Dayton937

Things to do in Dayton | Restaurants, Theatre, Music and More

The Neon

2 Big Hits & A BIG Thank YOU from THE NEON!

By

The_Imitation_Game_3051179cHello Everyone,

This past weekend was really big at THE NEON! In fact, it was our third best weekend of the year (GRAND BUDAPEST HOTEL holds the title for “Best Weekend Ever” and the weekend we opened AUGUST: OSAGE COUNTY as well as INSIDE LLEWYN DAVIS was our second best of the year). Needless to say, we’re going to hold both THE IMITATION GAME and WILD for another week. Remaining showtimes for this current week can be found on our website at www.neonmovies.com

To learn more about each film, visit our site…or each of the film’s official sites:  THE IMITATION GAME and WILD.

Below are a couple featurettes about each of our films.  Take a look!

It is now 100% official that 2014 has been our Best Year Ever at THE NEON! Thank you so much for making that happen. Without customer loyalty and positive word of mouth, we could not have reached such success. THANK YOU!

On December 23, Sony Pictures revealed that they would move forward with screening the controversial film THE INTERVIEW at independent cinemas on December 25. Immediately following that announcement, we had numerous phone calls and emails asking if we would be playing the film. With only 2 screens, making such drastic, last-minute changes was out of the question for us. We told the press that we were investigating the possibility of bringing the film for select screenings during the first weekend of 2015…but that was misconstrued by many as “THE NEON is going to play THE INTERVIEW.” As it turns out, Sony refused our offer. Because they refused our offer and because the film is available on so many VOD platforms, we are no longer pursuing and engagement of the film. Thanks for your understanding.

KRW Cycles is attempting to bring another motorcycle-inspired film to town. “ON ANY SUNDAY: THE NEXT CHAPTER is an exploration into the pursuit of excitement, passion and life in the two-wheeled world of motorcycle riding. Experiences that are as relatable to a rider as a day with friends, others that explore human triumph and overcoming fear, and some which occur once in a lifetime. One moment of riding a motorcycle – On Any Sunday.Critically acclaimed director Dana Brown (“Step Into Liquid” and “Dust to Glory”) teams up with his father, Academy Award Nominee Bruce Brown (“The Endless Summer” and “On Any Sunday”) to journey deeper into the humanity, thrills and excitement of the global culture of motorcycle riding; those who are bonded by their passion for the race, the love of family and friendship, and on a deeper level – their quest for the thrill of the next ride.” This is a tugg event. The movie is scheduled to screen on Thursday, Jan. 15 at 7:30. If not enough reservations are made by Jan. 2, the event will be cancelled. Visit this LINK to reserve your ticket.

Thank you for your continued support.

Wishing you the happiest of holidays!
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Friday, Jan. 2 – Thursday, Jan. 8:

THE IMITATION GAME (PG-13) 1 Hr 54 Min
Friday & Saturday: 12:00, 2:30, 5:00, 7:30, 9:55
Sunday: 12:00, 2:30, 5:00, 7:30
Monday – Thursday: 3:00, 5:30, 8:00

WILD (R) 1 Hr 55 Min
Friday, Saturday: 11:45, 2:15, 4:45, 7:15, 9:45
Sunday: 11:45, 2:15, 4:45, 7:15
Monday – Thursday: 2:45, 5:15, 7:45

COMING SOON:
(All Dates Are Tentative. Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear.)
Jan. 9 or 16 – FOXCATCHER
TBD – OSCAR NOMINATED SHORTS
TBD – FORCE MAJEURE
TBD – MR. TURNER
TBD – STILL ALICE
TBD – OSCAR SHORTS
TBD – TWO DAYS ONE NIGHT
TBD – LEVIATHAN
TBD – WILD TALES
TBD – THE SECOND BEST EXOTIC MARIGOLD HOTEL

Best Picture Nominee THE IMITATION GAME Opens Thursday at THE NEON! WILD a Big Success!

By

The-Imitation-Game-Final-Poster-1Hello Everyone,

WILD was a big success over the weekend.  Many thanks to all of you who came down to support it at THE NEON.  It will be sticking around through the end of the year.

We’re pretty excited for what we hope will be our next big film – THE IMITATION GAME – opening this Thursday. This film about Alan Turing and the breaking of the Enigma Codes during WWII has been nominated for 5 Golden Globe Awards including “Best Picture.” (In addition to already winning the “Audience Choice Award” in Toronto, it has also garnered lots of recognition from critics this season.) Benedict Cumberbatch and Keira Knightley are sensational, and the screenplay is terrific. In addition, the story has an interesting connection to Dayton. Though there’s only a fleeting reference to NCR in the film, Dayton’s connection to Alan Turing (he actually visited Dayton in the early 40’s) and cracking codes during the war was pretty significant. (To find out more about this compelling connection, tune into WDTN for the news this evening (Monday, Dec. 22). Mark Allan will have a story about Dayton’s important role in helping to end WWII.)

If you still need to see THE THEORY OF EVERYTHING or THE HOMESMAN, Wednesday will be your last chance to catch them at THE NEON. Remaining showtimes for this current week can be found on our website at www.neonmovies.com

Synopsis for THE IMITATION GAME: “THE IMITATION GAME portrays the race against time by Alan Turing and his team of code-breakers at Britain’s top-secret Government Code and Cypher School at Bletchley Park, during the Second World War. The group of scholars, mathematicians, linguists, chess champions and intelligence officers had a powerful ally in Prime Minister Winston Churchill who authorized the provision of any resource they required. The film spans the key periods of Turing’s life: his unhappy teenage years at boarding school; the triumph of his secret wartime work on the revolutionary electro-mechanical bombe that was capable of breaking 3,000 Enigma-generated naval codes a day; and the tragedy of his post-war decline following his conviction for gross indecency, a criminal offense stemming from his admission of maintaining a homosexual relationship.” (Lucy Powell, Optimum Releasing) This film will almost certainly be nominated for “Best Picture” at this year’s Academy Awards. Click on this LINK to visit the film’s official website.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S5CjKEFb-sM

KRW Cycles is hoping to bring another motorcycle-inspired film to town. “ON ANY SUNDAY: THE NEXT CHAPTER is an exploration into the pursuit of excitement, passion and life in the two-wheeled world of motorcycle riding. Experiences that are as relatable to a rider as a day with friends, others that explore human triumph and overcoming fear, and some which occur once in a lifetime. One moment of riding a motorcycle – On Any Sunday.Critically acclaimed director Dana Brown (“Step Into Liquid” and “Dust to Glory”) teams up with his father, Academy Award Nominee Bruce Brown (“The Endless Summer” and “On Any Sunday”) to journey deeper into the humanity, thrills and excitement of the global culture of motorcycle riding; those who are bonded by their passion for the race, the love of family and friendship, and on a deeper level – their quest for the thrill of the next ride.” This is a tugg event. The movie is scheduled to screen on Thursday, Jan. 15 at 7:30. If not enough reservations are made by Jan. 2, the event will be cancelled. Visit this LINK to reserve your ticket.

Don’t forget that we sell gift certificates in $5 and $10 denominations at our box office. They make perfect holiday gifts for the film lovers in your life…or for people who have never experienced THE NEON. Diana also ordered some delicious 2-pack biscotti from Tastes of Nostalgia – they’d make a perfectly sweet pairing to our certificates.

Thank you for your continued support.

Wishing you the happiest of holidays!

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Thursday, Dec. 25 – Thursday, Jan.1:

THE IMITATION GAME (PG-13) 1 Hr 54 Min
Thursday (Dec. 25): 2:30, 5:00, 7:30
Friday & Saturday (Dec. 26 & 27): 12:00, 2:30, 5:00, 7:30, 9:55
Sunday (Dec. 28): 12:00, 2:30, 5:00, 7:30
Monday – Thursday (Dec. 29-Jan. 1): 3:00, 5:30, 8:00

WILD (R) 1 Hr 55 Min
Thursday (Dec. 25): 2:45, 5:15, 7:45
Friday, Saturday (Dec. 26 & 27): 11:45, 2:15, 4:45, 7:15, 9:45
Sunday (Dec. 28): 11:45, 2:15, 4:45, 7:15
Monday – Thursday (Dec. 29-Jan. 1): 2:45, 5:15, 7:45

COMING SOON:
(All Dates Are Tentative. Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear.)
Jan. 9 or 16 – FOXCATCHER
TBD – FORCE MAJEURE
TBD – MR. TURNER
TBD – STILL ALICE
TBD – OSCAR SHORTS
TBD – TWO DAYS ONE NIGHT
TBD – LEVIATHAN
TBD – WILD TALES
TBD – THE SECOND BEST EXOTIC MARIGOLD HOTEL

WILD – Starring Reese Witherspoon – Opens Friday + More About IMITATION GAME, TOMMY LEE JONES Yogananda & More

By

wild-reese-witherspoonHello Everyone,

We’re going to end the year at THE NEON with some very high profile films. On Friday, we will open WILD – the new film based on the #1 Bestseller by Cheryl Strayed. I saw this film in Toronto, and I immediately knew that Witherspoon would receive nominations galore for this role. She’s a shoe-in for an Oscar nomination! Next Thursday (Dec. 25), we will open THE IMITATION GAME – a film that was on the top of the list to see in Toronto. This is one that will undoubtedly get a “Best Picture” nomination. It’s a really terrific film, and I know Daytonians are going to love it!

If you still need to see THE HOMESMAN (starring Hilary Swank and Tommy Lee Jones – directed by Jones) or THE THEORY OF EVERYTHING (do not miss Eddie Redmayne in this incredible performance), they will stick around until Wednesday, Dec. 24! And due to high demand, we are playing AWAKE: THE LIFE OF YOGANANDA two more times this weekend (Friday and Sunday only).

Remaining showtimes for this current week can be found on our website at www.neonmovies.com

Synopsis for WILD: “After years of reckless behavior, a heroin addiction, and the destruction of her marriage, Cheryl Strayed (Reese Witherspoon) makes a rash decision. Haunted by memories of her mother Bobbi (Laura Dern) and with absolutely no experience, she sets out to hike more than a thousand miles on the Pacific Crest Trail all on her own.” (taken from Fox Searchlight) Reese Witherspoon is absolutely incredible in this film. WILD was directed by Jean-Marc Vallee – director of DALLAS BUYERS CLUB. Click on this LINK to visit the film’s official website.

To read more about AWAKE: THE LIFE OF YODANANDA, click on this LINK.

The Annual Family Holiday Film Series, presented by The Dayton Holiday Festival, The Downtown Dayton Partnership, Channel 99.9 and THE NEON, only has one film left. Admission is FREE for kids 12 & under and only $2 for general admission. The Cary Grant classic THE BISHOP’S WIFE will play this Saturday, December 20 at Noon. Tickets will only be available starting 45 minutes before each screening, and children must be present in order to claim free tickets.

KRW Cycles is attempting to bring another motorcycle-inspired film to town. “ON ANY SUNDAY: THE NEXT CHAPTER is an exploration into the pursuit of excitement, passion and life in the two-wheeled world of motorcycle riding. Experiences that are as relatable to a rider as a day with friends, others that explore human triumph and overcoming fear, and some which occur once in a lifetime. One moment of riding a motorcycle – On Any Sunday.Critically acclaimed director Dana Brown (“Step Into Liquid” and “Dust to Glory”) teams up with his father, Academy Award Nominee Bruce Brown (“The Endless Summer” and “On Any Sunday”) to journey deeper into the humanity, thrills and excitement of the global culture of motorcycle riding; those who are bonded by their passion for the race, the love of family and friendship, and on a deeper level – their quest for the thrill of the next ride.” This is a tugg event. The movie is scheduled to screen on Thursday, Jan. 15 at 7:30. If not enough reservations are made by Jan. 2, the event will be cancelled. Visit this LINK to reserve your ticket.

Don’t forget that we sell gift certificates in $5 and $10 denominations at our box office. They make perfect holiday gifts for the film lovers in your life…or for people who have never experienced THE NEON. Diana also ordered some delicious 2-pack biscotti from Tastes of Nostalgia – they’d make a perfectly sweet pairing to our certificates.

Thank you for your continued support.

We hope to see you soon,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Friday, Dec. 19 – Wednesday, Dec. 24:
Please note: These showtimes are only good until Wednesday!
A New Schedule (due to the holiday) Will Begin on Dec. 25!

THE THEORY OF EVERYTHING (PG-13) 2 Hr 3 Min
Friday & Saturday: 5:00, 9:55
Sunday: 5:00
Monday – Wednesday: 5:30
Final Day – Dec. 24!

THE HOMESMAN (R) 2 Hrs 2 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 2:30, 7:30
Monday – Wednesday: 3:00, 8:00
Final Day – Dec. 24!

WILD (R) 1 Hr 55 Min
Friday, Saturday: 11:45, 2:15, 4:45, 7:15, 9:45
Sunday: 11:45, 2:15, 4:45, 7:15
Monday – Wednesday: 2:45, 5:15, 7:45

THE BISHOP’S WIFE (NR) 1 Hr 49 Min
Saturday: Noon

AWAKE: THE LIFE OF YOGANANDA (PG) 1 Hr 27 Min
Friday & Sunday: 12:30

COMING SOON:
(All Dates Are Tentative. Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear.)
Dec. 25 – THE IMITATION GAME
Jan. 9 or 16 – FOXCATCHER
TBD – FORCE MAJEURE
TBD – MR. TURNER
TBD – STILL ALICE
TBD – OSCAR SHORTS
TBD – TWO DAYS ONE NIGHT
TBD – LEVIATHAN
TBD – THE SECOND BEST EXOTIC MARIGOLD HOTEL

Thrilling CITIZENFOUR and Special Event Announcements at THE NEON

By

citizenfourHello Everyone,

It was a terrific weekend at THE NEON. Many thanks to everyone who came out to see movies with us. Audiences are adoring THE THEORY OF EVERYTHING, and BIRDMAN keeps on truckin’ (and will stick around for one screening per day for one more week). Unfortunately, despite the high praise, WHIPLASH is heading out. If you haven’t seen it yet, Thursday will be your last chance to catch it at THE NEON. On Friday, we will begin the new documentary about Edward Snowden and government surveillance programs – CITIZENFOUR. In many circles, this film is considered the front-runner for this year’s Oscar as “Best Feature-Length Documentary.”

Remaining showtimes for this week can be found on our website at www.neonmovies.com

Synopsis for CITIZENFOUR: “In January 2013, Poitras (recipient of the 2012 MacArthur Genius Fellowship and co-recipient of the 2014 Pulitzer Prize for Public Service) was several years into making a film about surveillance in the post-9/11 era when she started receiving encrypted e-mails from someone identifying himself as ‘citizen four,’ who was ready to blow the whistle on the massive covert surveillance programs run by the NSA and other intelligence agencies. In June 2013, she and Greenwald flew to Hong Kong for the first of many meetings with the man who turned out to be Snowden. She brought her camera with her. The film that resulted from this series of tense encounters is absolutely sui generis in the history of cinema: a 100% real-life thriller unfolding minute by minute before our eyes.” Click on this LINK to visit the film’s official website.

The Annual Family Holiday Film Series, presented by The Dayton Holiday Festival, The Downtown Dayton Partnership, Channel 99.9 and THE NEON, will begin this weekend. Films will screen at Noon on December 6, 13, & 20 – and the price is absolutely amazing. Admission is FREE for kids 12 & under and only $2 for general admission. ELF will play on December 6, THE MUPPET CHRISTMAS CAROL will play on December 13, and the Cary Grant classic THE BISHOP’S WIFE will play on December 20. Tickets will only be available starting 45 minutes before each screening, and children must be present to claim free tickets.

Last year, THE NEON hosted a few screenings of THE TRIUMPH for a local non-profit. On December 10, 4Mary.Org will bring back this documentary one more time. “THE TRIUMPH is a powerful new documentary film about a prophecy unfolding right now, before our very eyes. From Medjugorje, a tiny village in Bosnia-Herzegovina, comes a message from the Mother of God. Does this woman really know mankind’s future, as millions believe? Decide for yourself.” (taken from press notes) Tickets are $10 each and can only be purchased in advance by visiting the official site. Click this LINK to purchase tickets.

After receiving numerous requests to bring AWAKE: THE LIFE OF YOGANANDA to THE NEON, we have decided to move forward with a few special screenings. “AWAKE is an unconventional biography about the Hindu Swami who brought yoga and meditation to the West in the 1920s. Paramahansa Yogananda authored the spiritual classic ‘Autobiography of a Yogi,’ which has sold millions of copies worldwide and is a go-to book for seekers, philosophers and yoga enthusiasts today. (Apparently, it was the only book that Steve Jobs had on his iPad.) By personalizing his own quest for enlightenment and sharing his struggles along the path, Yogananda made ancient Vedic teachings accessible to a modern audience, attracting many followers and inspiring the millions who practice yoga today.” This film will screen at 12:30 on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, December 12, 13 & 14. Tickets will be $7 each and will be available later this week at our box office. Click this LINK to visit the film’s official site.

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

SHOWTIMES for Friday, Dec. 5 – Thursday, Dec. 11:

THE THEORY OF EVERYTHING (PG-13) 2 Hr 3 Min
Friday & Saturday: 11:45, 2:15, 4:45, 7:15, 9:45
Sunday: 11:45, 2:15, 4:45, 7:15
Monday, Tuesday: 2:45, 5:15, 7:45
Wednesday: 2:45, 5:15
Thursday: 2:45, 5:15, 7:45

BIRDMAN (R) 1 Hr 59 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 5:00
Monday – Thursday: 5:15

CITIZENFOUR (R) 1 Hr 54 Min
Friday: 12:10, 2:30, 730, 9:50
Saturday: 2:30, 7:30, 9:50
Sunday: 12:10, 2:30, 7:30
Monday – Thursday: 2:50, 7:50

ELF (PG) 1 Hr 47 Min
Saturday: Noon

THE TRIUMPH (NR) 2 Hrs + Discussion
Wednesday: 7:30

COMING SOON:
(All Dates Are Tentative. Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear.)
Dec. 12 – AWAKE: THE LIFE OF YOGANANDA (3 screenings only!)
Dec. 12 – HOMESMAN
Dec. 25 – THE IMITATION GAME
Dec. 25 – WILD
Jan. 9 or 16 – FOXCATCHER
TBD – FORCE MAJEURE

Oscar Hopeful THEORY OF EVERYTHING Opens at THE NEON!

By

10482287_381129725378465_1199013742911067013_nHello DaytonMostMetro Fans,

I’ve got good news. WHIPLASH and BIRDMAN will be able to share a screen starting this Wednesday. That said, if you need to see either of these films, I’d suggest hurrying down. They may not last more than one more week. Tomorrow (Wed, Nov. 26), we will open a film that I know many of you will embrace – THE THEORY OF EVERYTHING. When I saw this film at the World Premiere in Toronto, the auditorium was packed with stars who were anxious to see the film – including Jon Stewart, Julie Taymor and Andrew Garfield. The standing ovation was remarkable, and hearing Eddie Redmayne (who deserves the Oscar for this performance) speak about the process was incredible. I hope you’ll be anxious to see the film with us this weekend.

Synopsis for THE THEORY OF EVERYTHING: “Starring Eddie Redmayne and Felicity Jones, this is the extraordinary story of one of the world’s greatest living minds, the renowned astrophysicist Stephen Hawking, who falls deeply in love with fellow Cambridge student Jane Wilde. Once a healthy, active young man, Hawking received an earth-shattering diagnosis at 21 years of age. With Jane fighting tirelessly by his side, Stephen embarks on his most ambitious scientific work, studying the very thing he now has precious little of – time. Together, they defy impossible odds, breaking new ground in medicine and science, and achieving more than they could ever have dreamed. The film is based on the memoir Travelling to Infinity: My Life with Stephen, by Jane Hawking, and is directed by Academy Award winner James Marsh (MAN ON WIRE).” Click on this LINK to visit the film’s official website.

The Annual Family Holiday Film Series, presented by The Dayton Holiday Festival, The Downtown Dayton Partnership, Channel 99.9 and THE NEON, has secured titles for this year’s line-up. Films will screen at Noon on December 6, 13, & 20 – and the price is absolutely amazing. Admission is FREE for kids 12 & under and only $2 for general admission. ELF will play on December 6, THE MUPPET CHRISTMAS CAROL will play on December 13, and the Cary Grant classic THE BISHOP’S WIFE will play on December 20. Tickets will only be available starting 45 minutes before each screening, and children must be present to claim free tickets.

Last year, THE NEON hosted a few screenings of THE TRIUMPH for a local non-profit. On December 10, 4Mary.Org will bring back this documentary another time. “THE TRIUMPH is a powerful new documentary film about a prophecy unfolding right now, before our very eyes. From Medjugorje, a tiny village in Bosnia-Herzegovina, comes a message from the Mother of God. Does this woman really know mankind’s future, as millions believe? Decide for yourself.” (taken from press notes) Tickets are $10 each and can only be purchased in advance by visiting the official site. Click this LINK to purchase tickets and this LINK to check out the trailer.

As we head into the holiday season, I want to take this opportunity to express my great thanks for your patronage. We’re trending to make 2014 a banner year, and we wouldn’t be in this great place without your enthusiasm & support. In addition, I want to thank Diana Cordero – our assistant manager. Diana has been right beside me for over 13 years at THE NEON, and I couldn’t do it without her. Thank you!

Wishing all of you a great Thanksgiving!

We hope to see you soon,

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Wednesday, Nov. 26 – Thursday, Dec. 4:
PLEASE NOTE: This schedule is more than a week!

THE THEORY OF EVERYTHING (PG-13) 2 Hr 3 Min
Wednesday & Thursday: 2:45, 5:15, 7:45
Friday & Saturday: 11:45, 2:15, 4:45, 7:15, 9:45
Sunday: 11:45, 2:15, 4:45, 7:15
Monday – Thursday: 2:45, 5:15, 7:45

BIRDMAN (R) 1 Hr 59 Min
Wednesday & Thursday: 2:40, 7:30
Friday & Saturday: 2:40, 7:30, 9:55
Sunday – Thursday: 2:40, 7:30

WHIPLASH (PG-13) 1 Hr 47 Min
Wednesday & Thursday: 5:10
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:20, 5:10
Monday – Thursday: 5:10

COMING SOON:
(All Dates Are Tentative. Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear.)
Dec. 5 – CITIZENFOUR
Dec. 25 – THE IMITATION GAME
Dec. 25 – WILD
Jan. 9 or 16 – FOXCATCHER
TBD – FORCE MAJEURE
TBD – HOMESMAN

Amazing Line-Up at THE NEON! THEORY OF EVERYTHING Opens Sooner Than Expected!

By

Whiplash_010814_1170x457

Hello Everyone,

I’m happy to report that BIRDMAN continues to bring in nice crowds, thus it will be sticking around. However, despite incredible reviews, WHIPLASH didn’t perform quite as well as we had hoped. That said, we’re holding it for another weekend. At this point, we’re not sure if it will stick around beyond Tuesday…we need to wait for another weekend to see if we can hold it any longer. I’d suggest hurrying down if you still need to see this film. On Wednesday of next week (the day before Thanksgiving), we will open one of my absolute favorites from this year’s Toronto International Film Festival – THE THEORY OF EVERYTHING. I’ll send you more details about this film early next week. For remaining showtimes, please visit our website at www.neonmovies.com

 

The Annual Family Holiday Film Series, presented by The Dayton Holiday Festival, The Downtown Dayton Partnership, Channel 99.9 and THE NEON, has secured titles for this year’s line-up. Films will screen at Noon on December 6, 13, & 20 – and the price is absolutely amazing. Admission is FREE for kids 12 & under and only $2 for general admission. ELF will play on December 6, THE MUPPET CHRISTMAS CAROL will play on December 13, and the Cary Grant classic THE BISHOP’S WIFE will play on December 20. Tickets will only be available starting 45 minutes before each screening, and children must be present to claim free tickets.

Our line-up for the next several weeks is incredible. In addition to THE THEORY OF EVERYTHING, I know you’ll love THE IMITATION GAME (which will surely be nominated for “Best Picture” this year), and I’m anxious to see CITIZENFOUR as well as FORCE MAJEURE.

Thanks so much for your continued support!

We hope to see you soon,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Friday, Nov. 21 – Tuesday, Nov. 25:
PLEASE NOTE: This schedule only goes until Tuesday!

BIRDMAN (R) 1 Hr 59 Min
Friday & Saturday: 11:50, 2:15, 4:45, 7:15, 9:45
Sunday:11:50, 2:15, 4:45, 7:15
Monday & Tuesday: 2:45, 5:15, 7:45

WHIPLASH (PG-13) 1 Hr 47 Min
Friday & Saturday: 12:20, 2:40, 5:00, 7:20, 9:40
Sunday: 12:20, 2:40, 5:00, 7:20
Monday & Tuesday: 3:00, 5:30, 8:00

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

Nov. 26 – THE THEORY OF EVERYTHING
Dec. 5 – CITIZENFOUR
Dec. 25 – THE IMITATION GAME
Dec. 25 – WILD
Jan. 9 or 16 – FOXCATCHER
TBD – FORCE MAJEURE
TBD – HOMESMAN

WHIPLASH – Approved By Critics & Audiences Alike – Opens Friday at THE NEON!

By

WHIPLASH+onesheetHello Everyone,

We had a really good weekend with BIRDMAN and ST. VINCENT – our best weekend in the past few months. Thanks to everyone who came out! If you still need to see ST. VINCENT, Thursday will be your last chance to see it at THE NEON. For remaining showtimes, please visit our website at www.neonmovies.com

On Friday, we will open a film that has garnered great reviews from critics and audiences alike – WHIPLASH. You don’t have to take my word for it. Take a look at all the great reviews on the film’s Rottentomatoes page.

Synopsis for WHIPLASH: “Andrew Neyman is an ambitious young jazz drummer, single-minded in his pursuit to rise to the top of his elite east coast music conservatory. Plagued by the failed writing career of his father, Andrew hungers day and night to become one of the greats. Terence Fletcher, an instructor equally known for his teaching talents as for his terrifying methods, leads the top jazz ensemble in the school. Fletcher discovers Andrew and transfers the aspiring drummer into his band, forever changing the young man’s life. Andrew’s passion to achieve perfection quickly spirals into obsession, as his ruthless teacher continues to push him to the brink of both his ability-and his sanity.” (taken from Sony Classics) Click on this link to visit the film’s official site.

REMINDER! VSOP Music & Film is bringing HARLEM STREET SINGER – THE STORY OF REVEREND GARY DAVIS to THE NEON for a one-time screening tomorrow – Wednesday, Nov. 12 at 7:30. Tickets are still available! “The film tells the story of the blind, self-taught musician Reverend Gary Davis. It chronicles his hardscrabble life and the profound impact he made on musicians eager to explore his technique – a homegrown guitar style forged from ragtime, gospel and blues. In addition to archival footage and interview segments with Bob Weir, Jorma Kaukonen, John Cohen, David Bromberg, Ramblin’ Jack Elliott and others, the film features newly recorded versions of songs Davis was closely identified with performed by a band led by Woody Mann. Blues and jazz historian (and frontman for the Classic Jazz Stompers) Dave Greer will lead a Q&A following the screeing.” (taken from VSOP Press Notes) Tickets will be $8 each and available starting Oct. 22 at THE NEON’s box office.

The Annual Family Holiday Film Series, presented by The Dayton Holiday Festival, The Downtown Dayton Partnership, Channel 99.9 and THE NEON, has secured titles for this year’s line-up. Films will screen at Noon on December 6, 13, & 20 – and the price is absolutely amazing. Admission is FREE for kids 12 & under and only $2 for general admission. ELF will play on December 6, THE MUPPET CHRISTMAS CAROL will play on December 13, and the Cary Grant classic THE BISHOP’S WIFE will play on December 20. Tickets will only be available starting 45 minutes before each screening, and children must be present to claim free tickets.

Thanks so much for your continued support!
We hope to see you soon,

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Friday, Nov. 14 – Thursday, Nov. 20:

BIRDMAN (R) 1 Hr 59 Min
Friday & Saturday: 11:50, 2:15, 4:45, 7:15, 9:45
Sunday:11:50, 2:15, 4:45, 7:15
Monday – Thursday: 2:45, 5:15, 7:45

WHIPLASH (PG-13) 1 Hr 47 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, 5:30, 8:00

COMING SOON:
(All Dates Are Tentative. Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear.)
Nov. 26 – THE THEORY OF EVERYTHING
Dec. 5 – CITIZENFOUR
Dec. 25 – THE IMITATION GAME
Dec. 25 – WILD
Jan. 9 or 16 – FOXCATCHER
TBD – FORCE MAJEURE
TBD – HOMESMAN

BIRDMAN (with Amazing Cast & Stellar Reviews) Opens Friday at THE NEON!

By

hr_Birdman_1Hello Everyone,

Audiences are loving all three of our current attractions, but if you still need to see PRIDE or MY OLD LADY, you’ll need to move quickly. PRIDE will screen for the last time tonight (Wednesday) and MY OLD LADY will screen for the last time on Thursday afternoon. ST. VINCENT is sticking around. If you need a refresher about any of our current films, please visit our website at www.neonmovies.com

On Friday, we’re excited to open BIRDMAN – a film by the brilliant Mexican director Alejandro G. Inarritu, director of AMORES PERROS, 21 GRAMS, BABEL and BIUTIFUL. This new film, which has garnered 100% reviews from some of today’s most esteemed critics, has also garnered a lot of great press for the lead performance by Michael Keaton.

Synopsis for BIRDMAN or (THE UNEXPECTED VIRTUE OF IGNORANCE): “BIRDMAN is a black comedy that tells the story of an actor (Michael Keaton) – famous for portraying an iconic superhero – as he struggles to mount a Broadway play. In the days leading up to opening night, he battles his ego and attempts to recover his family, his career, and himself. ” Also starring Zach Galifianakis, Edward Norton, Andrea Riseborough, Amy Ryan, Emma Stone, and Naomi Watts. Click on this LINK to visit the film’s official site.

VSOP Music & Film is bringing HARLEM STREET SINGER – THE STORY OF REVEREND GARY DAVIS to THE NEON for a one-time screening on Wednesday, Nov. 12 at 7:30. “The film tells the story of the blind, self-taught musician Reverend Gary Davis. It chronicles his hardscrabble life and the profound impact he made on musicians eager to explore his technique – a homegrown guitar style forged from ragtime, gospel and blues. In addition to archival footage and interview segments with Bob Weir, Jorma Kaukonen, John Cohen, David Bromberg, Ramblin’ Jack Elliott and others, the film features newly recorded versions of songs Davis was closely identified with performed by a band led by Woody Mann. Blues and jazz historian (and frontman for the Classic Jazz Stompers) Dave Greer will lead a Q&A following the screeing.” (taken from VSOP Press Notes) Tickets will be $8 each and available starting Oct. 22 at THE NEON’s box office.

Next week, I’ll announce our line-up for the Annual Family Holiday Film Series – presented by The Dayton Holiday Festival & The Downtown Dayton Partnership. Films will screen at Noon on December 6, 13, & 20 – and the price is absolutely amazing. Stay tuned!

Thanks so much for your continued support!

We hope to see you soon,

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Friday, Nov. 7 – Thursday, Nov. 13:

BIRDMAN (R) 1 Hr 59 Min
Friday & Saturday: 11:50, 2:15, 4:45, 7:15, 9:45
Sunday:11:50, 2:15, 4:45, 7:15
Monday – Thursday: 2:45, 5:15, 7:45

ST. VINCENT (PG-13) 1 Hr 42 Min
Friday & Saturday: 12:30, 2:50, 5:10, 7:30, 9:50
Sunday: 12:30, 2:50, 5:10, 7:30
Monday – Tuesday: 2:50, 5:10, 7:30
Wednesday: 2:50, 5:10
Thursday: 2:50, 7:45

HARLEM STREET SINGER (NR) 1 Hr 16 Min + discussion
Wednesday: 7:30

COMING SOON:

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

Nov. 14 – WHIPLASH
Nov. 28 – THE THEORY OF EVERYTHING
Dec. 5 – CITIZENFOUR
Dec. 19 – THE IMITATION GAME
Jan. 9 – FOXCATCHER
TBD – FORCE MAJEURE

ST. VINCENT (Starring Bill Murray) & PRIDE (With Amazing British Cast) Start Friday at THE NEON!

By

pride_ver3Hello Everyone,

If you’ve liked films like BILLY ELLIOT and THE FULL MONTY, I’m pretty certain you’re going to absolutely love PRIDE. The standing ovation at the screening I attended in Toronto was invigorating, and the film is more than just warm and charming – it’s inspiring. I hope you’ll come and support it this weekend. In addition to PRIDE, we will open the new Bill Murray comedy – ST. VINCENT. This film was also a crowd-pleaser when I saw it in Toronto, and I think Dayton audiences will like it as well. If you still need to see THE SKELETON TWINS, LOVE IS STRANGE, MY OLD LADY or THE TWO FACES OF JANUARY, you only have until Thursday to see them at THE NEON. Visit www.neonmovies.com for this week’s remaining showtimes.

As a reminder, we will have a special preview screening of ST. VINCENT on Thursday, Oct. 23 at 8:00. Regular ticket prices will apply…and we’ll have some fun prizes to give away!

Synopsis for PRIDE: “PRIDE is inspired by an extraordinary true story. It’s the summer of 1984, Margaret Thatcher is in power and the National Union of Mineworkers is on strike, prompting a London-based group of gay and lesbian activists to raise money to support the strikers’ families. Initially rebuffed by the Union, the group identifies a tiny mining village in Wales and sets off to make their donation in person. As the strike drags on, the two groups discover that standing together makes for the strongest union of all.” This film stars some real heavyweight British actors like Imedla Staunton, Bill Nighy, Dominic West and Paddy Considine. Click this LINK to visit the film’s official site.

Synopsis for ST. VINCENT: “Maggie (Melissa McCarthy), a single mother, moves into a new home in Brooklyn with her 12-year old son, Oliver. Forced to work long hours, she has no choice but to leave Oliver in the care of their new neighbor, Vincent (Bill Murray), a retired curmudgeon with a penchant for alcohol and gambling. An odd friendship soon blossoms between the improbable pair. Together with a pregnant stripper named Daka (Naomi Watts), Vincent brings Oliver along on all the stops that make up his daily routine – the race track, a strip club, and the local dive bar. Vincent helps Oliver grow to become a man, while Oliver begins to see in Vincent something that no one else is able to: a misunderstood man with a good heart.” Click on this LINK to visit the film’s official site.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r5BVn-eyAxA

By now, many of you are familiar with Gathr and Tugg – platforms used to bring films to town that might not otherwise screen in our market. When you visit these sites, you can reserve a ticket that will help bring the film to THE NEON. If not enough tickets are reserved, the screening doesn’t go forward and your card is never charged. Here are 2 upcoming films that are attempting to come to town:
CULTURE HIGH, a film about the modern day marijuana debate – Wed. Nov. 5 at 7:30 – LINK for CULTURE HIGH
PENTON, a film about the American icon and motorcycle pioneer (this is an encore screening due to the sold-out success of the screening a month ago) – Thursday, Nov. 6 a 7:30 – LINK for PENTON

VSOP Music & Film is bringing HARLEM STREET SINGER – THE STORY OF REVEREND GARY DAVIS to THE NEON for a one-time screening on Wednesday, Nov. 12 at 7:30. “The film tells the story of the blind, self-taught musician Reverend Gary Davis. It chronicles his hardscrabble life and the profound impact he made on musicians eager to explore his technique – a homegrown guitar style forged from ragtime, gospel and blues. In addition to archival footage and interview segments with Bob Weir, Jorma Kaukonen, John Cohen, David Bromberg, Ramblin’ Jack Elliott and others, the film features newly recorded versions of songs Davis was closely identified with performed by a band led by Woody Mann. Blues and jazz historian (and frontman for the Classic Jazz Stompers) Dave Greer will lead a Q&A following the screeing.” (taken from VSOP Press Notes) Tickets will be $8 each and available starting Oct. 22 at THE NEON’s box office.

Thanks for your continued support!

We hope to see you soon,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Friday, Oct. 24 – Thursday, Oct. 30:

PRIDE (R) 1 Hr 57 Min
Friday & Saturday: 12:00, 2:20, 4:50, 7:15, 9:45
Sunday: 12:00, 2:20, 4:50, 7:15
Monday – Thursday: 2:45, 5:15, 7:45

ST. VINCENT (PG-13) 1 Hr 42 Min
Special Preview screening Thursday, Oct. 23 at 8:00!
Friday & Saturday: 12:30, 2:50, 5:10, 7:30, 9:50
Sunday: 12:30, 2:50, 5:10, 7:30
Monday – Thursday: 2:50, 5:10, 7:30

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

Nov. 7 – BIRDMAN
Nov. 14 – WHIPLASH
Nov. 28 – THE THEORY OF EVERYTHING
Dec. 19 – THE IMITATION GAME
Jan. 9 – FOXCATCHER

Gaggle of Stars in New Movies at THE NEON!

By

the-two-faces-of-january-posterHello Everyone,

We’re holding both LOVE IS STRANGE and THE SKELETON TWINS for one more week, but we’re going to add two new films into the mix. On Friday, we will open a film starring Dame Maggie Smith, always loved by our regulars, in MY OLD LADY – also starring Kevin Kline and Kristin Scott Thomas. In addition, we will open a stylish adaptation of a Patricia Highsmith thriller – THE TWO FACES OF JANUARY – starring Kirsten Dunst, Viggo Mortensen, and Oscar Isaac. All of these films will end their runs on Thursday, Oct. 23…so hurry down if you want to see them. Visit www.neonmovies.com for this week’s remaining showtimes.

Synopsis for MY OLD LADY: One Week Only! “Mathias Gold (Kevin Kline) is a down-on-his-luck New Yorker who inherits a Parisian apartment from his estranged father. But when he arrives in France to sell the vast domicile, he’s shocked to discover a live-in tenant who is not prepared to budge. His apartment is a viager – an ancient French real estate system with complex rules pertaining to its resale – and the feisty Englishwoman Mathilde Girard (Maggie Smith), who has lived in the apartment with her daughter Chloe (Kristin Scott Thomas) for many years, can by contract collect monthly payments from Mathias until her death.” (taken from Cohen Media) Click this LINK to visit the film’s official site.

Synopsis for THE TWO FACES OF JANUARY: One Week Only! “Screenwriter Hossein Amini (The Wings of the Dove, Drive) makes a stylish directing debut with this sleek thriller set in Greece and Istanbul, 1962, and adapted from Patricia Highsmith’s novel. Intrigue begins at the Parthenon when wealthy American tourists Chester MacFarland (Viggo Mortensen) and his young wife Collete (Kirsten Dunst) meet American expat Rydal (Oscar Isaac), a scammer working as a tour guide. Instead of becoming his latest marks, the two befriend him, but a murder at the couple’s hotel puts all three on the run together and creates a precarious bond between them as the trio’s allegiance is put to the test.”

On Sunday, Oct. 19 at 5:30, Jeff Akers has rented one of our auditoriums to locally premiere his new short film ILLUMINATION. “Jeff Akers Films, a subsidiary of NJP Media Network, is pleased to announce the release of the riveting new short film ILLUMINATION, which brings to light the mindset of an unbeliever who continues to deny that God is real. The film is set in current reality but personifies new age technology and the power it can have on those in control of it. ILLUMINATION stars veteran actor Shane Willimon, as well as newcomers like Chedrick Cohens, Kenya Permenter, and Darrell Brown who bring this film to life with their skill and believability on screen. Director Jeff Akers plans to screen the film in Greenville, SC and Dayton, Ohio where the majority of it was filmed, he will also enter the production into numerous Christian-based film festivals. ‘This film will not only surprise people, but it will have them thinking on a completely different level,’ he stated. Akers plans to leave you pining for more compelling films and industrials that change your thinking and re-shape your awareness.” (taken from press notes) Akers will attend this screening, and tickets are $5 each – available at THE NEON.

Many thanks to everyone who came out for The Dayton LGBT Film Festival. We had 3 sold-out screenings, and audiences seemed quite enthused by the selections and Opening Night Party. We’re still tabulating the audience award winners…so click this LINK for the festival’s Facebook page later this weekend to find out the latest.

On October 24, we are opening two new films – PRIDE (which is exceptional) and ST. VINCENT (in which Bill Murray is a scream). That said, we just booked a special preview of ST. VINCENT for Thursday, October 23 at 8:00 – where we will have some fun giveaways! Tickets will be available for this special screening by the weekend.

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

SHOWTIMES for Friday, Oct. 17 – Thursday, Oct. 23:

THE SKELETON TWINS (R) 1 Hr 33 Min
Friday & Saturday: 5:10, 9:30
Sunday – Thursday: 5:10

LOVE IS STRANGE (R) 1 Hr 34 Min
Friday & Saturday: 1:00, 5:15
Sunday: 1:00
Monday – Thursday: 5:15

MY OLD LADY (PG-13) 1 Hr 47 Min
Friday & Saturday: 12:30, 2:50, 7:15
Sunday:12:30, 2:50, 7:15
Monday – Thursday: 2:50, 7:15

THE TWO FACES OF JANUARY (PG-13) 1 Hr 36 Min
Friday & Saturday: 3:00, 7:30, 9:40
Sunday: 3:00, 7:45
Monday – Wednesday: 3:00, 7:30
Thursday: 3:00

ILLUMINATION (NR) 30+ Min
Sunday: 5:30

ST. VINCENT (PG-13) 1 Hr 43 Min
PREVIEW SCREENING!
Thursday: 8:00

COMING SOON:
(All Dates Are Tentative. Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear.)
Oct. 24 – PRIDE
Oct. 24 – ST. VINCENT
Nov. 7 – BIRDMAN
Nov. 14 – WHIPLASH
Nov. 28 – THE THEORY OF EVERYTHING
Dec. 19 – THE IMITATION GAME

Critically Acclaimed LOVE IS STRANGE Opens at THE NEON!

By

Love-is-StrangeHello Everyone,

Taking a cue from national trends, we didn’t have the highest hopes for ALIVE INSIDE…but it’s a film we believed in and hoped would find an audience. Unfortunately, those trends proved to be right in line with the film’s performance in Dayton. That said, people who saw it can easily understand why this inspiring film won the audience award at Sundance. Unfortunately, Thursday was the last chance to see it at THE NEON. On Friday, we open a wonderful new film with two of the best male performances of the year – LOVE IS STRANGE. We will also hold onto the much-loved, darkly funny sibling drama THE SKELETON TWINS. Visit www.neonmovies.com for this week’s remaining showtimes.

Synopsis for LOVE IS STRANGE:Rated 97% FRESH on Rottentomatoes.com. “After nearly four decades together, Ben (John Lithgow) and George (Alfred Molina) finally tie the knot in an idyllic wedding ceremony in lower Manhattan. But when George loses his job soon after, the couple must sell their apartment and – victims of the relentless New York City real estate market – temporarily live apart until they can find an affordable new home. While George moves in with two cops (Cheyenne Jackson and Manny Perez) who live down stairs, Ben lands in Brooklyn with his nephew (Darren Burrows), his wife (Marisa Tomei), and their temperamental teenage son (Charlie Tahan), with whom Ben shares a bedroom. While struggling with the pain of separation, Ben and George are further challenged by the intergenerational tensions and capricious family dynamics of their new living arrangements.” (taken from Sony Pictures Classics) This film was directed by Ira Sachs – a director who has visited Dayton and worked directly with WSU motion picture students…he has also been quite kind to The Dayton LGBT Film Festival over the years. Click this LINK to visit the film’s official site.

“Next Wednesday, October 8 at 7:30, there will be a one-time screening of AMERICAN WINTER immediately followed by a moderated discussion with the producer Harry Gantz. This screening is sponsored by the City of Dayton, Ohio CDC Association, and CareSource. ‘For countless middle-class families who have experienced job loss or an unexpected financial setback, the American Dream has become an American nightmare. Working families, seemingly on a path toward economic security, have discovered how quickly they can slip from the middle class into poverty. The film presents an intimate snapshot of the state of the nation’s economy as it is playing out in the lives of many American families.’ (From American Winter notes) A must see for those working with those in poverty and those involved in the formation of policy that impacts the community’s safety net services! Admission is $5 and open to the public. THIS JUST IN: Tickets to this screening are sold out!  If you’d like to be put on a waiting list, contact  amy.riegel@daytonohio.gov.” (taken from press notes).

On Sunday, Oct. 19 at 5:30, Jeff Akers has rented one of our auditoriums to locally premiere his new short film ILLUMINATION. “Jeff Akers Films, a subsidiary of NJP Media Network, is pleased to announce the release of the riveting new short film ILLUMINATION, which brings to light the mindset of an unbeliever who continues to deny that God is real. The film is set in current reality but personifies new age technology and the power it can have on those in control of it. ILLUMINATION stars veteran actor Shane Willimon, as well as newcomers like Chedrick Cohens, Kenya Permenter, and Darrell Brown who bring this film to life with their skill and believability on screen. Director Jeff Akers plans to screen the film in Greenville, SC and Dayton, Ohio where the majority of it was filmed, he will also enter the production into numerous Christian-based film festivals. ‘This film will not only surprise people, but it will have them thinking on a completely different level,’ he stated. Akers plans to leave you pining for more compelling films and industrials that change your thinking and re-shape your awareness.” (taken from press notes) Akers will attend this screening, and tickets are $5 each – available at THE NEON.

The Dayton LGBT Film Festival is right around the corner, and we have 4 guests who will attend screenings this year. Lisa Hass, lead actress and writer of THE FOXY MERKINS, is flying in from NYC. Director Drew Van Steenbergen will join the writer and star of ALONE WITH PEOPLE – both flying in from L.A. Chinonye Chukwu, writer and director of A LONG WALK, is now part of the Motion Pictures Department at WSU and a recent Dayton transplant. Tickets for the Opening Night Film – THE WAY HE LOOKS – are going quickly…take a look at the brand new trailer for this wonderful film. Visit the official site to read about all of our selections and get your tickets before they’re gone.

Maggie Smith fans rejoice! We have booked MY OLD LADY for Oct. 17! Click HERE to visit the film’s site and check out the trailer.

Thanks for your continued support!

We hope to see you soon,

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Friday, Oct. 3 – Thursday, Oct. 9:

THE SKELETON TWINS (R) 1 Hr 33 Min
Friday & Saturday: 12:30, 2:45, 5:00, 7:20, 9:40
Sunday: 12:30, 2:45, 5:00, 7:20
Monday – Thursday: 3:15, 5:30, 7:45

LOVE IS STRANGE (R) 1 Hr 34 Min
Friday & Saturday: 12:45, 3:00, 5:15, 7:30, 9:40
Sunday: 12:45, 3:00, 5:15, 7:30
Monday & Tuesday: 3:00, 5:15, 7:30
Wednesday: 3:00, 5:15
Thursday: 3:00, 5:15, 7:30

AMERICAN WINTER (NR) 1 Hr 30 Min + Discussion
Wednesday: 7:30

COMING SOON:

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

Oct. 10-12 – DAYTON LGBT FILM FEST, Oct. 17 – MY OLD LADY
Oct. 24 – PRIDE, Oct. 24 –  ST. VINCENT, Nov. 7 – BIRDMAN, Nov. 14 – WHIPLASH, Nov. 28 – THE THEORY OF EVERYTHING

SKELETON TWINS and ALIVE INSIDE Open at THE NEON!

By

98f6a31d29a786e520a9fb5198413b7eHello Everyone,

We’re moving forward this weekend with 2 new films! THE SKELETON TWINS has been winning high praise for Kristen Wiig and Bill Hader, and ALIVE INSIDE is a moving documentary that will uplift audiences and perhaps start a local movement.

Synopsis for THE SKELETON TWINS: “When estranged twins Maggie (Kristen Wiig) and Milo (Bill Hader) feel they’re at the end of their ropes, an unexpected reunion forces them to confront why their lives went so wrong. As the twins reconnect, they realize the key to fixing their lives may just lie in repairing their relationship.” (taken from Roadside Attractions) Click this LINK to visit the film’s official site.

Synopsis for ALIVE INSIDE: “Alive Inside is a joyous cinematic exploration of music’s capacity to reawaken our souls and uncover the deepest parts of our humanity. Filmmaker Michael Rossato-Bennett chronicles the astonishing experiences of individuals around the country who have been revitalized through the simple experience of listening to music. His camera reveals the uniquely human connection we find in music and how its healing power can triumph where prescription medication falls short. This stirring documentary follows social worker Dan Cohen, founder of the nonprofit organization Music & Memory, as he fights against a broken healthcare system to demonstrate music’s ability to combat memory loss and restore a deep sense of self to those suffering from it…An uplifting cinematic exploration of music and the mind, Alive Inside’s inspirational and emotional story left audiences humming, clapping and cheering at the 2014 Sundance Film Festival, where it won the Audience Award.” (taken from Bond/360) Click this LINK to visit the film’s official site.

“On Wednesday, October 8 at 7:30, there will be a one-time screening of AMERICAN WINTER immediately followed by a moderated discussion with the producer Harry Gantz. This screening is sponsored by the City of Dayton, Ohio CDC Association, and CareSource. ‘For countless middle-class families who have experienced job loss or an unexpected financial setback, the American Dream has become an American nightmare. Working families, seemingly on a path toward economic security, have discovered how quickly they can slip from the middle class into poverty. The film presents an intimate snapshot of the state of the nation’s economy as it is playing out in the lives of many American families.’ (From American Winter notes) A must see for those working with those in poverty and those involved in the formation of policy that impacts the community’s safety net services! Admission is $5 and open to the public. Tickets can be purchased by visiting THE NEON’s box office, going to www.thinktank-inc.org or by contacting amy.riegel@daytonohio.gov.” (taken from press notes)

We received wonderful news late last week. THE WAY HE LOOKS, the opening night film of this year’s Dayton LGBT Film Festival, was selected by Brazil to represent their country in this year’s Oscar race. We’re so delighted that this little gem is getting such great recognition around the world! Our festival’s official website is now live, and festival passes (only 2 left) and single tickets are starting to move. Click this LINK to visit the site and read all about the films. If you get a ticket to Opening Night (only $8), you get to see the film (sponsored by Square One Salon & Spa) and attend the Opening Night Party at Salar (sponsored by Lisa Hanauer & Sue Spiegel) – where there will be complimentary wine and delicious appetizers. It’s really the best deal in town!

Thanks for your continued support!

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Friday, Sept. 26 – Thursday, Oct. 2:

THE SKELETON TWINS (R) 1 Hr 33 Min
Friday & Saturday: 12:30, 2:45, 5:00, 7:20, 9:40
Sunday: 12:30, 2:45, 5:00, 7:20
Monday: 3:15, 5:30, 7:45
Tuesday: 5:30, 7:45
Wednesday & Thursday: 3:15, 5:30, 7:45

ALIVE INSIDE (NR) 1 Hr 18 Min
Friday & Saturday: 1:00, 3:00, 5:15, 7:30, 9:30
Sunday: 1:00, 3:00, 5:15, 7:30
Monday: 3:00, 5:15, 7:30
Tuesday: 3:00, 7:30
Wednesday & Thursday: 3:00, 5:15, 7:30

COMING SOON:
(All Dates Are Tentative. Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear.)
Oct. 3 – LOVE IS STRANGE
Oct. 10-12 – DAYTON LGBT FILM FEST
Oct. 17 – MY OLD LADY
Oct. 24 – PRIDE
Nov. 7 – BIRDMAN
Nov. 14 – WHIPLASH
Nov. 28 – THE THEORY OF EVERYTHING

TIFF 2014 – Day #9

By

MV5BMjEwMDczOTU3Nl5BMl5BanBnXkFtZTgwMDYyMDU0MjE@._V1_SX214_AL_Friday, September 12, 2014

Hello.

Thanks for coming back to check out my last day of screenings at this year’s Toronto International Film Festival.  Even though I didn’t see as many as I have during some years, I had a great time and managed to see 30 films, visit with lots of people in various aspects of the industry, and attend a couple fun parties.

My first film today was Susanne Bier’s A SECOND CHANCE.  I was first introduced to Bier’s work at my first TIFF back in 2002.  That’s where I saw OPEN HEARTS (her film from the Dogme Movement) and I fell in love…BROTHERS, AFTER THE WEDDING, the Oscar winning IN A BETTER WORLS – all great films.  Bier is truly a gifted storyteller, but this new film is just too over-the-top for me.  A veteran police officer and his wife are new, proud parents…but when the baby dies in the night of SIDS, the cop decides to swap his dead child with a mistreated baby from an ill-kept apartment to help nurse back his terribly depressed wife.  This film is like a more cinematic, 2-hour episode of LAW & ORDER: SVU.  Though the craft is there, the story and the script seem too big and even trite at times.  Though I was engaged and wanted to see what happened, I was ultimately disappointed.  (The lead actor, Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, is from GAMES OF THRONES.  I’m sure there will be added appeal due to his presence.)

I usually only name films that I finish.  If I walk out early, I don’t feel a review is warranted.  That said, I watched the first 20 minutes of a movie today to kill some time.  My plan was to leave early because I needed to get to a different screening.  The movie was X + Y, and I was truly engaged (Sally Hawkins is in it, so that adds to the allure). I wish I could have finished it, but I wanted to get to ST. VINCENT in time.

ST. VINCENT is Bill Murray’s most recent film.  It’s the story of a grumpy, older man who ends up babysitting his new next door neighbor’s kid when he gets home from school.  Murray takes the kid to the race tracks, teaches him to defend himself on the playground and adds a few new colorful words to his vocabulary.  Though a little “easy” sometimes, this film is a crowd-pleaser.

 

My last film of this year’s fest was LEARNING TO DRIVE – a film starring Patricia Clarkson and Ben Kingsley.  What a perfect way to end the fest!  This is a film about a middle-aged woman who has just been left by her husband.  Feeling even more trapped in her life by not being able to pick up and go visit her daughter, she finally takes the driving lessons she needs in order to get a license.  Clarkson is luminous in this film, and her chemistry with Kingsley is spectacular.  Clarkson attended the Q&A, and she told this audience that this is a film she’s been trying to make for 9 years.  It’s touching, it’s very funny, and it’s a liberating film in regards to finding and taking control of yourself.  I hope it finds distribution!

learning-to-drive-ben-kingsley-patricia-clarkson

After the screening, I met up with a childhood friend who now lives in Buffalo.  It’s been 5 years since I saw him last, and it was so great to catch up.

Thanks so much for checking in on my TIFF experience.  It’s been a great year, and I’m going to miss this wonderful city.

In the next few days, I’ll try to upload a few photos I took on my phone and come up with a mini-recap.

All the best,

Jonathan

TIFF 2014 – Day #8

By

movies-benedict-cumberbatch-the-imitation-game-filming-3Thursday, September 11, 2014

Welcome back!  Thanks for checking out my Day #8 blog of my TIFF adventures.

This morning was so different than the others.  I slept in!  Because I didn’t need to be in line by 7:00, I woke up at 9:15 instead of 6am.  It was glorious!

My first film of the day was LOVE IN THE TIME OF CIVIL WAR – a French-Canadian film about a 20-something guy with a crack problem.  An alternate title for this film could be DON’T DO CRACK.  I’ve never seen such a gruelingly monotonous film about drug use.  The lead character smokes to get high, has some sex (in what is generally very unsexy footage), buys some drugs and gets high again.  Sometimes, he has to find money – so he robs someone, gets paid for sex and then buys more drugs and gets high.  This film could essentially be a 2-hour PSA about the horrors of crack.  As much as I wanted to go, I felt like I needed to stay.  I didn’t make the right decision.

There is no trailer available for this film.  Below is a picture.

782ca5706e8ea7f62906a98a3e7e8b6c

I went into my next film with a qualifier in place.  If the film failed to reel me in within the first 12 minutes, I would leave to go to a different selection.  It failed and I walked.  The next selection was worse.  Including eye-rolling situations with characters that were much too twee or playing on archetypal stereotypes, I failed to see the backbone of good storytelling…so I left that screening and got lunch instead.

After a 30-minute nap, I was off to AN EYE FOR BEAUTY – the new film from Denys Arcand (director of BARBARIAN INVASIONS, JESUS OF MONTREAL and more).  It’s the story of a married man and how he’s both interested in another woman and dealing with the mental instability of wife.  This film is full of stunning landscapes, the changing seasons, and well-written dialog.Though fully engaged, I felt the film fell flat with a lack of focus.

There is no trailer with English subtitles, but take a look at this anyway.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y1QO8SXywHs

THE IMITATION GAME was my final film for the day.  I am quite certain that this film will be nominated for “Best Picture.”  I’ll bet the farm on it! Based on the story of Alan Turing and the breaking of the Enigma codes, this film is filled with familiar NEON favorites Benedict Cumberbatch, Keira Knightley and Matthew Goode.  The art direction is superb, the story is touching and suspenseful with quite a few laughs, and the packed 1200+ audience was truly engaged.  Though I wasn’t as emotionally attached to this film as I was to THE THEORY OF EVERYTHING, I still think this film will play very well.  (For those who know the story, NCR was only mentioned once very quickly. No other mention of Dayton was made.)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S5CjKEFb-sM

A last-minute decision for a late-night cocktail in the neighborhood where I’m staying ended up creating a nice evening.  I ran into some old and new friends and was able to talk about highlights of the festival before wrapping it up for the night.  More than likely, I’ll see at least 3 films tomorrow…and I head home Saturday.

More soon!

Thanks for reading,

Jonathan

TIFF 2014 – Day #7

By

out-of-nature-posterWednesday, September 10.2014

Hi Again!

I only saw three films today, but I also attended a pretty great, intimate party.

First off, I saw OUT OF NATURE – a Norwegian film about a man who decides to spend the weekend hiking in the mountains…away from his job, his wife, his son.  In film school, you’re taught to – “Show.  Don’t Tell.”  This simply means that an audience should be able to figure out what someone is thinking by their strong performance…not by what a narrator or bad dialog is telling us.  This film is a rule-breaker – but it’s also the point.  As the protagonist is getting ready for his trip and as he’s hiking up the mountain, we get his interior dialog and realize exactly what he’s thinking, what he’s feeling.  In earlier scenes, we understand that he has issues connecting with people, and through the voice-overs, we understand that his thoughts are mostly of sex and breaking free from the routine of his current life.  Ultimately, I liked this film…but it’s a tough sell.  Including everything from a naked jogging scene to masturbation and urination, we truly live with this character over the course of the weekend.  It’s an inner journey we take with this character, and though you may not be on the same page with his thoughts, you can certainly empathize with the idea of an interior monologue.

Because this trailer contains graphic content, you’ll have to follow the link to find it on youtube.

MAPS TO THE STARS was next up.  It’s the new, darkly satirical film about “Hollywood-types” from David Cronenberg (that said, it could be about any “types” where greed and narcissism play a role in success).  Julianne Moore won “Best Actress” this year at Cannes for this film (but I think her performance in STILL ALICE is even stronger).  If you’re familiar with Cronenberg’s work, you know you’re in for a non-traditional ride in MAPS TO THE STARS.  It’s unsettling, it has awkward moments when laughter seems imminent but also wildly inappropriate, and the stellar cast is committed to the long, crazy ride.  Not a favorite…but not bad.

ELEPHANT SONG was the big treat today.  I went to see this film because I wanted to see Xavier Dolan in a film that he didn’t direct…and one in which he’s speaking English.  Though this film certainly shows its roots of being based on a play, I didn’t mind.  The performances (Dolan, Catherine Keener, Bruce Greenwood), the set design, the screenplay – they are all terrific.This is the story of a young man in a mental institution who may know the whereabouts of a doctor who has recently disappeared.  Taking place mostly in the doctor’s office, the film has a claustrophobic feel…and Dolan at times channels a young Jack Nicholson.  I went on a lark to this screening, and I’m so glad I did.  I hope this film find distribution!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IMjQ9i6J5B0

At the end of the evening, I was invited by a friend to attend a party being thrown for Ethan Hawke’s new documentary called SEYMOUR: AN INTRODUCTION.  It was a small party at the Trump Hotel, and it was lovely.  I ran into a couple folks from indiewire as well as got to hang out with a festival programmer I met several years ago.  Hawke was in attendance, but I never felt like interrupting him.  On my way out, someone whispered, “Did you see who just walked by you?”  “I didn’t,” I responded.  “That’s Mike Tyson.”

More tomorrow – including one of the most talked about/buzzed about films of the festival season – THE IMITATION GAME.

Thanks for reading,

Jonathan

TIFF 2014 – Day #6

By

phoenix-posterTuesday, September 9, 2014

Hello.  Thanks for coming back!

STILL ALICE was my first film today.  Based on a famous novel, this is the story of a linguistics professor who is dealing with early onset Alzheimer’s.  We learn in the film that diagnosis can come late in highly educated people – as they learn to have tricks to help retain their memory.  Julianne Moore plays the lead in this film, and she’s terrific.  This is a sad story due to the fact that we’re watching the terrible effects of a hideous disease…but Moore brings such humanity to the role that you can’t let go.

There’s no trailer for this film yet, but you can hear Julianne talk about the film below.

 

With a screenplay by Nick Hornby (who attended the screening), WILD is based on the true story of Cheryl Strayed’s hike up the Pacific Crest Trail.  Played by Reese Witherspoon (Oscar buzz is well underway), the story starts at the middle of her hike and circles back to the beginning…but the beginning of the hike isn’t the beginning of the story.  Through a series of flashbacks, we fully begin to understand why she’s taking this grueling journey.  For the first 15 minutes of this film, I was skeptical…but then it reeled me in.  The real Cheryl Strayed attended this screening, and had a lot of eloquent things to say about her journey – both physical and emotional.

PHOENIX was next.  This is the story of Nelly, a concentration camp survivor who has reconstructive facial surgery upon coming back into society.  After she recovers, she begins the search in post-war Berlin for her husband – who may have betrayed her to the Nazis.  Upon finding him, he doesn’t recognize her, and they begin a tension-filled game that is bound to reveal the truth.  The concept of this film is a little hard to believe initially.  Really?  He didn’t recognize her? But if you let that go, everything else is spectacular.  The production design, the tension and the performances.

Sorry…no subtitles trailer yet.

 

My last film of the day was TWO DAYS, ONE NIGHT – the new film from the Dardenne Brothers.  This gem stars Marion Cotillard as Sanda – a mother and wife who has just found out that her job is in jeopardy.  Other employees have been given the decision to chose between getting bonuses or retaining Sandra’s position at the factory.  Majority rules…and the vote will be taken Monday morning.  Over the course of the weekend, she attempts to visit the other employees and plead her case – even though doing so seems degrading and hurtful to an already fragile state-of-mind.  In true Dardenne fashion, the film is truly a piece of realism with keen insights to what makes us work.

 

More tomorrow!  Thanks for checking in!

Jonathan