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On Screen Dayton

WSU Motion Picture Junior’s Present annual DOC NIGHT

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Juniors in Wright State University’s acclaimed Motion Pictures program will premiere short documentary films during the annual DOC NIGHT.  This year DOC NIGHT will feature 17 short documentary films screened over two hours with an intermission.

A questions-and-answer session with the students will be held after the screening. Many documentaries screened at past DOC NIGHTs have gone onto play at film festivals around the country.

“Motion Pictures juniors in the Theatre, Dance and Motion Pictures Department have spent the past semester creating a collection of short documentary films exploring stories that make an impact in our community and beyond”; said Kyle Wilkinson, Visiting Assistant Professor in the Tom Hanks Center for Motion Pictures. Wilkinson is the lead advisor and instructor for these projects and is himself a graduate of Wright State’s Motion Pictures program.

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Department Chair, Joe Deer, said “These short films often tell deeply human stories about people in our community that many of us may have encountered, or whose amazing stories come as a complete surprise. The evening offers a wide range of voices – from deeply personal and thought provoking to humorous and quirky, and they’re always very well-crafted. DOC NIGHT is one of the two annual events that give Dayton audiences a chance to celebrate the work of these emerging filmmakers. This year, it’ll be online and available to everyone at home.” Past DOC NIGHT filmmakers have gone on to win Emmy and Academy Awards. So, this may be your chance to see future award winners. 

This is a free screening and takes place on Friday, Dec. 4, 6:30-9:00 pm with an encore showing on Thursday Dec. 10th from 6:30-9:00pm.  The films will stream live on Twitch at https://www.twitch.tv/wsudocnight2020 . Simply click on the link and you will be directed to the screening. No signing-up required.

THE CLIMB & More NEON News!

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Audiences have been loving HILLBILLY ELEGY, and it will stick around for another week. We’ve heard numerous rave reviews from audiences exiting the cinema as well as via social media…and we’re glad that people are connecting to it. AMMONITE, a gorgeous film that would normally be a big hit, didn’t perform so well…but we’re going to keep it for one show a day over the weekend – so you’ll still have a few chances to see it. Tomorrow, we will open a critically-acclaimed comedy about a toxic male friendship – THE CLIMB.

In our Virtual Cinema, we have 2 new offerings this week. The beautiful film MONSOON just opened yesterday, and the contemporary Jane Austen romantic comedy MODERN PERSUASION (co-directed by one of our previous festival guests Jonathan Lisecki) opens tomorrow.

NEW FILM FOR IN-PERSON SCREENINGS

Synopsis for THE CLIMB: “Kyle and Mike are best friends who share a close bond — until Mike sleeps with Kyle’s fiancée. THE CLIMB is about a tumultuous but enduring relationship between two men across many years of laughter, heartbreak and rage. It is also the story of real-life best friends who turn their profound connection into a rich, humane and frequently uproarious film about the boundaries (or lack thereof) in all close friendships.” (Sony Classics) Click the image below to visit the film’s site and watch the trailer.

NEW FILMS IN OUR VIRTUAL CINEMA

Synopsis for MONSOON: Available Now! “Kit (Henry Golding from CRAZY RICH ASIANS) returns to Ho Chi Minh City for the first time since he was six years old when his family fled the country in the aftermath of the Vietnam-American war. There he meets Lee, his estranged second cousin, Linh, a young Vietnamese student, and arranges an online date that turns into something more with Lewis (Parker Sawyers from SOUTHSIDE WITH YOU), an American clothing designer. Struggling to make sense of himself in a city he’s no longer familiar with, he embarks on a personal journey across the country that opens up the possibility for friendship, love and happiness.” This film can be watched on your computer or mobile device or via your Roku or AppleTV. For additional information regarding accessibility of the film, please visit this Eventive HELP page. Click the image below to watch the trailer and purchase 72 hour access to this film for $12.
Synopsis for MODERN PERSUASION: Available starting Nov. 20! We’re delighted to bring this romantic comedy with a stellar cast (they had us at Bebe Neuwirth and Jenn Harris) and directed by Jonathan Lisecki and Alex Appel to our Virtual Cinema. Jonathan Lisecki was a special guest several years ago at The Dayton LGBT Film Festival with his hit comedy GAYBY. “A modern telling of Jane Austen’s PERSUASION. Wren Cosgrove is a happy, single, and self-confessed workaholic who, after rising to the top of the corporate ladder, finds herself coming home every night to her cat. When her firm is hired by Owen Jasper, “the man who got away,” long-lost feelings are stirred, giving Wren a second chance at true love.” This film can be watched on your computer or mobile device as well as via Chromecast or via an HDMI cable attached to your television. For additional notes regarding connectivity, you can visit Samuel Goldwyn’s Help page HERE. Click the image below to watch the trailer and purchase 72 hour access to this film for $12.

Synopsis for RECON: Based on the novel PEACE by Richard Bausch. “RECON tells the story of four American soldiers in WW2, who after they witness a vicious murder of an innocent civilian at the hands of their platoon Sergeant, are sent on a reconnaissance/suicide mission lead by a local partisan, an elderly man whose indeterminate loyalties add to the terror and confusion that engulfs the Americans as they are hunted by an unseen enemy. As they struggle to make it off the mountain alive, these American soldiers face the worst that war can offer men…. and through this each finds their own peace.” (Brainstorm Media) This film can be watched on your computer or mobile device or via your Roku or AppleTV.
For additional information regarding accessibility of the film, please visit this Eventive HELP page. Click the image below to watch the trailer and purchase 72 hour access to this film for $12. Many thanks to our friends at The Dayton Literary Peace Prize for working with us to bring this film to you.
Synopsis for CHUCK LEAVELL: THE TREE MAN: Directed by Daytonian Allen Farst. “Filmed in four countries with more than 80 interviews from artists with a combined 58 Grammy Awards by the artist included, CHUCK LEAVELL: THE TREE MAN is the cinematic documentary that shines a light on one of the greatest rock’n roll pianists and keyboardists over the last 40 years. Not just known for his musical influence, Leavell is also one of the biggest names in environmental forestry and was selected the National Tree Farmer of the Year in the United States.” (Niche Productions) This film can be watched on your computer or mobile device or via your Roku or AppleTV. For additional information regarding accessibility of the film, please visit this Eventive HELP page. Click the image below to watch the trailer and purchase 72 hour access to this film for $12.
To read more about all the films that are still available in our Virtual Cinema, please visit our WEBSITE. We’ll continue to offer crowd-pleasing films like RADIUM GIRLS and THE DONUT KING through Thanksgiving. Here’s a LINK with a video I made about how Virtual Cinema works.
Wanna know what titles we’re planning in our virtual cinema? (Click any title to watch that film’s trailer.) On Nov. 25, we’ll open WBCN AND THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION – a film about a radical underground radio station set against the social, political and cultural changes during the late 60’s and early 70’s. On Dec. 4, we’ll open two new films – the first is ENDING DISEASE – a documentary that looks at advancements in stem cell therapies and curing the incurable. One subject of the film is Ryan Custer, a former Wright State basketball player who suffered a neck injury; the second is ANOTHER ROUND – Denmark’s highest grossing film in several years starring Mads Mikkelsen. On Dec. 9, we’ll open a documentary about the very first days of the COVID outbreak – 76 DAYS (there’s no trailer yet for 76 DAYS, but here’s a CLIP). More titles are on the way…stay tuned!
In the coming weeks, we will have a nice mix of stunning Oscar contenders and fun, escapist fare. We’re planning to open MANK next Wednesday – it’s David Fincher’s new film about Mankiewicz rushing to finish the screenplay for CITIZEN KANE…but we need to wait a few more days before we put tickets on sale. In the last 24 hours, we just added THE PROM. Based on the beloved Broadway musical, THE PROM opens Dec. 4 for one week…and the cast is stellar – Nicole Kidman, Meryl Streep, Keegan-Michael Key, Kerry Washington, James Cordon and more! In addition to all that, dates keep changing…MA RAINEY’S BLACK BOTTOM is now set for Dec. 11.
We hope to see you soon!
Be safe & well.
My best,
Jonathan

HILLBILLY ELEGY and AMMONITE News From The Neon

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Hello NEON Fans.
We’ve got two, star-studded films opening at THE NEON this week. HILLBILLY ELEGY, directed by Ron Howard and starring Amy Adams and Glenn Close, just opened today (though usually associated with big Hollywood fare, Howard is no stranger to THE NEON…he directed the NEON hit documentary PAVAROTTI last year). On Friday, we will open the gorgeous period film AMMONITE – starring Kate Winslet and Saoirse Ronan. (Director Francis Lee is also no stranger – his critically acclaimed film GOD’S OWN COUNTRY played at The Dayton LGBT Film Festival in 2017.).
Today marks the start of RECON in our Virtual Cinema. This is the film that we’ve partnered with The Dayton Literary Peace Prize in order to bring to you. And after its successful in-person screenings at THE NEON, we will bring CHUCK LEAVELL: THE TREE MAN to our Virtual Cinema starting this Friday.
NEW FILMS FOR IN-PERSON SCREENINGS
Synopsis for HILLBILLY ELEGY: “J.D. Vance (Gabriel Basso), a former Marine from Middletown, Ohio and current Yale Law student, is on the verge of landing his dream job when a family crisis forces him to return to the home he’s tried to forget. J.D. must navigate the complex dynamics of his Appalachian family, including his volatile relationship with his mother Bev (Amy Adams), who’s struggling with addiction. Fueled by memories of his grandmother Mamaw (Glenn Close), the resilient and whip-smart woman who raised him, J.D. comes to embrace his family’s indelible imprint on his own personal journey. Based on J.D. Vance’s #1 New York Times Bestseller and directed by Academy Award winner Ron Howard, HILLBILLY ELEGY is a powerful personal memoir that offers a window into one family’s personal journey of survival and triumph. By following three colorful generations through their unique struggles, J.D.’s family story explores the highs and lows that define his family’s experience.” (taken from Netflix) Click the image below to watch the film’s trailer.
Synopsis for AMMONITE: “In 1800s England, acclaimed but unrecognized fossil hunter Mary Anning (Kate Winslet) works alone on the rugged Southern coastline. With the days of her famed discoveries behind her, she now searches for common fossils to sell to tourists to support herself and her ailing mother. When a wealthy visitor entrusts Mary with the care of his wife Charlotte Murchison (Saoirse Ronan), she cannot afford to turn his offer down. Proud and relentlessly passionate about her work, Mary initially clashes with her unwelcome guest, but despite the distance between their social class and personalities, an intense bond begins to develop, compelling the two women to determine the true nature of their relationship.” (Neon Rated) Click the image below to watch the trailer.
NEW IN OUR VIRTUAL CINEMA
Synopsis for RECON: We’re partnering with The Dayton Literary Peace Prize to bring a film that compliments one of their upcoming events. RECON (based on the novel PEACE by Richard Bausch) is now available for you to watch in our Virtual Cinema…then on November 16, you can join this wonderful organization’s discussion “Turn the Page: The Legacy of War” – a discussion between Richard Bausch and Andrew Krivak – both prize recipients from The Dayton Literary Peace Prize. For details about the special event with DLPP, visit this LINK. “Adapted from the critically acclaimed New York Times best seller PEACE by famed author Richard Bausch, and based on a true event – RECON tells the story of four American soldiers in WW2, who after they witness a vicious murder of an innocent civilian at the hands of their platoon Sergeant, are sent on a reconnaissance/suicide mission lead by a local partisan, an elderly man whose indeterminate loyalties add to the terror and confusion that engulfs the Americans as they are hunted by an unseen enemy. RECON centers around young men in the midst of war. The action occurs over the course of one long day between four soldiers placed in a crucible, as they debate both their fates and that of life itself. Each has a different perspective, liberal, racist, uncertain – a metaphor for the America both of 1945 and 2018. As the soldiers fight amongst themselves they realize they are being both hunted and haunted by a mysterious sniper and the specter of a burning question – is their Italian guide, this old man from the village, a fascist sympathizer who wishes to lead them to their death? As they struggle to make it off the mountain alive, these American soldiers face the worst that war can offer men…. and through this each finds their own peace.” (Brainstorm Media) This film can be watched on your computer or mobile device or via your Roku or AppleTV. For additional information regarding accessibility of the film, please visit this Eventive HELP page. Click the image below to watch the trailer and purchase 72 hour access to this film for $12.
Synopsis for CHUCK LEAVELL: THE TREE MAN: Daytonian Allen Farst has a new documentary about a rock’n’roll legend that is filled with big stars. After its successful in-person run, we are happy that we can now offer the film virtually. “Filmed in four countries with more than 80 interviews from artists with a combined 58 Grammy Awards by the artist included, CHUCK LEAVELL: THE TREE MAN is the cinematic documentary that shines a light on one of the greatest rock’n roll pianists and keyboardists over the last 40 years. Not just known for his musical influence, Leavell is also one of the biggest names in environmental forestry and was selected the National Tree Farmer of the Year in the United States. His commitment to the planet and his strong family ties are refreshing reminders to be kind and treat your neighbor with respect. As Leavell puts it, ‘if you cut a tree down, plant two for the next guy.’Featuring: Allman Brothers Dickey Betts and; Warren Haynes; Rolling Stones Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Charlie Watts and Ronnie Woods; President Jimmy Carter; Eric Clapton; Chris Robinson; Mike Mills; Pat Monahan; John Bell; Lee Ann Womack; Bruce Hornsby; John Popper; Bonnie Raitt; Julian Lennon; Charlie Daniels; Miranda Lambert; John Mayer; and David Gilmore, among others” (Niche Productions) This film can be watched on your computer or mobile device or via your Roku or AppleTV. For additional information regarding accessibility of the film, please visit this Eventive HELP page. Click the image below to watch the trailer and purchase 72 hour access to this film for $12.
CONTINUING IN OUR VIRTUAL CINEMA
Synopsis for CITY HALL: “Fresh off its high profile screenings at the Venice, Toronto and New York Film Festivals – and featuring a 100% Rotten Tomatoes rating – Frederick Wiseman’s latest film arrives at the crux of a major crossroads for our nation. City government touches almost every aspect of our lives. Most of us are unaware of or take for granted these necessary services such as police, fire, sanitation, veterans affairs, elder support, parks, licensing of various professional activities, recordkeeping of birth, marriage and death as well as hundreds of other activities that support Boston residents and visitors. CITY HALL, by Frederick Wiseman, shows the efforts by Boston city government to provide these services. The film also illustrates the variety of ways the city administration enters into civil discourse with the citizens of Boston.” (Zipporah Films) This film can be watched on your computer or mobile device or via your Roku or AppleTV. For additional information regarding accessibility of the film, please visit this Eventive HELP page. Click the image below to watch the trailer and purchase 72 hour access to this film for $12 (as an FYI – this film is 4.5 hours, and many critics have said they could have kept going).
Synopsis for RADIUM GIRLS: “Teenage sisters, Bessie and Jo, dream of faraway places as they paint glow-in-the-dark watch dials at the American Radium Factory. When Jo loses a tooth, Bessie’s world turns upside down as the mystery of Jo’s disease slowly unravels. Bessie befriends two young activists and in a radical coming of age, she investigates a corporate scandal. Bessie and the ‘Radium Girls’ file a lawsuit against American Radium. The notorious case ultimately led to a lasting impact in the area of workplace health and safety as well as the study of radioactivity.” (Juno Films) This film can be watched on your computer or mobile device or via your Roku or AppleTV. For additional information regarding accessibility of the film, please visit this Eventive HELP page. Click the image below to watch the trailer and purchase 72 hour access to this film for $12.
Synopsis for THE DONUT KING: We offered this film in person, and audiences absolutely loved it! Rated “100% Fresh” on rottentomatoes! “Ted’s story is one of fate, love, survival, hard knocks, and redemption. It’s the rags to riches story of a refugee escaping Cambodia, arriving in America in 1975 and building an unlikely multi-million-dollar empire baking America’s favorite pastry, the donut. Ted sponsored hundreds of visas for incoming refugees and helped them get on their feet teaching them the ways of the donut business. By 1979 he was living the American Dream. But, in life, great rise can come with great falls.” (Greenwich Entertainment) Click the image below to watch the trailer and gain 72 hour access for $12.
Here’s a LINK with a video I made about how Virtual Cinema works. Click HERE to see all the films that are still available in our Virtual Cinema.
Wanna know what titles we’re planning in our virtual cinema? (Click any title to watch that film’s trailer.) On November 18, we’ll open MONSOON – a gorgeous film about a man’s personal journey as he returns to his birthplace and struggles to recognize himself in this unfamiliar land. On Nov. 20, we’ll open MODERN PERSUASION (trailer now yet available) – a modern day take on the classic Jane Austen novel directed by Jonathan Lisecki & Alex Appel (Lisecki was a guest at the Dayton LGBT Film Festival several years ago with his hit film GAYBY). On Nov. 25, we’ll open WBCN AND THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION – a film about a radical underground radio station set against the social, political and cultural changes during the late 60’s and early 70’s. On Dec. 4, we’ll open two new films – the first is ENDING DISEASE – a documentary that looks at advancements in stem cell therapies and curing the incurable. One subject of the film is Ryan Custer, a former Wright State basketball player who suffered a neck injury; the second is ANOTHER ROUND – Denmark’s highest grossing film in several years starring Mads Mikkelsen. More titles are on the way…stay tuned!
We hope to see you soon!
Be safe & well.
My best,
Jonathan

Chuck Leavell, A Call to Spy & Hillbilly Elegy News From The Neon

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Audiences absolutely adored THE DONUT KING…and though we’re unable to keep it a second week for in-person screenings, the distributor is allowing us to present it in our Virtual Cinema. It will be available there starting Friday. If you still need to see STEVIE NICKS 24 KARAT GOLD, THE EXORCIST or A NIGHTMARE ON ELM STREET, you’ll need to hurry – tomorrow (Thursday) will be your last chance for these films on the big screen.
On Friday, we will open 2 new films. The star-studded documentary CHUCK LEAVELL: THE TREE KING was made by local director Allen Farst, and the period drama A CALL TO SPY (which will only play for 5 days) is a tribute to some of the women who helped turn the tide of World War II. Next Wednesday, Nov. 11, we will open the highly anticipated Ron Howard film HILLBILLY ELEGY.
In addition to THE DONUT KING, we will off 2 new film in our Virtual Cinema. CITY HALL, rated “100% Fresh,” is being heralded as Frederick Wiseman’s latest masterpiece. RADIUM GIRLS is a fascinating story about an important time in the labor movement. These films will all be available starting Friday.
New Booking for In-Person Screenings
Synopsis for CHUCK LEAVELL: THE TREE KING: Daytonian Allen Farst has a new documentary about a rock’n’roll legend that is filled with big stars…and it opens for one week only at THE NEON this Friday. “Filmed in four countries with more than 80 interviews from artists, CHUCK LEAVELL: THE TREE MAN is the cinematic documentary that shines a light on one of the greatest rock’n roll pianists and keyboardists over the last 40 years. Not just known for his musical influence, Leavell is also one of the biggest names in environmental forestry and was selected the National Tree Farmer of the Year in the United States. His commitment to the planet and his strong family ties are refreshing reminders to be kind and treat your neighbor with respect. As Leavell puts it, ‘if you cut a tree down, plant two for the next guy.’ Featuring: Allman Brothers Dickey Betts and Warren Haynes; Rolling Stones Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Charlie Watts and Ronnie Woods; President Jimmy Carter; Eric Clapton; Chris Robinson; Mike Mills; Pat Monahan; John Bell; Lee Ann Womack; Bruce Hornsby; John Popper; Bonnie Raitt; Julian Lennon; Charlie Daniels; Miranda Lambert; John Mayer; and David Gilmore, among others”(press notes) Click the image below to visit the film’s official site.
Synopsis for A CALL TO SPY: (IFC Films). 5 DAYS ONLY! “As Great Britain’s forces were stretched thin during World War II, Winston Churchill’s Special Operations Executive (SOE) began to enlist women as spies. Their daunting mission: conduct sabotage and build a resistance. Spymistress Vera Atkins, later the inspiration for Ian Fleming’s Miss Moneypenny in the James Bond franchise, was the chief recruiter for this secret army. Atkins selected two unusual candidates: Virginia Hall, an American journalist from Baltimore hampered by a wooden leg, and Noor Inayat Khan, a wireless officer of Indian descent and an avowed pacifist. Together, they worked to undermine the Nazi regime in France. The courage, sacrifices and grit of these three women helped quell the Nazi occupation.” (IFC Films) Click on the image below to watch the film’s trailer.
Synopsis for HILLBILLY ELEGY: “J.D. Vance (Gabriel Basso), a former Marine from Middletown, Ohio and current Yale Law student, is on the verge of landing his dream job when a family crisis forces him to return to the home he’s tried to forget. J.D. must navigate the complex dynamics of his Appalachian family, including his volatile relationship with his mother Bev (Amy Adams), who’s struggling with addiction. Fueled by memories of his grandmother Mamaw (Glenn Close), the resilient and whip-smart woman who raised him, J.D. comes to embrace his family’s indelible imprint on his own personal journey. Based on J.D. Vance’s #1 New York Times Bestseller and directed by Academy Award winner Ron Howard, HILLBILLY ELEGY is a powerful personal memoir that offers a window into one family’s personal journey of survival and triumph. By following three colorful generations through their unique struggles, J.D.’s family story explores the highs and lows that define his family’s experience.” (taken from Netflix) Click the image below to watch the film’s trailer. Tickets for Nov. 11 & 12 are on sale now. Additional dates and tickets will be available by early next week!
NEW FILM IN OUR VIRTUAL CINEMA
Synopsis for CITY HALL: Available starting Nov. 6! “Fresh off its high profile screenings at the Venice, Toronto and New York Film Festivals – and featuring a 100% Rotten Tomatoes rating – Frederick Wiseman’s latest film arrives at the crux of a major crossroads for our nation. City government touches almost every aspect of our lives. Most of us are unaware of or take for granted these necessary services such as police, fire, sanitation, veterans affairs, elder support, parks, licensing of various professional activities, recordkeeping of birth, marriage and death as well as hundreds of other activities that support Boston residents and visitors. CITY HALL, by Frederick Wiseman, shows the efforts by Boston city government to provide these services. The film also illustrates the variety of ways the city administration enters into civil discourse with the citizens of Boston. Mayor Walsh and his administration are presented addressing a number of their policy priorities which include racial justice, affordable housing, climate action, and homelessness. CITY HALL shows a city government successfully offering a wide variety of services to a diverse population.” (Zipporah Films) This film can be watched on your computer or mobile device or via your Roku or AppleTV. For additional information regarding accessibility of the film, please visit this Eventive HELP page. Click the image below to watch the trailer and purchase 72 hour access to this film for $12 (as an FYI – this film is 4.5 hours, and many critics have said they could have kept going).
Synopsis for RADIUM GIRLS: Available starting Nov. 6! “Teenage sisters, Bessie and Jo, dream of faraway places as they paint glow-in-the-dark watch dials at the American Radium Factory. When Jo loses a tooth, Bessie’s world turns upside down as the mystery of Jo’s disease slowly unravels. Bessie befriends two young activists and in a radical coming of age, she investigates a corporate scandal. Bessie and the ‘Radium Girls’ file a lawsuit against American Radium. The notorious case ultimately led to a lasting impact in the area of workplace health and safety as well as the study of radioactivity.” (Juno Films) This film can be watched on your computer or mobile device or via your Roku or AppleTV. For additional information regarding accessibility of the film, please visit this Eventive HELP page. Click the image below to watch the trailer and purchase 72 hour access to this film for $12.
Synopsis for THE DONUT KING: We offered this film in person, and audiences absolutely loved it! And because we’re not able to hold it over and because it’s available to us in a virtual format, we’ll start offering this terrific film in our Virtual Cinema on Friday, Nov. 6. Rated “100% Fresh” on rottentomatoes! “Ted’s story is one of fate, love, survival, hard knocks, and redemption. It’s the rags to riches story of a refugee escaping Cambodia, arriving in America in 1975 and building an unlikely multi-million-dollar empire baking America’s favorite pastry, the donut. Ted sponsored hundreds of visas for incoming refugees and helped them get on their feet teaching them the ways of the donut business. By 1979 he was living the American Dream. But, in life, great rise can come with great falls.” (Greenwich Entertainment) NEON regular Krystyna wrote, “The Donut King is a most heartwarming documentary…it is one’s man journey as he escapes from his war torn homeland (the historical footage is excellent) achieving the “American Dream” with the creation of his donut empire. The movie is fascinating as it deals with war, immigration, refuge camps, family, infidelity, addiction as it is much more than just about the donut. Do not underestimate this movie as the title is a bit misleading…you will be pleasantly surprised by this gem!!!” Click the image below to watch the trailer and gain 72 hour access for $12.
CONTINUING IN OUR VIRTUAL CINEMA
Synopsis for NATIONTIME: “NATIONTIME is the long-lost film that William Greaves made about the National Black Political Convention of 1972, when 10,000 black politicians, activists and artists went to Gary, Indiana, to forge a national unity platform in advance of the Republican and Democratic presidential conventions. The delegates included a wide array of political thinkers.” This film can be watched on your computer or you can watch it on your Roku or AppleTV via the Kino Now app. More questions regarding accessing this film can be found on the bottom of the platform’s page. Click the image below to watch the trailer then gain 5 day access to the film for $10.
Synopsis for MADRE: If you attended the Oscar Nominated Narrative Shorts a couple years ago at THE NEON, then you’ve seen the wonderful short film on which this exquisite Spanish/French dramatic thriller is based. “Elena receives a call from her six-year-old son, who tells her that he is lost on a beach in France…these desperate words of his son were the last that she learned about him…After ten years, her life shakes again when she accidentally meets Gene, a French teenager resembling her son.” This film can be watched on your computer or mobile device or via your Roku or AppleTV. For additional information regarding accessibility of the film, please visit this Eventive HELP page. Click on the image below to watch the trailer and pre-order access for $12 (once you start watching, you’ll have 24 hours to finish). The film will become available on Friday!
Here’s a LINK with a video I made about how Virtual Cinema works. Click HERE to see all the films that are still available in our Virtual Cinema.
Wanna know what’s coming down the road in our virtual cinema? (Click any title to watch that film’s trailer.) On Nov. 11, we’re partnering with The Dayton Literary Peace Prize to bring a film that speaks to one of their upcoming events. RECON(based on the novel PEACE by Richard Bausch) will be available for you to watch in our Virtual Cinema starting Nov. 11…then on November 16, you can join this wonderful organization’s discussion “Turn the Page: The Legacy of War” – a discussion between Richard Bausch and Andrew Krivak – both prize winners from The Dayton Literary Peace Prize. For details about the special event, click HERE. On November 18, we’ll open MONSOON – a gorgeous film about a man’s personal journey as he returns to his birthplace and struggles to recognize himself in this unfamiliar land. On Dec. 4, we’ll open ENDING DISEASE – a documentary that looks at advancements in stem cell therapies and curing the incurable. One subject of the film is Ryan Custer, a former Wright State basketball player who suffered a neck injury. More titles are on the way…stay tuned!
Many, Many thanks to our friends at Toxic Brew and Hole in the Wall – 2 neighborhood bars in the Oregon District. Their special horror film screening on Sunday night raised over $800 for THE NEON! We truly appreciate their generosity…and the crowd had a blast!
We’ve got some great new films on the horizon. AMMONITE, starring Kate Winslet and Saoirse Ronan, will open on Nov. 13. The adaptation of August Wilson’s MA RAINEY’S BLACK BOTTOM, starring Viola Davis and Chadwick Boseman, will open on Dec. 4, and George Clooney’s THE MIDNIGHT SKY opens Dec. 11. More Oscar-hopeful titles are being negotiated…stay tuned!
We hope to see you soon!
Be safe & well.
My best,
Jonathan
IN-PERSON SHOWTIMES for Wednesday, Nov. 4 – Thursday, Nov. 12:
STEVE NICKS 24 KARAT GOLD THE CONCERT (NR) 1 Hr 40 Min
Wednesday & Thursday (Nov 4 & 5): 7:00
FINAL DAY – Nov. 5!
THE EXORCIST: EXTENDED DIRECTOR’S CUT (R) 2 Hrs 12 Min
Wednesday & Thursday (Nov 4 & 5): 3:15
FINAL DAY – Nov. 5!
A NIGHTMARE ON ELM STREET (R) 1 Hr 31 Min
Wednesday & Thursday (Nov 4 & 5): 7:15
FINAL DAY – Nov. 5!
THE DONUT KING (NR) 1 Hr 30 Min
Wednesday & Thursday (Nov 4 & 5): 3:30
FINAL DAY – Nov. 5!
CHUCK LEAVELL: THE TREE MAN (NR) 1 Hr 43 Min – ONE WEEK ONLY!
Friday, Saturday, Sunday (Nov 6-8): 1:00, 4:00, 7:15*
(*the 7:15 show is sold out all three weekend nights)
Mon & Tue (Nov 9 & 10): 3:30, 7:15
Wed & Thu (Nov 11 & 12): 3:30
FINAL DAY – Nov. 12!
A CALL TO SPY (PG-13) 2 Hrs 3 Min – 5 DAYS ONLY!
Friday, Saturday, Sunday (Nov 6-8): 1:15, 4:15, 7:30
Mon & Tue (Nov 9 & 10): 3:15, 7:00
FINAL DAY – Nov. 10!
HILLBILLY ELEGY (R) 1 Hr 56 Min
Wed & Thu (Nov 11 & 12): 3:00, 7:00, 7:30
COMING SOON – In-Person Screenings:
(All Dates Are Tentative. Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear)
Nov 13 – AMMONITE
Dec 4 – MA RAINEY’S BLACK BOTTOM
Dec 11 – THE MIDNIGHT SKY
TBD: THE CLIMB
NOMADLAND
MANK
THE FATHER
THE TRUFFLE HUNTERS

Sundance Hit THE FORTY-YEAR-OLD VERSION Starts Friday at The Neon

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This weekend, we’re adding a new film to the mix – a first time feature film from veteran playwright and television writer Radha Blank – THE FORTY-YEAR-OLD VERSION. This film was a huge hit at Sundance, and it’s currently rated “98% Fresh” on rottentomatoes. In addition, we are going to hold both ON THE ROCKS and THE TRIAL OF THE CHICAGO 7…and we have a couple special events coming next week too.

In our Virtual Cinema, we have two new films. MY NAME IS PEDRO, a film about a hero in public education, opened today. DATING AMBER, a coming-of-age film set in Ireland in the mid 90’s, opens Friday. More about both of those below.
Rave reviews for The 15th Annual Dayton LGBT Film Festival have been pouring in. People have loved our selections, and the virtual format seems to be going over very well. Many thanks to everyone who has supported this fest. There are still a couple selections you can check out before they expire. Check out the line-up at www.daytonlgbt.com
New Booking for In-Person Screenings:
Synopsis for THE FORTY-YEAR-OLD VERSION: This new, award-winning film from Radha Blank was a big hit at Sundance and is currently rated “98% Fresh” on rottentomatoes. “Radha is a down-on-her-luck NY playwright, who is desperate for a breakthrough before 40. Reinventing herself as rapper RadhaMUSPrime, she vacillates between the worlds of Hip Hop and theater in order to find her true voice.” Click this LINK to watch the trailer and click the image below to watch the a special piece about the creation of the film with Radha Blank.
New to our Virtual Cinema
Synopsis for MY NAME IS PEDRO: “Lillian LaSalle’s documentary explores what public education meant to South Bronx Latino maverick educator, Pedro Santana, and what he, in turn, meant to public education.” Click HERE to watch the trailer and click on the image below to purchase the film for $8.99.
Synopsis for DATING AMBER: “DATING AMBER is a poignant, honest and funny look at the highs and lows of teenage life where the only way to fit in is to not be yourself, even if this goes against your very being. Set-in Ireland during the mid-90’s, Eddie and Amber decide to stage a relationship in order to stop everyone speculating about their sexuality. Eddie is keen to follow his Dad into the military, while Amber dreams of moving to the liberal hub of London. However, their ‘ideal’ arrangement begins to fall apart, forcing Eddie deeper into denial as Amber realizes that a perilous future awaits her best friend unless she intervenes. DATING AMBER is a love letter to all those kids who grew up in a small town and who needed to escape in order to be themselves.” Click the image below to watch the trailer and gain 72 hour access for $12.
Continuing in our Virtual Cinema:
Synopsis for SAUL AND RUBY’S HOLOCAUST SURVIVOR BAND: Available now. “Like many survivors of the Holocaust, after World War II, Saul and Ruby moved to America, started families and careers, grew old, and retired to South Florida. For them, retirement could have been the last chapter in their story. But then they decided to start a klezmer band, named the Holocaust Survivor Band. This unique and compelling story is about having the courage to live one’s dreams, finding purpose and meaning in life at any age, the transcendent power of music, and the importance of speaking out against anti-Semitism and bigotry.” Click the image below to watch the trailer and then gain access to the film for $12.
Synopsis for AGGIE: Available now! “AGGIE is a feature-length documentary that explores the nexus of art, race, and justice through the story of art collector and philanthropist Agnes “Aggie” Gund’s life. Emmy-nominated director Catherine Gund focuses on her mother’s journey to give viewers an understanding of the power of art to transform consciousness and inspire social change. Aggie is internationally recognized for her robust and prescient support of artists–particularly women and people of color–and her unwavering commitment to social justice issues. After falling in love with art as a high-school student, Aggie discovers a new way of looking at the world.” Click the image below to watch the trailer and then access the film for $12.
A customer recently asked me to repost instructions as to how to use our Virtual Cinema. Here’s a LINK with a video I made about how it all works. Click HERE to see all the films that are still available in our Virtual Cinema.
Wanna know what’s coming down the road in our virtual cinema? (Click any title to watch that film’s trailer.) On Oct. 21, we’ll open the festival hit MAJOR ARCANA, and on Oct. 23 we’ll open a doc about photographer Burk Uzzle (you might not know his name, but you’ve seen his work) – F11 AND BE THERE. On Oct. 28, we’ll open the recently restored (both in quality and length) important documentary from William Greaves – NATIONTIME, and on Oct. 30 we’ll open the Spanish/French thriller MADRE (if you come to THE NEON for Oscar nominated shorts, you’ve likely seen the short film on which this feature is based). On Nov. 6, we’ll open Fredrick Wiseman’s new highly acclaimed doc CITY HALL as well as RADIUM GIRLS (we’re hoping to set up a special Q&A with the film’s directors). More titles are on the way…stay tuned!
As a reminder…tickets for STEVIE NICKS 24 KARAT GOLD THE CONCERT are on sale now. Current scheduled shows are for Wednesday, Oct. 21 at 7:00 and Sunday, Oct. 25 at 1:00 and 7:00. If you’re a Stevie fan, you don’t need more than an announcement to get your tickets…but if you’re not sure, here’s a TRAILER.
Local filmmaker and author Mathew Klickstein has a new book hitting the shelves, so we’re taking a look at a film that he produced & directed about the same kids.”ACT YOUR AGE: THE KIDS OF WIDNEY HIGH STORY (2010) is a rollicking rollercoaster of a rowdy ride up the West Coast during the world-famous Kids of Widney High’s 2008 headlining tour from Los Angeles to Seattle and back. Intimately chronicled through a punk-influenced DIY ‘video diary’ lens, ACT YOUR AGE takes the viewer into the green rooms, hotel rooms, bars, onstage and into the road-tripping van of the Kids, a group of singer-songwriters with developmental disabilities initially based out of an East Los Angeles special-ed music program.
This new tenth anniversary edition of ACT YOUR AGE has been polished and remastered to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the groundbreaking Americans with Disabilities Act and the release of the Kids’ first book, THE KIDS OF WIDNEY JUNIOR HIGH TAKE OVER THE WORLD!, out in stores now. Come see the world through the eyes of a ‘Kid.’ ACT YOUR AGE director/producer Mathew Klickstein – a longtime author/filmmaker/journalist and recent transplant to Dayton – will be in-person for a brief introduction and follow-up Q&A after the film.” (taken from press notes) Tickets, $10 for general admission and $8 for seniors, are now available on our website. We had this event on the books before we knew about the presidential debate…alas this is a one-time only event that celebrates differently abled young people. After that first debate, didn’t you wish you’d had other plans???
Because distributors continue to push back their titles, we will have more weeks when we need to explore some classics. So on Oct. 23, we’re going to take a look at some early favorites from Tim Burton – PEE WEE’S BIG ADVENTURE and BEETLEJUICE. Please help us spread the word…these should be a lot of fun. (Maybe even free prizes for people who ride their bikes to THE NEON for Pee Week!! We’ll see.). We also plan to open POSSESSOR UNCUT – the new film from Brandon Cronenberg (a filmmaker who has a lot in common with his father – David Cronenberg).
We got news this week that we can open Ron Howard’s new film HILLBILLY ELEGY on Nov. 11. This highly anticipated film was partially shot in Middletown – home of the famous book’s author J.D. Vance.

This Week at The Neon & The Dayton LGBT Film Fest starts Friday

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Two new films that are already hot with Oscar buzz open this Friday at THE NEON. If you need to see THE WAY I SEE IT (which received rounds of applause this weekend), SAVE YOURSELVES! (the sci-fi/comedy with lots to say about today’s social media obsessed culture), or KAJILLIONAIRE (Miranda July’s latest Sundance hit), you only have until Thursday. ON THE ROCKS and THE TRIAL OF THE CHICAGO 7 open on Friday!

In our Virtual Cinema, we have two new films. SAUL AND RUBY’S HOLOCAUST SURVIVOR BAND opened today, and AGGIE (about Agnes Gund) opens Friday. More about both of those below.
On top of all that, The 15th Annual Dayton LGBT Film Fest starts Friday! Though most films are virtual, there is also one package of terrific short films that will be offered 4 times in-person at THE NEON. If you’re not interested in a pass that gets you everything…and you just want to support a film or two…I highly recommend the documentaries KEYBOARD FANTASIES (I just bought Beverly Glenn-Copeland’s new album) and AHEAD OF THE CURVE. If you’re more interested in a narrative, fiction film, TWILIGHT’S KISS is one that our regulars would love, and SHIVA BABY is the edgy comedy that has been a big hit on the festival circuit. BREAKING FAST is labeled as “A Ramadan Rom-Com” – and it’s the charming, feel-good film that we’ve chosen to open our festival. If you need a tutorial about how to access films and purchase tickets for the festival, this LINKwill take you to a video I made. Click on the image below to go right to the festival’s official site.
New Bookings for In-Person Screenings:
Synopsis for ON THE ROCKS: “A young New York mother faced with sudden doubts about her marriage teams up with her larger-than-life playboy father to tail her husband. What follows is a sparkling comic adventure across the city—drawing father and daughter closer together despite one detour after another. Acclaimed filmmaker Sofia Coppola brings a light touch to this blend of an exuberant love letter to New York, a generation-clash comedy about how we see relationships differently from our parents, and a funny celebration of the complications that bind modern families even as they tie us in crazy knots. Laura (Rashida Jones) thinks she’s happily hitched, but when her husband Dean (Marlon Wayans) starts logging late hours at the office with a new co-worker, Laura begins to fear the worst. She turns to the one man she suspects may have insight: her charming, impulsive father Felix (Bill Murray), who insists they investigate the situation. As the two begin prowling New York at night, careening from uptown parties to downtown hotspots, they discover at the heart of their journey lies their own relationship.” Click the image below to watch the trailer.
Synopsis for THE TRIAL OF THE CHICAGO 7: Written and directed by Aaron Sorkin (THE WEST WING), this film with a stellar cast is already getting major Oscar buzz! “The film follows the Chicago Seven, a group of anti-Vietnam War protesters charged with conspiracy and crossing state lines with the intention of inciting riots at the 1968 Democratic National Convention in Chicago. It features an ensemble cast that includes Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, Sacha Baron Cohen, Daniel Flaherty, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Michael Keaton, Frank Langella, John Carroll Lynch, Eddie Redmayne, Noah Robbins, Mark Rylance, Alex Sharp, and Jeremy Strong. Sorkin originally wrote the screenplay in 2007, with the intent of Steven Spielberg directing the film with mostly unknown actors. After the 2007 Writers Guild of America strike and budget concerns forced Spielberg to drop out as director, Sorkin was announced as director in October 2018, and much of the cast joined that same month.” Click the image below to watch the film’s trailer.
New in our Virtual Cinema:
Synopsis for SAUL AND RUBY’S HOLOCAUST SURVIVOR BAND: Available now! “Like many survivors of the Holocaust, after World War II, Saul and Ruby moved to America, started families and careers, grew old, and retired to South Florida. For them, retirement could have been the last chapter in their story. But then they decided to start a klezmer band, named the Holocaust Survivor Band. The band summons the bittersweet memories of childhood in Poland, but more than that, it is a celebration of life. In this utterly heart-affecting and enthralling film, we follow Saul and Ruby’s musical journey, which begins in total obscurity, playing in residential homes for the elderly and small Jewish community organizations, to being invited to perform at venues across the country, including a coveted performance at the Kennedy Center’s Millennium Stage. This unique and compelling story is about having the courage to live one’s dreams, finding purpose and meaning in life at any age, the transcendent power of music, and the importance of speaking out against anti-Semitism and bigotry.” Click the image below to watch the trailer and then gain access to the film for $12.
Synopsis for AGGIE: Available Starting Oct. 9! “AGGIE is a feature-length documentary that explores the nexus of art, race, and justice through the story of art collector and philanthropist Agnes “Aggie” Gund’s life. Emmy-nominated director Catherine Gund focuses on her mother’s journey to give viewers an understanding of the power of art to transform consciousness and inspire social change. Aggie is internationally recognized for her robust and prescient support of artists–particularly women and people of color–and her unwavering commitment to social justice issues. After falling in love with art as a high-school student, Aggie discovers a new way of looking at the world. The film opens with Aggie selling Roy Lichtenstein’s “Masterpiece” For $165 million to start the Art for Justice Fund. The proceeds from one of the highest grossing artworks ever sold fuel a monumental effort to reform the American criminal justice system and end mass incarceration. The film captures Aggie as a true maverick who demonstrates the unique role and potential of collectors and benefactors to use art to fight justice. This is untapped terrain, and we see Aggie leading the way.” Click the image below to watch the trailer and then preorder access to the film for $12. (The film will be available starting this Friday!)
Continuing in our Virtual Cinema:
Synopsis for ONCE UPON A RIVER: “Based on the best-selling novel by Bonnie Jo Campbell, ONCE UPON A RIVER is the story of Native American teenager Margo Crane in 1970s rural Michigan. After enduring a series of traumas and tragedies, Margo (newcomer Kenadi DelaCerna) sets out on an odyssey on the Stark River in search of her estranged mother. Jane Smiley for The New York Times wrote, ‘an excellent American parable about the consequences of our favorite ideal, freedom.” Click the image below to watch the trailer and unlock the film for $12.
Synopsis for THE DISRUPTED: “What do a farmer in Kansas, a laid-off factory worker in Ohio, and an Uber driver in Florida have in common? All three are resourceful, positive thinkers who strive to adapt and thrive despite dehumanizing forces at play in the American economy. As the film’s heroes face these roadblocks with courage, certain ideals remain sacred: family, love, and staying strong in the face of adversity.” Click the image below to watch the trailer and unlock the film for $12.
A customer recently asked me to repost instructions as to how to use our Virtual Cinema. Here’s a LINK with a video I made about how it all works. Click HERE to see all the films that are still available in our Virtual Cinema.
Wanna know what’s coming down the road in our virtual cinema? (Click any title to watch that film’s trailer.) On Oct. 14, we’ll open MY NAME IS PEDRO – an inspiring documentary about a teacher and how transformative a single person can be to the community at large. On Oct. 16, we’ll open the sweet and funny DATING AMBER. On Oct. 21, we’ll open the festival hit MAJOR ARCANA, and on Oct. 28, we’ll open the recently restored (both in quality and length) important documentary from William Greaves – NATIONTIME (trailer will be available soon). On Nov. 6, we’ll open Fredrick Wiseman’s new highly acclaimed doc CITY HALL. We’re still trying to nail down RADIUM GIRLS and other titles…so stay tuned!
As a reminder…tickets for STEVIE NICKS 24 KARAT GOLD THE CONCERT are on sale now. Current scheduled shows are for Wednesday, Oct. 21 at 7:00 and Sunday, Oct. 25 at 1:00 and 7:00. If you’re a Stevie fan, you don’t need more than an announcement to get your tickets…but if you’re not sure, here’s a TRAILER.
Local filmmaker and author Mathew Klickstein has a new book hitting the shelves, so we’re taking a look at a film that he produced & directed about the same kids.”ACT YOUR AGE: THE KIDS OF WIDNEY HIGH STORY (2010) is a rollicking rollercoaster of a rowdy ride up the West Coast during the world-famous Kids of Widney High’s 2008 headlining tour from Los Angeles to Seattle and back. Intimately chronicled through a punk-influenced DIY ‘video diary’ lens, ACT YOUR AGE takes the viewer into the green rooms, hotel rooms, bars, onstage and into the road-tripping van of the Kids, a group of singer-songwriters with developmental disabilities initially based out of an East Los Angeles special-ed music program.
This new tenth anniversary edition of ACT YOUR AGE has been polished and remastered to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the groundbreaking Americans with Disabilities Act and the release of the Kids’ first book, THE KIDS OF WIDNEY JUNIOR HIGH TAKE OVER THE WORLD!, out in stores now. Come see the world through the eyes of a ‘Kid.’ ACT YOUR AGE director/producer Mathew Klickstein – a longtime author/filmmaker/journalist and recent transplant to Dayton – will be in-person for a brief introduction and follow-up Q&A after the film.” (taken from press notes) Tickets, $10 for general admission and $8 for seniors, are now available on our website.
Because distributors continue to push back their titles, we will have more weeks when we need to explore some classics. So on Oct. 23, we’re going to take a look at some early favorites from Tim Burton – PEE WEE’S BIG ADVENTURE and BEETLEJUICE. Please help us spread the word…these should be a lot of fun. (Maybe even free prizes for people who ride their bikes to THE NEON for Pee Week!! We’ll see.)

Local Filmmaker to make “Triangle Park” Feature Film on the NFL’s First-Ever Game

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Allen Farst, founder of Niche Productions, is ecstatic to announce today that work has begun on his new project, “Triangle Park,” an upcoming feature film that celebrates the centennial of the National Football League’s first-ever game, played in Dayton, Ohio.

The film will send spectators back in time to experience October 3, 1920, when the hometown Dayton Triangles kicked off league history with a 14-0 victory over the Columbus Panhandles. The contest was played in front of 5,000 fans at Dayton’s now-historic Triangle Park.

Farst plans to shed a light on the largely unknown story of how Dayton emerged as one of the 13 original NFL teams. It’s an enthralling journey that showcases how the city overcame the Great Dayton Flood and experienced an industrial boom just prior to the league getting under way. Football fan or not, moviegoers will be treated to a fascinating piece of Gem City history.

This is one of the greatest stories that needs to be told from the Dayton area. I’m excited to write and direct something that will represent the community the way it should be,” Farst said

Fans can go to triangleparkmovie.com and support the film. “We are hoping to be the All-time highest-funded project in Kickstarter history!” Farst said. “Hopefully, people will help us support Triangle Park in a big way.”

Triangle Park will be Licensing exclusive photos, programs, documents and film from the Pro Football Hall of Fame and archival footage from NFL Films.

Production will begin in 2021, with the movie scheduled to be released sometime in 2022.  A kickstarter campaign to help fund the film will be launched laster this week.  Join the email list for more info.

 

ABOUT DIRECTOR ALLEN FARST – NICHE PRODUCTIONS

Farst is an acclaimed director, filmmaker and photographer who recently completed “Chuck Leavell: The Tree Man,” an award winning documentary on the keyboardist for the Rolling Stones. His work has been featured by Panasonic, Maxim Magazine, USA Today, Drone360 and Nikon Cinema. His still photography is syndicated via Contour by Getty Images.

McCoy on Movies: Kajillionaire

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Kajillionaire will prove quirky fun for some, but will just be different for others

“Now, just remember, if anyone asks, we went grocery shopping BEFORE it was mandated you had to wear a mask in public!” (Gina Rodriguez) and Old Dolio Dyne (Evan Rachel Wood) go out for a non-grifting grocery trip in a scene from writer/director Miranda July’s KAJILLIONAIRE. Credit: Matt Kennedy / Focus Features © Focus Features. All rights reserved.

WATCH THE TRAILER(S) HERE:

DIRECTOR: Miranda July
KEY CAST MEMBERS: Evan Rachel Wood, Gina Rodriguez, Richard Jenkins and Debra Winger


THE BACK STORY: Old Dolio Dyne (Evan Rachel Wood) is a 26 year-old Los Angeles resident. Her home, however, is unconventional as it is an office space next to some sort of industrial park where a pink liquid oozes into the room. Joining her in this most unconventional of living spaces are her parents Theresa (Debra Winger) and Robert (Richard Jenkins), grifters by trade who are always on the lookout for their next scheme or heist. It’s not a good life, but it’s the only one Old Dolio knows.

Then Melanie (Gina Rodriguez) comes into the picture.

Meeting her by chance on a flight as part of their latest scheme, Melanie seems excited at the prospect of getting into a new line of work and comes up with a plan of her own to pull off a new heist. But, as Melanie’s love of life – and other circumstances – start to open up her mind to other aspects of the human experience, Old Dolio starts to question her current existence and what could lie ahead in the future.

Who knows – becoming rich in her own spirit might be the most rewarding prize of all.

THE REVIEW: “Quirky.” “Abstract.” “Weird.”

Sometimes you watch a film and appreciate it for what it is, even if it’s not something you really enjoyed, so to speak, yourself. In the case of Kajillionaire, you likely will find yourself wrestling with that same emotion due to the committed performance of Wood against a story that essentially can be viewed in one of two ways: (1) This is a (insert one of the three adjectives above) story about broken people and someone trying to find what many of us inherently do (or at least, believe we should enjoy) or (2) This is a (insert one of the three adjectives above) that is just (insert one of the other two remaining adjectives above).

Earlier this month, Wood gave a rather revealing interview to The New York Times in which it was revealed she uses many of her roles to heal herself from past trauma. That in turn should help explain her (1) connection to Old Dolio and (2) portrayal of the character, a woman who has never felt any real (or, if you prefer, “normal”) emotions to or from anyone, including her parents. She is essentially – like many of the personalities on her HBO series Westworld – a near-robotic humanoid life form who knows her role and her function in the functioning disfunction that is her family’s business. You get to watch a young person (Wood may be 33, but she pulls off 26 with a way that makes her character feel even younger) coming to grips with her concept of the world around her and trying to deal with deprogramming herself in the process. Whereas as Rodriguez gets to play an upbeat, bouncy young woman who seems very eager to get involved in something she sees as exciting, Wood’s character is a solitary, introverted one growing desperate to escape her reality.
If you enjoy the films of Wes Anderson, you’ll likely like Kajillionaire, which are the first type of things that come to mind in terms of the humor (which is SPARSE). If you simply enjoy a deep dive into a character (even if the others aren’t characters aren’t explored enough as you’d hope), you’ll probably enjoy Kajillionaire.
Then again, if watching people who are essentially without redeeming qualities do nothing to change your opinion of them over the course of 100 minutes, are weird seemingly for the sake of it and/or are the type of people you’d see in Walmart, report to an employee and then leave, this is not the movie for you. What will find intriguingly unconventional, others will find annoying. Whereas some will be drawn to Wood’s performance of a shy, sheltered introvert, others will see the weirdo in their high school class they one day figured would end up on the local news for less than stellar reasons. If you start to watch the movie, you’ll likely watch it to the end to see what will happen, only to probably be either elated or deflated by what happens.
In much the same fashion that very few are destined to become millionaires and billionaires, Kajillionaire is likely only for the select few. But those select few will really enjoy it no matter what the rest of us see.
OVERALL RATING (OUT OF FOUR POSSIBLE BUCKETS OF POPCORN):
 

 

 

 

 

KAJILLIONAIRE Opens, Honoring RBG, and Big Titles Coming To The Neon

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We’ve lost an amazing woman and a marvelous judge on the Supreme Court, and we want to honor her achievements by bringing back the hit documentary RBG to the big screen for a handful of special screenings.  This return engagement will start Friday!
Additionally, we will open Miranda July’s new film – KAJILLIONAIRE – starring Evan Rachel Wood, Debra Winger, Richard Jenkins and Gina Rodriguez.  The pictures below are a couple photos that I quickly snapped while at Sundance in January.  Miranda has a unique and fascinating voice as a filmmaker and storyteller, and this quirky film is full of surprises.  If you’re a person who still listens to and loves vinyl, you can enter our contest to win a lovely vinyl soundtrack from this film by posting a picture of your favorite soundtrack on your facebook or instagram page and tagging @neonmovies.
Lastly, in our Virtual Cinema, we just added the wonderful documentary OLIVER SACKS: HIS OWN LIFE, and on Friday, we’ll add a touchingly beautiful film THE ARTIST’S WIFE starring Lena Olin and Bruce Dern.
I’ve got some fun news about what’s coming down the road for in-person engagements.  Next Friday, we will open SAVE YOURSELVES! – a hit from this year’s Sundance.  On Oct. 9, we’ll open both ON THE ROCKS from Sofia Coppola (with Bill Murray!) and THE TRIAL OF THE CHICAGO 7 from Aaron Sorkin!
As a reminder…tickets for STEVIE NICKS 24 KARAT GOLD THE CONCERT are on sale now.  Current scheduled shows are for Wednesday, Oct. 21 at 7:00 and Sunday, Oct. 25 at 1:00 and 7:00.
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New Bookings for In-Person Screenings:
Synopsis for KAJILLIONAIRE: “From acclaimed writer/director Miranda July comes a profoundly moving and wildly original comedy. Con-artists Theresa (Debra Winger) and Robert (Richard Jenkins) have spent 26 years training their only daughter, Old Dolio (Evan Rachel Wood), to swindle, scam, and steal at every opportunity. During a desperate, hastily conceived heist, they charm a stranger (Gina Rodriguez) into joining their next scam, only to have their entire world turned upside down.” (Focus Features) Click the image below to visit the film’s official site.
Synopsis for RBG: We’ve lost a true American hero, and we’re celebrating her life by bringing back the fantastic documentary about her life! “At the age of 85, U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg had developed a lengthy legal legacy while becoming an unexpected pop culture icon. But the unique personal journey of her rise to the nation’s highest court has been largely unknown, even to some of her biggest fans – until now. RBG explores Ginsburg’s life and career.” (Magnolia Pictures) Click the image below to watch the film’s trailer.
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New in our Virtual Cinema:
Synopsis for OLIVER SACKS: HIS OWN LIFE: “This wonderful documentary explores the life and work of the legendary neurologist and storyteller, as he shares intimate details of his battles with drug addiction, homophobia, and a medical establishment that accepted his work only decades after the fact. Sacks was a fearless explorer of unknown mental worlds who helped redefine our understanding of the brain and mind, the diversity of the human experience, and our shared humanity.” (Zeitgeist Films) VARIETY wrote, “A portrait of the poetic neurologist of AWAKENINGS, shot at the end of his life, [which] takes a tender and thrilling look at the sacred demons that drove him.” Click the image below to watch the trailer and gain 72 hour access for $12.
Synopsis for THE ARTIST’S WIFE: Available starting September 25! “Claire (Lena Olin) lives a domestic life in the Hamptons as the wife of celebrated artist Richard Smythson (Bruce Dern). Once a promising painter herself, Claire now lives in the shadow of her husband’s illustrious career. While preparing work for his final show, Richard’s moods become increasingly erratic, and he is diagnosed with dementia. As his memory and behavior deteriorate, she shields his condition from the art community while trying to reconnect him with his estranged daughter and grandson from a previous marriage. Challenged by the loss of her world as she knew it, Claire must now decide whether to stand with Richard on the sidelines or step into the spotlight herself.” Click the image below to pre-order 72 hour access to the film for $12.  You can watch the trailer HERE.
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Continuing in our Virtual Cinema:
Synopsis for BLACKBIRD: Susan Sarandon, Kate Winslet, Sam Neill, Mia Wasikowska, Rainn Wilson and Lindsay Duncan star in this festival favorite! “Unresolved feelings surface when a mother summons her family for one final reunion as she looks to end her battle with a terminal illness.” Click on the image below to view the trailer and order access to the film.
Synopsis for ETERNAL BEAUTY: “When Jane (Sally Hawkins) is dumped at the altar she has a breakdown and spirals into a chaotic world, where love (both real and imagined) and family relationships collide with both touching and humorous consequences.” Click the image below to order access to the film.
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Wanna know what’s coming down the road in our virtual cinema? (Click any title to watch that film’s trailer.)  On October 2, we’ll open the award-winning coming-of-age film ONCE UPON A RIVER as well as a new documentary with Ohio connections – THE DISRUPTED. A really wonderful documentary – SAUL AND RUBY’S HOLOCAUST SURVIVOR BAND will open on Oct. 7, and on Oct. 9, we’ll have a film that art lovers will adore – AGGIE – a film about philanthropist Agnes Gund. On Oct 14, we’ll begin a film called MY NAME IS PEDRO – an inspiring documentary about a teacher and how transformative a teacher can be to the community at large. More to come!
Next Saturday, Oct. 3 from 11:00am until 4:00pm, many businesses in downtown Dayton will have a Sidewalk Sale.  We decided to join in this time with the help of some friends.  We’ll have our popcorn available for folks who would rather not come inside…and we’ve invited Pink Moon Goods to come set up shop for the afternoon.  Pink Moon Goods is an exciting new retail business in Dayton.  Their selection of home goods is curated and includes items that combine skill, intelligence, and virtue for ethical living.  If you are looking for new ways to reduce waste at home, support small businesses who value and respect protecting the environment, or some good old fashion socially conscious retail therapy there is sure to be something at Pink Moon Goods for you.  You can check them out on Instagram – @pinkmoongoods.
“All Access” passes and single “tickets” for all virtual presentations of The 15th Annual Dayton LGBT Film Festival are now on sale.  We had to make a major pivot this year to make the festival happen – so about 90% of it will take place virtually.  A $50 pass will get you access to all 6 virtual screenings (5 features and a package of shorts) as well as 2 tickets to our one in-person package – TOP DRAWER SHORTS VOL #2.  The line-up is strong, and we’re still ironing out lots of details (virtual filmmaker Q&A’s, video work with our sponsors, etc.).  Click the image below to check out all of our selections.  The festival is set for Oct. 9-15. Virtual components will be accessible to anyone in Ohio…so please help spread the word.  If you need a little help figuring it all out, I’ve created a tutorial video that is viewable HERE. (The image below is from the short film THE SHAWL– playing in TOP DRAWER SHORTS VOL #2.)
We hope to see you soon!
Be safe & well.
My best,
Jonathan

McCoy on Movies: The Broken Hearts Gallery

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A romantic comedy for the woke generation hits the big screen with The Broken Hearts Gallery

 

 

“Girl … You just know anyone who owns a MAGA hat is not going to enjoy this movie!” Lucy (Geraldine Viswanathan, center) hangs with her friends Amanda (Molly Gordon, right, in nurse outfit) and Nadine (Phillipa Soo, left) in a scene from writer/director Natalie Krinsky’s romantic comedy THE BROKEN HEARTS GALLERY. Credit: George Kraychyk © 2020 Columbia TriStar Marketing Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

 

WATCH THE TRAILER(S) HERE:

DIRECTOR: Natalie Krinsky
KEY CAST MEMBERS: Geraldine Viswanathan, Darce Montgomery, Molly Gordon, Utkarsh Ambudkar, Phillipa Soo, Arturo Castro, Suki Waterhouse, Nathan Dales, Ego Nwodim, Tattiawana Jones and Bernadette Peters


THE BACK STORY: Lucy (Geraldine Viswanathan) shares an apartment in New York City with her longstanding friends Amanda (Molly Gordon) and Nadine (Phillipa Soo). While Amanda has found her niche with her silent boyfriend Jeff (Nathan Dales) and Nadine dumps her suitors before she can barely learn their names, Lucy doesn’t do well with breakups, which is why she keeps mementos from all of her past relationships in her room. Thus, when she sees her boyfriend/co-worker Max (Utkarsh Ambudkar) a little too close to an old flame (Tattiawana Jones) during an event at the art gallery owned by Eva Woolfe (Bernadette Peters) where they both work, the alcohol and insecurity mix to cause an incident.

This leads to her inadvertently meeting Nick (Darce Montgomery), an aspiring niche hotel designer she mistakes for her Uber (or is it Lyft? We may never know …) driver. But as fate would have it, this chance encounter could end changing both of their lives – and countless others struggling to get over their old flames – forever.

THE REVIEW: A film that has to be the early contender for the most woke mainstream romantic comedy released by a major Hollywood studio during a pandemic thus far, The Broken Hearts Gallery is a predictable yet enjoyable romantic comedy that gives hope to hopeless romantics everywhere.

A romantic comedy for millennials that makes sure to check (nearly) every box on the inclusion checklist, The Broken Hearts Gallery works well enough largely due to the hot-mess-that-you-still-root-for performance of Viswanathan. Sure, there are times when she and her cohorts’ behaviors make you question whether or not they are parodying millennials or portraying them with annoying accuracy, but the overall charm of the characters makes you want to see them reach their eventual destiny.

Again, this isn’t meant as a diss to the film; there’s just nothing happening here that really hasn’t been seen before. Girl loses boy. Girl acts out. New boy shows up. Audience can tell they should be together long before either of them realizes it. Comedy ensues. Dramatic moment ensues. You get it; it’s the heart of the characters and interplay between them that makes it entertaining.

When so many of us are feeling brokenhearted over the world at large, The Broken Hearts Gallery should provide some lighthearted, carefree relief – and that in of itself makes it worthy of a watch (save for anyone who can’t deal with a strong LGTBQ+ presence/minority/female presence).

OVERALL RATING (OUT OF FOUR POSSIBLE BUCKETS OF POPCORN):
 

 

 

 

At The Neon: 9 New Engagements This Week!

By

Jonathan McNeal

This week, we have two new films and three retrospective films for in-person screenings…and we’re adding 3 new films to our Virtual Cinema.  On top of that, we’ve got a new film starting next Wednesday – so we’ve got a lot of ground to cover.

Starting today, we have the new powerful documentary that The Hollywood Reporter calls “An exemplary civics lesson” – ALL IN: THE FIGHT FOR DEMOCRACY.  And starting Friday, we’ll open John Leguizamo’s cinematic directorial debut – CRITICAL THINKING.  In addition, we’re going to bring a trilogy of cult favorites throughout the week –  the British comedies SHAUN OF THE DEAD, HOT FUZZ and THE WORLD’S END (each film will only screen a couple times…so we suggest getting your tickets early).  On Wednesday next week, we will open a new period thriller – THE SECRETS WE KEEP – starring Noomi Rapace (the star of all the original Dragon Tattoo films).
In our Virtual Cinema, we introduce three new films.  Starting today, we have JIMMY CARTER: ROCK AND ROLL PRESIDENT.  On Friday, we’ll have the highly anticipated MEETING THE BEATLES IN INDIA as well as the gorgeous doc OUR TIME MACHINE.
Before I get too much further, I want to mention a big change that’s happening at THE NEON.  Shortly after Labor Day in 2001, I sat down and interviewed Diana Cordero for a management position at THE NEON.   I knew immediately that I wanted her on the team as we prepared to reopen after major renovations (THE NEON was transforming from one screen to two).  After 19 years in management with us, Diana will be leaving her role as “Assistant Manager” after this Thursday.  She’ll be sticking around as our bookkeeper (a few hours a week), but you won’t be seeing her with any regularity.  This will be quite a change for me and the business as a whole. THE NEON owes a lot to Diana for her dedicated time and talents over the years. I know all of you are joining me in wishing Diana the very best as she pursues other endeavors…she’ll be greatly missed!
On a related note, we have two promotions to celebrate.  Many of you know Ian Bonnett – he’s been with us for several years.  Ian started as a part-timer and was promoted to “Third Keyholder” four years ago.  He has been promoted to “Assistant Manager.”  Jessica Walker, a recent addition to THE NEON’s team, has been promoted to “Third Keyholder.”  Please join me in congratulating both of them!
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New Bookings for In-Person Screenings:
Synopsis for ALL IN: THE FIGHT FOR DEMOCRACY: “ALL IN: THE FIGHT FOR DEMOCRACY examines the often overlooked, yet insidious issue of voter suppression in the United States. The film interweaves personal experiences with current activism and historical insight to expose a problem that has corrupted our democracy from the very beginning. With the perspective and expertise of Stacey Abrams, the former Minority Leader of the Georgia House of Representatives, the documentary offers an insider’s look into laws and barriers to voting that most people don’t even know is a threat to their basic rights as citizens of the United States.” (Amazon) Click the image below to watch the trailer.
Synopsis for CRITICAL THINKING:  “It’s 1998 in Miami. Rampant poverty, broken families, and a prejudiced system push underprivileged youth to the fringes of society. But for a magnetic group of teens, there’s a reprieve. A game where it’s not about where you come from, but how you play. That equalizer is chess. Mr. ‘T’ Martinez, a chess militant and passionate coach, leads them to a completely foreign field of battle: the National Chess Championship. With an underfunded school district, Martinez and his team can’t just waltz into the arena. They have to fight for it. Chess runs parallel to their own experiences as Martinez teaches them that the power of Critical Thinking can not only save their kings, but also their lives.” THE SAN FRANCISCO EXAMINER writes that Leguizamo’s film “features lively interactions, embraceable characters and credibly depicted struggles. The tournament scenes contain sports-movie adrenaline.”  We’re excited to share this film with you! Click on the image below to watch the film’s trailer.
We’ve had some recent success with cult favorites…from the Coen Brothers to Wes Anderson.  And because we’ve got a little extra room this weekend, we’ve added Edgar Wright’s “The Three Flavours Cornetto Trilogy” to the mix – each an irreverent blend of comedy and different genres. SHAUN OF THE DEAD, HOT FUZZ and THE WORLD’S END will all be back on the big screen, and we know Edgar Wright has a lot of fans!  Tickets are available now on our website. (Click the image below to watch the trailer for SHAUN OF THE DEAD.)
Synopsis for THE SECRETS WE KEEP: “In a small U.S. town, far from the horrors of the Nazi labor camp where Maja (Noomi Rapace) was held with other Romani prisoners, she and her American husband Lewis (Chris Messina) have built a cozy life. But as she runs errands along the main street of her small town, Maja glimpses a stranger (Joel Kinnaman) whistling a nightmarishly familiar tune. Spiraling back to a night she has tried to forget, she fears he is the German soldier named Karl who brutalized her and murdered her younger sister. But after 15 years,can she be sure? Fearful that her tragic past has come back to haunt her, she begins to stalk the man,hoping to convince herself she is wrong.” (Bleecker Street) Click the image below to watch the film’s trailer.
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New in our Virtual Cinema:
Synopsis for JIMMY CARTER: ROCK AND ROLL PRESIDENT: “If it hadn’t been for a bottle of scotch and a late-night visit from musician Gregg Allman, Jimmy Carter might never have been elected the 39th President of the United States. JIMMY CARTER, ROCK & ROLL PRESIDENT charts the mostly forgotten story of how Carter, a lover of all types of music, forged a tight bond with musicians Willie Nelson, the Allman Brothers, Bob Dylan and others. Low on campaign funds and lacking in name recognition, Carter relied on support from these artists to give him a crucial boost in the Democratic primaries. Once Carter was elected, the musicians became frequent guests in the White House. The surprisingly significant role that music played throughout Carter’s life and in his work becomes a thread in this engaging portrait of one of the most enigmatic Presidents in American history.” Click the image below to watch the trailer and pre-order access to the film.
Synopsis for OUR TIME MACHINE: Rated 100% Fresh, this film will become available in our Virtual Cinema on Sept. 11. “Shaken by the news of his father’s dementia, artist Maleonn creates “Papa’s Time Machine,” a wondrous time-travel adventure performed on stage with life-size mechanical puppets. Through the play’s production, he confronts his own mortality. Maleonn finds grace and unexpected joy in this moving meditation on art, the agonies of love and loss, and the circle of life.” VARIETY calls it “Moving… Compelling… A thoughtful, sensitive, brilliant subject.” SCREEN DAILY says, “An uplifting celebration of the love between a son and his father.” Click the image below to watch the trailer and pre-order access to the film for $12!
Synopsis for MEETING THE BEATLES IN INDIA: Starts Sept. 11 in our Virtual Cinema! “In 1968, with the eyes of the world upon them, The Beatles traveled to Rishikesh, India, to study transcendental meditation with Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. In one of the most anticipated Beatles documentaries, Filmmaker Paul Saltzman, retraces his journey of 50 years ago when he spent a life-changing time with John, Paul, George and Ringo. Fifty years later he reveals previously unknown details of this pivotal moment in the Beatles’ career and the inner workings of the masterful White Album. Starting with ‘Bungalow Bill’ in Hawaii; connects with David Lynch about his own inner journey; as well as preeminent Beatles historian, Mark Lewisohn; Academy Award nominated film composer, Laurence Rosenthal.: and Pattie and Jenny Boyd. And much of this is due to Saltzman’s own daughter, Devyani, reminding him that he had put away and forgotten these remarkably intimate photographs of that time in 1968.” Click the image below
To find out about all the films that we’re offering virtually, please visit our Virtual Cinema page on our official site.  Here’s the LINK.
Last night, I had a fun chat with a couple former NEON employees about the film VINYL NATION – a documentary we are offering in our Virtual Cinema.  Tomiwa works in L.A. with film and television music and Luke is the owner of Skeleton Dust Records in downtown Dayton.  I greatly appreciate them taking time to share their responses to the film.  If you weren’t able to join us on-line, you can check out a recording of that discussion HERE.
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Wanna know what’s coming down the road in our virtual cinema? (Click any title to watch that film’s trailer.)  On September 18, we’ll bring the film festival hit BLACKBIRD – starring Susan Sarandon, Kate Winslet and Sam Neill. And then on September 23, we’ll start the touching and inspiring documentary OLIVER SACKS: HIS OWN LIFE. And finally, on September 25, we’ll start THE ARTIST’S WIFE – featuring incredible performances from Lena Olin and Bruce Dern. On October 2, we’ll open the award-winning coming-of-age film ONCE UPON A RIVER. More to come!
“All Access” passes for The 15th Annual Dayton LGBT Film Festival are now on sale.  We had to make a major pivot this year to make the festival happen – so about 90% of it will take place virtually.  A $50 pass will get you access to all 6 virtual screenings (5 features and a package of shorts) as well as a ticket to our one in-person package – TOP DRAWER SHORTS VOL #2.  The line-up is strong, and we’re still ironing out lots of details (virtual filmmaker Q&A’s, video work with our sponsors, etc.).  Click the image below to check out all that we have posted so far…and get your pass ASAP.  The festival is set for Oct. 9-15. Virtual components will be accessible to anyone in Ohio…so please help spread the word. (The image below is from the incredible documentary AHEAD OF THE CURVE.)
Did you know that THE NEON is included in the new downtown DORA program?  DORA stands for “Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area.” If you’re out and about in the Oregon District, you can swing by THE NEON and get a beer or cocktail to go.  We’ll pour it in a special cup, and you can walk through the Oregon District while you enjoy your beverage.  This policy is good daily from Noon until 10:00…but on weekends for the next few weeks, 5th Street will be blocked off in the Oregon District – so you can socialize and grab dinner while maintaining lots of outdoor distance.
We hope to see you soon!
Be safe & well.
My best,
Jonathan

The Latest from The Neon: ALL IN News + 2 New Virtual Films!

By

Hello Neon Fans,
We’ve got some good news.  This past weekend’s films performed well enough to stick around!  We’re going to keep both FATIMA and THE PERSONAL HISTORY OF DAVID COPPERFIELD until we open the new, powerful film about voter suppression next Wednesday – ALL IN: THE FIGHT FOR DEMOCRACY – featuring Stacey Abrams.
This Friday, in our Virtual Cinema, we will introduce two new films – CRITICAL THINKING with John Leguizamo and a documentary about the resurgence of records – VINYL NATION.  (And just wait until you see other Virtual Cinema titles coming down the road…from Jimmy Carter to Susan Sarandon to The Beatles!)
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Continued In-Person Screenings:
THE PERSONAL HISTORY OF DAVID COPPERFIELD – In-Person Engagement: Click the image below to watch the trailer.
FATIMA – In-Person Engagement:  Click the image below to watch the trailer.
Starting Next Wednesday – In-Person Screenings:
Synopsis for ALL IN: THE FIGHT FOR DEMOCRACY: Opening Sept. 9! “ALL IN: THE FIGHT FOR DEMOCRACY examines the often overlooked, yet insidious issue of voter suppression in the United States. The film interweaves personal experiences with current activism and historical insight to expose a problem that has corrupted our democracy from the very beginning. With the perspective and expertise of Stacey Abrams, the former Minority Leader of the Georgia House of Representatives, the documentary offers an insider’s look into laws and barriers to voting that most people don’t even know is a threat to their basic rights as citizens of the United States.” (Amazon) Click the image below to watch the trailer.
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New in our Virtual Cinema:
Synopsis for CRITICAL THINKING: Available September 4th! “It’s 1998 in Miami. Rampant poverty, broken families, and a prejudiced system push underprivileged youth to the fringes of society. But for a magnetic group of teens, there’s a reprieve. A game where it’s not about where you come from, but how you play. That equalizer is chess. Mr. ‘T’ Martinez, a chess militant and passionate coach, leads them to a completely foreign field of battle: the National Chess Championship. With an underfunded school district, Martinez and his team can’t just waltz into the arena. They have to fight for it. Chess runs parallel to their own experiences as Martinez teaches them that the power of Critical Thinking can not only save their kings, but also their lives.” Click the image below to watch the trailer and pre-order 72 hour access for $6.99
Synopsis for VINYL NATION: “The vinyl record renaissance over the past decade has brought new fans to a classic format and transformed our idea of a record collector: younger, both male and female, multicultural. This same revival has made buying music more expensive, benefited established bands over independent artists and muddled the question of whether vinyl actually sounds better than other formats. VINYL NATION digs into the crates of the record resurgence in search of truths set in deep wax: Has the return of vinyl made music fandom more inclusive or divided? What does vinyl say about our past here in the present? How has the second life of vinyl changed how we hear music and how we listen to each other?” Click image below to watch the trailer and gain 72 hour access for $12. On Tuesday, September 8 at 7:00, you can join our Facebook Live event – where we will discuss the film with special guests. Two of our guests will be former NEON employees who now work in different aspects of the music business – Luke Tandy owns Skeleton Dust Records and Tomiwa Balogun lives in L.A. and works for Warner Music.  Stay tuned to our Facebook Page for more details!
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Continuing in our Virtual Cinema:
Synopsis for MR. SOUL – Virtual Cinema: “Before Oprah, before Arsenio, there was MR. SOUL! Ellis Haizlip ensures the Revolution will be televised, with “SOUL!,” America’s first ‘Black Tonight Show.’ …Featuring rare live performances and interviews from the legendary Al Green, heavyweight champion Muhammad Ali, Sidney Poitier, Cicely Tyson, James Baldwin, Nikki Giovanni, The Last Poets, Gladys Knight, Stevie Wonder, Earth Wind & Fire, Ashford & Simpson, Harold Melvin and the Bluenotes, Billy Preston, Black Ivory, The Delfonics, Bill Withers, Sonia Sanchez, Wilson Pickett, Odetta, Merry Clayton, Mandrill, Kool & the Gang, Toni Morrison, Kathleen Cleaver, Betty Shabazz, Stokely Carmichael, Mrs. Georgia Jackson, George Faison, Patti LaBelle, Rahsaan Roland Kirk and many more.” Click the image below to watch the trailer and pre-order 72 hour access for $12.
Synopsis for MADE IN BANGLADESH – Virtual Cinema: Rated “100% FRESH!”  “Shimu, 23, works in a clothing factory in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Faced with difficult conditions at work, she decides to start a union with her co-workers. Despite threats from the management and disapproval of her husband, Shimu is determined to go on.” Click the image below to watch the trailer and pre-order 48 access to the film for $10.
Synopsis for HOUSE OF CARDIN – Virtual Cinema: Rated “100% FRESH!” “A rare peek into the mind of a genius, an authorized feature documentary chronicling the life and design of Pierre Cardin.” This film will open in our Virtual Cinema on Friday, Aug. 28 for $10…but accessing it is a little different.  Click the image below to watch the trailer, and if you want to proceed, click on pre-order the film.  You will have to create an account with your email address and credit car.  And upon checking out, be sure to use the code “neon” to get a $2 discount (this will also let the site know that we sent you here – thus giving THE NEON credit).
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Wanna know what’s coming down the road in our virtual cinema? (Click any title to watch that film’s trailer.)  On September 9, we will open JIMMY CARTER: ROCK&ROLL PRESIDENT. On September 11, we’ll open two new films – first is a lovely film about a family dealing with Alzheimer’s and a autobiographical stage play they produce before memories are lost forever – OUR TIME MACHINE – second is the highly anticipated documentary MEETING THE BEATLES IN INDIA. On September 18, we’ll bring the film festival hit BLACKBIRD – starring Susan Sarandon, Kate Winslet and Sam Neill. And then on September 23, we’ll start the touching and inspiring documentary OLIVER SACKS: HIS OWN LIFE. And finally, on September 25, we’ll start THE ARTIST’S WIFE – featuring incredible performances from Lena Olin and Bruce Dern. More to come!
We hope to see you soon!
Be safe & well.
My best,
Jonathan

At the Neon: Ethan Hawke in TESLA and Jacki Weaver in STAGE MOTHER

By

Hello NEON Fans!
We’re bringing new films in across the board this week – both in-person and virtually.  That said, we’re keeping a couple too.  We thought we were done with MADE IN ITALY…but it performed better than anticipated and merits a few more screenings – so we’re bringing it back for the weekend.  If you haven’t had a chance to see HOW TO BUILD A GIRL, FARGO or THE BIG LEBOWSKI, Thursday will be your last chance.  On Friday, we’ll start a period drama about the scientist Nikola Tesla starring Ethan Hawke – TESLA.  We will also open a funny and touching film about a deeply religious woman who inherits her son’s gay bar – STAGE MOTHER – starring the incredible, Oscar-nominated Jacki Weaver.  And BURNT ORANGE HERESY will stick around for one show per day for one more week.
In our virtual cinema, today marks the start of a new documentary that uncovers some dark secrets in American history – COUP 53.  On Friday, we’ll virtually start Barbara Kopple’s thrilling new doc DESERT ONE.
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New In-Person Screenings:
Synopsis for TESLA – In-Person Engagement: “”Brilliant, visionary Nikola Tesla (Ethan Hawke) fights an uphill battle to bring his revolutionary electrical system to fruition, then faces thornier challenges with his new system for worldwide wireless energy. The film tracks Tesla’s uneasy interactions with his fellow inventor Thomas Edison (Kyle MacLachlan) and his patron George Westinghouse (Jim Gaffigan).  Another thread traces Tesla’s sidewinding courtship of financial titan J.P. Morgan (Donnie Keshawarz), whose daughter Anne (Eve Hewson) takes a more than casual interest in the inventor.  Anne analyzes and presents the story as it unfolds, offering a distinctly modern voice to this scientific period drama which, like its subject, defies convention.” (IFC Films) Click the image below to watch the trailer.
Synopsis for STAGE MOTHER – In-Person Engagement:  “When conservative, Texas church-choir director Maybelline inherits her recently deceased son’s drag club, she surprises her closed-minded husband and everyone else she knows by moving alone to San Francisco to save the club from bankruptcy. In this raucous, racy new environment, she begins to open up and find new meaning for her life, even becoming a mother-figure to the club’s flamboyant performers… until a surprise visit threatens to upend her new life.” (Momentum Pictures) Click the image below to watch the trailer.
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New to our Virtual Cinema:
Synopsis for COUP 53: Allen Hunter of SCREEN DAILY says the film is “as compelling as a John Le Carre novel or a Costa-Gavras classic.” THE HOLLYWOOD REPORTER raves, “Passionate, Fearless and Jaw-Dropping.” And VARIETY says this doc is full of “Spine-Tingling Revelations.” And in addition to the documentary, you’ll get bonus footage starting tomorrow, August 20 – an exclusive live Q&A with Ralph Feines, the editor Walter Murch and director Taghi Amirani! “The story of the 1953 Anglo – American coup in Iran that overthrew the democratically elected Prime Minister Mossadegh and reinstalled the Shah. Featuring never seen before archive which had been hidden for decades. While making a documentary about the Anglo – American coup in Iran in 1953, Iranian director Taghi Amirani and editor Walter Murch (Apocalypse Now, The Conversation, The English Patient) discover extraordinary never seen before archive material hidden for decades. The 16mm footage and documents not only allow the filmmakers to tell the story of the overthrow of the Iranian government in unprecedented detail, but also lead to explosive revelations about dark secrets buried for 67 years. What begins as a history documentary about 4 days in August 1953 turns into a live investigation, taking the filmmakers into uncharted cinematic waters. The roots of Iran’s volatile relationship with Britain and America has never been so forensically and dramatically exposed.”  Click the picture below to gain access to the film for $12.  (Once you start watching, you’ll have 24 hours to complete watching.)
Synopsis for DESERT ONE: Opens Virtually Aug.21! Master filmmaker Barbara Kopple has crafted a new documentary that plays like a thriller. “Using new archival sources and unprecedented access to key players on both sides, master documentarian Barbara Kopple (Harlan County, USA) reveals the true story behind one of the most daring rescues in modern US history: a secret mission to free hostages captured during the 1979 Iranian revolution.” Click the image below to watch the trailer and pre-order access to the film for $12.
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Continuing in our Virtual Cinema:

Synopsis for CREEM – Virtual Cinema:  “Capturing the messy upheaval of the ’70s just as rock was re-inventing itself, CREEM: AMERICA’S ONLY ROCK ‘N’ ROLL MAGAZINE explores CREEM Magazine’s humble beginnings in post-riot Detroit, follows its upward trajectory from underground paper to national powerhouse…” Click the image below to watch the trailer and gain 72 hour access to the film for $9.99.
Synopsis for JAZZ ON A SUMMER’S DAY – Virtual Cinema:  “Filmed at the 1958 Newport Jazz Festival in Rhode Island and directed by world-renowned photographer, Bert Stern. JAZZ ON A SUMMER’S DAY features intimate performances by an all-star line-up of musical legends including Louis Armstrong, Thelonius Monk, Gerry Mulligan…This 1959 classic is considered one of the most extraordinary and possibly the first concert film ever made.” (Kino Lorber) Click on the image below to visit the site where you can watch the trailer and gain 5 day access to the film for $10.

Synopsis for REPRESENT – Virtual Cinema:  “Equal parts personal and political, REPRESENT follows three women on both sides of the aisle who share the singular goal of improving their community through public service.” (Music Box Films) Click the image below to watch the trailer and pre-order 72 hour access to the film for $12.  (This film will be available starting Friday.)

Check out all the titles we’re currently offering in our Virtual Cinema HERE.
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Wanna know what’s coming down the road in our virtual cinema? (Click any title to watch that film’s trailer.)  On Aug 28, we’ll open an award-winning, crowd-favorite narrative MADE IN BANGLADESH as well as an award-winning, fascinating doc MR. SOUL!  Also on Aug. 28, we’ll open a fascinating fashion doc – HOUSE OF CARDIN. On Sept 4, we’ll open a doc about the growing love of records – VINYL NATION as well as an inspiring film about underprivileged students learning chess starring John Leguizamo – CRITICAL THINKING. On September 11, we’ll open a lovely film about a family dealing with Alzheimer’s and a autobiographical stage play they produce before memories are lost forever – OUR TIME MACHINE. More to come!
We hope to see you soon!
Be safe & well.
My best,
Jonathan

Lebowski, Fargo & How To Build A Girl!

By

Hello NEON Fans!
We’ve got to keep moving.  This Friday, we’re bringing 3 films for in-person screenings – one is a new movie that I loved at last year’s Toronto International Film Fesitval and 2 are contemporary classics.  In addition, we’ve got some new selections in our Virtual Cinema!  If you still need to see MADE IN ITALY, it will screen for one show per day this weekend, and BURNT ORANGE HERESY will stick around for one more week.
Regarding new films, Beanie Feldstein is quite spectacular in HOW TO BUILD A GIRL (if you haven’t seen her in last year’s BOOKSMART, I highly recommend it – perhaps the best teenage comedy of the last decade).  HOW TO BUILD A GIRL is a great coming-of-age story that’s funny, heartbreaking and quite a trip.  It’s based on the much-loved, semi-autobiographical novel by Caitlin Moran. In addition, we’re bringing 2 Coen Brothers films that audiences adore – THE BIG LEBOWSKIand FARGO.  Our virtual cinema just added 2 new offerings – the rock ‘n’ roll magazine documentary CREEM and the recently restored classic doc JAZZ ON A SUMMER’S DAY.  On Friday, we’ll virtually open an inspiring new documentary about three women running for office – REPRESENT.
Almost everyone who has attended an in-person screening at THE NEON over the past 5 weeks has expressed how safe they have felt coming into our lobby and auditoriums.  We appreciate that, but we know that so many people still aren’t comfortable coming out to public spaces yet.  Please remember that when you watch one of the films that we’re offering virtually, you’re still supporting THE NEON…and that helps so much.  If you haven’t watched any of our films virtually yet, please give them a try. Do you need a little tutorial regarding how you can access films on our virtual cinema?  Here’s a LINK for a brand new video I just shot with our new website features. You can easily watch any of our virtual offerings on your computer or laptop…but it only takes a couple more steps to watch via Roku, AppleTV or even via an HDMI cable.
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New In-Person Screenings:
 
Synopsis for HOW TO BUILD A GIRL – In-Person Engagement: “Johanna Morrigan (Beanie Feldstein) is a bright, quirky, 16-year-old who uses her colorful imagination to regularly escape her humdrum life in Wolverhampton. Desperate to break free from the overcrowded flat she shares with her four brothers and eccentric parents, she submits an earnestly penned and off-beat music review to a group of self-important indie rock critics at a weekly magazine. Despite being brushed off initially, Johanna clamors to the top of the 90s rock music scene by reinventing herself as Dolly Wilde – a venerable, impossible-to-please music critic with an insatiable lust for fame, fortune, and men. It isn’t long before the rapid pace at which Johanna’s life is changing becomes overwhelming. Co-starring Alfie Allen, Paddy Consindine, Chris O’Dowd, and Emma Thompson.” (IFC Films) Click the image below to watch the trailer.
Synopsis for FARGO – In-Person Engagement:  “Jerry Lundegaard is a car salesman in Minneapolis who has landed himself deep into debt. Desperate for money, he hires two inept crooks to kidnap his own wife in the hope that her wealthy father will pay the ransom, giving him enough cash to pay off his associates and clear his debts. But Jerry’s plan goes horribly wrong when the thugs kill a highway patrolman and two innocent bystanders, and the murders fall under the jurisdiction of Marge Gunderson; a pregnant but persistent police chief in rural Minnesota who starts to unravel the deadly scheme.” (Park Circus) Click the image below to watch the “vintage” trailer.
Synopsis for THE BIG LEBOWSKI – In-Person Engagement:  “‘The Dude,’ Jeff Lebowski is unemployed and as laid-back as they come. That is until he becomes a victim of mistaken identity, and two thugs break into his apartment with the errant belief that they’re strong-arming Jeff Lebowski – the Pasadena millionaire. In the hope of getting a replacement for his soiled carpet, ‘the Dude’ pays a visit to his wealthy namesake…” (Universal Pictures) Click the image below to watch the trailer.
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New to our Virtual Cinema:
Synopsis for CREEM – Virtual Cinema:  “Capturing the messy upheaval of the ’70s just as rock was re-inventing itself, CREEM: AMERICA’S ONLY ROCK ‘N’ ROLL MAGAZINE explores CREEM Magazine’s humble beginnings in post-riot Detroit, follows its upward trajectory from underground paper to national powerhouse, then bears witness to its imminent demise following the tragic and untimely deaths of its visionary publisher, Barry Kramer, and its most famous alum and genius clown prince, Lester Bangs, a year later. Fifty years after publishing its first issue, “America’s Only Rock ‘n’ Roll Magazine” remains a seditious spirit in music and culture.” Click the image below to watch the trailer and gain 72 hour access to the film for $9.99.
Synopsis for JAZZ ON A SUMMER’S DAY – Virtual Cinema:  “Filmed at the 1958 Newport Jazz Festival in Rhode Island and directed by world-renowned photographer, Bert Stern. JAZZ ON A SUMMER’S DAY features intimate performances by an all-star line-up of musical legends including Louis Armstrong, Thelonius Monk, Gerry Mulligan, Anita O’Day, Chuck Berry, Dinah Washington, and closes with a beautiful rendition of ‘The Lord’s Prayer’ by Mahalia Jackson at midnight to usher in Sunday morning. This 1959 classic is considered one of the most extraordinary and possibly the first concert film ever made. Its sparkling new  restoration by IndieCollect, recently premiered at the 57th New York Film Festival. The film was named to the National Film Registry in 1999, and its restoration was funded by the National Film Preservation Board of the Library of Congress in time to celebrate the film’s 60th Anniversary.” (Kino Lorber) Click on the image below to visit the site where you can watch the trailer and gain 5 day access to the film for $10.

Synopsis for REPRESENT – Virtual Cinema:  “Equal parts personal and political, REPRESENT follows three women on both sides of the aisle who share the singular goal of improving their community through public service. Myya attempts to spark a youth movement and unseat the incumbent mayor of Detroit; Bryn, a farmer and working mother in Granville, OH, runs for township trustee; and Julie walks a tightrope between her identities as a Korean immigrant and Republican candidate for State Representative in a liberal Chicago suburb.” (Music Box Films) Click the image below to watch the trailer and pre-order 72 hour access to the film for $12.  (This film will be available starting Friday.)

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Continuing in our Virtual Cinema:
Synopsis for OUT STEALING HORSES – Virtual Cinema:  “Adapted from the bestselling novel, OUT STEALING HORSES follows 67-year-old Trond (Stellan Skarsgård) in the winter of 1999, still grieving the death of his wife as he retires to a solitary life in the Norwegian woods. Trond prepares to welcome the new millennium alone, until a chance encounter with his only neighbor, Lars, rekindles dormant memories from the summer of 1948-the summer Trond grew up.” (Magnolia Pictures)  Click the image below to watch the trailer and pre-order 72 hour access to the film for $12.  The film will be available starting this Friday! Immediately following the film there ix a pre-recorded discussion between Stellan Skarsgård and filmmaker Hans Petter Moland. This conversation is exclusive to in-person & virtual cinemas!
Synopsis for GORDON LIGHTFOOT: IF YOU COULD READ MY MIND – Virtual Cinema:  When in-person screenings end on Thursday, our virtual engagement of this film will start Friday. “An exploration into the career, music and influence of the iconic musician. With unprecedented access to the artist and featuring interviews with Sarah McLachlan, Alec Baldwin and more, this intimate documentary follows Lightfoot’s evolution from choirboy in rural Canada to troubled troubadour.” (Greenwich Entertainment) Click the image below to watch the film’s trailer and pre-order 72 hour access to the film for $12.
Check out all the titles we’re currently offering in our Virtual Cinema HERE.
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Wanna know what’s coming down the road in our virtual cinema? (Click any title to watch that film’s trailer.)  On August 21, we’ll open the new film from master-documentarian Barbara Kopple –  DESERT ONE.  On Aug 28, we’ll open an award-winning, crowd-favorite narrative MADE IN BANGLADESH as well as an award-winning doc MR. SOUL! Also on Aug 28, we’ll open a doc about the growing love of records – VINYL NATION. On September 11, we’ll open a lovely film about a family dealing with Alzheimer’s and a autobiographical stage play they produce before memories are lost forever – OUR TIME MACHINE. More to come!
We hope to see you soon!
Be safe & well.
My best,
Jonathan
IN-PERSON SHOWTIMES for Wednesday, Aug 12 – Thursday, Aug 20:
BURNT ORANGE HERESY (R) 1 Hr 39 Min
Wednesday-Thursday (Aug 12 & 13): 3:30, 7:20
Fri, Sat, Sun (Aug 14-16): 1:20, 7:00
Monday & Tuesday (Aug 17 & 18): 3:15
Wednesday & Thursday (Aug 19 & 20): 7:00
MADE IN ITALY (R) 2 Hrs
Wednesday-Thursday (Aug 12 & 13): 3:15, 7:00
Fri, Sat, Sun (Aug 14-16): 4:00
FINAL DAY – Aug. 16!
FARGO (R) 1 Hr 43 Min
Fri, Sat, Sun (Aug 14-16): 4:30
Monday & Tuesday (Aug 17 & 18): 3:30
Wednesday & Thursday (Aug 19 & 20): 7:20
THE BIG LEBOWSKI (R) 1 Hr 57 Min
Fri, Sat, Sun (Aug 14-16): 7:20
Monday & Tuesday (Aug 17 & 18): 7:20
Wednesday & Thursday (Aug 19 & 20): 3:30
HOW TO BUILD A GIRL (R) 1 Hr 42 Min
Fri, Sat, Sun (Aug 14-16): 1:45
Monday & Tuesday (Aug 17 & 18): 7:00
Wednesday & Thursday (Aug 19 & 20): 3:15
COMING SOON – In-Person Screenings:
(All Dates Are Tentative.  Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear)
Aug 21 – TESLA
Aug 21 – STAGE MOTHER
Aug 28 – FATIMA
Sept 18 – THE NEST
TBD – THE CLIMB
THE PERSONAL HISTORY OF DAVID COPPERFIELD

Ohio-born filmmakers come together to Make ‘The Big Ugly,’ starring Ron Perlman, Malcolm McDowell

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Directed, written and produced by Ohio native Scott Wiper, The Big Ugly makes its big screen debut this weekend at the Dixie Drive-In , followed by video on demand screenings next week.

The story of the film:  Neeyln (Vinnie Jones) has always been the loyal enforcer for crime boss Harris (Malcolm McDowell) back in London, taking care of problems and people that disrupt his illicit business. When Harris strikes a deal with an old friend – American oilman Preston (Ron Perlman) – they find themselves in the wild hills of West Virginia. Contracts are signed and the whiskey flows in celebration, but overnight Neelyn’s girlfriend disappears, last seen with Preston’s wayward son Junior. Lines are drawn between family and friends, but nothing will stop Neelyn from getting answers — and retribution.

Photos courtesy of 4G VISION

Dayton’s own  Karri O’Reilly, who served as a producer on The Big Ugly, befriended Wiper working with him on his early films in the ’90s, also said she had hoped to film the project in Ohio near her home in Dayton.

Karri O’Reilly

“I’m from Ohio, I love to work here. Scott’s from Ohio, he really wanted to do another movie here. Part of it was our bad, because we didn’t get in line(for the Ohio Film Tax Rebate), but it just shows why the tax incentive is such a critical piece to attracting projects, even homegrown projects,” O’Reilly said. “There’s nothing like making a movie at home.”  The movie ended up being filmed in Morehead, Kentucky  in six weeks over the summer of 2018.

Wiper and O’Reilly pulled from their Ohio networks to put together a cast and crew that drew in film industry workers from the state. That included Anne Taylor and Jaclyn Laravie doing makeup, Kevin Martt as best boy grip, Jane Streeter on locations, Mike Salamone as Grip, Jessalyn Lauree was an Asst to Malcolm McDowell, David Gewertz as background BG Wrangler, and many more.  Wiper estimated that about 75% of the film’s crew is from Ohio.

Many of the local film crew will meet up this Sunday at the Dixie Drive-In to see the film on the big screen.  Gates open at 8pm, the film will begin at 9:30pm. There will be a brief Q & A before the screening.

Wes Anderson, More Hitchcock, FLANNERY & More

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Hello NEON Fans!
We’ve got a whole new slate this week!  Audiences have been loving the classic Hitchcock films, so we’re bringing two more – Tippi Hedren in THE BIRDS and Hitchcock’s personal favorite, SHADOW OF A DOUBT.  In addition, many of you chimed in and said you wanted to see Wes Anderson films back on the big screen – so we’re bringing two big hits back – MOONRISE KINGDOM and GRAND BUDAPEST HOTEL (we’ll consider these the precursor to FRENCH DISPATCH – Anderson’s next film due later this year). In our Virtual Cinema, we just added a documentary about the famous author, FLANNERY, and on Friday, you’ll be able to virtually access NEVER TOO LATE.  If you need to see any of our current selections – MARNIE, REAR WINDOW, NEVER TOO LATE or BLADE RUNNER, Thursday will be your last chance to catch them at THE NEON.
In the past few days, I’ve been a part of two great virtual discussions. On Sunday, we assembled four special guests to talk about CREATING A CHARACTER.  If you’d like to check out that free discussion, click the image below.  If you haven’t yet seen CREATING A CHARACTER, here’s the LINK where you can gain 72 hour access for $12.  One of our special guests was WSU grad Jasmine Batchelor – she appeared in the documentary and is the star of another film in our Virtual Cinema THE SURROGATE.  If you haven’t seen her critically-acclaimed, incredible performance in this film, you can gain 72 hour access to THE SURROGATE by clicking this LINK.  On Monday evening, The Jewish Community Center of Greater Dayton invited me to take part in a discussion about THE TOBACCONIST.  You can watch that community discussion HERE, and you can gain 72 hour access to THE TOBACCONIST HERE.
On July 31, we will open 3 NEW films in person at THE NEON – THE FIGHT, SUMMERLAND, and GORDON LIGHTFOOT: IF YOU COULD READY MY MIND.  Please help us spread the word.  Social distancing measure will certainly still be in place…but results will help us determine how we need to proceed regarding our hours of operation.
 
Synopsis for THE BIRDS – In Person Screenings:  “Loosely based on the 1952 story by Daphne du Maurier, THE BIRDS focuses on a series of sudden and unexplained violent bird attacks on the people of Bodega Bay, California, over the course of a few days. The film stars Rod Taylor, Tippi Hedren in her screen debut, Jessica Tandy, Suzanne Pleshette and Veronica Cartwright. The screenplay is by Evan Hunter, who was told by Hitchcock to develop new characters and a more elaborate plot while keeping du Maurier’s title and concept of unexplained bird attacks. In 2016, The Birds was deemed “culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant” by the United States Library of Congress, and selected for preservation in its National Film Registry.” (wikipedia) Click the image below to watch the film’s trailer.
Synopsis for SHADOW OF A DOUBT – In Person Screenings:  We’re wrapping up our 6-film HITCHCOCK 101 Series with the film that was Hitch’s personal favorite! “Charles Oakley lives alone in a rooming house. One day, his landlady tells him that two men came looking for him; he sees the two men waiting on the street in front of his room and he decides to leave town. Charlotte (Charlie) Newton is a bored teen-age girl living in the idyllic town of Santa Rosa, California. She receives wonderful news: Her mother’s younger brother (her eponym), Charles Oakley, is arriving for a visit. Her uncle arrives and at first everyone is delighted with his visit, especially young Charlie. Uncle Charlie brings everyone presents. He gives his niece an emerald ring which has someone else’s initials engraved inside…” (wikipedia) Click the image below to watch the film’s trailer.
Synopsis for MOONRISE KINGDOM – In Person Screenings:  NEON audiences have expressed their love of Wes Anderson numerous times to us…so we’re bringing back a couple favorites! “Set on an island off the coast of New England in the summer of 1965, Moonrise Kingdom tells the story of two 12-year-olds who fall in love, make a secret pact, and run away together into the wilderness. As various authorities try to hunt them down, a violent storm is brewing off-shore – and the peaceful island community is turned upside down in every which way. Bruce Willis plays the local sheriff, Captain Sharp. Edward Norton is a Khaki Scout troop leader, Scout Master Ward. Bill Murray and Frances McDormand portray the young girl’s parents, Mr. and Mrs. Bishop. The cast also includes Tilda Swinton, Jason Schwartzman, and Bob Balaban; and introduces Jared Gilman and Kara Hayward as Sam and Suzy, the boy and girl.” (Focus Features) Click the image below to watch the film’s trailer.
Synopsis for GRAND BUDAPEST HOTEL – In Person Screenings:  One of our highest grossing and most beloved films of all time at THE NEON is coming back as we look at the work of Wes Anderson. See it back on the big screen the way it’s meant to be seen! “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 of a suddenly and dramatically changing Continent.” (Searchlight) The all-star cast of this visually stunning film is too lengthy to list (but I can’t help myself in mentioning Saoirse Ronan and Tilda Swinton)! Click the image below to watch the film’s trailer.
Synopsis for FLANNERY – Virtual Engagement: “Winner of the first-ever Library of Congress / Lavine/Ken Burns Prize for Film, FLANNERY is the lyrical, intimate exploration of the life and work of author Flannery O’Connor, whose distinctive Southern Gothic style influenced a generation of artists and activists. With her family home at Andalusia (the Georgia farm where she grew up and later wrote her best known work) as a backdrop, a picture of the woman behind her sharply aware, starkly redemptive style comes into focus. Including conversations with those who knew her and those inspired by her (Mary Karr, Tommy Lee Jones, Lucinda Williams, Hilton Als and more), Flannery employs never-before-seen archival footage, newly discovered personal letters and her own published words (read by Mary Steenburgen) alongside original animations and music to examine the life and legacy of an American literary icon. Content Advisory: This film contains offensive language, including an ethnic slur that-in an effort to retain the integrity of the literary works examined therein-has not been muted or otherwise distorted in the presentation of the documentary. Racist language was wrong during Flannery O’Connor’s lifetime and is wrong today. This film, the filmmakers and those presenting the film do not condone, support or promote the use of racist language in any way.” Click the image below to gain 72 hour access to the film for $12.
On Friday, we will begin offering NEVER TOO LATE in our Virtual Cinema. This senior-driven romantic dramedy stars James Cromwell and Jacki Weaver.  Starting Friday, you can click the image below to gain 72 hour access for $12.

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Continuing in our Virtual Cinema:
JOHN LEWIS: GOOD TROUBLE in our Virtual Cinema. Synopsis: “Rated “100% Fresh” on Rottentomatoes! “Using interviews and rare archival footage, JOHN LEWIS: GOOD TROUBLE chronicles Lewis’ 60-plus years of social activism and legislative action on civil rights, voting rights, gun control, health-care reform and immigration.”  Click the image below to gain 72 hour access to the film for $12.
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Wanna know what’s coming down the road in our virtual cinema? (Click any title to watch that film’s trailer.)  On July 31, we will open the doc about the resilient work of the ACLU – THE FIGHT (this one is also opening in person). Additionally on July 31, we will open Ron Howard’s latest doc REBUILDING PARADISE (Ron Howard’s doc about Pavorotti was a big hit for us – you can watch the trailer as well as pre-order the film via the link).  On August 7, we will open 2 new films –  GORDON LIGHTFOOT: IF YOU COULD READ MY MIND (which opens in person on July 31) as well as OUT STEALING HORSES.  More to come!
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We’re on the last leg of this little fundraising effort to help keep our numbers afloat. Through the month of July, for a minimum of $100 donation, your name (or company name) will be added to a new NEON t-shirt (which will go on sale later in August). Donations can be made in person or via the “donate” button on our official site…and of course you’ll get a complimentary t-shirt when they’re ready! Click the image below to visit our donation page…just be sure to leave your email address and the name you’d like on the shirt in the “notes” section upon checking out (max. 20 characters).  Thanks for considering!

We hope to see you soon!
Be safe & well.
My best,
Jonathan