The Neon

TIFF 2015 Day #9 – My Final Day!

September 18, 2015 By Jonathan McNeal

Hello Everyone,

Today was my last day of screenings, and even though I feel like I’ve been away for months, I’m actually a little sad to be packing my bags. There are several films I didn’t get a chance to see, and every year I think I’m going to take part more in the industry activities (indiewire talks, a variety of lectures, etc.) – but I don’t. I just end up cramming in movies.

First off today, I saw STONEWALL, directed by Roland Emmerich. This film was lambasted before anyone saw it. Criticism soared across the web based only on the trailer, and I must admit that I went into this screening with very low expectations…and I was pleasantly surprised. Though not a masterpiece by a long shot, it’s better than I anticipated. The story of the actual Stonewall Riots is only a portion of this coming-of-age tale about a young guy kicked out of his home and now living on the streets of NYC with numerous other LGBT youth. This is a fictional story set in the midst of some recognizable events and characters, and despite some giggles at some inappropriate moments (due to trite material) it worked emotionally for several people around me in the cinema.

YOUTH is director Paul Sorrentino’s follow-up to his masterpiece THE GREAT BEAUTY. It’s a lovely film about two long-time friends (Michael Caine and Harvey Keitel) vacationing in the Swiss Alps. Though not much “happens,” there’s a lot of discussion about life – both present and past, and there is an abundance of cinematic poetry. The two men are on different paths. One is finishing a screenplay for what should be his next great film and the other is retired with no intention of returning to his work (even at the request of the Queen of England). Though perhaps a bit too avant garde for some, I devoured this film and its interesting gaze.

My last film of the festival was THE WITCH, directed by Robert Eggers. This period thriller/horror film set in 1630’s New England was a smash at Sundance, and I have to admit that I have a secret thing for witches. From Margaret Hamilton to Angelic Huston, from Shakespeare’s “double double, toil and trouble” to Miller’s trials – I’ve always been fascinated by them. Though stylish and sometime startling, The performances and period details are very well executed, the cinematography is moody and beautifully done, and there are some genuinely haunting moments…but something wasn’t working for me. Perhaps the score which purposefully misguides us numerous times helped to create a distrust in the storytelling – I’m not entirely sure what was creating the disconnect for me. That said, as much as this film is about a witch, it’s even more about paranoia and distrust and a creepy devotion to the Bible. During the Q&A, we heard the director talk about all of his research for this film – from court documents and diaries from that era to architectural elements, his knowledge of the subject made me appreciate the film a bit more. I think this film will certainly find a devoted audience…but I wasn’t 100% sold.

And now it’s time to pack my bags. I’ve met some great people during this trip – critics that write for international publications, people who curate festivals in other markets and numerous lovers of cinema. I’ve seen old friends, I’ve had good food, I’ve seen numerous movie stars and famous directors, and I’ve watched 34 movies. It’s been a blast. Thanks for checking in on me.

I hope to see you soon. All the best,

Jonathan

TIFF 2015 – Day #8

September 18, 2015 By Jonathan McNeal

Hello Everyone.

Today was the first day I didn’t have to get up terribly early, and that extra 45 minutes of sleep was much appreciated.

My day started off with a screening of a film that will be on the top of my list – SPOTLIGHT, directed by Tom McCarthy. This is a newsroom procedural of the Boston Globe uncovering the Catholic Church scandal in 2001. Starring Mark Ruffalo, Michael Keaton, Rachel McAdams and Liev Schreiber, this film has a great script, tight editing and at times plays like a thriller. The material is certainly chilling – especially when one character states that when it comes to priests and pedophilia, it’s not just a few bad apples, it’s “a recognizable psychiatric phenomenon.” I think it could go the distance for numerous nominations this season.

VICTORIA, directed by Sebastian Schipper, was next on my list. This 2+ hour film was done in one long, mobile take. It’s the story of a young woman who gets caught up with a group of guys after leaving a nightclub in Berlin. She’s romantically interested in one of the guys, but the gang has a mission that night…and she ends up getting tangled up in a bank robbery. Though the last 40 minutes are quite exhilarating, it takes a long time to get moving. Because it’s one shot, we would never buy the protagonist’s motivations to join the guys on their heist if we didn’t have time for her to form a connection. Thus we are forced to watch the set-up of their relationship in what would normally be trimmed down to 15 -20 minutes (instead it takes more than an hour – some of which is rather tedious). The film is technically incredible and the performances are wonderful too…I just felt it went on too long – but I understand that’s part of the point.

JAMES WHITE, directed by Josh Mond, was my final film of the day. Cynthia Nixon and Christopher Abbott both give incredible performances in this film about a walking powder keg who is taking care of his sick mother. Abbott plays James – a hot-headed, partying slacker with bursts of violence, and the performance is riveting. The raw feel of the film truly puts us in the heart of New York without ever feeling like a triptych, and there are a couple powerful moments between mother and son which really cemented Josh Mond as a filmmaker to watch. The director and cast were present for a Q&A, and Nixon was asked about her preparation for the part. She spoke eloquently of having lost her mother to Cancer during the same year of shooting the film and of losing two close friends to AIDS in the 90’s…and how she was able to draw upon those bedside experiences to prepare for the role.

Only one more day!

Thanks for reading,

Jonathan

TIFF 2015 – Day #7

September 17, 2015 By Jonathan McNeal

room_poster Hello Everyone.

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

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

the-man-who-knew-infinity

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

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

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

USA - MUSIC - Sharon Jones

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

Thanks for reading,

Jonathan

TIFF 2015 – Day #6

September 16, 2015 By Jonathan McNeal

Hi Again.

Thanks for coming back. Today, in addition to 4 films and one late night party, I managed to have a window of time that allowed me to have a nice dinner and small shopping spree – so I have now contributed nicely to the Canadian economy.

First thing this morning, I saw THE DRESSMAKER, directed by Jocelyn Moorhouse and starring Kate Winslet. Moorhouse, known for her weepie HOW TO MAKE AN AMERICAN QUILT, wasn’t quite sure which tone to give to this most recent novel adaptation…so she went with several. What starts out as a “Screwball Western” changes genres and mood so many times, it’s difficult to explain. Winslet, returning home after a long absence, appears as a curvaceous outlaw – her nontraditional weapons are her Singer sewing machine, a great gold swing and her feminine wiles. Accused of killing a classmate while in grade school, she hasn’t been back to town for years. Now she’s back to take care of her mother and set things straight. This Australian film is completely bonkers! It also stars the awesome Judy Davis and the terribly sexy Liam Hemsworth, and was penned by P.J. Hogan (MURIEL’S WEDDING). Though I found this film to be an overall disaster, I couldn’t stop watching – the performances are fun and some of the material is quite hysterical.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=580PmstF7IA

Next up was a film that many have been quite excited about. WHERE TO INVADE NEXT, directed by Michael Moore isn’t quite what it seems. There is no trailer yet for this film that critics are dubbing “Michael Moore’s Happy Film,” and if you watch the clip below, even the press was speculating about the subject of the film before it premiered (the young woman in the clip mentions what the film is about…and she’s completely wrong). In what might seem to be Michael Moore’s most optimistic film, he visits various countries and gives us ideas as to how we could do things better. From Italy’s vacation policies to school lunches in France to Slovenia’s no tuition for college system, Moore explains that these practices lead to better living conditions, a more productive work force and overall better state of affairs. This film is a crowd-pleaser.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2ZVGbH2awic

I then scurried across town for the under-attended MA MA, directed by Julio Medem. Medem, known for his film LOVERS OF THE ARCTIC CIRCLE and SEX AND LUCIA, was in attendance along with the stunning lead actress Penelope Cruz. This is the story of woman who finds out she has breast Cancer but continues to be a most compassionate, giving/forgiving woman. Critics have not been terribly kind to this beautifully executed melodrama (but they rarely are with this genre). Though not without its flaws, I really liked this film. (Unfortunately, I can’t find a trailer with subtitles, but you should watch this one regardless.)

ANOMALISA, directed by Charlie Kaufman & Duke Johnson, was my final film for the day. This stop-motion puppet film, written by the much beloved Kaufman (BEING JOHN MALKOVICH, ADAPTATION, ETERNAL SUNSHINE OF THE SPOTLESS MIND), is 100% made for adults. It’s a relatively simple story about a motivational speaker staying overnight at a hotel trying to escape his monotonous life. There is no trailer for this film – only the Kickstarter campaign below. The film won the Grand Jury Prize in Venice, and word has it that it is being picked up for distribution.

Thanks for reading! Only a few days left.

More tomorrow,

Jonathan

TIFF 2015 – Day #5

September 15, 2015 By Jonathan McNeal

Hello Again. Thanks for coming back!

Half way through today marked the half way point of the festival. And by the end of the day, I had seen 20 films in all…but there’s lots more to go.

My first film of the day was the thriller COLONIA, directed by Florian Gallenberger. Starring Daniel Bruhl and Emma Watson, this film started out like a conventional political thriller about civil unrest in Chile in 1973. But then it became an over-the-top cult escape thriller. This is the story of Colonia Dignidad – a hideous compound in Chile that housed a religious cult and also served as a military torture prison. Though entirely engaging, I found some of the characters to be of the Disney villain sort – thus making it seem like it couldn’t be based in reality. That said, the story is based on fact, and seeing the actual photos at the end was a nice pay-off. There were moments that seemed a little too much HUNGER GAMES driven – so I’m not sure who the intended audience is…serious subject but a little too young adult driven to rise to the top for me.

Next up was FREEHELD, directed by Peter Sollett and starring Julianne Moore and Ellen Page. This was a film I was looking forward to seeing, and I was a little disappointed at first. Though the performances are certainly quite good, the film seemed a bit flat at first. This film is based on the short documentary of the same name. We played it at the Dayton LGBT Film Fest several years ago, and it went on to win the Academy Award. It’s the story of Laurel Hester and her attempt to get her police pension left to her domestic partner in New Jersey. Though perhaps a little “one-note” in this role, it takes Steve Carell to inject some energy into the film. The original documentary covered the material that picks up in the second half of the film, and that’s where I became most engaged. This story was groundbreaking in its role to bring marriage equality to New Jersey…and now that marriage equality is nationwide, it serves as an important reminder of why LGBT people have been fighting so hard.

Next up was THE FAMILY FANG, directed by Jason Bateman. This film is based on a beloved novel, adapted for the screen by David Lindsay-Abbaire (playwright of RABBIT HOLE). Starring Bateman, Nicole Kidman and Christopher Walken, this is the story of a family who are reunited after an unlikely accident. The parents are long-time, well-known performance artists who stage very public pieces that often come off as practical jokes. Though certainly a very touching film, it is also terribly funny. Somewhere between FLIRTING WITH DISASTER and SAVAGES and even a little ROYAL TENENBAUMS (though more for its elements of family dynamics), this film became my biggest surprise for the festival. I was intrigued enough to go…but was so delighted that I had. It’s a wonderful film. Bateman and Walken were there for a Q&A, and it was delightful. It was clear that Bateman loved having Walken in the role, and he said “Everything Chris did was fantastic. It was like killin’ babies in the editing room.” This film has yet to be picked up for distribution…but I bet it will be soon.

I had about half an hour to spare this evening, so I poked into JANIS: LITTLE GIRL BLUE, directed by Amy Berg – it was not my intention to stay for the entire film (and I didn’t). I was quick to learn that this documentary about Janis Joplin was made for PBS (I believe it will play on American Masters series). Though intriguing subject material and certain to find a big fan base, this film wasn’t working so well for me on the big screen. Much of the archival footage was so grainy and distorted via large format projecting…I think it will play much better on televisions.

THE ONES BELOW, directed by David Farr was my last film of the night. “Eagerly awaiting their first child, a young couple in a tiny London suburb become involved in a psychological battle of wills with the tenants in the apartment downstairs…” (taken from the TIFF program). Unfortunately, this film also looked like it would play much better on television – but not due to pixilation or grainy footage. This thriller had some unintended laugh-out-loud moments…and in most other circumstances I would have left after 20 minutes. But for some reason, I felt compelled to stay and so I could shake me head and roll my eyes at some very strange decisions in what had hoped to be a bit more of a nod to Roman Polanski. Though there were a couple gripping moments, I ultimately found this film to be the biggest turkey of my TIFF experience so far.

And now it’s off to bed. Thanks for checking in.

More tomorrow,

Jonathan

TIFF 2015 – Day #3

September 13, 2015 By Jonathan McNeal

Hello Again,

After my successful turn in line this morning, I was off to my first screening – MISS YOU ALREADY, directed by Catherine Hardwicke. Many people refer to this type of a film as a “chick flick.” Though there are many films that get this label, there are a handful of these guilty pleasures that I have absolutely adored over the years…and I was hoping to find a new BEACHES today. Hardwicke takes the story of two best friends since childhood (Toni Collette and Drew Barrymore) and gives it the energy and style of her film THIRTEEN. There’s lots of crazy camera moves and a series of montages in an attempt to keep it fresh, but I feel that style detracts from this already overlong story. Though there are certain elements of this film that work (namely Collette), I was mostly disappointed. However, I was still moved by the ending – so I still had some sort of emotional attachment.

I had only planned on 4 films today, but when I had a window of time, I snuck in another film instead of a nap. SLEEPING GIANT, by first-time Canadian director Andrew Cividino, is a lakeside summertime coming-of-age story about a teenage boy of privilege and his friendship with two much rougher boys living with their grandmother for the season. It’s pretty early on in the film that we feel the powder keg sensibility of what’s in store, and the story becomes a little predictable. But the cadence of the contemporary youthful dialog is just right and the boys’ performances are all strong. What’s especially lovely about this film is the subtext. This is one of the stronger films I’ve seen so far…but a hard sell – teen dramas that aren’t really meant for teens are always tricky (even when they’re as wonderful as ME AND EARL AND THE DYING GIRL).

THE LADY IN THE VAN, directed by Nicholas Hytner, was next on my list. Hytner was in attendance for this film, and the Q&A was fantastic. Based on the memoir and subsequent play by Alan Bennett, the films stars Maggie Smith (who originated the role in the play in 1999). As this was the world premiere, it was Hytner’s first time seeing the finished film with an audience, and he had such eloquent things to say. Maggie Smith is divine, and I must say that it’s smarter, funnier and significantly more touching than the trailer alludes. (Sony Classics has picked this up, so it’s pretty certain it will get a NEON run.)

Then I got to see the North American premiere of THE DANISH GIRL, directed by Tom Hooper (KINGS SPEECH). This lovely film isn’t without a couple problematic moments, and it will certainly have its LGBT detractors – harping that it’s too “easy.” That said, I think it works. With lovely art direction, exquisite costumes and incredible performances across the board, this is a love story about artists Lili Elbe and Gerda Wegener (Eddie Redmayne & Alicia Vikander). Lili, first introduced to us as Einar Wegener, is known to be the first recorded person to receive sexual reassignment surgery in the 1930’s. Her diaries, posthumously used as the basis for the book MAN INTO WOMAN, remain highly regarded work for the transgender community. There will certainly be a lot of award season buzz for this film. (In addition to a fantastic Q&A with Tom, Eddie and Alicia, the audience at this screening included many stars from other films at the festival – including Johnny Depp (his wife Amber Heard plays a wonderful role in the film, and she was stunning tonight).)

TE PROMETO ANARQUIA, directed by Julio Hernández Cordón, was my last film for the night. This gritty film set in Mexico City is about two skateboarder boyfriends and their attempt to make some cash. It feels a bit like some of Gus Van Sant’s indie work (less GOOD WILL HUNTING and MILK, more PARANOID PARK and ELEPHANT). There are a lot of scenes where we simply see people traveling through the landscapes of the town with a loud, music-driven soundtrack. And there a handful of scenes with dudes showing off their machismo – which I understood their intent but felt were some of the weaker moments. The storytelling was uneven and overly long, and I think some of the plot points were haphazardly executed. About 25 minutes in, I considered leaving…but I’m glad I stuck it out.

I finished up the night with cocktails and catching up with some friends from NYC. Some high profiles films are on the docket for tomorrow – looking forward to them.

Thanks for reading!

Jonathan

TIFF 2015 – Day #2

September 11, 2015 By Jonathan McNeal

Hello Again!

Today started off much the way they’ll all start. I pulled myself out of bed after 4.5 hours sleep and scurried into the industry ticket line. (Not having to run across town each morning is really fantastic.)

The first film I saw today was from one of Canada’s most beloved filmmakers – Atom Egoyan (THE SWEET HEREAFTER, CHLOE, and many more). REMEMBER stars Christopher Plummer as a Holocaust survivor with dementia who escapes from his nursing home to seek revenge on the Auschwitz commander who killed his family. Though a serious and intriguing subject, with moments of great tension, the film sometimes comes off as a bit twee when dealing with Plummer’s age and condition. There’s a good story here, but I just didn’t completely buy it. That said, I know many people will love this film.

Next up was IN CONVERSATION WITH JULIANNE MOORE. Clips from Moore’s career (BOOGIE NIGHTS, BIG LEBOWSKI, FAR FROM HEAVEN, THE HOURS, STILL ALICE, and more) played before she took the stage for a hour-long interview with Cameron Baily (and eventually a handful of audience questions). As I already knew, this woman is a class act. It was exciting to hear her insights on acting and her eloquence and command of language is so refreshing. She mostly spoke of her career in indie films, but she still referenced all the Hollywood material (JURASSIC, HUNGER GAMES, etc) she’s done…and she attributes her years on soap opera for giving her an opportunity to really learn to work. When asked by a young, college bound actress about seeking a career and having a “plan B” (referencing STILL ALICE), Julianne suggested always getting a college degree (even if it is in acting) and “do everything that interests you.” I love her! (The Star covered this event. For their story, visit this LINK…though the link might not work outside of Canada.)

After lunch and a 30 minute nap, I scurried to THE LOBSTER, directed by Yorgos Lanthimos. This is a film set in a parallel universe – but it’s not really science fiction. It’s the story of a man who goes to a hotel where people go to find partners. After 45 days, if they haven’t found a partner, they get turned into an animal of their choice (OK, so maybe a hint of science fiction). This quirky allegory is from the man who brought us DOGTOOTH – one of my favorite challenging films of the past decade. THE LOBSTER is the director’s first English language film, and though I certainly like some of its themes and some of its moral and societal questions, I felt it was a little more disjointed than I’d prefer. I felt like the film began to lose steam in its second and third act. That said, I’d certainly watch it again…so there’s a testament to its strengths.

My last film for the day was KILL YOUR FRIENDS, directed by Owen Harris. This is a super-polished and scathing look at the music industry – starring Nicholas Hoult and based on a best-selling novel. The portrait of how things get done for record labels (though I’m sure you could substitute any number of high profile “glamorous” jobs) is relentless, and the drug use, the disregard for women (and in this over-the-top case, even violence) was terribly off-putting. Now here’s the question. Will some audiences simply revel in it? Will the drug use and hookers with bare breasts seem the ultimate goal to some…or will audiences really read it as a cautionary tale? I’m hoping for the latter. Nicholas Hoult plays the adorable maniac very well, and the movie recalls the tone and message of films like THE PLAYER and AMERICAN PSYCHO.

That’s it for today. I’m off for a beer with some friends. Hoping to be in bed by midnightish….we’ll see.

Thanks for reading,

Jonathan

P.S. You can quickly look at all my Toronto posts by going to www.mostmetro.com/tag/tiff Thank you!

TIFF 2015 – Day 1

September 11, 2015 By Jonathan McNeal

Hello Daytonians & Film Lovers!

Thanks for checking in to see how everything went with my first day of screenings. I got up early and was in the Industry Box Office line by 6:55…and there were still several people ahead of me. This line starts a little earlier each year, and some folks have joked about possibly camping out. I’m glad to report that I did get the tickets I desired for Saturday – including the premiere of THE DANISH GIRL.

After grabbing tickets, I went to my first screening – HITCHCOCK/TRUFFAUT, directed by Kent Jones. This is wonderful, and film lovers will delight. Using the famous book written by French New Wave darling Francois Truffaut as a launching pad, this film explores that famous interview and is such the careers of both Hitch and Truffaut. We get interviews from contemporary directors who have great relationships with the book (Wes Anderson, Martin Scorsese, David Fincher, Oliver Assayas and more), and numerous sound bites from the week-long interview back in the 60’s. Hearing Hitchcock talk about his work will delight cinema theorists…especially when he talks about what’s really happening during a certain scene in VERTIGO. (There is no trailer available for this film yet…just one of these famous stills.)

$Truffaut.Hitchcock_Photo.by.Philippe.Halsman.Courtesyof.CohenMediaGroup.3_{26725b4d-9af9-e411-8342-d4ae527c3b65}_lg$

Next up, I saw 45 YEARS, directed by Andrew Haigh. Starring Charlotte Rampling and Tom Courtenay, this is a film about a couple preparing for their 45th Wedding Anniversary party. Early in the film, Courtenay’s character receives a letter that the body of a former girlfriend has been found in the ice (she died in an accident while hiking by a glacier decades before). The news shakes him to his core, and his wife begins to take offense that he still seems to care so deeply about someone else. Full of some wonderful performances and always aware of the passing of time, this film makes you realize how quickly the foundation can be shaken from below your feet. The sound design (and lack of score except for incidental music) was particularly interesting. Though still a little “flummoxed” with the ending, I ultimately like this quiet, slow-paced film.

Before going back the apartment to get ready for Opening Night, I saw one more film – EVERYTHING WILL BE FINE, directed by Wim Wenders. After Wenders made PINA (one of my favorite documentaries ever) in 3D, he decided that he would continue using that format for narrative film. It’s certainly interesting to see a film where 3D is used as an artistic tool instead of an effect-driven gimmick. That said, this film was all over the map. Meandering, overscored, and dotted with some bombastic moments and a weak screenplay, I found it difficult to care too much about the characters.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L7N8ZZ7Q8Os

Last up, I went the official Opening Night film – DEMOLITION, directed by Jean-Marc Vallee (director of DALLAS BUYERS CLUB and WILD). TIFF has a reputation for programming “not-so-great” films for Opening Night (THE JUDGE, SCORE: A HOCKEY MUSICAL, etc.). But tonight’s film was quite good…perhaps the best they’ve programmed over the past decade. This is the a about a man who seems to be unable to feel anything after the death of his wife (she dies in a car accident that leaves her husband unharmed). Jake Gyllenhaal gives a wonderful performance as a man who is incapable of feeling emotions. Driven by work, he is otherwise disconnected with the life he’s living. Though there are moments written into the script that seem more driven by potential audience pleasure than character development, I rather liked this film.

Glenn Kiser, a director & friend who visited Dayton for The Dayton LGBT Film Festival a few years ago, invited me to the Opening Night screening and Party. We had a great time catching up and the party was quite a sight (“people watching” is quite fun in this scenario, and complimentary booze certainly helps to make things merrier).

It’s 1:30am, and I need to be up in 5 hours.

All the best,

Jonathan

Toronto 2015 – Day 0.5 (Pre-Festival)

September 9, 2015 By Jonathan McNeal

Hello Readers.

Thanks for checking out the blog where I’ll cover my adventures during the Toronto International Film Festival!

After almost 12 hours of travel (a cancelled flight, a delayed flight, an extra flight, etc.), I finally made it to Toronto. Luckily, I never really let it get me down. And upon arriving at the apartment I rented, any possible negative vibes were wiped clean. The view is amazing, the apartment is adorable, and I’m less than 1/2 block from where I need to go every morning (instead of several blocks and 7 subway stops).

Films don’t start until tomorrow. Arriving a day early lets me get my bearings and truly begin to figure out what my screening schedule will be. For the general public, screenings kick off tomorrow evening…but for press and industry folks, there are a number of screenings beginning first thing tomorrow morning.

Each day, I’ll get in line around 7am. This allows me to pick 2 public screenings per day (but with 2 days advance notice). Tomorrow morning (Thursday), I’ll get 2 tickets for Saturday (which I hope will include the premiere of THE DANISH GIRL…more about that in a moment). In addition to those 2 public screenings, my pass allows me to watch as many P&I (“press & industry”) screenings as I’d like (but those can get a little stuffy with just industry folks – I like to hear and see true film lover responses…thus I upgraded my P&I pass to include the 2 public screenings per day).

I already picked up a couple tickets for Friday. One ticket isn’t a movie at all – it’s a Charlie Rose-style Discussion in an intimate-ish auditorium with Julianne Moore. Doesn’t that sound exciting?

Tomorrow’s first film will likely be HITCHCOCK/TRUFFAUT…and in the evening, I’ll head to the Opening Night Film & Party (courtesy of an invitation from Glenn Kiser – a director who visited Dayton for the LGBT Film Fest a few years ago).

Here are just a few films I’m really looking forward to over the next several days:

45 YEARS – directed by Andrew Haigh (we showed his incredible film WEEKEND at the Dayton LGBT Film Fest plus a traditional run at THE NEON, and I also adore his show LOOKING on HBO…and then there’s Charlotte Rampling to seal the deal)

THE DANISH GIRL (from the director of KING’S SPEECH comes a film that will likely have Eddie Redmayne back at the Oscars next year)

And of course a little something with Dame Maggie…

Stay tuned.

I’ll write each night/morning and review all the films I see each day (anywhere from 3 to 5 per day).

Thanks for stopping by,

Jonathan

Sundance Winner MERU & Ken Loach’s JIMMY’S HALL Open Friday!

September 8, 2015 By Jonathan McNeal

Hello Everyone,

If you still need to see DIARY OF A TEENAGE GIRL or THE END OF TOUR, you’ll need to hurry. Thursday will be your last chance to catch them at THE NEON. On Friday, we will open the exhilarating new film that won the Audience Award for Best Documentary at this year’s Sundance Film Festival – MERU. We will also open Ken Loach’s new film JIMMY’S HALL. In addition, we hold MISTRESS AMERICA for another week. For this week’s remaining showtimes (which are different from the upcoming times listed below), please visit our website at www.neonmovies.com.

Synopsis for MERU: “In the high-stakes pursuit of big-wall climbing, the Shark’s Fin on Mount Meru may be the ultimate prize. Sitting 21,000 feet above the sacred Ganges River in Northern India, the mountain’s perversely stacked obstacles make it both a nightmare and an irresistible calling for some of the world’s toughest climbers. In October 2008, renowned alpinists Conrad Anker, Jimmy Chin and Renan Ozturk arrived in India to tackle Meru. Their planned seven-day trip quickly declined into a 20-day odyssey in sub-zero temperatures with depleting food rations. Despite making it to within 100 meters of the elusive summit, their journey, like everyone before them, was not a successful one. Heartbroken and defeated, the trio returned to their everyday lives, where the siren song of Meru continued to beckon. By September 2011, Anker had convinced his two lifelong friends to undertake the Shark’s Fin once more, under even more extraordinary circumstances than their first attempt. MERU is the story of that journey, an expedition through nature’s harshest elements and one’s complicated inner demons, and ultimately on to impossible new heights.” (taken from Music Box Films) Click this LINK to visit the official site.

Synopsis for JIMMY’S HALL: “In 1921 Jimmy Gralton’s sin was to build a dance hall on a rural crossroads in an Ireland on the brink of Civil War. The Pearse-Connolly Hall was a place where young people could come to learn, to argue, to dream…but above all to dance and have fun. As the hall grew in popularity its socialist and free-spirited reputation brought it to the attention of the church and politicians who forced Jimmy to flee and the hall to close.” (taken from Sony Classics) Ken Loach has been making beautiful films since the late 1960’s. From KES (1969) to SWEET SIXTEEN (2002) to THE WIND THAT SHAKES THE BARLEY (2006), his films are lovely pieces of work that showcase his naturalistic craftsmanship. Click on this LINK to visit the official site for JIMMY’S HALL.

Observe International Peace Day with family, friends and neighbors by meeting up at THE NEON for I AM BIG BIRD: THE CAROLL SPINNEY STORY – an engaging and heartwarming film brought to you by the Dayton International Peace Museum. The Peace Museum is celebrating 11 years of helping people throughout Miami Valley and beyond explore the question, “What does a more peaceful world look like for you?” “For 45 years, Caroll Spinney has been beloved by generations of children as the man behind Sesame Street’s Big Bird and Oscar the Grouch – and at 80 years old, he has no intention of stopping. A loving portrait of the man in the yellow suit, I AM BIG BIRD features extraordinary footage of Spinney’s earliest collaborations with Jim Henson as it traces his journey from bullied child to childhood icon. And as the yellow feathers give way to grey hair, it is the man, not the puppet, who will steal your heart.” Tickets are first come, first serve. Suggested donation – $10. I saw this film at the Cleveland International Film Festival – it’s a real treat. Don’t miss it! Sunday, Sept. 20 at 3:00.

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

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

“THE UNRULY MYSTIC is an inspirational documentary of how the filmmaker reaffirms his life’s work when he fell in love with a 12th century Saint. Saint Hildegard of Bingen evokes a calling, that sweet spot of creativity that we all yearn to play in, which is also spiritual in nature. She is venerated for her widely recognized impact on today’s theologians, artists, musicians, doctors and educators. She is indeed the unruly mystic. Her story, invites us all to embrace the connection between God, Nature and Art. This is the story of a powerful muse who invites us to create magic in our own lives by letting the ordinary touch the divine. Join us in connecting more deeply with your own spiritually and creativity.” The film will screen on Thursday, Sept. 30 at 7:30. There will be a Q/A after the screening with the Colorado-based Director Michael Conti and Dayton local Rev. Mary Reaman (who also participated in the film). Tickets are $12 each and are only available on-line at this LINK.

Filmmaker Tony West will bring his Award Winning Documentary, THE SAFE SIDE OF THE FENCE, to THE NEON on Sunday Oct 4 at 5:00. “World War II’s Manhattan Project required the refinement of massive amounts of uranium, and St. Louis-based Mallinckrodt Chemical Works took on the job. As a result, the chemical company’s employees would become some of the most contaminated nuclear workers in history. This documentary explores the legacy that St. Louis is still coping with, from workers who became ill – to the challenges of dealing with the fallout of creating some of the world’s first nuclear waste. The story is not unique to St. Louis, as more than 300 facilities across America would become part of the race to build the bomb, and be forced to deal with the same issues. A detailed look at worker safety and the handling of nuclear waste, from the past to present day.” Tickets are available at THE NEON’s Box Office or on-line by by visiting the official site.

It’s Year 10 for THE DAYTON LGBT FILM FESTIVAL, and we’re pulling out all the stops. In addition to the best LGBT Films touring the world on the festival circuit, we’ll have special guests, throw a great party and bring back a campy classic with a crazy, fun spin (HINT: You might want to bring a wire hanger). Some films have familiar faces (like SNL’s Kristen Wiig or GLEE’s Chord Overstreet), but many films might star people you’ve never seen before. Take a chance! We previewed over 100 films to curate this weekend…so it truly is a few days of nothing but great material. Click on this LINK to visit the official site – where you’ll find descriptions of the films, trailers and just a hint of what we’ve got up our sleeves! Festival passes go on sale this Saturday. Single Tickets go on sale Saturday, Sept. 19. Here’s a trailer for the Friday night film – GUIDANCE:

Early tomorrow morning, I will be heading to the Toronto International Film Festival. Over the course of 9 days, I plan to see more than 30 films. As usual, I’ll chronicle my adventures via a daily blog post. Here’s the LINK to follow my adventures (first post should be available by Thursday morning): http://www.mostmetro.com/tag/tiff

Please keep THE NEON busy while I’m gone.
See you soon,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Friday, Sept. 11 – Thursday, Sept. 17:

JIMMY’S HALL (PG-13) 1 Hr 49 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday:12:40, 5:00
Monday – Thursday: 5:20

MISTRESS AMERICA (R) 1 Hr 24 Min
Friday, Saturday: 3:00, 7:30, 9:40
Sunday: 3:00, 7:30
Monday – Thursday: 3:20, 7:40

MERU (R) 1 Hr 27 Min
Friday, Saturday: 12:50, 3:00, 5:10, 7:20, 9:30
Sunday: 12:50, 3:00, 5:10, 7:20
Monday – Thursday: 3:15, 5:30, 7:45

COMING SOON:
(All Dates Are Tentative. Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear.)
Sept. 18 – LEARNING TO DRIVE
Sept. 25 – GRANDMA
Oct. 2 – PHOENIX

Noah Baumbach’s MISTRESS AMERICA at THE NEON!

September 3, 2015 By Jonathan McNeal

Hello Everyone,

If you still need to see our biggest hit of 2015, you’ll need to hurry. MR. HOLMES will play for the last time today (Thursday, Sept. 3). Tomorrow, we will begin the new comedy by Noah Baumbach which premiered at Sundance in January – MISTRESS AMERICA. We will also hold both DIARY OF A TEENAGE GIRL and THE END OF THE TOUR for one more week. For this week’s remaining showtimes (which are different from the upcoming times listed below), please visit our website at www.neonmovies.com.

Synopsis for MISTRESS AMERICA: “Tracy (Lola Kirke) is a lonely college freshman in New York, having neither the exciting university experience nor the glamorous metropolitan lifestyle she envisioned. But when she is taken in by her soon-to-be stepsister, Brooke (Greta Gerwig) – a resident of Times Square and adventurous gal about town – she is rescued from her disappointment and seduced by Brooke’s alluringly mad schemes.” (taken from Fox Searchlight) Starring Greta Gerwig, one of the best comedic actresses working today, the film has been receiving rave reviews particularly for her performance. Joe Morgenstern of Wall Street Journal wrote, “…Ms. Gerwig’s performance is a comic diamond, and not in the rough. Her timing is flawless, her delivery is droll.” Click this LINK to visit the site and watch trailers.

Observe International Peace Day with family, friends and neighbors by meeting up at THE NEON for I AM BIG BIRD: THE CAROLL SPINNEY STORY – an engaging and heartwarming film brought to you by the Dayton International Peace Museum. The Peace Museum is celebrating 11 years of helping people throughout Miami Valley and beyond explore the question, “What does a more peaceful world look like for you?” “For 45 years, Caroll Spinney has been beloved by generations of children as the man behind Sesame Street’s Big Bird and Oscar the Grouch – and at 80 years old, he has no intention of stopping. A loving portrait of the man in the yellow suit, I AM BIG BIRD features extraordinary footage of Spinney’s earliest collaborations with Jim Henson as it traces his journey from bullied child to childhood icon. And as the yellow feathers give way to grey hair, it is the man, not the puppet, who will steal your heart.” The film screens Sunday, September 20 at 3:00, and tickets are first come, first serve. Suggested donation – $10. I saw this film at the Cleveland International Film Festival – it’s a real treat. Don’t miss it!

Due to the holiday weekend, we will have a couple extra shows. We’ll stay open a bit later on Sunday and open extra early on Monday. Please help us spread the word. Showtimes are below.

On Sept. 9, I will be heading to the Toronto International Film Festival. Over the course of 9 days, I plan to see more than 30 films. As usual, I’ll chronicle my adventures via a daily blog post. Stay tuned to next week’s newsletter for the link.

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

SHOWTIMES for Friday, Sept. 4 – Thursday, Sept. 10:

THE END OF THE TOUR (R) 1 Hr 46 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Monday: 12:20, 5:00
Tuesday – Wednesday: 5:15

MISTRESS AMERICA (R) 1 Hr 24 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 1:00, 3:10, 5:20, 7:30, 9:40
Monday: 1:00, 3:10, 5:20, 7:30
Tuesday – Wednesday: 3:10, 5:20, 7:30

THE DIARY OF A TEENAGE GIRL (R) 1 Hr 42 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 2:30, 7:20, 9:30
Monday: 2:30, 7:20
Tuesday – Wednesday: 2:50, 7:40

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

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

August 27, 2015 By Jonathan McNeal

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Woody Allen’s IRRATIONAL MAN – starring Joaquin Phoenix, Emma Stone & Parker Posey – Opens Friday at THE NEON

August 5, 2015 By Jonathan McNeal

Hello Everyone,

We had another solid weekend at THE NEON. Many thanks for your continued support! MR. HOLMES is going to stick around, but as anticipated, INFINITELY POLAR BEAR will only screen until Thursday. For this week’s remaining showtimes, please visit our website at www.neonmovies.com. On Friday, we will open Woody Allen’s latest film – IRRATIONAL MAN – starring Joaquin Phoenix, Emma Stone & Parker Posey.

Synopsis for IRRATIONAL MAN: “Woody Allen’s IRRATIONAL MAN is about a tormented philosophy professor who finds a will to live when he commits an existential act. Philosophy professor Abe Lucas (Joaquin Phoenix) is at rock bottom emotionally, unable to find any meaning or joy in life. Abe feels that everything he’s tried to do, from political activism to teaching, hasn’t made any difference. Soon after arriving to teach at a small town college, Abe gets involved with two women: Rita Richards (Parker Posey), a lonely professor who wants him to rescue her from her unhappy marriage; and Jill Pollard (Emma Stone), his best student, who becomes his closest friend. Pure chance changes everything when Abe and Jill overhear a stranger’s conversation and become drawn in…” (taken from Sony Classics) Click this LINK to visit the film’s official website.

Don’t forget that this Thursday, August 6 at 7:30, director Enzo Libertini will premiere his new film THRESHOLD (Libertini has a background in theater, this is his first feature film). “Three slackers wake up to find their friend is missing and in the search for his whereabouts they continue their normal routine that is both odd and compelling. When this routine becomes threatened they must face what’s been holding them back and cross the threshold into truly living. Filmmaker Enzo Libertini brings an epic comedy to the screen for the first time. Libertini began his work on the stage, with original plays Fulmination and Fall for This.” (taken from press notes) Tickets are on sale now for $8 each at THE NEON’s box office.

On Thursday, August 27 at 7:30, we will hold the world premiere of the new film DIARY OF A DEADBEAT: THE STORY OF JIM VANBEBBER. “Jim VanBebber, an uncompromising, underground, outlaw filmmaker from Greenville, Ohio has become one of the most infamous and controversial American independent filmmakers of our time. VanBebber brought us such cult classics as DEADBEAT AT DAWN (The first feature film made in Dayton, Ohio) MY SWEET SATAN, THE MANSON FAMILY, and many others. Diary of a Deadbeat is a documentary that follows his life from his early super 8mm films to his strange days in Hollywood. It features interviews with an eclectic group of artists such as Phil Ansemlo (Pantera), Richard Kern (Trangressive Film Director), Nivek Ogre (Skinny Puppy), R.A the Rugged Man, and many more. Director Victor Bonacore will be in attendance, granting the world the first look at this documentary that has been in the works for over five years! Be the first to see the much-anticipated and long-awaited Diary of a Deadbeat at its world premiere, for only $5!” Tickets on sale now at THE NEON’s box office.

A Reminder About PARKING! Parking across from our front door (the old Greyhound lot) is free for our customers at any time. In addition, we do validate for parking in the parking garage on weekdays after 6pm and all day on Saturday and Sunday. (In the event that the Convention Center is hosting a special event, do not pay an attendant for parking on your way in…simply state that you’re heading to THE NEON and you require a ticket that will be later validated.)

Thanks for your continued support.

We hope to see you this weekend!

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Friday, August 7 – Thursday, August 13:

IRRATIONAL MAN (R) 1 Hr 36 Min
Friday, Saturday: 12:45, 3:00, 5:15, 7:30, 9:45
Sunday: 12:45, 3:00, 5:15, 7:30
Monday – Thursday: 3:15, 5:30, 7:40

MR. HOLMES (PG) 1 Hr 45 Min
Friday & Saturday: 12:20, 2:40, 5:00, 7:20, 9:40
Sunday: 12:20, 2:40, 5:00, 7:20
Monday – Thursday: 3:00, 5:15, 7:30

COMING SOON:
(All Dates Are Tentative. Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear.)
Aug. 14 – TESTAMENT OF YOUTH
Aug. 21 – THE END OF THE TOUR
Aug. 28 – DIARY OF A TEENAGE GIRL
Sept. 11 – MISTRESS AMERICA Sept. 18 – LEARNING TO DRIVE
TBD: THE HUNDRED YEAR OLD MAN WHO CLIMBED OUT THE WINDOW AND DISAPPEARED

Ian McKellen’s MR. HOLMES Opens Friday at THE NEON!

July 22, 2015 By Jonathan McNeal

Hello Everyone,

This Friday, we will open the film that many regulars have been asking about – MR. HOLMES. Directed by Bill Condon (KINSEY) and starring Ian McKellen & Laura Linney, this film premiered at the Berlin International Film Festival and I’m certain many of you will love it. In addition, we will hold all three current films for one more week – AMY, THE OVERNIGHT and ME AND EARL AND THE DYING GIRL. For this week’s remaining showtimes (they’re different than the upcoming week – which are listed below), please visit our website at www.neonmovies.com. On July 31, we plan to open INFINITELY POLAR BEAR – starring Mark Ruffalo and Zoe Saldana.

Synopsis for MR. HOLMES: “MR HOLMES is a new twist on the world’s most famous detective. 1947, an aging Sherlock Holmes returns from a journey to Japan, where, in search of a rare plant with powerful restorative qualities, he has witnessed the devastation of nuclear warfare. Now, in his remote seaside farmhouse, Holmes faces the end of his days tending to his bees, with only the company of his housekeeper and her young son, Roger. Grappling with the diminishing powers of his mind, Holmes comes to rely upon the boy as he revisits the circumstances of the unsolved case that forced him into retirement, and searches for answers to the mysteries of life and love – before it’s too late.” (taken from Roadside Attractions) Kenneth Turan of The Los Angeles Times wrote, “Maneuvering shrewdly within the boundaries of the traditional canon and aided by the impeccable performance of Ian McKellen, Bill Condon directs an elegant puzzler that presents the sage of Baker Street dealing with the one thing he’s never had to contend with before: his own emotions.” Click this LINK to visit the film’s official website.

On Thursday, July 30 at 7:30, the Sierra Club Miami Group will host a special screening of a new film. “BAG IT is a documentary centered around life without plastic. ‘Everyman’ Jeb Berrier embarks on a global tour to unravel the complexities of the plastic world. BAG IT investigates plastic on our waterways, ocean gyres, and even our own bodies! Finally, a movie that tackles the plastic industry and what we can do about it. Today! Right now! BAG IT won the Audience Choice at Telluride Mountainfilm Festival and Princeton Environmental Film Festival. This screening will be presented by the Sierra Club Miami Group, one of Ohio’s largest and oldest environmental group with over four thousand members.” (taken from press notes) Tickets for this FREE Screening will be given on a first come, first serve basis starting one hour before showtime.

On Thursday, August 6 at 7:30, director Enzo Libertini will premiere his new film THRESHOLD (Libertini has a background in theater, this is his first feature film). “Three slackers wake up to find their friend is missing and in the search for his whereabouts they continue their normal routine that is both odd and compelling. When this routine becomes threatened they must face what’s been holding them back and cross the threshold into truly living. Filmmaker Enzo Libertini brings an epic comedy to the screen for the first time. Libertini began his work on the stage, with original plays Fulmination and Fall for This.” (taken from press notes) Tickets will be $8 each and will be available at THE NEON’s box office starting this weekend.

The Dayton Tiny House Community is hoping to bring a new film to town – SMALL IS BEAUTIFUL: A TINY HOUSE DOCUMENTARY. This is a tugg event, so 50+ more tickets must be reserved for the screening to take place on Wednesday, August 12 at 7:30 (those reservations need to be made on the official site by Aug. 1). “In Portland, Oregon, we meet four characters, each of whom are at various stages of building and living in their own tiny homes…Ultimately this story proves that it’s not what’s inside the walls of a tiny house that counts, but rather it is the strong community of like minded people who support each other as they dare to be different.” (taken from tugg) You can read more about this film, watch a trailer and reserve your tickets on the official site. Here’s the LINK.

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

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Wednesday, July 24 – Thursday, July 30:

AMY (R) 2 Hrs 8 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 7:15
Monday – Wednesday: 7:30

ME AND EARL AND THE DYING GIRL (PG-13) 1 Hr 45 Min
Friday, Saturday: 12:45, 5:15
Sunday: 12:45
Monday – Thursday: 3:00

THE OVERNIGHT (R) 1 Hr 20 Min
Friday & Saturday: 3:15, 9:45
Sunday: 3:15
Monday – Thursday: 5:30

MR. HOLMES (PG) 1 Hr 45 Min
Friday & Saturday: 12:20, 2:40, 5:00, 7:20, 9:40
Sunday: 12:20, 2:40, 5:00, 7:20
Monday – Thursday: 3:00, 5:15, 7:30

BAG IT (NR) 1 Hr 14 Min
Thursday: 7:30

COMING SOON:
(All Dates Are Tentative. Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear.)
July 31 – INFINITELY POLAR BEAR
Aug. 7 – IRRATIONAL MAN
Aug. 14 – TESTAMENT OF YOUTH
Aug. 21 – THE END OF THE TOUR
Aug. 28 – DIARY OF A TEENAGE GIRL
GRANDMA, SAINT LAURENT,
THE HUNDRED YEAR OLD MAN WHO CLIMBED OUT THE WINDOW AND DISAPPEARED

AMY Winehouse Doc & Sundance Sex Comedy THE OVERNIGHT at THE NEON!

July 14, 2015 By Jonathan McNeal

Hello Everyone,

Many thanks to everyone who has come out and supported AMY. Documentaries can be a tough sell, but we had several well attended screenings this past weekend. AMY will stick around for another week. On Friday, we will open a sex comedy that was a hit at this year’s Sundance Film Festival – THE OVERNIGHT (this will likely be a one-week only engagement). We will also hold ME AND EARL AND THE DYING GIRL for one more week…if you haven’t given this film a chance yet, I urge you to do so. For this week’s remaining showtimes (they’re different than the upcoming week – which are listed below), please visit our website at www.neonmovies.com

Synopsis for THE OVERNIGHT: “Alex, Emily, and their son, RJ, have recently moved to Los Angeles’s Eastside from Seattle. Feeling lost in a new city, they are desperate to find their first new friends. After a chance meeting with Kurt at the neighborhood park, they gladly agree to join family pizza night at his home. But as it gets later and the kids go to bed, the family ‘playdate’ becomes increasingly more revealing as the couples begin to open up.” (taken from The Orchard) Rolling Stone called this film “Sundance’s best sex comedy.” New York Magazine wrote, “Hilarious…there’s so much to love about this movie.” THE OVERNIGHT stars Adam Scott (PARKS AND RECREATION), Taylor Shilling (ORANGE IS THE NEW BLACK), Jason Schwartzman (a Wes Anderson favorite) and Judith Godreche (she’s been in numerous NEON films including POTICHE, STOKER, and L’AUBERGE ESPAGNOLE). Click this LINK to visit the film’s official website.

The Dayton Tiny House Community is hoping to bring a new film to town – SMALL IS BEAUTIFUL: A TINY HOUSE DOCUMENTARY. This is a tugg event, so 50+ more tickets must be reserved for the screening to take place on Wednesday, August 12 at 7:30 (those reservations need to be made by Aug. 1). “In Portland, Oregon, we meet four characters, each of whom are at various stages of building and living in their own tiny homes…Ultimately this story proves that it’s not what’s inside the walls of a tiny house that counts, but rather it is the strong community of like minded people who support each other as they dare to be different.” (taken from tugg) You can read more about this film, watch a trailer and reserve your tickets on the official site. Here’s the LINK.

We are slated to open MR. HOLMES (starring Ian McKellen) next Friday. I know many of you are quite excited about this film, and I’m truly looking forward to it.

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

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Wednesday, July 17 – Thursday, July 23:

AMY (R) 2 Hrs 8 Min
Friday, Saturday: 1:00, 4:00, 7:00, 9:40
Sunday: 1:00, 4:00, 7:00
Monday – Thursday: 2:45, 5:20, 7:50

ME AND EARL AND THE DYING GIRL (PG-13) 1 Hr 45 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunda: 12:40, 5:00, 7:30
Monday – Thursday: 3:30, 7:45

THE OVERNIGHT (R) 1 Hr 20 Min
Friday & Saturday: 3:00, 9:45
Sunday: 3:00
Monday – Thursday: 6:00

COMING SOON:
(All Dates Are Tentative. Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear.)
July 24 – MR. HOLMES
Aug. 7 – IRRATIONAL MAN
TBD: TESTAMENT OF YOUTH, INFINITELY POLAR BEAR,
DIARY OF A TEENAGE GIRL, GRANDMA, SAINT LAURENT,
THE HUNDRED YEAR OLD MAN WHO CLIMBED OUT THE WINDOW AND DISAPPEARED

Big Sundance Winner ME AND EARL AND THE DYING GIRL Now Playing at THE NEON!

July 1, 2015 By Jonathan McNeal

Hello Everyone,

ME AND EARL AND THE DYING GIRL – the big winner and giant crowdpleaser (especially for film lovers) from this year’s Sundance Film Festival – is now playing at THE NEON! In addition, I’m pleased to announce that we’re able to hold both LOVE & MERCY and I’LL SEE YOU IN MY DREAMS for one more week!

Synopsis for ME AND EARL AND THE DYING GIRL: “Winner of the 2015 Sundance Grand Jury Prize as well as the Audience Award, ME AND EARL AND THE DYING GIRL is the story of Greg Gaines (Thomas Mann), an awkward high school senior whose mom forces him to spend time with Rachel – a girl in his class (Olivia Cooke) with whom he hasn’t spoken to since kindergarten – who was just diagnosed with cancer.” (taken from Fox Searchlight) Joe Morgenstern from The Wall Street Journal wrote, “This brilliantly funny, casually profound and deeply affecting coming-of-age chronicle…even manages to be life-enlightening – it’s a fresh take on contemporary adolescence as a journey from ironic detachment to openhearted feeling.” Click on this LINK to visit the film’s official site.

Single Payer Action Network Ohio (SPAN Ohio) and Doctors for America are proud to host a screening of the powerful documentary REMOTE AREA MEDICAL. During the U.S. debate about healthcare reform, the media failed to put a human face on what it means to not have access to healthcare. Over three days in April 2012, Remote Area Medical, the pioneers of “no-cost” healthcare clinics, treated nearly 2,000 patients on the infield of Bristol, Tennessee’s massive NASCAR speedway. REMOTE AREA MEDICAL affords us an insider’s perspective on the ebb and flow of the event. It is the extraordinary stories of the patients, desperate for medical attention, that create a lasting impression about the state of modern healthcare in America. Admission is free and open to the public. A panel discussion will be held after the movie with local physicians and health policy advocates. The film will screen on Sunday, July 12 at 3pm. Tickets will be given on a first come, first serve basis on the day of the screening.

Next Friday, July 10, we plan to open the new powerful documentary AMY about the brilliant singer and songwriter Amy Winehouse – a smash at this year’s Cannes Film Festival. Please help us spread the word to any of your friends and family who are interested in music or strong documentaries.

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

SHOWTIMES for Wednesday, July 1 – Thursday, July 9:

LOVE & MERCY (PG-13) 2 Hrs 1 Min
Wednesday & Thursday: 5:20
Friday & Saturday: 4:50, 9:30
Sunday: 4:50
Monday – Thursday: 5:20

I’LL SEE YOU IN MY DREAMS (PG-13) 1 Hr 32 Min
Wednesday & Thursday: 3:15, 7:45
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:40, 2:50, 7:20
Monday – Thursday: 3:15, 7:45

ME AND EARL AND THE DYING GIRL (PG-13) 1 Hr 45 Min
Wednesday & Thursday (July 1 & 2): 2:30, 5:00, 7:30
Friday & Saturday: 12:15, 2:30, 5:00, 7:30, 9:45
Sunday: 12:15, 2:30, 5:00, 7:30
Monday – Thursday: 3:00, 5:15, 7:40

COMING SOON:
(All Dates Are Tentative. Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear.)
July 10 – AMY
July 17 (or later) – TESTAMENT OF YOUTH
July 24 (or later) – INFINITELY POLAR BEAR
July 24 – MR. HOLMES
Aug. 7 – IRRATIONAL MAN
TBD – END OF THE TOUR, DIARY OF A TEENAGE GIRL,
GRANDMA, SAINT LAURENT

The Neon

Mon 2

Tue 3

Wed 4

Thu 5

Fri 6

Sat 7

Sun 8

The Troy Strawberry Festival

The Troy Strawberry Festival

Summer Reading Challenge Kick-Off

What the Taco?!