing numerous times.  It’s over-scored, it has a moment of archival footage that totally doesn’t work, and the characters seem to only exist in their quirkiness – there’s not a lot of depth.  That said, some people really seemed to enjoy the film (it was a sold-out auditorium that seats 1250).  Van Sant, Mia and the producer and screenwriter were there.

Other sightings today:  Roger Ebert, Atom Egoyan, and one of my favorite film writers/critics – Peter Knegt of indiewire.

Well…it’s 1:30 now.

5 Hours sleep….then off again tomorrow morning quite early.

Thanks for reading,

Jonathan

In Toronto – Films Start Tomorrow!

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Hello!

I got to Toronto this afternoon (it’s 6:00 Wednesday evening as I write this), found my way to Banting House (the B&B where I’m staying), then scurried to the Hyatt Regency where I picked up my festival materials (my Industry pass allows me access to all Press/Industry screenings + 2 public screenings per day…though I can only get those public screening tickets 1 day in advance and based on availability).

I quickly opened my schedules and began marking and cross-referencing the films that I want to see.   Most films are offered at least once or twice to the Press/Industry folks and at least twice to the Public.  It then becomes a game – trying to determine which films I’d prefer to see in a setting with the public (which are generally screenings at which directors & stars appear…not to mention, the public seem to appreciate the work more than the often cynical P/I folks).  Making my schedule is a process that will be an on-going effort as I start to hear buzz about new and exciting films.  Every night, I will determine my best strategy for the next day…and more than likely, I’ll be out the door by 7am to try and get my most-desired tickets for the following day.  (OK – sorry – that was long-winded.)

All that said, I managed to get tickets to 2 public films for tomorrow.  I got a ticket to Wim Wenders’ PINA – a performance/documentary featuring choreography of the legendary Pina Bausch…and in 3D nonetheless (this is a film I’ve been terribly excited to see).  I also got a ticket  to Gus Van Sant’s new film RESTLESS (which is already scheduled to open at THE NEON this Fall).  In addition to these public screenings, I’ve got lots more to chose from tomorrow.  Von Trier’s MELANCHOLIA, a French film called BEAUTY, Tilda Swinton’s new film WE NEED TO TALK ABOUT KEVIN (though I think I’d prefer to see that at a public screening), WHERE DO WE GO NOW (the new film from Nadine Labaki), and THE IDES OF MARCH (George Clooney’s film – which I think he shot in Cincinnati).  Sooooo….too many films for one day – so I have to start making decisions tonight.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e4oCNsJHJDA’]

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0EnEBEZNkB4′]

Thanks for reading!  I’ll keep you posted.

Jonathan

TRIBE CALLED QUEST Documentary Opens + Toronto-Bound

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Hello Everyone.

THE TRIP did moderate business over the weekend…just enough to stick around for another week.  That said, SARAH’S KEY is still performing quite well.  In addition to these two films, we will open something new for one week only…a music documentary by actor and filmmaker Michael Rapaport.

Synopsis for BEATS, RHYMES & LIFE – THE TRAVELS OF A TRIBE CALLED QUEST: “Michael Rapaport sets out on tour with A Tribe Called Quest in 2008, when they reunited to perform sold-out concerts across the country, almost ten years after the release of their last album, The Love Movement. As he travels with the band members, Rapaport captures the story of how tenuous their relationship has become; how their personal differences and unresolved conflicts continue to be a threat to their creative cohesion. When mounting tensions erupt backstage during a show in San Francisco, we get a behind-the-scenes look at their journey and contributions as a band and what currently is at stake for these long-time friends collaborators.” (Sony Picture Classics)  Click this LINK to visit the official site.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bbCT6_HAOmM’]

On Friday, September 16 at 9:30pm, come to THE NEON for PK Night Dayton, Volume 8– sponsored by AIA Dayton, a chapter of The American Institute of Architects.  Pecha Kucha 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, including Dayton. Presenters share 20 images but with only 20 seconds per image, the timed format keeps presentations lively and concise.  Volume 8 will feature architects from around the region along with Dayton’s own Jane Black, London Coe, and Terry Welker.  The cost for this event is $5, and tickets are already available at our box office.

The 6th Annual Downtown Dayton LGBT Film Festival is in the final prep stages, and festival passes are currently on sale at our box office (single tickets go on sale Sept. 8).  5 visiting artists are already booked to visit the festival (all 5 are being flown in from L.A.), and our opening night party is shaping up to be something special.

To visit the official website for the festival, visit www.daytonlgbt.com.  The image above is from a French movie called TOMBOY – the film has one of the best child performances you will ever see.  Here’s the trailer:

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=onYkjprd-t8′]

I leave for the Toronto International Film Festival Wednesday morning…and I can hardly wait!  If you’d like to read about the films I’m seeing, the stars I’ve sighted, and the parties I’m attending, please visit DaytonMostMetro’s site by visiting the link starting on Thursday:  http://www.daytonmostmetro.com/tag/toronto-film-fest Just a few of the films I’m terribly excited to see are SHAME (with Michael Fassbender), ALBERT NOBBS (with Glenn Close), Almodovar’s THE SKIN I LIVE IN, Cronenberg’s A DANGEROUS METHOD, a new silent film from France called THE ARTIST, and the new film from Nadine Labaki (director of CARAMEL).

Please keep the staff busy in my absence.

Take care,

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Sept. 9 – September 15:

SARAH’S KEY (PG-13) 1 Hr 51 Min

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

Monday – Thursday:  3:00, 5:30, 8:00

BEATS, RHYMES & LIFE:

THE TRAVELS OF A TRIBE CALLED QUEST (R) 1 Hr 37 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 5:10, 9:50

Monday – Thursday: 8:15

THE TRIP (NR) 1 Hr 47 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:30, 2:50, 7:30

Monday – Thursday: 3:30, 6:00

COMING SOON:

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

In some cases, titles may disappear.

Sept. 16  THE GUARD

Sept 23   HIGHER GROUND

Sept. 30   THE FUTURE

Oct. 7   RESTLESS

Oct. 7   SENNA

Nov. 4  TAKE SHELTER

Nov. 18  MARTHA MARCY MAY MARLENE

Nov. 25   THE SKIN I LIVE IN

TBD   THE WHISTLEBLOWER

TBD   LIFE ABOVE ALL

British Comedy THE TRIP – Opens Sept. 2 at THE NEON!

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Hello Everyone.

A special thanks to all of you who came out for opening weekend for SARAH’S KEY…we had a terrific weekend.  I’ve heard back from many of you that word is spreading about getting to THE NEON to see the film.  I certainly appreciate this…as word-of-mouth is one of the most effective marketing tools for us.

SARAH’S KEY will hold over as well as ANOTHER EARTH (for one screening a day).  In addition, we will open the new British comedy THE TRIP.

Synopsis for THE TRIP:  “When Steve Coogan is asked by The Observer to tour the country’s finest restaurants, he envisions it as the perfect getaway with his beautiful girlfriend. But, when she backs out on him, he has no one to accompany him but his best friend and source of eternal aggravation, Rob Brydon. As the brilliant comic duo, freestyling with flair, drive each other mad with constant competition and showdowns of competing impressions, the ultimate odd couple realize in the end a rich amount about not only good food, but the nature of fame, relationships and their own lives.” (IFC Films)  Click HERE to be directed to THE TRIP’s official website.

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

The 6th Annual Downtown Dayton LGBT Film Festival is in the final prep stages.  Visiting artists are booking their flights, posters and postcards are showing up all around town, and community partners are helping to spread the word.  Check out this wonderful clip from CAROL CHANNING: LARGER THAN LIFE …it’s an interview in which she talks about Jacqueline Kennedy visiting backstage during HELLO DOLLY.  (This particular screening is sponsored by The Human Race Theatre Company)

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ex8gE6YC63Q’]

The official website is now up and running!  Check out www.daytonlgbt.com to read a synopsis about each film…you’ll also find embedded trailers and links to official websites.  One special treat…The Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra will give a pair of tickets away at each LGBT screening to see Lynda Carter when she’s in town!  Festival passes go on sale tomorrow at THE NEON’s box office.  $50 for all seven screenings + the Opening Night Party at Sidebar.  (Single tickets go on sale Sept. 8 for $8 each.)

Living City’s Fall Festival is officially booked.  This year?  Vampires!  From Bela Lugosi’sDRACULA (in 35mm) to Catherine Deneuve & David Bowie in THE HUNGER – the line-up is lots of fun.  More details soon…the series begins Oct. 17!

Don’t forget…Take your NEON ticket stub to our new neighbor Sa bai: Asian Cuisine & Sushi Bar – and receive 15% off your meal.

We’ve got some new great bookings below.  From Pedro Almodovar and Gus Van Sant to the much-requested SENNA.  Check out titles below.

I leave for the Toronto International Film Festival next Wednesday…and I can hardly wait!  Beginning next week, I will blog on a daily basis (right here on DaytonMostMetro.com) about the films I’m seeing, the parties I’ve attended, and the stars I’ve sighted.

See you soon,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Sept. 2 – September 8:

SARAH’S KEY (PG-13) 1 Hr 51 Min

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

Monday – Thursday:  3:00, 5:30, 8:00

ANOTHER EARTH (PG-13)  1 Hr  32 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday:  5:10

Monday – Thursday:  5:20

THE TRIP (NR) 1 Hr 47 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:30, 2:50, 7:30, 9:50

Monday – Thursday: 2:50, 7:50

COMING SOON:

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

Sept. 9   THE GUARD
Sept 9   THE WHISTLEBLOWER
Sept 16  BEATS, RHYMES & LIFE: A TRIBE CALLED QUEST
Sept 23   HIGHER GROUND
Sept. 30   THE FUTURE
Oct. 7   RESTLESS
Oct. 7   SENNA
Nov. 4  TAKE SHELTER
Nov. 18  MARTHA MARCY MAY MARLENE
Nov. 25   THE SKIN I LIVE IN
TBD   LIFE ABOVE ALL

This Week at The Neon – “Another Earth” and “Sarah’s Key”

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Hello Everyone.

We had a very slow weekend at THE NEON…so it’s time to clear the decks and move forward in a big way.  If you haven’t seen BUCK, SNOW FLOWER AND THE SECRET FAN orTHE DOUBLE HOUR, you only have until Thursday to see them at THE NEON. (Click here for current showtimes.)

On Friday, we will open 2 new films – the Sundance hit ANOTHER EARTH and the adaptation of the beloved novel SARAH’S KEY.  We haven’t had a big opportunity to market SARAH’S KEY via trailer play…though we know there’s a large interest in the film.  Please help us spread the word about its opening this Friday.

Synopsis for ANOTHER EARTH:  “Rhoda Williams, a bright young woman accepted into MIT’s astrophysics program, aspires to explore the cosmos. A brilliant composer, John Burroughs, has just reached the pinnacle of his profession and is about to have a second child. On the eve of the discovery of a duplicate earth, tragedy strikes and the lives of these strangers become irrevocably intertwined.” (Fox Searchlight Pictures)  ANOTHER EARTH’s official website.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N8hEwMMDtFY’]

Synopsis for SARAH’S KEY: “Julia Jarmond, an American journalist married to a Frenchman, is commissioned to write an article about the notorious Vel d’Hiv round up, which took place in Paris, in 1942. She stumbles upon a family secret which will link her forever to the destiny of a young Jewish girl, Sarah. Julia learns that the apartment she and her husband Bertrand plan to move into was acquired by Bertrand’s family when its Jewish occupants were dispossessed and deported 60 years before. She resolves to find out what happened to the former occupants: Wladyslaw and Rywka Starzynski, parents of 10-year-old Sarah and four-year-old Michel. The more Julia discovers – especially about Sarah, the only member of the Starzynski family to survive – the more she uncovers about Bertrand’s family, about France and, finally, herself.” (The Weinstein Company)  The official website for SARAH’S KEY.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0AmxnNxiNWA’]

Marketing pieces for The 6th Annual Downtown Dayton LGBT Film Festival are well underway, and I’m quite pleased with the line-up!  In the coming days, you’ll start to see stacks of postcards popping up all over town (if you’d like to place some at your business or favorite hangout, please let me know…I have 2 different versions).

The official website is now up and running.  Check out www.daytonlgbt.com to read a synopsis about each film…you’ll also find embedded trailers and links to official websites.  One special treat…The Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra will give a pair of tickets away at each LGBT screening to see Lynda Carter when she’s in town!  If you are a lover of theatre, don’t miss CAROL CHANNING: LARGER THAN LIFE.  If you like being in the know regarding films that make the critics’ top ten lists…you’ll certainly want to see WEEKEND (one of my favorite films of the year).

Living City’s Fall Festival is also shaping up.  This year?  Vampires!  From Bela Lugosi’sDRACULA (in 35mm) to Catherine Deneuve & David Bowie in THE HUNGER – the line-up is lots of fun.  More details soon…the series begins Oct. 17!

And here’s another treat!!!  Take your NEON ticket stub to our new neighbor Sa bai: Asian Cuisine & Sushi Bar – and receive 15% off your meal.

Take care!

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for August 26 – September 1:

SARAH’S KEY (PG-13) 1 Hr 51 Min

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

Monday – Thursday:  3:00, 5:30, 8:00

ANOTHER EARTH (PG-13)  1 Hr  32 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday:  1:00, 3:10, 5:20, 7:30, 9:40

Monday – Thursday:  3:10, 5:20, 7:50

COMING SOON:

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

In some cases, titles may disappear.

Sept. 2   THE TRIP

Sept. 9   LIFE ABOVE ALL

Sept 9   THE WHISTLEBLOWER

Sept 9  BEATS AND RHYMES: A TRIBE CALLED QUEST

Sept 23   HIGHER GROUND

TBD   THE GUARD

TBD   THE FUTURE

2 New Films This Weekend at THE NEON + LGBT Film Fest Line-Up!

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Hello Everyone.

After a phenomenal 10-week run, it’s time for MIDNIGHT IN PARIS to head out.  If you still need to see it (or need to see it one more time), you can find remaining showtimes on ourwebsite.  That said, PAGE ONE: INSIDE THE NEW YORK TIMES is leaving after just one week.  Hurry down if it’s still on your list.

In addition to holding onto BUCK, we will open two new films – SNOW FLOWER AND THE SECRET FAN and THE DOUBLE HOUR.

Synopsis for SNOW FLOWER AND THE SECRET FAN:  “In 19th-century China, seven year old girls Snow Flower and Lily are matched as laotong – or “old sames” – bound together for eternity. Isolated by their families, they furtively communicate by taking turns writing in a secret language, nu shu, between the folds of a white silk fan.In a parallel story in present day Shanghai, the laotong’s descendants, Nina and Sophia, struggle to maintain the intimacy of their own childhood friendship in the face of demanding careers, complicated love lives, and a relentlessly evolving Shanghai. Drawing on the lessons of the past, the two modern women must understand the story of their ancestral connection, hidden from them in the folds of the antique white silk fan, or risk losing one another forever.What unfolds are two stories, generations apart, but everlasting in their universal notion of love, hope and friendship.” (Fox Searchlight Pictures)  Click HERE to be directed to SNOW FLOWER’s official website.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6wlk7TsdhsY’]

Synopsis for THE DOUBLE HOUR: “Guido, a former cop, is a luckless veteran of the speed-dating scene in Turin. But, much to his surprise, he meets Slovenian immigrant Sonia, a chambermaid at a high-end hotel. The two hit it off, and a passionate romance develops. After they leave the city for a romantic getaway in the country, things suddenly take a dark turn. As Sonia’s murky past resurfaces, her reality starts to crumble. Everything in her life begins to change – questions arise and answers only arrive through a continuous twist and turn of events keeping viewers on edge until the film’s final moments.” (Samuel Goldwyn Pictures)  Click HERE to be directed to THE DOUBLE HOUR’s official website.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4loZt8-MRZw’]

Marketing pieces for The 6th Annual Downtown Dayton LGBT Film Festival are well underway, and I’m quite pleased with the line-up!  In the coming days, you’ll start to see stacks of postcards popping up all over town (if you’d like to place some at your business or favorite hangout, please let me know…I anticipate their arrival any day).

Here’s this year’s line-up:

Fri. Sept. 23 at 7:30 – THE GREEN – sponsored by Square One Salon & Spa

Fri. Sept. 23 postfilm – PARTY at SIDEBAR – sponsored by Lisa Hanauer & Sue Spiegel

Sat. Sept. 24 at 12:30 – GEN SILENT with THE COLONEL’S OUTING & FIRST AND LOVELISS – sponsored by Greater Dayton LGBT Center

Sat. Sept. 24 at 3:00 – TOP DRAWER SHORTS: I DON’T WANT TO GO BACK ALONE, REVOLUTION, LUST LIFE, CHANGE, THE QUEEN, and THE NOT SO SUBTLE SUBTEXT – sponsored by Miami Valley Fair Housing Center

Sat. Sept. 24 at 7:30 – TOMBOY – sponsored by PFLAG Dayton

Sat. Sept. 24 at 9:30 – GOING DOWN IN LA-LA LAND with 52 – sponsored by MJ’s Cafe, JOHN and Marion’s Piazza

Sun. Sept. 25 at 12:30 – CAROL CHANNING: LARGER THAN LIFE – sponsored by Human Race Theatre Company

Sun. Sept. 25 at 3:00 – WEEKEND with EMPIRE – sponsored by Ken Byers

Ticketing details, trailers, and news about visiting artists will be available soon on the festival website.  One special treat…The Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra will give a pair of tickets away at each LGBT festival screening to see Lynda Carter when she’s in town!

We don’t anticipate THE DOUBLE HOUR (and maybe even SNOW FLOWER) to stick around too long…so we hope you’ll hurry down.

Take care!

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for August 19 – August 25:

THE DOUBLE HOUR (NR) 1 Hr 35 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 3:00, 9:30

Monday – Thursday:  2:20, 8:30

SNOW FLOWER AND THE SECRET FAN (PG-13) 2 Hr

Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:10, 2:30, 5:00, 7:30, 9:50

Monday – Thursday: 3:00, 5:30, 8:00

BUCK (PG) 1 Hr 28 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 1:00, 5:15, 7:20

Monday – Thursday: 4:30, 6:30

COMING SOON:

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

In some cases, titles may disappear.

Aug 26   ANOTHER EARTH

Aug 26   THE GUARD

Sept. 2   THE TRIP

Sept. 9   LIFE ABOVE ALL

Sept 9   THE WHISTLEBLOWER

Sept 9  BEATS AND RHYMES: A TRIBE CALLED QUEST

Sept 23   HIGHER GROUND

TBD   SARAH’S KEY

TBD   THE FUTURE

Seeing the City from New Eyes

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A native of Cincinnati, I didn’t really dip my toes into everything Dayton has to offer until my freshman year of college at the University of Dayton. While some of my classes exposed me to popular sites in the city, such as the Schuster Center, I took it upon myself to explore lesser-known pockets of downtown. After four years of living and working in Dayton, I am still finding interesting new places, but I am proud to say I definitely know more than I did when I was a freshman.

Making old new again

As a girl who perpetually has nothing to wear (yet a closet full of clothes), I’m always on the prowl for new additions to my wardrobe. In the past few years I have gained a huge appreciation for vintage clothing, although I am still learning how to filter through what’s gold and what’s just … old. The best place I’ve found to score some great finds? Feathers Vintage Clothing. Located in the Oregon Arts District, it’s the perfect place to browse before grabbing a stuffed burger at Blind Bob’s. Disclaimer: One glance at its front window, filled with the kinds of clothes you dream about stumbling across in such a store, and you will have no choice but to stop and see what’s inside.

Lights, Camera, Action

The best movie experiences are ones in which the whole audience connects over the film. While these occasions are rare, they make going to the movies special. At The Neon, one gets that sense of community during every film. Plus, the selection is awesome – way better than any other theater in the area. It offers everything from Oscar-nominated blockbusters to the lesser-known movies all the cool kids rave about. If you’re wary about seeing a movie that hasn’t been over-advertised, check out The Neon’s website. It provides great summaries, as well as a schedule for upcoming films.

Music to my ears

My inaugural trip to Omega Music was on a first date. After a delicious dinner at Thai 9, we went on a romantic walk down the brick-paved stretch of Fifth St. in the Oregon Arts District. While the night was awkward (Sorry I was more excited about buying that live concert CD than I was about being on that date with you), I still love going back and browsing the music selection. The staff also is really friendly, which I haven’t always encountered in music stores. I still think of that long-lost first date every time I walk into Omega, but at least there’s great music to make me forget it.

Get Lucky

As a lover of food (but by no means a connoisseur), my favorite places to eat are ones that have a unique, but not intimidating, menu. Enter Lucky’s Taproom. A descriptive beer menu for someone who knows nothing about beer (i.e., me) and a staff willing to make recommendations? Sign me up. The first time I went to Lucky’s I ordered the fish and got to choose the beer it was battered in. Awesome. Apparently quality is always Lucky’s standard, as the food is excellent every time I go.

Hit the pavement

A longtime runner before college, I saw my move to Dayton as a chance to get to know a new city – on foot. Confession: In high school I ran almost 10 miles daily with my cross-country team, but when left to my own devices, I am way too tempted to sit on the couch and watch reruns on E! instead of getting up and exercising. Having new, uncharted territory encouraged me to start running here, but it was the awesome routes that kept me going. I love cities, yet I love being in parks; lucky for me, downtown is a blend of both. Check out the Five Rivers MetroParks website for more information on all of the trails available.

This is by no means a complete list of things to do in downtown Dayton. Be sure to check out the Downtown Dayton Partnership’s website for more information and other suggestions of great places in the city to visit.

THE NEON Gets To PAGE ONE

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Hello Everyone.

We’ve had a great summer so far…and you certainly helped to keep the ball rollin’ with BUCK.  Our weekend was fantastic, and positive word-of-mouth should keep this film going for a little while.  In addition to BUCK, we’re going to bring you another documentary which also has some great buzz – PAGE ONE: INSIDE THE NEW YORK TIMES.  In addition, we’re going to keep MIDNIGHT IN PARIS for yet another week.  Crowds keep coming to this little gem, and it’s quickly becoming one of our longest running and highest grossing summer films.

If you haven’t had a chance to see BEGINNERS, Thursday will be your last chance.  For showtimes for this week and next, visit www.neonmovies.com.

Synopsis for PAGE ONE:  “In the tradition of great fly-on-the-wall documentaries, Page One: A Year Inside the New York Times deftly gains unprecedented access to The New York Times newsroom and the inner workings of the Media Desk. With the Internet surpassing print as our main news source and newspapers all over the country going bankrupt, PAGE ONE chronicles the transformation of the media industry at its time of greatest turmoil. Writers like Brian Stelter, Tim Arango and the salty but brilliant David Carr track print journalism’s metamorphosis even as their own paper struggles to stay vital and solvent. Meanwhile, their editors and publishers grapple with existential challenges from players like WikiLeaks, new platforms ranging from Twitter to tablet computers, and readers’ expectations that news online should be free. But rigorous journalism is thriving. PAGE ONE gives us an up-close look at the vibrant cross-cubicle debates and collaborations, tenacious jockeying for on-the-record quotes, and skillful page-one pitching that produce the “daily miracle” of a great news organization. What emerges is a nuanced portrait of journalists continuing to produce extraordinary work-under increasingly difficult circumstances.” (Magnolia Picutures)

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rwTMFXgf95c’]

Click HERE to visit PAGE ONE’s Official site.  Click HERE to visit BUCK’s Official site.

In the next few days, I will release the entire line-up for The 6th Annual Downtown Dayton LGBT Film Festival.  The selection committee sorted through over a hundred hours of material in order to bring the best films to Dayton.  For a sneak peek, check out a trailer for our opening night film – THE GREEN – sponsored by Square One Salon & Spa.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t4fZqbMrd2E’]

Hope to see you soon.

Take care!

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for August 12 – August 18:

MIDNIGHT IN PARIS (PG-13) 1 Hr 40 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 1:00, 5:10

Monday – Thursday: 6:00

PAGE ONE: INSIDE THE NEW YORK TIMES (R) 1 Hr 28 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 3:10, 7:30, 9:30

Monday – Thursday: 3:30, 8:15

BUCK (PG) 1 Hr 28 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 1:15, 3:15, 5:15, 7:20, 9:20

Monday – Thursday: 3:15, 5:30, 8:00

COMING SOON:

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

Aug 19   SNOW FLOWER AND THE SECRET FAN
Aug 26   ANOTHER EARTH
Aug 26   THE GUARD
Sept. 9   LIFE ABOVE ALL
Sept 9   THE WHISTLEBLOWER
Sept 9  BEATS AND RHYMES: A TRIBE CALLED QUEST
Sept 23   HIGHER GROUND
TBD   DOUBLE HOUR
TBD   THE FUTURE

Don’t Miss BEGINNERS! Prize Details Inside!!

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Hello Everyone.

If you still need to see THE TREE OF LIFE, Thursday (7/21) will be its last day at THE NEON (all showtimes are available at HERE).  On Friday, we will open the new film from Mike Mills – BEGINNERS – starring Ewan McGregor and Christopher Plummer (Plummer’s performance is an Oscar shoe-in for “Best Supporting Actor”).

Synopsis for BEGINNERS: “From writer/director Mike Mills comes a comedy/drama about how deeply funny and transformative life can be, even at its most serious moments.  BEGINNERS imaginatively explores the hilarity, confusion, and surprises of love through the evolving consciousness of Oliver (Golden Globe Award nominee Ewan McGregor). Oliver meets the irreverent and unpredictable Anna (Melanie Laurent of Inglourious Basterds) only months after his father Hal (Academy Award nominee Christopher Plummer) has passed away. This new love floods Oliver with memories of his father who – following 44 years of marriage – came out of the closet at age 75 to live a full, energized, and wonderfully tumultuous gay life. The upheavals of Hal’s new honesty, by turns funny and moving, brought father and son closer than they’d ever been able to be. Now Oliver endeavors to love Anna with all the bravery, humor, and hope that his father taught him.” (taken from filmjabber.com)

Click HERE to visit the official site.  Below is a wonderful “Making Of” featurette.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6dOYyCaH_t4′]

Before the 7:20 screenings of BEGINNERS on both Friday and Saturday night, I will be giving out a handful of T-Shirts and soundtracks.  So brush up on your NEON trivia – I hope to see you here!

On Saturday night, our large auditorium has been rented for a special event.   2 MUCH FLAVOR is a rollerblading documentary (a follow-up to SAVOR THE FLAVOR from 2008) by local videomakers Ryan Benner and Andrew Thompson.  A trailer is available HERE.  The movie will play on Saturday night, July 23 at 10pm.  Tickets will be $5 each.

Many of you have been asking and calling about BUCK.  We appreciate your patience as our schedule continues to re-arrange.  We will eventually play it!

Our new parking lot has new lines and is ready for parking!  You can access this lot (which has 2 different sections) from St. Clair.  One section exits onto 5th Street…the other exits back onto St. Clair.  All the spots are visible from our front window, and new light bulbs have been installed to make certain it is well lit.  As always, this lot if free to NEON customers.  If it is full, we can validate your ticket for the parking garage any time after 6:00 on weekdays or all weekend long.  If you have questions, please don’t hesitate to call or write.

Hope to see you soon.

Take care!

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for July 22 – July 28:

MIDNIGHT IN PARIS (PG-13) 1 Hr 40 Min

Friday: 12:50, 3:00, 5:10, 7:30, 9:40

Saturday: 12:50, 3:00, 5:10, 7:30

Sunday: 12:50, 3:00, 5:10, 7:30, 9:40

Monday – Thursday: 3:30, 6:00, 8:30

BEGINNERS (R) 1 Hr 45 Min

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

Monday – Thursday:  3:00, 5:30, 8:00

2 MUCH FLAVOR (NR)

Saturday: 10pm

COMING SOON:

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

In some cases, titles may disappear.

July 29 PAGE ONE: INSIDE THE NEW YORK TIMES

July 29 DOUBLE HOUR

Aug 5 BUCK

Aug 5 SNOW FLOWER AND THE SECRET FAN

Aug 12 BEATS AND RHYMES: A TRIBE CALLED QUEST

Aug 26 ANOTHER EARTH

Aug 26 THE GUARD

Sept. 9 LIFE ABOVE ALL

Sept 9 WHISTLEBLOWER

Sept 23 HIGHER GROUND

TBD THE FUTURE

One More Week at THE NEON!

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Hello Everyone.

I’m keepin’ it short and sweet this week.

I’m sorry to report (but happy to report) that we can’t open BEGINNERS on Friday.  Why?  Because our two current films are still performing amazingly!  We will hold MIDNIGHT IN PARIS and THE TREE OF LIFE for another week…and we plan to at least open BEGINNERS on July 22.   If possible, we’ll also openBUCK on July 22.  We appreciate your patronage and your patience as we continue to do gangbuster business.  And I promise…BEGINNERS is worth the wait.

Visit the official website for each of our current films:

MIDNIGHT IN PARIS THE TREE OF LIFE

Our new parking lot has new lines and is ready!  You can access this lot (which has 2 different sections) from St. Clair.  One section exits onto 5th Street…the other exits back onto St. Clair.  All the spots are visible from our front window, and new light bulbs have been installed to make certain it is well lit.  As always, this lot if free to NEON customers.  If it is full, we can validate your ticket for the parking garage any time after 6:00 on weekdays or all weekend long.  If you have questions, please don’t hesitate to call or write.

Hope to see you soon.

Take care!

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for July 15 – July 21:

MIDNIGHT IN PARIS (PG-13) 1 Hr 40 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:50, 3:00, 5:10, 7:30, 9:40

Monday – Thursday: 3:30, 6:00, 8:30

THE TREE OF LIFE (R) 2 Hr 18 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 1:00, 4:15, 7:00, 9:45

Monday – Thursday:  2:30, 5:15, 8:00

COMING SOON:

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

In some cases, titles may disappear.

July 22   BEGINNERS

July 22   BUCK

July 29   PAGE ONE: INSIDE THE NEW YORK TIMES

Aug 5   SNOW FLOWER AND THE SECRET FAN

Aug 12   BEATS AND RHYMES: A TRIBE CALLED QUEST

Aug 26   ANOTHER EARTH

Aug 26   THE GUARD

Sept. 9   LIFE ABOVE ALL

Sept 23   HIGHER GROUND

TBD   DOUBLE HOUR

TBD   THE FUTURE

Stayin’ Put for 1 More Week at THE NEON!

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Hello Everyone.

We had another great weekend at THE NEON…in fact, MIDNIGHT IN PARIS saw a small increase over the past few days.  Both THE TREE OF LIFE and MIDNIGHT IN PARIS will stick around for another week…and we plan to at least open BEGINNERS on July 15.

Visit each film’s website by clicking on the links below:

MIDNIGHT IN PARIS

THE TREE OF LIFE

Our new parking lot has new lines and is ready!  You can access this lot (which has 2 different sections) from St. Clair.  One section exits onto 5th Street…the other exits back onto St. Clair.  All the spots are visible from our front window, and new light bulbs have been installed to make certain it is well lit.  As always, this lot if free to NEON customers.  If it is full, we can validate your ticket for the parking garage any time after 6:00 on weekdays or all weekend long.  If you have questions, please don’t hesitate to call or write.

Take a look at the trailer for BEGINNERS – opening on July 15.  You don’t want to miss this film!!

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rXUFUp6vsxg’]

Hope to see you soon.

Take care!

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for July 8 – July 14:

MIDNIGHT IN PARIS (PG-13) 1 Hr 40 Min

Friday: 12:50, 3:00, 5:10, 7:30, 9:40

Saturday: 12:50, 5:10, 7:30, 9:40

Sunday: 12:50, 3:00, 5:10, 7:30, 9:40

Monday – Thursday: 3:30, 6:00, 8:30

THE TREE OF LIFE (R) 2 Hr 18 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 1:00, 4:15, 7:00, 9:45

Monday – Thursday:  2:30, 5:15, 8:00

COMING SOON:

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

In some cases, titles may disappear.

July 15   BEGINNERS

July 15   BUCK

July 22   PAGE ONE: INSIDE THE NEW YORK TIMES

Aug 5   SNOW FLOWER AND THE SECRET FAN

Aug 12   BEATS AND RHYMES: A TRIBE CALLED QUEST

Aug 26   ANOTHER EARTH

Aug 26   THE GUARD

Sept. 9   LIFE ABOVE ALL

Sept 23   HIGHER GROUND

TBD   DOUBLE HOUR

TBD   THE FUTURE

THE TREE OF LIFE – The Most Talked About Indie of the Year at THE NEON!

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Hello Everyone.

As planned, the fantastically charming POTICHE was only here for a week.  And just as we suspected, MIDNIGHT IN PARIS is still performing very well, and audiences are adoring it…so it will stick around for at least another week.

Today (6/24), we open the most talked about indie film of the year – Terrence Malick’s THE TREE OF LIFE.  Starring Brad Pitt, Sean Penn and Jessica Chastain, TREE OF LIFE was the winner of the Palme d’Or at this year’s Cannes Film Festival.  This film has been given a 100% review by The New York Times, The Chicago Sun-Times, NPR, USA Today, Variety, Time Out New York, The Village Voice, and many more.  Roger Ebert wrote, “The only other film I’ve seen with this boldness of vision is Kubrick’s 2001: A SPACE ODYSSEY, and it lacked Malick’s fierce evocation of human feeling.”

Synopsis for THE TREE OF LIFE:  “The film follows the life journey of the eldest son, Jack, through the innocence of childhood to his disillusioned adult years as he tries to reconcile a complicated relationship with his father. Jack finds himself a lost soul in the modern world, seeking answers to the origins and meaning of life while questioning the existence of faith. Through Malick’s signature imagery, we see how both brute nature and spiritual grace shape not only our lives as individuals and families, but all life.”  (Fox Searchlight Pictures)  Check out the beautifully designed official site.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WXRYA1dxP_0′]

Last week’s screening of WE WERE HERE was a marvelous, sold-out event – with a beautiful film and an insightful and brave panel discussion.  Many thanks to all my friends and community partners who helped to make the evening such a success.

We will have a new neighbor in the next few days – Sabai: Asian Cuisine & Sushi Bar. What we have been using for our parking lot for the past several years will soon become theirs.  Luckily, we will be able to utilize a new space that’s visible from our front windows.  Please start getting in the habit of parking in our new lot…though there aren’t parking lines yet, there will be soon.  We’ve painted a couple of the posts to make the lot quite easy to find.

Hope to see you this weekend.

Take care!

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for June 24 – June 30:

MIDNIGHT IN PARIS (PG-13) 1 Hr 40 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:50, 3:00, 5:10, 7:30, 9:40

Monday – Thursday: 3:30, 6:00, 8:30

THE TREE OF LIFE (R) 2 Hr 18 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 1:00, 4:15, 7:00, 9:45

Monday – Thursday:  2:30, 5:15, 8:00

COMING SOON:

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

In some cases, titles may disappear.

July 1  DOUBLE HOUR

July 8  BUCK

July 15   PAGE ONE: INSIDE THE NEW YORK TIMES

July 15   BEGINNERS

Aug 5   SNOW FLOWER AND THE SECRET FAN

Aug 12   BEATS AND RHYMES: A TRIBE CALLED QUEST

Aug 26   ANOTHER EARTH

Aug 26   THE GUARD

Sept. 9   LIFE ABOVE ALL

Sept 23   HIGHER GROUND

Jane’s Best Bets (6/22 – 6/26)

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Photo Credit: Alli Shillito

Holy moly, there are a ton of things going on this week!  Speaking of “holy,” this week there are several church festivals…plus many more great events.  Let’s check them out!

On Wednesday during your lunch hour, get moving with The Square Is Where… Dayton YMCA Presents Zumba at Courthouse Square.  If you feel like having a drink, head to A.Y.O.B. at Archer’s Tavern, where a new craft beer will be featured starting at 5PM or to Franco’s for Dayton Green Drinks, where they will be discussing the Pathways out of Poverty Program.  I do believe it is officially summer, so even though you may not be taking that big European vacation you’ve dreamed about, you can still have a Summer Around The World Wine Dinner at The Wine Loft.  If cycling is your thing, you will not want to miss seeing Bicycle Dreams, the award-winning feature-length documentary about the Race Across America, being featured at The Neon.  All women who are looking for an opportunity to make an impact in the lives of others in the Dayton area should consider attending the Junior League of Dayton New Member Social.  This amazing group makes great contributions to our community, and you have the opportunity to be a part of it…as long as you’re not a man!  If you’re in need of a good laugh, make your way to Wiley’s for their Dirty Little Secret Sideshow – Deuxième Exécution.  And if you’re a Harley lover that also enjoys live music, head to Jackass Flats for Buddha & The Boogie Down Gig/Bike Night.

Disney's THE LION KING - Victoria Theatre Association, Dayton, OhioOn Thursday, complete some of your grocery shopping at the Centerville Farmers Market.  If you work or volunteer for a non-profit, consider helping the cause by attending Orientation to the Grants Information Center at the Dayton Metro Library’s main branch.  You will be able to hear live music at the Dayton Art Institute as part of their Twilight Concert.  Jim McCutcheon, a very talented guitarist (who also taught me two semesters worth of guitar when I was at UD!), will be one of the performers.  If you wish to show a bit of your athleticism, make your way to Wings Sports Bar & Grille for their Weekly Cornhole Tournament.  You know I’m corny, so I had to put that in here.  And finally, if you have not yet had the opportunity to check out The Lion King at the Schuster Center, now is your chance!

On Friday, there are an enormous number of wonderful events from which to choose!  In the afternoon, if you don’t have lunch plans, consider joining Generation Dayton for their 4th Friday Lunch Speaker Series.  Or have some fun at Courthouse Square with the Team Void Summer Twist Party.  In the evening, join me in attending the Hops Over the Moon Preview Party at the Boonshoft, which will feature too many great things to list…seriously!  (For more info, check out this article.)  If you’re in shape, run the 5th Annual 5 For the Kids 5K to benefit CARE House.  And even if you’re not, that is okay too!  There are several festivals happening around town, including the Fenwick Festival (my alma mater!), the Ascension Festival, and the St. Peter Parish Festival.  At Yankee Trace, many people will be playing golf as part of the 2nd Annual Glow Fore Wishes Golf Scramble to benefit A Special Wish Foundation.  Although registration is full for the event, there are still several sponsorship and volunteer opportunities, so if you are able to help, I encourage you to do so!  And if you feel like catching a show, Hair Spray at La Comedia and The Lion King at the Schuster Center are possible options!

On Saturday, start the day off with another 5k – the First Annual Back to Health 5k, held at Indian Riffle Park.  Up in Troy, get some great produce as part of the Troy Farmers Market.  If you are a teacher, consider going to the Dayton Metro Library’s main branch for the Grants for Classroom Projects.  There are a lot of family friendly options for Saturday, including the Family Fun Day Beach Party & Cruise in at Hueston Woods, the Fenwick Festival, the St. Peter Parish Festival, and the Ascension Festival.  In addition, if you’re of the corny type, Ascension will have its very own Festival Cornhole Tournament.  At RiverScape, rent a kayak and ride the river.  Make sure you wear a life jacket as I once flipped over in an “unflippable” kayak, or so I’m told.  Just leave it to me to do the impossible (I’m sure this won’t happen to you, however)!  In the evening, make your way to the Boonshoft (kids are welcome!) for Hops Over the Moon, which is sure to be a great time, and also supports a great cause!  There are a couple other fun events, including the Clambake For Kids’ Sake at McCormick & Schmicks to support Big Brothers Big Sisters and Party Arty! at the Commander Aero Hangar (Dayton Wright Brothers Airport) to support Culture Works.  Theater options include The Lion King (Schuster Center) and Hair Spray (La Comedia).  And if you’re downtown and love summer concerts, listen to the sounds of Kick-n-Flava as part of the Free Summer Concert Series down at RiverScape.  Wow, my fingers are getting tired from typing all this stuff going on around town!

On Sunday, if you (and your kids) have any energy left, make your way to one of the great festivals going on around town – the Fenwick Festival, the St. Peter Festival, or the Ascension Festival.  If your kids are Disney lovers, consider taking them to Dayton Disneyana at the Holiday Inn  close to the Dayton Mall.  Listen to some of the best local female jazz vocalists as part of the Downtown Summer Music Series – Michelob Women in Jazz Festival at Dave Hall Plaza.  Or at Veteran’s Park Amphitheater, listen to live music as part of World Music Fest!  And finally, hurry up and get to the Schuster Center to see The Lion King if you haven’t already done so!

And now it’s time for the Dumb Joke of the Week. Drum roll please…

How does a man on the moon cut his hair?

Eclipse it.

These are just a few best bets from the DMM Calendar.  There are plenty more events listed there, so if you haven’t, I encourage you to check it out today!  Also, if you have an event to share or promote, please submit it– it’s great marketing and better yet, it’s FREE!  And finally, if you have a dumb joke to share, I’m all ears!

Have a great week Dayton!

Woody’s Latest – Midnight In Paris + Incendies!

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Hello Everyone.

If you haven’t had a chance to see WINTER IN WARTIME, BILL CUNNINGHAM NEW YORK, and/or THE BEAVER, you only have through Thursday (6/9) to see them at THE NEON.  On Friday, we will open the Oscar-nominated political thriller INCENDIES and Woody Allen’s latest film MIDNIGHT IN PARIS (check out the stellar cast in the description below).  Both of these new films come with a great response from critics and audiences alike!

I’m delighted to announce a couple big changes to our calendar.  1) POTICHE has been dated for a one-week engagement.  It will open on June 17.  This was one of my favorites in Toronto last year (I generally don’t respond to comedies the way I do to serious films).  It’s wonderfully charming, and Catherine Deneuve is superb!  2) Due to the success of THE TREE OF LIFE in larger markets, Fox Searchlight has bumped up our opening date.  THE TREE OF LIFE will now open on June 24!

Synopsis for INCENDIES:  “When notary Lebel sits down with Jeanne and Simon Marwan to read them their mother Nawal’s will, the twins are stunned to receive a pair of envelopes – one for the father they thought was dead and another for a brother they didn’t know existed. In this enigmatic inheritance, Jeanne sees the key to Nawal’s retreat into unexplained silence during the final weeks of her life. With Lebel’s help, the twins piece together the story of the woman who brought them into the world, discovering a tragic fate as well as the courage of an exceptional woman.” (Sony Pictures Classics)  Click This Link to visit the film’s official site (the trailer will have your heading to THE NEON this weekend).

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YDf-XuYid1A’]

Synopsis for MIDNIGHT IN PARIS: “Owen Wilson, Marion Cotillard, Rachel McAdams, Kathy Bates, Michael Sheen, Adrien Brody and Carla Bruni star in Woody Allen’s romantic comedy about a family on a business trip in the City of Light. As a young couple engaged to be married experiences a profound transformation during their visit to Paris, an idealistic man with a romanticized view of the city finds that there’s plenty of truth to that old adage about the grass being greener on the other side.” (Jason Buchanon, All Movie Guide)  Click This Link to be directed to the official site for MIDNIGHT IN PARIS.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BYRWfS2s2v4′]

We’re all set for next week’s screening of WE WERE HERE.  “WE WERE HERE is the first documentary to take a deep and reflective look back at the arrival and impact of AIDS in San Francisco.  It explores how the City’s inhabitants were affected by, and how they responded to, that calamitous epidemic.  Though a San Francisco-based story, We Were Here extends beyond San Francisco and beyond AIDS itself.  It speaks to our capacity as individuals to rise to the occasion, and to the incredible power of a community coming together with love, compassion, and determination.”  WE WERE HERE will screen on June 16 at 7PM.  Tickets are $8 each and are currently available at THE NEON box office.  This screening is sponsored by The Greater Dayton LGBT Center.  Be sure to take a look at thetrailer, and get your tickets early.  After the film, we will have a discussion with representatives from AIDS Resource Center Ohio, Miami Valley Poz 4 Poz, an early HIV/AIDS community educator, and more.  Additionally, we will have the opportunity to see a series of incredible photographs in THE NEON’s lobby.  Here’s the story:Approximately half way through WE WERE HERE, there are several beautiful and chilling photos of a man with AIDS.  These photos were the final project of the late John Davis of Dayton.  His sister contacted me a couple weeks ago and offered us the opportunity to display the entire series.  THE NEON will hang all 17 photographs in our lobby before the screening.

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

THE NEON has been rented out for a special screening of BICYCLE DREAMS. Advance tickets ($10 each + $1 handling fee) must be purchased on-line (visit Link). Remaining tickets will be sold at the door the night of the event for $15 each.  “BICYCLE DREAMS tells the true story of the Race Across America, a 3000-mile bicycle race that challenges riders to cross the country in just ten days. They must overcome searing desert hear, agonizing mountain climbs, and endless stretches of open road, all while battling extreme exhaustion and sleep deprivation. But when tragedy strikes the race, this simple test of human endurance is instantly transformed into something far more daunting. These voyageurs discover what is truly at stake as they pedal on, praying for the deliverance only the finish line can bring. By journey’s end, some are saved, others are lost, but all learn that the fuel that takes a soul toward its own true destiny is desire.” (taken from press notes)

Hope to see you soon,

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for June 10 – June 16:

MIDNIGHT IN PARIS (PG-13) 1 Hr 40 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:50, 3:00, 5:10, 7:30, 9:45

Monday – Thursday: 3:00, 5:10, 7:30, 9:45

INCENDIES (R) 2 Hr 10 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 1:00, 4:15, 7:00, 9:30

Monday – Wednesday: 2:45, 5:15, 8:00

Thursday:  2:45, 9:45

WE WERE HERE (NR) 1 Hr 30 Min  + Discussion

Thursday:  7:00

COMING SOON:

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

In some cases, titles may disappear.

June 17  POTICHE

June 24  TREE OF LIFE

July 1  DOUBLE HOUR

July 8  BUCK

July 15   PAGE ONE: INSIDE THE NEW YORK TIMES

July 15   BEGINNERS

Aug 5   SNOW FLOWER AND THE SECRET FAN

Aug 26   ANOTHER EARTH