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TIFF Day #7 – 2024

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Hello NEON Community!

My first movie of today was from the director of our highest grossing documentary ever PIECE BY PIECE, dir Morgan Neville “The life of singer and producer Pharrell Williams is told through LEGO pieces in this animated feature debut from Morgan Neville, featuring the voices of Gwen Stefani, Kendrick Lamar, and Jay-Z.” Neville is responsible for WON’T YOU BE MY NEIGHBOR – so I trusted his instincts and went to see this animated doc about Pharrell.  This creative and thoughtful piece is meant for the whole family – and I hope cinemas and PR folks work with lots of school-aged kids to get them to see this movie so it can inspire them.  We were told that Morgan Neville would join us after the screening for a Q&A…but we were surprised by Pharrell also joining him.  Their talk of equating legos with creating art – assembling layers of existing pieces – was all very intriguing, and Pharrell seems to be in a very grounded place regarding the “grace [he’s] been shown despite years of arrogance.”

Next up was a narrative film about the creation of the first episode of the groundbreaking sketch comedy show – SATURDAY NIGHT, dir Jason Reitman (USA) “Director Jason Reitman captures the frenzied lead-up to the very first episode of Saturday Night Live as a motley bunch of then-unknown and untrained young comedians prepare to step into a revolutionary spotlight that will change history and make them all stars.” (taken from TIFF catalog) This frenetic film is so much fun and full of iconic characters, and it was nice that we got it introduced by Jason Reitman – who was both charming and funny.  I know our audience would love it!

My last film of the day was determined by one of the leads – Tilda Swinton. THE END, dir Joshua Oppenheimer (Denmark, Germany, Ireland, Italy, United Kingdom, Sweden) “Joshua Oppenheimer, known for his groundbreaking documentary The Act of Killing (TIFF ’12), makes his fiction debut with this sombre musical about a family in denial at the end of the world, starring Tilda Swinton, Michael Shannon, George MacKay, and Moses Ingram.” This ambitious movie has a lot to say about our ability to lie to ourselves.  And though I understand this is really just an allegory, I found myself questioning so many details about the film. Though there were many details I admired, I was ultimately not fond of this very long film.

Thanks for checking in again!
I’ve got three films set for tomorrow!

Jonathan

TIFF Day #3 – 2024

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Hello NEON Community!

Today was busier than I had initially planned.  When I wasn’t able to score a ticket to the new Mike Leigh film (HARD TRUTHS), I ended up booking tickets to two films that were a little further down on my list.  In addition, I ran into a colleague in distribution who invited me to a party – so That meant that I had four films and 2 parties instead of three films and 1 party…but things can change on a dime (I’m not complaining).

My first film of the day was one I had been waiting for – ANORA, dir Sean Baker (USA) “This Palme d’Or winner follows a turbulent relationship between a New York–based exotic dancer and the son of a Russian oligarch.”  We’ve played Baker’s work in the past at THE NEON – RED ROCKET and THE FLORIDA PROJECT…and this is certainly one to watch with a lot of early award season buzz. Despite the rambunctious and exuberant nature of the first hour, there’s always a feeling of sadness under the surface. Baker’s work is very sex positive and he doesn’t judge his protagonists, but you can feel that Anora really wants more than she’s got. VARIETY wrote that this film makes PRETTY WOMAN look like a Disney movie.”  (Quite interestingly…it was.  It was made by Touchstone Pictures – a subsidiary of Disney in the 1980’s.) This film has lots of laughs, lots of sex, and lots of heartache.  It’s rough and subversive – but you’ll fall for Anora. Mikey Madison in the lead role is quite a discovery.

Next up was something I hadn’t necessarily planned to see – SKETCH, dir Seth Worley (USA) “When a young girl’s peculiar drawings come to life, leaving a wake of chaos and crayon dust, a grieving family has to band together to fight them off in this feature debut.” (taken from TIFF catalog) The screenplay for this film is great right of the bat – it feels honest and genuine.  But I have to admit that I started to roll my eyes a bit when the monsters came to life…they just seemed a little too silly for the world that had been set up for us.  But I stuck with it…and I’m glad I did.  I had a true emotional response to this little gem, and the kids were fantastic.
The director introduced this film as “INSIDE OUT meets JURASSIC PARK,” and the curator from TIFF who introduced it said we haven’t seen a group of kids work together like this since THE GOONIES.  I agree with both sentiments.   (The Q&A had me in tears when one of the cast members was asked how he related to his character.). I’m not sure where this will land, but I can see audiences getting behind it.

My next film was a surprise ticket – K-POPS, dir Anderson .Paak (USA) “A father hopes to ride the coattails of his long-lost son’s rocketing stardom in this feature debut from eight-time Grammy winner Anderson .Paak.”  This polished film had a very invested audience…and many of the people on screen who elicited cheers and screams from the audience were actors/performers I don’t know (I knew folks like Earth, Wind & Fire, but I didn’t know the K-pop icons). Though the film is really about a father connecting with the son he never knew, the setting of a “reality” talent/gameshow couldn’t be further from a setting that interests me.  Though there was a lot of talent on display, I wasn’t fully invested in the story.  And though know there’s an audience for this film (I was surrounded by people who adored it), the movie (with moments of slapstick and some animation and montage scenes that seemed like fluff and filler instead of motivated plot devices) wasn’t really for me.

Before I went to my last film of the day, I stopped by Searchlight’s NIGHBITCH PARTY – a reception celebrating the premiere of the new Amy Adams’ film NIGHTBITCH (which I will hopefully see tomorrow).  I mingled with and met people who curate other cinemas and film festivals, and I chatted with one of the actors from the film.  Amy Adams, Scoot McNairy and others were at the party and posed for a few photos with the little boys who played her child in the film.  I only stayed for about an hour because I head to get to the film I’ve been most excited to see.

The last film of the day was my most anticipated – THE ROOM NEXT DOOR, dir Pedro Almodovar (Spain) “Tilda Swinton and Julianne Moore star in this visually exquisite and intimate adaptation of What Are You Going Through by Sigrid Nunez, Pedro Almodóvar’s first English-language feature.” I’m anxious to see this film again.  The story centers around two friends who are reunited after years apart…and how one of them asks the other to be “in the room next door” when she decides to take her own life instead of enduring another round of what seems like unhopeful Cancer treatment.  This film is full of references – to art, literature, film and event Almodovar’s own work (I found references to TALK TO HER, WOMEN ON THE VERGE, and PAIN AND GLORY – and I’m sure I’ll see more with another viewing). Sadly, Pedro was not in attendance…but he had good reason – only hours before, he won the Golden Lion from the Venice Film Festival…so he was in Italy accepting that award.  That said, Tilda, Julianne and John Turturro were there.  Their Q&A was pretty wonderful.  And even though a couple people asked seemingly inane questions, the ladies were able to steer their responses into philosophical and moving responses.
Almodovar films are known their production design, and Tilda said that most of the sets incorporate things from Pedro’s own apartment…the films really do seem like extensions  of his worldview and personal surroundings.
Tilda corrected one audience member when being asked about euthanasia.  She said, this film isn’t about euthanasia, it’s about someone taking their own life into their own hands and dying with dignity.  It was a powerful night.

I had one more party to stop at…but I just couldn’t bring myself to do it.  It’s already 1:00, and I knew I wanted to get this posted before too late.  I also just needed some quiet time after such a strong film.

Thanks for checking in!  Tomorrow is Cate Blanchett Day!!

Jonathan

TIFF Bound! Submerging In Cinema!

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Hello NEON Community,

Thanks so much for checking in.  I’m making a list and checking it twice…and three times…and four times…all in an effort to squeeze in as many films as possible from the 50+ films I’d like to see over the next several days at The Toronto International Film Fest.  In the end, I’ll only have room for 30-35 screenings, so some films will have to wait.

It’s early morning on Wednesday, Sept. 4, and I’m about to head to the airport.  When I get to Toronto, I’ll head right to the industry hub where I’ll get my credentials for the festival.  My pass will allow me to see a handful of public screenings (those are the ones with directors & stars in attendance with interesting Q&A’s) as well as numerous press and industry screenings (which are generally no-frills – but full of folks like me as well as some high profile journalists and studio execs…all kinds of people from the industry).

I’m staying in a condo just a couple blocks from the middle of everything,  and I’m very excited about several films…and it’s always fun to discover films I didn’t know I needed to see.

Here are couple titles I’m excited about:

THE ROOM NEXT DOOR – Pedro Almodovar’s English-language feature film debut – starring Tilda Swinton and Julianne Moore.  If you’ve read my blog and newsletters before, you might know that Almodovar is my favorite director of all time.  I can’t wait for this one.  It just received a 17-minute standing ovation at the Venice Film Festival earlier this week.

WE LIVE IN TIME – the new film from John Crowley (director of BROOKLYN) – starring Andrew Garfield and Florence Pugh.  I think this film looks lovely, and I’m a big fan of BROOKLYN.

MISÉRICORDE, the new film from Alain Guiraudie (director of STRANGER BY THE LAKE) is on my list as well.

In addition to movies, I’ll get to sit in on an interview with Cate Blanchett at an event called IN CONVERSATION: CATE BLANCHETT.  I’ve been a fan for years (and there was even that time when I was a co-worker of sorts)…so I’m anxious to see her in this scenario.

Every day, I’ll take notes when I’m seeing movies.  I’ll assemble those notes each night and publish my posts.  This serves as a way for me to get my thoughts down on a daily basis…and to take you along for the ride.

If you’re in Dayton, please stop in to keep my co-workers company at THE NEON.  Thanks for all of your support.

More soon,

Jonathan

TIFF 2019 – Day #1

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Hello Everyone.

Today was the first day!

Though screenings for the public didn’t start until this evening, there were several options for press and industry (aka P&I) starting at 9am.  I don’t review films that I don’t watch in their entirety, so I won’t write much about the first film I saw (a portion of) today.  I knew going in that I didn’t have 3 hours to spare, so I watched the first 2 hours.

Then I left that screening in order to attend my first full film – this year’s big winner at Cannes – PARASITE. “A family of cunning derelicts scheme to enter a wealthy household’s employ in this genre-bending, Palme d’Or–winning thriller of class struggle from South Korean master Bong Joon-ho.” (taken from TIFF catalog) Bong Joon-ho directed SNOWPIERCER, MOTHER, and THE HOST – which all played at THE NEON.  PARASITE is a terribly interesting film.  What first starts as almost a zany and fun “stick it to the rich” comedy, has a sudden tonal shift and becomes much more caustic. This film is a brilliant achievement with a lot to say about class, but I suspect the unsettling material in the third act might make it a hard sell to many of our regulars.

My next film of the day was PORTRAIT OF A LADY ON FIRE – “Hired to paint a portrait ahead of a prospective marriage, an artist in 18th-century Brittany finds herself falling for the reclusive would-be bride, in the Cannes Queer Palm–winning fourth feature from writer-director Céline Sciamma.” (taken from TIFF catalog)  Full of lovely photography and told at an elegant pace, this film is absolutely gorgeous.  There’s very little music in this film…in fact, there is no traditional score – just a couple moments of music used with great craft.  That said, the sound design is exquisite – crackling fire and creaking floorboards add their own rhythms.  And I’ve never watched brush strokes on canvas with such interest.  The script is marvelous (it won the screenplay award at Cannes – of which it clearly deserved), and I wrote down several lines I want to remember.  The chemistry between the two leads sets the screen ablaze, and the director makes so many compelling and wonderful choices.  A true gem.  There is no trailer yet for this film, just some clips.  Check this one out:

 

My last film of the evening was also my first public film of the day – THE PERSONAL HISTORY OF DAVID COPPERFIELD.  “Director Armando Iannucci (The Death of Stalin) brings his sardonic wit — and a stellar cast that includes Dev Patel, Tilda Swinton, Hugh Laurie, Gwendoline Christie, Peter Capaldi, and Ben Whishaw — to Charles Dickens’ classic autobiographical novel.” (taken from TIFF catalog).  Armando and Dev and several other cast members were part of a post-screening Q&A after this evening’s screening (but sadly no Tilda!), and their attendance certainly added to the glitz of opening night.  This re-telling of the beloved Dickens’ novel is told with a very contemporary visual style, and some bold choices are made – and many are well executed. There’s a lot of comedy in this adaptation (the screenplay is by VEEP’s Simon Blackwell), but I felt a certain mania in this version that led me to never really care about anyone.  I laughed numerous times and there are certainly some really terrific moments…but overall, it wasn’t as strong as I had hoped.  There is no trailer (and very few images yet) for this film.

Tomorrow has 2 of my highly anticipated films on the docket.  Can’t wait!

Thanks for reading,

Jonathan

ONLY LOVERS LEFT ALIVE and FOR NO GOOD REASON To Augment Successful BELLE and CHEF at THE NEON!

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Only-Lovers-Left-Alive-Australian-Poster-copyHello Everyone,

Even though we’re managing to hold BELLE and CHEF for another week, we’re adding 2 new films to the mix. The documentary about Ralph Steadman – FOR NO GOOD REASON – will have just three screenings over the weekend, and Jim Jarmusch’s new vampire film (with the always-thrilling Tilda Swinton) – ONLY LOVERS LEFT ALIVE – will start limited screenings on Friday.

Synopsis for ONLY LOVERS LEFT ALIVE: “Jim Jarmusch’s ONLY LOVERS LEFT ALIVE tells the tale of two fragile and sensitive vampires, Adam (Tom Hiddleston) and Eve (Tilda Swinton), who have been lovers for centuries. Both are cultured intellectuals with an all-embracing passion for music, literature and science, who have evolved to a level where they no longer kill for sustenance, but still retain their innate wildness. Adam, a reclusive underground musician hiding out in the ruins of contemporary Detroit, despairs about human civilization’s decline, and worries about future survival. Eve, who is perhaps 3000 years old to Adam’s 500, takes a longer view of history and is more optimistic. She leaves her home in the ancient city of Tangier to come to his side.” (taken from Sony Pictures Classics) Click this LINK to visit the film’s official site.

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Synopsis for FOR NO GOOD REASON: “Experience 15 years in the life of acclaimed illustrator Ralph Steadman, whose surreal, often confrontational artwork is frequently associated with Gonzo journalist Hunter S. Thompson thanks to such books as Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas and The Curse of Lono. A look back at Steadman’s remarkable career offers a glimpse into his vivid imagination as interviews with Johnny Depp, Terry Gilliam, Richard E. Grant, Tim Robbins and others offer insight into the man behind the legend. Meanwhile, Steadman watches as his drawings are brought to life through the magic of animation for the very first time.” (Jason Buchanan, Rovi) Click this LINK to visit the film’s official site.

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“Start Freedom Dayton, a film series started by Peace on Fifth to raise awareness about human trafficking, returns next Thursday, June 19th at 7:30 pm with the newest movie about human trafficking – TRICKED. The sex trafficking industry rakes in $3 billion dollars a year and with little awareness for the general population. TRICKED, released in December 2013, is set on the streets of the US as a clear witness to the domestic sex trafficking ‘game.’ This is a very powerful movie. Age appropriate for 12+, however children should have some level of awareness and emotional maturity. For more information call Peace on Fifth at 937.367.7215 or email startfreedom@peaceonfifth.com. To learn more about TRICKED and to see a trailer, visit the official site. All advanced tickets are available exclusively at Peace on Fifth (234 S Dutoit St., St. Anne’s Hill) for an $8 suggested donation.” (taken from Peace on Fifth press release)

The Montgomery County Food Policy Coalition is hosting a screening of FOOD PATRIOTS on Saturday, June 21 at 3:00. “Touched by their teenage son’s battle with a foodborne superbug, filmmakers Jeff & Jennifer Spitz document their family’s struggle to raise backyard chickens, grow food, and transform into Food Patriots. FOOD PATRIOTS features people from all walks of life who are trying to change the way Americans eat and buy food, and educate the next generation of consumers.” Admission is free and open to the public – to save a spot, please RSVP to Emily Bradford at (937)225-6470 or bradforde@mcohio.org

On Wednesday, June 25 at 7:30, THE NEON is happy to host a one-night screening of the new documentary TO BE TAKEI. This is part of Dayton PRIDE’s month-long LGBT Pride celebration. “Over seven decades, actor and activist George Takei boldly journeyed from a WWII internment camp, to the helm of the starship Enterprise, to the daily news feeds of five million Facebook fans. Join George and his husband Brad on this star’s playful and profound trek for life, liberty, and love. Best known for playing Sulu on the original Star Trek TV series and six movies that followed, George Takei is unlikely social media royalty. Unofficially dubbed the King of Facebook, he counts over 5 million fans in his online empire – including Trekkies, Howard Stern listeners, and the LGBTQ community – who devour his quirky mix of kitten jokes, Star Trek references, heartfelt messages, and sci-fi/fantasy memes…” (taken from press notes) Tickets, just $8 each, are now available at our box office.

On Thursday, June 26 at 7:30, we will host a preview screening of the new short film FOR FRANCIS. “When Matt Flynn (David Beck) discovers that his son Francis’s second grade teacher Ms. Walker (Kathy Patterson) gave his son a dress to wear, Matt becomes enraged and confronts the school. This very special preview screening on June 26th is in large part for donors in the Dayton area who contributed to the FOR FRANCIS fundraising campaign last fall. The film has already captured the attention of many prominent figures in the entertainment industry, including Emmy Award Winner Tim Gunn, who is one of the film’s Executive Producers. The character of ‘Ms. Walker’ in FOR FRANCIS is inspired by David Beck’s junior high English teacher, Denise Walker, of St. Charles School, in Kettering, Ohio. Although a work of fiction, the story of FOR FRANCIS is inspired by the real life Mrs. Walker’s positive influence on David’s life. Please RSVP to davidGbeck@gmail.com for free tickets. Donations are welcome, and walk-ins will be accepted for $7. The donations will be used to help cover the cost of theater rentals and festival submissions.” (taken from Press Notes)

A special, one-time screening of STAND CLEAR OF THE CLOSING DOORS has been requested for Sunday, June 29 at 5:15…but it will only move forward if at least 50 tickets are reserved by Friday, June 20. Click this official LINK to reserve your ticket. “STAND CLEAR OF THE CLOSING DOORS tells the story of Ricky, a 13-year old boy with Asperger’s Syndrome who gets lost one day in the New York City subway system. While his mother frantically searches for him above ground, the sensory-sensitive Ricky is exposed to the cacophony, eccentricity, and menace found in New York’s underground (including some scenes shot during Hurricane Sandy, which came to figure into the film’s story), resulting in a truly authentic view into both the wonders and the horrors of what lies below.”

Thanks for your continued interest and enthusiastic support.

We hope to see you soon!

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Friday, June 13 – Thursday, June 19:

BELLE (PG) 1 Hr Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:20, 2:40, 5:00, 7:20
Monday – Thursday: 3:00, 5:20

CHEF (R) 1 Hr Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 2:30, 5:00, 7:30, 9:50
Monday – Thursday: 2:45, 5:10, 7:40

ONLY LOVERS LEFT ALIVE (R) 2 Hrs 3 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 9:40
Monday – Wednesday: 7:45

FOR NO GOOD REASON (R) 1 Hr 29 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:30

TRICKED (NR) 1 Hr 15 Min + Discussion
Thursday: 7:30

COMING SOON:

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

June 20 – FED UP
June 20 – SUPERMENSCH: LEGEND OF SHEP GORDON
June 27 – OBVIOUS CHILD
June 27 – JODOROWSKY’S DUNE
July 4 – A HARD DAY’S NIGHT
July 25 – THIRD PERSON
Aug. 8 – BOYHOOD
Aug. 15 – MAGIC IN THE MOONLIGHT
Aug. 29 – LAND HO

GOD’S POCKET – One of Philip Seymour Hoffman’s Last Films – Opens Friday!

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10308361_455718141225273_1697678478318215769_nHello Everyone,

It’s now time to bid adieu to our 3rd highest grossing film ever – THE GRAND BUDAPEST HOTEL. Many thanks to all of you who helped make this film such a success. Thursday will be its last day at THE NEON. In addition, Thursday will be the last day for UNDER THE SKIN. Hurry down if you still need to see these films. (Showtimes for this week can still be found on our website at www.neonmovies.com )

Last weekend didn’t go as well as we had hoped for THE RAILWAY MAN. Though mediocre reviews may have kept some folks away, many of our regulars agreed that the film is actually quite powerful…and the performances from Colin Firth and Nicole Kidman are worth the price of admission. We will hold the film for another week. In addition, we will open the film GOD’S POCKET – one of Philip Seymour Hoffman’s final films.

Synopsis for GOD’S POCKET: Philip Seymour Hoffman, John Turturro, Christina Hendricks and Richard Jenkins star in the directorial debut from John Slattery (known for his work on MAD MEN). “In the gritty, blue-collar neighborhood of God’s Pocket, Mickey Scarpato’s crazy stepson, Leon, is killed in a construction ‘accident,’ and Mickey quickly tries to bury the bad news with the body. But when a local columnist comes sniffing around for the truth, things go from bad to worse. Mickey finds himself stuck in a life-and-death struggle compounded by a body he can’t bury, a wife he can’t please, and a debt he can’t pay. Acclaimed actor John Slattery makes an impressive jump behind the camera with an assured directorial debut that shows he has a razor-sharp eye for conveying the absurdity, cruelty, desperation, and tragic optimism of the people he portrays.” (taken from IFC Films)

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The 2014 Dayton Jewish Film Festival is already winding down. Only 2 films are left. Click this LINK to visit the festival’s official site…details for buying advanced tickets can be found there. Here is a list of remaining films that are screening at THE NEON:
Thursday, May 15 at 7:15 – WHITE PANTHER
Sunday, May 18 at 7:15 – THE THIRD HALF
Program guides are currently available in our lobby!

Don’t forget about tomorrow evening’s special presentation in celebration of National Architecture Week. The American Institute of Architects Dayton will present 2 special films on Wednesday, May 14 at 7:30. PEOPLE IN GLASS HOUSES (45 Minutes) celebrates the mid-century modern homes designed by Joseph Eichler in California between 1949 and 1974 and MONUMENT TO A DREAM (30 Minutes) traces the adventure of the St. Louis Arch’s evolution, from early concepts on the drawing boards to the fabrication of its stainless steel sections, and the triumphant placement, in a race against the sun, of its final section in the fall of 1965. Tickets, just $5 each, are now available at THE NEON’s box office.

“Stivers School for the Arts presents THE SHOWCASE 2014. This eclectic compilation of short films includes absurdly comedic work as well as hard hitting documentaries. Some of these films have already won national and regional awards. Following the show will be a Q & A with the student filmmakers. All proceeds go toward updating equipment in the Stivers video and animation studio. Tickets are $5.00 during the pre-sale and will be $7.00 the night of the screening. This presentation will screen on Tuesday, May 20 at 7:30. Tickets are available at THE NEON box office and Stivers School of the Arts.” (taken from press notes)

The Dayton Gay Men’s Chorus is celebrating the life and legacy of gay rights pioneer Harvey Milk with a 2 1/2 week celebration. Over that time, the chorus will screen THE TIMES OF HARVEY MILK at THE NEON as well as premiere a new work – I AM HARVEY MILK – at The Victoria Theatre. They will additionally host a brunch at Wheat Penny. More information on all these events (including ticketing details) can be found on the DGMC official site. If you’re only able to see the film (which includes the screening at THE NEON, a post-screening discussion with community leaders, and a reception at Serendipity Bistro), those tickets can be purchased at THE NEON’s box office for $15 each. This documentary from 1984 played a big part in the creation of the screenplay for the MILK biopic from 2008. It screens Thursday, May 22 at 7:15.

“On a fall afternoon in 1976, young Annie Parker (Samantha Morton) loses everything a person can lose, including her family. Through the years, Annie continues her fight, even after she is diagnosed with breast cancer herself. Meanwhile, far away, brilliant research scientist Mary-Claire King (Helen Hunt), contrary to the advice of her colleagues, is embarking on a journey that will touch millions of lives – one of the most important scientific discoveries of the twentieth century: the BRCA1 gene. This film premier of DECODING ANNIE PARKER, taking place Thursday June 12 at 7:30pm at THE NEON, is hosted by Cancer Support Community Western Ohio. Tickets cost $35 and include admission, concessions, a red carpet with photographers, complimentary wine and cheese, a Q&A with a panel of local experts, and a tax-deductible charitable donation to CSCWO. Tickets can be obtained by calling CSCWO at 937-223-4117 or visiting cancersupportwesternohio.org or visiting dineoutdayton.com.”

Many thanks for your continued interest in THE NEON.

We hope to see you soon!

All the best,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Friday, May 16 – Thursday, May 22:

GOD’S POCKET (R) 1 Hr 28 Min
Friday, Saturday: 1:00, 3:00, 5:10, 7:20, 9:30
Sunday: 1:00, 3:00, 5:10, 7:20
Monday – Thursday: 3:00, 5:10, 7:20

THE RAILWAY MAN (R) 1 Hr 56 Min
Friday, Saturday: 12:15, 2:40, 5:00, 7:30, 9:50
Sunday: 12:15, 2:40, 5:00
Monday: 2:40, 5:00, 7:30
Tuesday: 2:40, 5:00
Wednesday: 2:40, 5:00, 7:30
Thursday: 2:40, 5:00

DAYTON JEWISH FILM FESTIVAL
THE THIRD HALF (NR) 1 Hr 55 Min – Sunday at 7:15

STIVERS: THE SHOWCASE 2014 (NR)
Tuesday: 7:30

THE TIMES OF HARVEY MILK (NR) 1 Hr 28 Min
Thursday: 7:15

COMING SOON:
(All Dates Are Tentative. Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear.)
May 23 – BELLE
May 30 – ONLY LOVERS LEFT ALIVE
May 30 – JODOROWSKI’S DUNE
June 13 – FOR NO GOOD REASON
TBD – DOM HEMINGWAY

GRAND BUDAPEST HOTEL Opens Exclusively at THE NEON

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GrandBudapestHotel__140307021004-275x429Hello Everyone,

We’re very excited about this weekend. Wes Anderson’s new film has been breaking box office records across the country, and now THE NEON gets to have the local exclusive opening of THE GRAND BUDAPEST HOTEL. Many people in the Miami Valley have been eagerly anticipating this movie (including almost everyone at THE NEON), and we’re looking forward to our “Wes Anderson Fan Screening” on Thursday night at 8:00. (Regular ticket prices apply, and tickets are still available…with several fun prizes in store.) If you can’t make it Thursday, never fear…we’re dedicating both screens to this film for its first week.

If you still need to see any of our current attractions, you only have until Thursday for ELAINE STRITCH: SHOOT ME, THE GREAT BEAUTY and OMAR will all play for the last time on Thursday. For remaining showtimes for this week, please visit our official site – www.neonmovies.com

Synopsis for THE GRAND BUDAPEST HOTEL: “THE GRAND BUDAPEST HOTEL recounts the adventures of Gustave H, a legendary concierge at a famous European hotel between the wars, and Zero Moustafa, the lobby boy who becomes his most trusted friend. The story involves the theft and recovery of a priceless Renaissance painting and the battle for an enormous family fortune — all against the back-drop ofa suddenly and dramatically changing Continent.” The cast for this film is absolutely amazing. Visit the film’s official site by clicking this LINK.

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For even more flavor of the film, visit the site that is dedicated to its fictional world by clicking this LINK.

“Lion Apparel invites all area Firefighters & their friends to come to THE NEON to see the documentary BURN…’One year on the front lines of the battle to save Detroit.’ BURN is an award-winning, action-packed film that takes you closer than you’ve ever been, capturing a year in the lives of Detroit firefighters who are charged with the thankless task of saving a city that many have written off as dead. There will be 2 screenings – Tuesday April 1st and Wednesday April 2nd. Each screening starts at 7:30. Minimum $5 donation payable at the door. Money raised will go toward the Firefighter Cancer Support Network.” (taken from press notes)

The TAB Entertainment has rented one of our auditoriums on Sunday, April 13 for a special, one-time screening of MY DREAM BESIDE ME. “MY DREAM BESIDE ME is a romantic dramedy based on the true love story of Paul Rich and Mary Kay Slesinger Rich. At 84 years young Paul lost his wife of 66 years – Mary Kay was married for 34 years and she was left a widow when she was in her mid 60’s. After a few years Paul and Mary Kay met and fell in love. This union of marriage is a testimony that people can be strong, vital and full of life at any age.” (taken from press notes) Tickets for this screening are $9 each. Advanced tickets are only available on the film’s official website (Click HERE to visit the official site). Remaining tickets will be sold at THE NEON’s box office on the day of the screening.

Thanks for your continued support of THE NEON!
We hope to see you soon,

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Friday, March 21 – Thursday, March 27:

THE GRAND BUDAPEST HOTEL (R) 1 Hr 39 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday:
12:30, 1:30, 2:45, 4:30, 5:10, 7:15, 7:30, 9:40, 10:00
Monday – Thursday:
1:30, 2:45, 4:00, 5:10, 6:30, 7:30, 9:00

COMING SOON:
As always, all dates are tentative. Many of these dates will change.
In some rare cases, titles may disappear.
March 28 – TIM’S VERMEER
April 11 – THE RAID 2
April 18 – THE LUNCHBOX
April 25 – LE WEEK-END
May 5 – JODOROWSKI’S DUNE
May 16 – ONLY LOVERS LEFT ALIVE
May 16 – GOD’S POCKET
June 13 – FOR NO GOOD REASON
TBD – DOM HEMINGWAY
TBD – BELLE
TBD – UNDER THE SKIN

Toronto – Day #1 (5 Films)

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Hello!

Today was one of those packed days…and I’m thinking I might finish typing this while in line tomorrow morning (so I can get at least 5 hours of sleep).

I saw 5 films on Day #1.

First off was an Iranian film called CLOSED CURTAIN by Jafar Panahi & Kambuzia Partovi.  This is a film about a man who goes into hiding with his dog – residing in a “friend’s house” where he blacks out all the windows and fears any sounds of people outside.  A strange woman finds her way into the house, and tensions mount.  About half way into the film, the story reveals itself.  Not everything is as it seems…for this is a story being written/imagined by a director.  This is a film about inspiration and character development…and how one creates under certain constraits.  Not knowing Panahi’s story (of being under house arrest in Iran) could make this film a little more difficult to initially understand…though I eventually found the cinematic riddles/metaphors to be a little obtuse and tedious.  (There’s a side story about how dogs are not allowed to be seen in public…and the dog in this movie steals every scene.)

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lBLiT13SBl8′]

(CONTINUED at 7:00am Friday morning)

Francois Ozon’s latest film – YOUNG AND BEAUTIFUL – is a sexually charged film about a girl losing her virginity over the summer…and how she eventually is drawn into the power-play of sexuality.  At 17, while still in high school and living at home, she begins leading a double life of a prostitute.  She uses on-line pornography as tutorials, and she steals her mother’s clothes to look more sophisticated.  Told over the course of 4 seasons, this film has a couple clunky moments and on-the-nose song choices (and a little too overscored – though I do love the score).  It even visually references BELLE DE JOUR – which is clearly loved by Ozon.  Overall, I rather liked the sexual politics of the film…and I loved the ending.  (Last year, I saw Ozon’s last film  – IN THE HOUSE…it ended up being one of my favorites.)

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KMSiEhAw4PA’]

ABUSE OF WEAKNESS is Catherine Breillat’s latest film – based loosely on her personal story of dealing with the aftermath of a stroke and being swindled by a man who she came to admire (who was supposed to star in her next film).  This film stars Isabelle Huppert, and she is out of this world!  The control of her body and speech are unbelievable!  Though a bit too long and sometimes a bit frustrating (though I’m guessing that might be the point…as dealing with an illness and its physical challenges can be much the same).  The psychology of what makes people do things that seem out of character is a driving force of this film, and it’s worth seeing just for Huppert’s incredible performance.

abuseofweakness_01

KILL YOUR DARLINGS stars Daniel Radcliffe as Allen Ginsberg – which should seal the deal to mainstream America that Radcliffe can do a lot more than play a boy wizard (many already knew this given EQUUS and other examples).  Though produced by Killer Films (known for a variety of indie gems over the years – BOYS DON’T CRY, FAR FROM HEAVEN, and many many more), this film seemed more “Hollywood” than anything I saw on Day #1.  This is due mostly to its simplistic script.  The visual style is rather nice, and most of the performances are really quite good, but it seemed a little too easy and I found myself rolling my eyes a lot – especially in the first 20 minutes (and the use of some contemporary music killed a few moments instead of making them relatable).  Overall, I came away liking several things about the film – but it’s far from being a masterpiece.  (Part biopic, part thriller!…you didn’t see that coming, did you?  Without the opening scene set in prison, you wouldn’t really guess the film was heading that direction.)

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t6i4XR5Z4lU’]

ONLY LOVERS LEFT ALIVE was my final film of the day.  Jim Jarmusch’s vampire movie isn’t what many might suspect.  It’s not at all a horror film!  This is a love story about 2 sophisticated  people who have lived for hundreds of years.  Told in a bit of a hallucinogenic haze, this film is actually full of humorous moments and thoughtful insights to today’s world.  (Tom Hiddleston’s character – who plays opposite Tilda Swinton – is contemplating suicide…due mostly to being so disenchanted with the monstrous actions of today’s human beings – who he refers to as “zombies”).  Told in a languid, poetic fashion, this is a character driven film with lots of long, slowly moving scenes with beautiful music and photography.  Some might find the film boring (especially if they’re looking for a traditional genre film), but I thought it was rather lovely.  Tilda was NOT there!  Though disappointing, it was nice to see and hear Jarmusch and Hiddleston discuss the film (I didn’t previously know who Hiddleston was…but fans were shrieking with delight when he emerged from his car).  Mia Wasikowska was also in attendance.  She had little to say.

RZ6A7363.JPG

only-lovers-left-alive

3 Films today.  Maybe 4!

More later!  Thanks for reading!

Toronto International Film Fest – I Made It To Town!

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Hello Friends of THE NEON!

I made it to Toronto.  With very little sleep, I ran right to registration and picked up my pass and catalog…which I looked at very quickly and made my first picks.  The Toronto International Film Festival (which I’ll refer to now as TIFF) officially begins tomorrow night.  That said, industry screenings begin tomorrow morning.  Each day, my pass allows me to see 2 public screenings and numerous industry screenings.  (The public screenings are more fun…they’re filled with film lovers…and the filmmakers and stars often attend those screenings.)  Only a handful of tickets for those public screenings are put aside for people who have passes like mine…and we can only collect them 48 hours in advance.  This means that I’ll be up every morning at 6:00 so I can leave my apartment and get in line by 7:00.  At 8:00, I’ll hopefully be one of the first people in line so I can get the tickets I want….then I’m off to screenings for the rest of the day.

Each day, I’ll see 3, 4 or sometimes even 5 films (that’s a rarity, though…my eyes can only handle so much).

I just returned from grabbing a beer and plotting my next few days.  I picked up some local publications and started to assess the buzz about any films that I might need to see, and my initial plan of attack is in place.  With over 300 films to chose from, the scheduling can become madness…and I love it.

Thanks for checking in with my blog.  One film I’ll be seeing tomorrow (Thursday night) is Jim Jarmusch’s new vampire film (not a genre I really like…but my favorite actress is the star – TILDA SWINTON).  Tune in again (and each day thereafter) to read about each of the films I’m seeing (and each of the stars I see flitting around).

More soon,

Jonathan

Only-Lovers-Left-Alive-still

 

 

 

2 Great Films, Another Great Weekend at THE NEON!

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Hello Everyone,

This is a short & easy newsletter this week. We had another incredible weekend at THE NEON. People are really liking Woody Allen’s latest film – TO ROME WITH LOVE (some people have been quite vocal about their disgust for the review that appeared in Dayton Daily…and some have said they like the film as much as MIDNIGHT IN PARIS). In addition, MOONRISE KINGDOM continues to draw big crowds. Thank you so much for your support of these films. (You can visit either official site by clicking the titles above.)

Check out this fun “Behind the Scenes Clip.”

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5M_ySP5M1F0′]

We are holding steady this week! That said, we do have a special event on Saturday.

“Allow yourself to be immersed in a world where perception is redefined by a mysterious drug called I Razor. Dr. Gregory Fleer, a once brilliant scientist and the creator of I Razor, is transformed by his own experiment, along with a portion of the male population, into a band of telekinetic freaks who must negotiate their way through a world twisted beyond all recognition by their altered perceptions… Circus Devils (Robert Pollard of GUIDED BY VOICES and Todd Tobias) present: I RAZOR a New Film directed by Todd Tobias, starring Steve Five, Cory Race, and Brad Visker – with music by Circus Devils. Saturday July 14th at 12:30pm. Tickets are $5 each, and there are only a few left! Buying a ticket will enter you into a raffle to win cool I Razor/Circus Devils stuff (I Razor Movie T Shirts, posters) before the movie…” (taken from press release) Word has it that Guided By Voices will be in attendance.

In the coming weeks, I’ll have news about a special event surrounding the film THE INVISIBLE WAR (August 5) and news about a NEON Benefit (Save the date – October 14) to assist with our upcoming digital conversion.

And don’t forget that your movie ticket gets you 15% off your food order at Sa-Bai…located directly behind THE NEON.

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

SHOWTIMES for
Fri. July 13 – Thur. July 19:

TO ROME WITH LOVE (R) 1 Hr 42 Min
Friday: 12:20, 2:50, 5:10, 7:30, 9:45
Saturday: 3:00, 5:10, 7:30, 9:45
Sunday: 12:20, 2:50, 5:10, 7:30, 9:45
Monday – Thursday: 2:50, 5:10, 7:30, 9:45

MOONRISE KINGDOM (PG-13) 1 Hr 34 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:30, 2:45, 5:00, 7:20, 9:30
Monday – Thursday: 2:45, 5:00, 7:20, 9:30

I RAZOR (NR)
Saturday: 12:30

COMING SOON:
As always, all dates are tentative.
Many of these dates will change.
In some rare cases, titles may disappear.
July 20 YOUR SISTER’S SISTER
July 27 THE INTOUCHABLES
July 27 BEASTS OF THE SOUTHERN WILD
TBD WHERE DO WE GO NOW?
LOLA VERSUS

Magical MOONRISE KINGDOM Starts Friday at THE NEON!

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Hello Everyone,

Our plans have changed for this weekend. In an unusual turn of events, THE BEST EXOTIC MARIGOLD HOTEL experienced a major upswing in attendance this past weekend…so we’re going to hold it (along with one daily screening of HYSTERIA) for one more week. That said, on our other screen, we will still open my favorite film of the year – the charming, magical, and beautiful MOONRISE KINGDOM.
(Woody Allen’s latest – TO ROME WITH LOVE – is slated to open July 6.)

Synopsis for MOONRISE KINGDOM: “Set on an island off the coast of New England in the 1960s, the film follows a young boy and girl falling in love. When they are moved to run away together, various factions of the town mobilize to search for them and the town is turned upside down – which might not be such a bad thing.” (taken from Focus Features) This new film from Wes Anderson has an incredible cast including Bill Murray, Bruce Willis, Frances McDormand, Edward Norton, Tilda Swinton and more.  Visit the official site – it’s a really fun!

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_eOI3AamSm8′]

Don’t forget about our special screening of VITO on Thursday evening. The local press has been great, and the movie screens Thursday, June 28 at 7:30. Tickets are still available for $8 each. Professor Charles Derry will introduce VITO on Thursday evening. It was in his class at WSU where I was first introduced to Russo’s pinnacle book THE CELLULOID CLOSET. Don’t miss this chance to see a great film introduced by my favorite professor.

“Allow yourself to be immersed in a world where perception is redefined by a mysterious drug called I Razor. Dr. Gregory Fleer, a once brilliant scientist and the creator of I Razor, is transformed by his own experiment, along with a portion of the male population, into a band of telekinetic freaks who must negotiate their way through a world twisted beyond all recognition by their altered perceptions… Circus Devils (Robert Pollard of GUIDED BY VOICES and Todd Tobias) present: I RAZOR a New Film directed by Todd Tobias, starring Steve Five, Cory Race, and Brad Visker – with music by Circus Devils. Saturday July 14th at 12:30pm. Tickets are $5 each, and there aren’t many left! Buying a ticket will enter you into a raffle to win cool I Razor/Circus Devils stuff (I Razor Movie T Shirts, posters) before the movie…” (taken from press release)

And don’t forget that your movie ticket gets you 15% off your food order at Sa-Bai…located directly behind THE NEON.

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

SHOWTIMES for
Fri. June 29 – Thur. July 5:

HYSTERIA (R) 1 Hr 40 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 9:30
Monday – Thursday: 9:40

THE BEST EXOTIC MARIGOLD HOTEL (PG-13) 2 Hr 4 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 1:30, 4:15, 7:00
Monday – Thursday: 2:30, 4:50, 7:15

MOONRISE KINGDOM (PG-13) 1 Hr 34 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:30, 2:45, 5:00, 7:20, 9:30
Monday – Thursday: 2:45, 5:00, 7:20, 9:30

COMING SOON:
As always, all dates are tentative.
Many of these dates will change.
In some rare cases, titles may disappear.
July 6 TO ROME WITH LOVE
July ?? THE INTOUCHABLES
July 13 YOUR SISTER’S SISTER
July 27 BEASTS OF THE SOUTHERN WILD
TBD WHERE DO WE GO NOW?, LOLA VERSUS

This Norman Rockwell-like image from MOONRISE KINGDOM is brilliant!


JIRO DREAMS OF SUSHI Opens Friday at THE NEON

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Hello Everyone,

Audiences are certainly talking about KEVIN. After almost every screening of WE NEED TO TALK ABOUT KEVIN, members of the audience have stuck around to talk about the film. Though dark and unsettling, this smart and masterful film will stick with you…and discussing it makes the experience even stronger. We’re going to hold it, along with JEFF WHO LIVES AT HOME, for one more week. In addition, we will open a new documentary that has garnered quite a fan-base since it premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival last spring – JIRO DREAMS OF SUSHI. This is the first documentary of 2012 to gross over a million dollars. That’s a rarity for documentaries…and a sign that audiences are loving it!

Synopsis for JIRO DREAMS OF SUSHI: “Jiro Dreams of Sushi is the story of 85 year-old Jiro Ono, considered by many to be the world’s greatest sushi chef. He is the proprietor of Sukiyabashi Jiro, a 10-seat, sushi-only restaurant inauspiciously located in a Tokyo subway station. Despite its humble appearances, it is the first restaurant of its kind to be awarded a prestigious 3 star Michelin review, and sushi lovers from around the globe make repeated pilgrimage, calling months in advance and shelling out top dollar for a coveted seat at Jiro’s sushi bar. For most of his life, Jiro has been mastering the art of making sushi, but even at his age he sees himself still striving for perfection, working from sunrise to well beyond sunset to taste every piece of fish; meticulously train his employees; and carefully mold and finesse the impeccable presentation of each sushi creation. At the heart of this story is Jiro’s relationship with his eldest son Yoshikazu, the worthy heir to Jiro’s legacy, who is unable to live up to his full potential in his father’s shadow.” (taken from Magnolia Pictures) Click this LINK to be directed to the film’s official site.
If you’re in the mood for sushi after the screening, don’t forget that your ticket stub will get you 15% off your meal from SA BAI – our new neighbor.

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

The 12th Dayton Jewish International Film Festival is ready to kick off. This wonderful, international film festival has a focus on the lives and issues of Jewish people, but it’s open the community and essential viewing for those who love good cinema. The following is a list of films that will screen at THE NEON:
Sun, Apr 29 at 5:15 – EICHMANN’S END: LOVE, BETRAYAL, & DEATH
Tues, May 1 at 9:30am – DAVID
Thurs, May 3 at 7:10 – REUNITING THE RUBINS
Sun, May 6 at 2:50 – SHOLEM ALEICHEM: LAUGHING IN THE DARKNESS
Sun, May 6 at 7:10 – KADDISH FOR A FRIEND
Tue, May 8 at 7:10 – SALSA TEL AVIV
Thur, May 10 at 7:10 – BERLIN 36
For the complete line-up of films and ticket details, visit the official site.

For those of you who use Facebook, we finally have an actual page…not just a “group” page. We will soon be fazing out the old group, so please LIKE us by visiting our page – which now has a very easy address: www.facebook.com/neonmovies

For remaining showtimes for this week (you only have a couple days left to see THE RAID: REDEMPTION), visit our site.

We’ve added some great new titles. Check out our “Coming Soon” list below.

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

SHOWTIMES for
Fri. April 27 – Thur. May 3:

JEFF WHO LIVES AT HOME (R) 1 Hr 23 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 1:00, 3:00, 7:30
Monday – Wednesday: 3:00, 7:30
Thursday: 3:00

JIRO DREAMS OF SUSHI (PG) 1 Hr 21 Min
Friday, Saturday: 1:15, 3:15, 5:15, 7:30, 9:30
Sunday: 1:15, 3:15, 7:30, 9:30
Monday – Thursday: 3:15, 5:15, 7:30

WE NEED TO TALK ABOUT KEVIN (R) 1 Hr 51 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 5:10, 9:30
Monday – Thursday: 5:10

COMING SOON:
As always, all dates are tentative.
Many of these dates will change.
In some rare cases, titles may disappear.
May 4 DAMSELS IN DISTRESS
May 11 FOOTNOTE
May 25 DARLING COMPANION
May 25 THE BEST EXOTIC MARIGOLD HOTEL
June 1 SOUND OF MY VOICE
June 15 WHERE DO WE GO NOW?
June 29 MOONRISE KINGDOM
July ? BEASTS OF THE SOUTHERN WILD
July ? TO ROME WITH LOVE

“We Need To Talk About Kevin” Opens Friday at THE NEON!

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Hello Everyone,

Tilda Swinton was robbed!  One of the most disappointing omissions from this year’s Oscar nominations was Swinton’s performance in WE NEED TO TALK ABOUT KEVIN.
After several months of playing the trailer, a print is available and we’re finally able to open this chilling, masterfully crafted film.
In addition to opening KEVIN, we will hold JEFF WHO LIVES AT HOME (which had a fantastic weekend) and one screening per day of THE RAID: REDEMPTION.

Synopsis for WE NEED TO TALK ABOUT KEVIN: “We Need to Talk About Kevin explores the factious relationship between a mother and her evil son. Tilda Swinton plays the mother, Eva, as she contends for 15 years with the increasing malevolence of her first-born child, Kevin. Based on the best-selling novel of the same name, We Need to Talk About Kevin explores nature vs. nurture on a whole new level as Eva’s own culpability is measured against Kevin’s innate evilness.” (taken from Oscilloscope Laboratories) This film also stars John C. Reilly and Ezra Miller.
Click this LINK to visit the official site.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TGjjK5SMbJA’]

“In celebration of National Record Store Day, GHETTOBLASTER MAGAZINE will be hosting a special screening of EMPIRE RECORDS on Saturday, April 21 at 10:15pm. In addition to the movie we’ll be giving away two tickets for this year’s Nelsonville Music Festival and all proceeds will go toward 2012’s Dayton Music Fest. Dayton MostMetro.com is the media sponsor for Record Store Day and other events that day include music trivia at Blind Bob’s from 4-6pm, live music throughout the day at Omega Music, Record Gallery and Feathers in the Oregon District and Toxic Beauty in Yellow Springs (Omega and Toxic will also be selling special RSD releases) and many local businesses will be offering discounts with a shown receipt from one of our local record stores.” (taken from press notes) Tickets for this event will be just $6 each (and only $4 each if you have a receipt from one of the local, indie record stores). Tickets will only be available on the night of the screening.

The banner just went up in our lobby for the 12th Dayton Jewish International Film Festival. This wonderful, international film festival has a focus on the lives and issues of Jewish people, but it’s open the community and essential viewing for those who love good cinema. The following is a list of films that will screen at THE NEON:
Sun, Apr 29 at 5:15 – EICHMANN’S END: LOVE, BETRAYAL, & DEATH
Tues, May 1 at 9:30am – DAVID
Thurs, May 3 at 7:10 – REUNITING THE RUBINS
Sun, May 6 at 2:50 – SHOLEM ALEICHEM: LAUGHING IN THE DARKNESS
Sun, May 6 at 7:10 – KADDISH FOR A FRIEND
Tue, May 8 at 7:10 – SALSA TEL AVIV
Thur, May 10 at 7:10 – BERLIN 36
For the complete line-up of films and ticket details, check out our feature article here.

For those of you who use Facebook, we finally have an actual page…not just a “group” page. We will soon be fazing out the old group, so please LIKE us by visiting our page – which now has a very easy address: www.facebook.com/neonmovies

For remaining showtimes for this week – including details about tomorrow’s premiere (4/19) of OBSCURA – visit our site.

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

P.S.  Below is a picture I took at the 2011 Toronto International Film Festival.  In addition to a Q&A, I was able to attend a 90-minute conversation with Ms. Swinton.  It was divine!  (Pictured: director Lynne Ramsay, Tilda Swinton, Ezra Miller)

SHOWTIMES for Fri. April 20 – Thur. April 26:

JEFF WHO LIVES AT HOME (R) 1 Hr 23 Min
Friday: 1:00, 3:10, 7:20, 9:20
Saturday: 1:00, 3:10, 7:20
Sunday: 1:00, 3:10, 7:20, 9:20
Monday – Thursday: 3:10, 7:20

THE RAID: REDEMPTION (R) 1 Hr 41 Min
Friday – Thursday: 5:15

WE NEED TO TALK ABOUT KEVIN (R) 1 Hr 51 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:20, 2:40, 5:00, 7:30, 9:50
Monday – Thursday: 2:40, 5:00, 7:30

EMPIRE RECORDS (PG-13) 1 Hr 47 Min
Saturday: 10:15pm

COMING SOON:
As always, all dates are tentative.
Many of these dates will change.
In some rare cases, titles may disappear.
April 27 FOOTNOTE
May 4 JIRO DREAMS OF SUSHI
May 11 DAMSELS IN DISTRESS
May 25 DARLING COMPANION
May 25 THE BEST EXOTIC MARIGOLD HOTEL
June 1 SOUND OF MY VOICE
July ? BEASTS OF THE SOUTHERN WILD
July ? TO ROME WITH LOVE

SHAME “The Sex Addiction Film” Starts Friday at THE NEON!

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Hello Everyone,

A SEPARATION performed just well enough for it to stick around a second week.  If you haven’t seen this film yet, I hope you’ll hurry out to see it!   Across the boards, A SEPARATION was one of the very best reviewed films of last year (far better than any of the nominees for “Best Picture”).  Professor Charles Derry recently sent me a note regarding the film.  In it, he wrote, “I think the most perceptive way of looking at this film is by comparing it to some of the great films by Jean Renoir, who famously said, in a variety of different versions: ‘The real hell of life is that everyone has their reasons.’  And this film shows exactly that: everyone, in their own way, is right, and because of that, we empathize with everyone, and yet all that results is conflict and separation.”  Derry also mentioned that Woody Allen recently stated that he considered A SEPARATION to be the best film of the year.

If you still haven’t seen it (or need to see it again), THE ARTIST is on its way out.  Today (March 8) will be your last chance to catch it at THE NEON.  On Friday (March 9), we will begin a limited engagement of the new film starring Michael Fassbender – SHAME.

Synopsis for SHAME: “Brandon is a New Yorker who shuns intimacy with women but feeds his desires with a compulsive addiction to sex. When his wayward younger sister moves into his apartment stirring memories of their shared painful past, Brandon’s insular life spirals out of control.”  This film stars incredible performances by both Michael Fassbender and Carey Mulligan (Mulligan’s performance of “New York, New York” is one of the best vocal performances I’ve seen in a film for quite some time).  Click on this LINK to visit the official site.  (You might recall Fassbender from FISH TANK or the recent JANE EYRE…and Carey Mulligan from AN EDUCATION and NEVER LET ME GO.)  Note:  This film is rated NC-17 for explicit sexual content.  THE NEON will be carding anyone who appears to be under 18 for admission to this film.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Op9iQiB_ANI’]

Here’s a second trailer – different in tone – that features Mulligan’s performance.

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

On Thursday, March 22 at 7:30, Keener Farm has rented our space for a special screening of the acclaimed documentary AMERICAN MEAT.  “The film explains our current industrial meat system and shows the feedlots and confinement operations – not through hidden cameras but through the eyes of the farmers who live and work there. The film then shifts to the burgeoning sustainable, local-food movement made up of farmers, food advocates, chefs and everyday folks who could change everything about the way meat reaches the American table…Sustainable farming is expanding exponentially as Americans learn more about their food and how to connect with local farmers…”  (taken from press notes)  The screening will be preceded by a meet and greet with appetizers provided by Olive: An Urban Dive (beginning at 6:30), and a panel discussion with the filmmaker as well as local farmers & restaurateurs will follow the screening.  Admission is free (first come, first serve), but donations will gladly be accepted to help offset costs.

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

For this week’s remaining showtimes, please visit our official site.

Thanks for your continued support.

We hope to see you soon,

Jonathan

 

P.S.  We now have TWITTER.  If you use this application, we hope you’ll follow us – @neonmovies

SHOWTIMES for Fri. March 9 – Thur. March 15:

A SEPARATION (PG-13) 2 Hr 03 Min

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

Monday – Thursday:  2:40, 5:10, 8:00

 

SHAME (NC-17) 1 Hr 41 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:40, 2:50, 5:10, 7:30, 9:30

Monday – Thursday: 2:50, 5:10, 7:30

COMING SOON:

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

TBD   THE HEDGEHOG

TBD   PARIAH

TBD   BEING FLYNN 

March 23   IN DARKNESS

March ?   WE NEED TO TALK ABOUT KEVIN

April ?  FOOTNOTE

Spring   SALMON FISHING IN THE YEMEN

Spring  BEST EXOTIC MARIGOLD HOTEL

A DANGEROUS METHOD Opens Friday at THE NEON!

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Hello Everyone,

I had an absolutely wonderful time in Utah. The conference (The Art House Convergence) was full of great networking and lots of invaluable information. After the conference, I managed to see a handful of films at The Sundance Film Festival and a collection of shorts at The Slamdance Film Festival (which included a short film from one of our previous employees – Liz Cambron…congrats to Liz for a great, sold-out screening!!).

If you still need to see TINKER TAILOR SOLDIER SPY (nominated for 3 Oscars), you only have until Thursday to see it at THE NEON. We will certainly hold onto THE ARTIST – nominated for 10 Oscars (including “Best Picture”). Audiences are loving this film.

On Friday, we will open a film that has been requested by several of you (and snubbed by the Academy) – A DANGEROUS METHOD. Directed by David Cronenberg and starring Michael Fassbender (FISH TANK, JANE EYRE and upcoming SHAME), Viggo Mortensen (A HISTORY OF VIOLENCE, THE ROAD) and Keira Knightley (ATONEMENT, NEVER LET ME GO), this is the story of Jung and Freud and the woman who came between them.

Synopsis for A DANGEROUS METHOD: “On the eve of World War I, Zurich and Vienna are the setting for a dark tale of sexual and intellectual discovery. Drawn from true-life events, A Dangerous Method takes a glimpse into the turbulent relationships between fledgling psychiatrist Carl Jung, his mentor Sigmund Freud and Sabina Spielrein, the troubled but beautiful young woman who comes between them. Into the mix comes Otto Gross, a debauched patient who is determined to push the boundaries. In this exploration of sensuality, ambition and deceit set the scene for the pivotal moment when Jung, Freud and Sabina come together and split apart, forever changing the face of modern thought” (taken from Sony Classics)

Visit the official website by clicking this LINK.

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“The Miami Valley School, Dayton’s only independent, college-preparatory school is proud to present a special one-time only screening of RACE TO NOWHERE on Thursday, Feb. 9, 2012. Considered to be the counter film to Waiting for Superman, RACE TO NOWHERE addresses the academic pressures facing students today and what we can do about it. Featuring heartbreaking stories of young people who have been pushed to the brink, educators who are burned out and worried that students are not developing the skills they need, and parents who are trying to do what’s best for their kids, RACE TO NOWHERE points to the silent epidemic in our school: Students are pressured to perform and not necessarily to learn critical thinking skills…To see the trailer, please go to www.racetonowhere.com.  This is a free event and all are welcome!  Thursday, February 9, 2012 – Reception at 6:30 pm and screening begins at 7:30 pm, followed with Q & A session.” (taken from Miami Valley School press release)

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On Saturday, February 25 at noon, The Junior Leaguers Club, Inc. will host a benefit screening of THUNDER SOUL. “THUNDER SOUL follows the extraordinary alumni from Houston’s storied Kashmere High School Stage Band, who return home after 35 years to play a tribute concert for the 92-year-old “Prof,” their beloved band leader who broke the color barrier and transformed the school’s struggling jazz band into a world-class funk powerhouse in the early 1970s.” (taken from press notes) Adult tickets (which include a glass of wine as well as soda & popcorn) are $30 each. Student tickets (which include soda and popcorn) are $15 each. For more information, please call (937)219-7501. Proceeds from this event will go to The Junior Leaguers Scholarship Fund. To check out more about THUNDER SOUL, visit the official site.

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See you soon,

Jonathan

 

SHOWTIMES for Fri. January 27 – Thur. February 2:

A DANGEROUS METHOD (R) 1 Hrs 39 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:50, 3:00, 5:15, 7:30, 9:40

Monday – Thursday: 3:00, 5:15, 7:30

THE ARTIST (PG-13) 1 Hr 40 Min

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

Saturday: 12:30, 5:20, 7:20, 9:30

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

Monday – Thursday: 2:45, 5:00, 7:20

CALL OF THE SCENIC RIVER: AN OHIO JOURNEY

Saturday: 3:00 – This Screening Has SOLD OUT!

COMING SOON:

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

In some cases, titles may disappear.

Feb. ? ALBERT NOBBS

TBD THE HEDGEHOG

TBD SHAME

TBD A SEPARATION

March 16 WE NEED TO TALK ABOUT KEVIN

Toronto – THE FILMS – Day #2

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Hello Again,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Off to bed.

Until tomorrow,

Jonathan