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On Screen Dayton

John Waters special screening kicks off Yellow Springs Mini-Fest

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The Yellow Springs Film Festival is excited to announce its annual Mini-Fest this spring, with a new addition this year: an expansion to Dayton! The event kicks off at The Brightside in downtown Dayton, featuring a special screening of the cult classic Cecil B. Demented to celebrate its 25th anniversary, along with a Q&A session with its legendary director, John Waters.

The Yellow Springs Film Festival, which began in 2023, is a newly established film festival that has received widespread acclaim from attendees, media, and both local and film communities. For the first time, the festival is extending its reach beyond Yellow Springs, with organizers hosting an event in Dayton, thanks to generous support from The Berry Family Foundation.

“We’re thrilled to host one of our all time favorite directors screening one of his finest — and to expand into Dayton for our first event outside of Yellow Springs will hopefully engage more film fans in the Miami Valley,” Yellow Springs Film Festival Co-Founder, Eric Mahoney, shared with us. “The Brightside is such a fantastic room and we love partnering with them in bringing exciting events to town.”

Waters, who began his filmmaking career in the mid-60s, is renowned for his low-budget, provocative films that garnered a devoted fanbase, including Hairspray, Cry-Baby, and Pink Flamingos, among others. This event offers a rare chance to explore the creative genius of one of cinema’s most fascinating directors! 

Cecil B. Demented offers a thrilling cinematic experience. The story revolves around an independent film director and his rebellious team of teenage filmmakers who abduct a top Hollywood actress, forcing her to star in their underground project.

Limited VIP tickets are available for an intimate post-event Q&A with Waters. Grab yours now and be part of this extraordinary celebration!


How to Go?

Thursday, April 17th

Doors 6pm / Show 7pm

The Brightside, 905 E 3rd St, Dayton

$35 general admission seated

$100 VIP – Limited VIP tickets are available for an intimate post-event Q&A with Waters.

Ticket link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ysff-presents-cecil-b-demented-screening-with-john-waters-tickets-1247234555129?aff=oddtdtcreator

McCoy on Movies: LOVE HURTS

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Ke Huy Quan gets his kicks in action comedy LOVE HURTS

“I’m just here so I can punch your face!” Real estate agent (and former hitman) Marvin Gable (Ke Huy Quan) dodges an attack by King (Marshawn “Beastmode” Lynch) in a scene from director Jonathan Eusebio’s action romantic comedy LOVE HURTS. Credit: Allen Fraser/Universal Pictures © Universal Studios. 

WATCH THE TRAILER HERE:

KEY CAST MEMBERS: Ke Huy Quan, Ariana DeBose, Daniel Wu, Marshawn Lynch, Lio Tipton, Mustafa Shakir,  André Eriksen, Rhys Darby, Cam Gigadnet with Drew Scott

DIRECTOR: Jonathan Eusebio
 
THE BACK STORY: Marvin Gable (Academy Award winner Ke Huy Quan) is living his best life. He’s got a successful real estate practice, he’s got a nice home in the Milwaukee suburbs and everyone likes him, even his assistant Ashley (Lio Tipton) despite her obvious depression. Unfortunately, Marvin also has a past – a past that involved spending many years working under his brother Alvin (Daniel Wu), a.k.a. Knuckles, a criminal for whom he served as his top hitman. Marvin does have to contend with rival realtor Jeff Zaks (Drew Scott), who’s black belt approach to real estate is one he takes quite literal.
 
As it turns out, Marvin had one last job to complete before trying to leave the past behind: Murdering Rose (Academy Award Winner Ariana DeBose), who, alongside Renny (Cam Gigadnet) and Kippy (Rhys Darby), robbed Knuckles of $4 million. But since Marvin is in love with Rose, he just couldn’t do it. That’s a problem because once Rose resurfaces, so does Marvin’s past … And that means Knuckles, Renny, Renny’s would-be clean-up crew Otis (André Eriksen) and King (Super Bowl champion Marshawn “Beastmode” Lynch) – not to mention the mysterious, knife-wielding Raven (Mustafa Shakir) are all on the hunt for he and Rose. 
 
So what happens when a seemingly mild-mannered real estate agent is forced back into his old fatal ways? A lot – which is why Marvin is about to learn what they mean when they say LOVE HURTS.

 

THE REVIEW: 

 

After watching LOVE HURTS, a fellow critic and friend said two things, one of which I agreed with and another I did not. First, LOVE HURTS is definitely a film that, if this were 20 some odd years ago, Jackie Chan would have most definitely been feature in the lead role. That is not a knock to Ke Huy Quan, who is both believable in during the fight sequences and its mild-mannered moments due to the extensive fight training he underwent prior to filming. The point that I disagreed with is that Huy Quan deserves better, almost making it seem like the film was somewhat beneath him given its live-action cartoon nature.

Instead, I would argue that LOVE HURTS showcases a nice range of Huy Quan’s abilities, proving he can play an identifiable everyman with the ability to excel in an action film in addition to comedy or drama. While the film likely won’t find it’s true appreciation until hitting the streaming/home video market for a variety of reasons, LOVE HURTS isn’t a film that proves Huy Quan deserves better; it’s a film that once again proves he is worthy of more opportunities in larger roles. He is the film’s center in both its comedic and action-centered moments, a considerable achievement considering he is featured alongside one of HGTV’s Property Brothers as well as the national treasure that is Lynch.

Is LOVE HURTS a cinematic classic? Not at all. Is it a fun watch that you will likely enjoy more than you expect? Yes it is … And in a world where the serious nature of chaos around us is seemingly worse every day, that may be the film’s greatest gift.

 

 

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

 

McCoy on Movies: You’re Cordially Invited

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“Did you touch my drum set?” Jim Caldwell (Will Ferrell, left) talks with Margot (Reese Witherspoon) in a scene from writer/director Nicholas Stoller’s YOU’RE CORDIALLY INVITED. © 2023 Amazon Content Services. All Rights Reserved.

WATCH THE TRAILER HERE:

KEY CAST MEMBERS: Will Ferrell, Reese Witherspoon, Geraldine Viswanathan, Meredith Hagner, Jimmy Tatro, Leanne Morgan, Stony Blyden, Celia Weston, Jack McBrayer and Rory Scovel

DIRECTOR: Nicholas Stoller
 
THE BACK STORY: Jim Caldwell (Will Ferrell) is a widower who loves his only child, his daughter Jenni (Geraldine Viswanathan). So when she returns home to tell him that she’s engaged to her boyfriend Oliver (Stony Blyden) instead of that she’s moving back home, he is taken aback to say the least. Once the initial shock is gone, he decides to celebrate the occasion by booking their wedding at the same island resort he and his late wife got married.
 
Margot (Reese Witherspoon) is a successful reality TV producer living in LA who misses her baby sister (Meredith Hagner) dearly since she is kind of her best friend, daughter and husband all in one. But when she arrives on the scene with Dixon (Jimmy Tatro) in tow, she is ecstatic to learn they are also engaged and – surprise – pregnant – to boot. Wanting to ensure nothing but the best for her little sister, she books the same place they used to spend so much time as children having fun with their late grandmother.
 
But as hotel manager Leslie (Jack McBrayer) is soon to learn, his mother forgot to inform him that both Jim had already booked the same wedding date that Margot has. (Let’s just say she was indisposed – permanently.) And since the island can only accommodate one wedding per weekend, the two headstrong would-be wedding planners are going to do whatever it takes to ensure the special day for the bride to be.
 
Even if it results in near disaster. 

 

THE REVIEW: YOU’RE CORDIALLY INVITED is a movie you can tell the cast had a lot of fun making. The characters are likable enough, the run time isn’t excessive and it’s got a few decent guffaws in the mix to keep you watching till the end. 

 

And that’s about all you really need to know about the latest film from Nicholas Stoller, which is streaming now on Amazon Prime. Because if you already have the service, it’s a nice way to kill about an hour and 40 minutes of a Friday night in or a Saturday afternoon. But given the generally silly nature of the affair, it’s not going to be the movie that makes anyone sign up for added benefits from Jeff Bezos’ studio arm.

 

Witherspoon is at her best when she plays the woman coming to grips with her situation and realizing things about herself after interacting with others. Ferrell is at his best when he’s allowed to go fully goofy while being genuine yet stupid in the process. That’s why sometimes when the jokes feel a little forced and the situations too outrageous, the likable nature of the actors is called upon again – and again – to keep things going. There are times when the film feels like it would be better served going into more a focused tone with other moments feeling like it would be better going for the full joke instead of feeling restrained. Celia Weston adds a nice amount of balance to the mix with Leanne Morgan subtly stealing each scene she’s in, but the film feels like a diet version of some of Ferrell’s better work while trying to delve into some positive messages about family dynamics, but few people will remember that with the silliness preceding it. 

 

In short, YOU’RE CORDIALLY INVITED is fine for a short stay, but more than one viewing will be enough to convince most it has overstayed its welcome.

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

Submissions Now Open for Emerging Visions Youth FilmFest

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Emerging Visions Youth FilmFest is the only festival of its kind in the greater Dayton Region.

At Emerging Visions Youth FilmFest (Previously “The FilmDayton High School Film Festival”), our mission is to empower and celebrate the creative voices of young filmmakers in grades 6 through 12, providing them with a dynamic platform to showcase their unique perspectives and innovative storytelling. As a vibrant extension of FilmDayton, a distinguished regional film commission in Ohio, that advances the art, craft and business of film in the greater Dayton region, we are dedicated to fostering a supportive community that nurtures artistic growth, cultivates cinematic skills, and encourages the exploration of diverse narratives.

What makes this festival unique is the educational opportunity provided to students and teachers through our open judging event. Student are invited to screen their films in front of a panel of professional filmmakers and receive real-time feedback from the panel and their peers. Based on panel’s decision, the winning films will be screened at our Festival, the host theater for the final screening is TBD, and will be based on demand required and capacity needed to facilitate a pleasant viewing experience for filmmakers and guests.

Formerly the SunDog Film Festival which originated in 2003, previously participating schools include Centerville, Greenville, Kettering Fairmont, Hilliard Davidson, Kings, Miami Valley Career Technology Center, Stivers School for the Arts, The Miami Valley School, Upper Arlington, Wilmington, Yellow Springs, Ferguson MS, McKinney MS, and Franklin Jr. High.

Submit now via Film Freeway.
  • Earlybird Deadline
  • Regular Deadline
  • Notification Date
  • Event Date
Awards & Prizes

The top three films from each category will be screened at the Festival

The top 3 films in each category will be recognized as award winners, with the top winner in each category awarded a small prize package (TBD).

Additional Awards – Awarded a certificate:
– Best in Show – Highest scoring submission across all categories
– Judges Choice – A submission that is chosen by the judges to be recognized
– Best Storytelling – A submission selected by the judges that shows exemplary storytelling
– Best Cinematography – A submission selected by the judges for exemplary cinematography
– Best Wardrobe (Includes hair and makeup) – A submission selected by the judges for exemplary wardrobe and costuming
– Best Editing/VFX – A submission selected by the judges for exemplary editing or visual effects
– Best On-screen Talent – One person chosen from the submissions that showed exemplary acting, hosting or voice-over

Submissions MUST have been produced in the last 18 months (23/24 – 24/25 school years), be a student enrolled in a 6-12th grade educational institution in southwest region of Ohio. Submissions created as part of class assignments are accepted, as well as submissions produced independently outside of class assignments.

Your submission’s total runtime (TRT) must NOT exceed the five minute time limit. Credits are included in your TRT and credit runtime must NOT exceed 30 seconds.

All music and other copyrighted material (images, videos, etc.) used in the films must be properly licensed.

The Neon’s Family Holiday Film Series Kicks Off Saturday

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STARTING THIS WEEKEND! The Neon is bringing back an annual tradition  – a budget-friendly movie series for the entire family.

For the first three Saturdays in December at 11:00am, they’ll host movies that are free for kids 12 and under and only $2 for anyone else.

On Dec. 7, they’ll start with the Gene Wilder classic WILLY WONKA AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY.

On Dec. 14, it’s the animated treat HAPPY FEET

On Dec. 21, they’ll wrap up with the 1985 film SANTA CLAUS: THE MOVIE – with Dudley Moore and John Lithgow.

Tickets available only in-person starting 45 minutes before each show.  All members of a party must be present to claim tickets.

Local Filmmaker has Multiple Film Projects Ahead

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Jacob Stuart is collaborating with Dougie Brimson (CEO of Red Bus Movies, Green Street, We Still Kill the Old Way) to bring the true story of Roy Larner to the screen. Known as the “Lion of London Bridge,” Larner famously shouted “F**k you! I’m Millwall!” as he single-handedly fought off three terrorists during the 2017 Borough Market attack.

Actor Leo Gregory (Green Street, Top Dog) is set to portray Larner, with plans for crowdfunding to give the public a stake in this powerful story of resilience and injustice. Roy Larner will serve as a script consultant to ensure the film’s authenticity.

Get involved in supporting the project: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/jayne-jacob-369.

 

Mystery Thriller Daggers Inn Enters Final Stages of Post Production

Stuart, Consulting Producer on Daggers Inn, is thrilled to announce that the film, starring Terry Bamberger (Call the Midwife, The Good Ship Murder), has completed principal photography and is now in post-production. This atmospheric mystery thriller follows an enigmatic young woman determined to uncover the truth behind her sister’s murder in a secluded English village. Produced by Raya Films, Daggers Inn promises a suspense-filled narrative set against an evocative rural backdrop.

The production team is actively seeking finishing funds to complete post-production and bring this gripping story to audiences. The film will be available next year on most major VOD channels. To learn more about how you can support the film, visit https://rayafilms.com/daggersinn

Jacob Stuart is an internationally produced, award-winning screenwriter and producer whose films have featured renowned actors, including two-time award-winner Kevin Spacey, Alan Ruck, Costas Mandylor, Dave Sheridan, and Felissa Rose. As a screenwriter, his projects have included Emmy Award-winner Bill Oberst Jr., with many of his written works available on Tubi, Amazon, and more. Jacob is also the Founder of Screenwriting Staffing, an online community that connects screenwriters with industry buyers and employers. Over the past decade, Jacob has facilitated more than 300 deals, options, writing jobs, and representation agreements. Notably, he facilitated Bramble House Christmas on the Hallmark Channel, starring Autumn Reeser.

McCoy on Movies: Red One

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Red One an entertaining albeit mismatched,
well-meaning Christmas action movie

 
“So … You know I could beat Cody Rhodes, right? All I need is one WWE contract …” Krampus (Kristopher Hivju) sizes up Callum Drift (Dwayne Johnson) in a scene from director Jake Kasdan’s RED ONE. Credit: Frank Masi/Prime © 2022 Amazon Content Services LLC.

WATCH THE TRAILER HERE:

 

 

KEY CAST MEMBERS: Chris Evans, Dwayne Johnson, Lucy Liu, Kristopher Hivju, Kiernan Shipka, Mary Elizabeth Ellis, Wesley Kimmel and Bonnie Hunt with J.K. Simmons

 

DIRECTOR: Jake Kasdan
 
THE BACK STORY: Santa Claus needs a lot of help to make Christmas happen every year. From the trolls and elves needed to sort and organize toys to those who help keep his reindeer healthy, Nick (J.K. Simmons) has plenty of assistance. That includes Mrs. Claus (Bonnie Hunt) and Callum Drift (Dwayne Johnson), the head of his security detail working under Zoe Harlow (Lucy Liu), the director of an organization that keeps track of all the creatures of the mythical world. 
 
Jack O’Malley (Chris Evans), however, is only concerned with one person and one person only: himself. That’s among the reasons he will take on any nefarious job thrown his way, the man known only as “The Wolf” on the dark web specializing in finding people that can’t be found. Unfortunately for his ex Olivia (Mary Elizabeth Ellis), that doesn’t extend to finding time to spend with his son Dylan (Wesley Kimmel).
All their worlds are about to collide, however, once Jack helps an unknown client track down a secret location in the North Pole that just so happens to be jolly ol’ – and very in shape – St. Nick’s home. Who has kidnapped Santa Claus and why is a mystery Cal and The Director realize they can’t solve, so they decide to bring in some outside help in the form of Jack – and he’s going to help them whether he as a Level Four “Naughty Lister” likes it or not.

 

THE REVIEW: RED ONE is entertaining, thanks to the strong performances of the cast, its action sequences which don’t feel overtly hokey or forced and relatable story. However, given that the aforementioned action sequences and language are far too intense for anyone under 10, the message of the film is geared more towards adults and it’s length at just over 2 hours in length, it’s also a movie without a defined audience. While the film explores one of the lost staples of Christmas – seeing the goodness in others – it also cuts off the carrot off its snowmen’s respective faces by not quite fitting into one particular audience. 

 

For all his recent WWE and athletic prowess, RED ONE reminds us that behind Johnson’s physicality also lies a man capable of conveying emotion with a simple gaze, vocal tone or smile. Johnson plays well against Evans’ character’s very anti-Captain America-like behavior, which never feels forced or included for the story’s sake. It’s the classic “I don’t like you, I don’t like you either” polar opposites formula, but it works as both Evans and Johnson execute it well. 

 

The biggest standpoint performances, however, belong to the film’s lesser-known cast members.  

Kiernan Shipka’s portrayal of Gryla, the evil Christmas witch, is never out of place, helping to make her a formidable foe once she is introduced into the story, even her own personal backstory never truly comes into focus. It is Game of Thrones alum Kristopher Hivju, however, who steals the show as Nick’s half brother Krampus, so much so that if he were to get his own spin-off film, it might do better than RED ONE is likely to do on its own.

Overall, RED ONE is an entertaining affair, but its constant flip-flopping between wanting to be an action movie and a family affair makes for a balanced experience that ends up feeling unbalanced for the very audiences it seeks to attract. It’s sort of like Cars meets The Fast and the Furious, which while entertaining on their own aren’t exactly the easiest mashup to make work together. It’s got just enough to keep you watching, but not enough to truly hook you into adding it to your Christmas classics list.

To quote the Bible verse where the quote is found, “no one can serve two masters.” In the case of RED ONE, trying to make a Christmas action movie feels like trying to serve to audiences at once, possibly to its own detriment even though, in the end, it works better than it should.

If nothing else, one thing is for sure: You’ll never look at Rock ‘Em, Sock ‘Em Robots the same way ever again.

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

 

 

 

 

 

Horror-Comedy Crust Coming to VOD Soon

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Jacob Stuart, Executive Producer of the horror-comedy Crust, is excited to announce the film’s limited release in select theaters across the United States. Starring Sean Whalen as a once-famous, down-on-his-luck child actor turned laundromat owner, Crust follows his character’s strange journey as he finds unexpected vengeance when a pile of abandoned socks transforms into a cute, yet murderous creature.

Alongside Whalen, the film features the talents of Alan Ruck (Succession, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off) and Daniel Roebuck (The Fugitive, The Devil’s Rejects), adding star power to this unique monster story. Recently featured in Deadline and other publications, Crust is set to hit VOD on November 12th, with Blu-ray and DVD pre-orders available now on Amazon.

Stuart will be the guest speaker at FilmDayton’s Connections on November 20th at 7pm, where he’ll delve into the critical role of pitch decks and TV Bibles in today’s entertainment industry—a must-have for any project aiming to captivate investors and audiences alike.  Attendence is free for members, $5 for all else.

 

 

2nd Annual Dead City Film Fest Sat in Fairborn

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This Saturday is the 2nd annual Dead City Film Fest.  We asked Jordan Terrell, co-founder of the Fairborn Phoenix, about why he created this festival and he share with us “we created a film festival I would want to go to. Filmmaking in essence is a punk rock art forum. To get a film finished is an incredibly difficult task where everything is against you. It’s often Shoot now, ask for forgiveness later, don’t forget your bolt cutters and sell your car to finish the film.”

This weekend they will be  celebrating 20 films from local and world wide talent. 

A few films that will be screened include:

The Happiest Guy in the World – Lance Oppenheim – who just got picked up at A24 for his first fiction after his incredible documentary films Some Kind Of Heaven, Sperm World and Ren Faire

Local Talent Highlights:

The Zombie Defense — Jarrod Robbins and Jason Snellman from Fairborn
“You See What I Deal With?” —  Carly Baker from Middletown
Blood Geyser – John Maslowski – Mayfield Heights Ohio
Murdrum Joseph Job Gailey from Cincinnati
STONED by J.W. Cox from Middletown

World Premiere of Infernalis from first time producer Kira L. Wilson

International flavor
Cuban filmmaker with a spectacular film EYES – Braulio HernandezFrench Animations Sclera and Covoit Fatal
As well as a spectacular low budget gore horror from director Juanjo Avi of Spain Turno de Noche: The Wrong Place where a serial killer stumbles into a junkyard meeting the Scrap Yard Watchman.
The audience votes for their favorites by beer tickets. Winner of this year’s festival will receive a $1000 package from Midwest Grip and Lighting to help get their next film closer to the finish line.
After the films, enjoy a punch show by Sheller and Ace Slite.
Enjoy some food Food by Director’s Cut Food Truck

Sat, Nov 02, 2024, 3-10pm

 Dead City Film Fest
Fairborn Phoenix

34 S Broad St,
Fairborn, OH 45324

 

McCoy on Movies: PIECE BY PIECE

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Pharrell Williams gets animated in director Morgan Neville’s visually stimulating and inspiring LEGO® documentary

“You know, even as LEGO® men, no one know what the heck Daft Punk looks like under these helmets!” Daft Punk and Pharrell Williams take the stage in a scene from director Morgan Neville’s PIECE BY PIECE, a Focus Features release. Credit: Courtesy of Focus Features / © 2024 FOCUS FEATURES LLC.

WWATCH THE TRAILER HERE:

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KEY CAST MEMBERS: Gabriel Labelle, Cooper Hoffman, Rachel Sennott, Ella Hunt, Cory Michael Smith, Dylan O’Brien, Matt Wood, Lamorne Morris, Nicholas Braun, Kim Matula, Tommy Dewey, Nicolas Podnay, Ellen Boscov, Emily Fairn, Andrew Feldman, Taylor Gray and Mcabe Gregg with J.K. Simmons and Willem Dafoe

DIRECTOR: Morgan Neville
 
THE BACK STORY: Pharrell Williams is nothing short of a modern day musical wunderkind. He’s produced scores of hits for some of the biggest stars in hip-hop, R&B and even pop music, not to mention his work with his band N*E*R*D (No One Ever Really Dies) and his solo career. But how in the world did a kid who grew up feeling like an outsider in Virginia grow into one of the most influential music composers of the last 35 years? Through the magic of LEGO®, director Morgan Neville – along with 3D animated versions of some of music’s most important figures – seeks to explain how he built up his career PIECE BY PIECE.  

 

THE REVIEW: A story presented in a format that captures the childlike imagination, whimsy and dreams that inspired its subject, PIECE BY PIECE shows that there is not only life in LEGO® filmmaking, but why Williams’ story is one worth telling. In doing so, the film delivers a portrait of an artist that despite making millions, feels relatable to men, women and children worldwide who dare to be creative and follow their dreams.

 

An animated documentary, let alone one told through animated bricks – let alone one that has to follow scores of LEGO® films that were essentially comedies or traditional comic book-style tales – wouldn’t work for most people. With PIECE BY PIECE, however, we are given an extraordinary insight into Williams’ mind, the path he took to become who he is and the passions that drive him. But in exploring those passions and seeing how they impacted his journey, moviegoers are treated to a story visually is suited for children, but delivers insights directed at the inner child in all of us.

Director Morgan Neville makes wonderful use of the LEGO® format, using the notorious bricks many a parent has stepped on in the middle of the night to showcase different emotions with an Inside Out-like flair. The whimsical figures relay the happiness of Pharrell’s big break and realization of when he has a hit on his hands exceptionally; likewise, disappointments, failure and loss seemingly hit harder watching the animated spirit that is Williams’ fade in his darkest moments. PIECE BY PIECE works so well in both instances due to the inherent nature of both toys and, as its subject mentions in the film, the ability to use them to craft a world out of one’s own desires and creativity.

The LEGO® format allows Neville to bring the complexities of Williams’ creativity and worldview to life in a manner that might not work as well in a traditional format, leading to eye catching imagery memorable as the soundtrack. Remarkably, one needn’t be a Williams fan to enjoy the storytelling of the film nor catch the inspiration it provides (although it certainly would help – brush up on your Golden Era hip-hop and 90s R&B, kids!).

In inviting us to come experience his story, Williams will likely end up inspiring the film’s audience to go explore their own … And that, in addition to clever humor, perfectly sequenced storytelling and a thumping soundtrack, is what makes PIECE BY PIECE a masterpiece.

 

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

 

 

 

 

‘OUT HERE DAYTON’ FILM FESTIVAL kicks off Thursday at Neon!

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OUT HERE DAYTON FILM FEST is preparing for its 19 th  year of celebrating the best of
LGBTQIA+ films from around the world with the Miami Valley. Decisions were so hard to
make decisions that the festival decided to expand by an extra day.  Join OUT HERE at
THE NEON during the long weekend of Oct. 10-13 for 9 different screenings – featuring 25
short and feature-length films. And don’t forget the Friday Night Party – this year at Lily’s!
which is just a block away from THE NEON’s front doors.
Directors Luke Willis (LADY LIKE) and Caden Douglas (MOTHER FATHER SISTER
BROTHER FRANK) will be in attendance for Q&A’s following their films.
Tickets are $10 for each screening, and a scholarship button is available on the website’s main
page for anyone seeking complimentary tickets.
Visit www.outheredayton.org for more details.

Here is a look at the schedule for the beloved film festival:

THURSDAY, OCT. 10:
7:30
LADY LIKE – 89 min, USA/UK – dir. Luke Willis
The pages of Lady Camden&#39;s fairytale are filled with growth, discovery, and a true
passion for performance in this imaginative, heartfelt documentary. A student of
dance, Camden had performed ballet across many international stages before lip
syncing on the catwalk of RuPaul’s Drag Race.
Preceded by:
STAN BEHAVIOR – 15 min, USA – dir. Tyler C. Peterson
A drag queen (Ginger Minj) embarks on a quest for better workplace rights but
ends up in a dicey situation.
KINGS – 6 min, USA – dir. Eric Garcia
Two drag kings fall in love during a bathroom quickie.

FRIDAY, OCT 11:
7:00
THE QUEEN OF MY DREAMS – 98 min, Canada/Pakistan – dir. Fawzia Mirza
Queer Pakistani grad student Azra is worlds apart from her conservative Muslim
mother. When her father suddenly dies, Azra finds herself on a Bollywood-
inspired journey through memories – from her mother’s youth in Karachi to her
own coming- of-age in rural Canada.
Preceded by:
QUEEN SIZE – 19 min, France – dir. Avril Besson
This morning, Marina has an appointment with Charlie to sell her a mattress. This
evening, she will cancel her plane ticket.
9:30
Post-Screening Friday Night Party – Lily’s Dayton in the Oregon District

SATURDAY, OCT 12:
12:30
TOP DRAWER SHORTS – Pack #1.

3:30
A HOUSE IS NOT A DISCO – 91 min, USA – dir. Brian J. Smith
Gorgeous and emotionally charged, A HOUSE IS NOT A DISCO goes behind the
scenes of the infamous Fire Island Pines, a gay fantasyland on the East Coast,
to uncover real life pleasures and simmering conflict – capturing the energy and
ideas of today’s residents, as millennials connect with old timers to reframe the
focus and value of the community.
7:00
BOB MACKIE: NAKED ILLUSION – 105 min, USA – dir. Matthew Miele
Showcases the six-decade career of award-winning costume designer, Bob
Mackie. And like his costumes, Mackie is wholly unique and unfiltered, which
makes for a compelling and candid subject- with interviews including Cher, Pink,
Tom Ford, Miley Cyrus, RuPaul, Carol Burnett, and more.
Preceded by:
WOULDN’T MAKE IT ANY OTHER WAY – 21 min, USA – Hao Zhou
an aspiring costume designer visits their island homeland of Guam to make
costumes for a children’s theatre and reconnect with distanced parents.
9:45
MOTHER FATHER SISTER BROTHER FRANK – 86 min, Canada – dir. Cadan
Douglas
The Jennings family are having their traditional Sunday dinner. As tensions
reach a boiling point, an unwanted guest arrives: Frank, Father’s wayward brother. To what end with Mother, Father, Sister, and Brother go to get rid of
Frank? Mindy Cohn and Enrico Colantoni star in this comedy horror that’s full of
violence, gore and big laughs.
Preceded by:
THE DINNER – 12 min, Spain – dir. Jesus Martinez
There are some issues which cannot be left for later!


SUNDAY, OCT 13:
12:30
TOP DRAWER SHORTS – Pack #2

3:15
WHAT A FEELING – 111 min, Austria – dir. Kat Rohrer
A chance encounter at a lesbian bar brings two women of a certain age living
strikingly different lives together in this winning romantic comedy. Named after
Irene Cara’s classic anthem from Flashdance, WHAT A FEELING blends heart
with a lack of self-consciousness, telling a poignant story of new love amongst
two women in the “sandwich generation” while also never taking itself too
seriously.
6:00
TURTLES – 82 min, Belgium/Canada – dir. David Lambert
Now in their 60s, Thom and Henri are a married couple living an outwardly sweet
existence at their quaint home in Brussels with their pet turtles Topsy and Turvy.
As they celebrate Henri’s retirement from the police force, Thom sees this as a
perfect opportunity to rekindle their passion after 35 years. But Henri can’t cope with his newfound lack of purpose, and thus… the two start to drive each other
crazy.

McCoy on Movies: Saturday Night

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Jason Reitman’s dramedy brings to life the chaos behind the magic of the origins of Saturday Night Live

The teaser poster for director/co-writer Jason Reitman’s SATURDAY NIGHT. © 2024 Columbia Pictures. All Rights Reserved.

WATCH THE TRAILER HERE:

KEY CAST MEMBERS: Gabriel Labelle, Cooper Hoffman, Rachel Sennott, Ella Hunt, Cory Michael Smith, Dylan O’Brien, Matt Wood, Lamorne Morris, Nicholas Braun, Kim Matula, Tommy Dewey, Nicolas Podnay, Ellen Boscov, Emily Fairn, Andrew Feldman, Taylor Gray and Mcabe Gregg with J.K. Simmons and Willem Dafoe

DIRECTOR: Jason Reitman
 
THE BACK STORY: On Oct. 11, 1975, the world was introduced to the original Not Ready for Prime Time Players, a.k.a. the cast of a comedy and music program called NBC’s Saturday Night, known today as Saturday Night Live. Fast-forward some five decades later and Saturday Night Live – SNL for short – would go on to not just become a hit, but an institution that would go on to birth the careers of some of the biggest names in entertainment.

 

But for those in the know, it wasn’t always that way; in fact, the first episode of the now iconic show almost never made it to air. But if young upstart producer Lorne Michaels (Gabriel Labelle) – along with the backing of his estranged wife/staff writer Rosie (Rachel Sennott) – has anything to say about it, that’s not going to happen.

 

It seems that NBC’s cash cow, Johnny Carson, has gotten into a tiff with the network, making Michaels and his company a potential pawn for their ongoing negotiations with their star. But despite that – in addition to fighting actors, drug use, potential censorship, production problems and a network executive (Willem Dafoe) ready to pull the plug on everything, Michaels isn’t ready to give up anytime soon. For the show must go on, as they say, and in the case of Saturday Night, go on it shall.

 

THE REVIEW: Saturday Night is a lot like an episode of Saturday Night Live itself: It takes a while to find its footing, but once it does, it showcases the magic that has enabled the show to stay on the air for 50 seasons and counting.

 

Labelle captures the spirit of young Michaels perfectly, emulating everything from his famous brevity in conversations and the fine line between his confidence/anxiety to his ability to wrangle talent that often needs saving from themselves. Much like his real-life counterpart, Labelle’s performance is the glue that holds the film together, existing as the one constant in the sea of chaos that is and remains SNL.

 

Of course, Labelle wouldn’t be able to shine so brightly without the efforts of the cast, each providing an insight into both the absurdity of putting on a show like SNL and the humanity underscoring it.

 

Whereas Dylan O’Brien is terrific as the young, vibrant version of Dan Aykroyd that was bold, fierce and energetic, Cory Michael Smith embodies the on camera smug hilarity on camera – and documented egotistical terror off – that is Chevy Chase. Likewise, whereas Nicholas Podany, Taylor Gray and Mcabe Gregg capture the hungriness of young Billy Crystal, Al Franken and Tom Davis all hop sing for the chance to get on the air. Tommy Dewey perfectly presents the IDGAF nature of the late Michael O’Donoghue, Ella Hunt projects Gilda Radner’s eternal optimism to see the good in people and situations in spades. Cooper Hoffman’s embattled Dick Ebersol adds drama to the mix without ever feeling like he’s being dramatic for the sake of it, an important distinction that showcases his on screen skill.

 

Who arguably shines brightest in an ensemble cast about a show featuring an ensemble cast of differing personalities and experiences? Matt Wood and Lamorne Morris (no relation) as John Belushi and Garrett Morris, respectively. Whereas Wood hauntingly channels the mercurial complexity that was Belushi as both the artist and a man, Morris showcases the regalness and talent of the man with whom he shares a surname.

 

Then again, there’s really not a bad performance in the bunch, with everyone from J.K. Simmons as Milton Berle to Finn Wolfhard as an NBC page adding another ingredient to a near perfect dramedy recipe. If anything, one may feel a little melancholy for Laraine Newman as Emily Fairn’s portrayal comes across a tad like that of a small-town girl in over her head. (There also are hints at a romantic subplot with O’Brien’s Aykroyd that never come to fruition on screen, both in terms of portrayal and story.) Ironically enough, the film’s relatively unknown cast mirrors the spirit of the 1975 group of hungry performers looking for a chance, their performances showing the same talent and potential of their real life counterparts.

 

Of course, director Jason Reitman has to be given a massive amount of credit for pulling off Saturday Night as a film telling the story of the famed TV show. (A feat which he nonetheless does close to the actual show’s 90-minute airtime to boot.) The end result? A film that is essentially a love letter to an entity that has gone on to inspire thousands of comedians and actors over the decades by presenting all of the drama and hard work to entertain millions. 

 

That, in the end, makes Saturday Night worthy of a curtain call – or at least a viewing at your local cineplex.

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

TIFF Day #9 – 2024

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Hello NEON Community.

Today was my last day of screenings, and I officially passed the “30 films” mark.

My first film of the day was one I was eager to see – QUEER, dir Luca Guadagnino (Italy, USA) “Brilliant, audacious author, meet brilliant, audacious director: it takes risk to translate the work of William S. Burroughs for the screen, but Oscar-nominated filmmaker Luca Guadagnino’s (Call Me by Your Name, TIFF ’17) spin on the Beat legend’s autobiographical novel matches its source material in vulnerability and taboo-smashing adventurousness. Starring Daniel Craig and featuring supporting turns from Jason Schwartzman and Oscar nominee Lesley Manville (Phantom Thread), Queer is a hallucinogenic odyssey bathed in desire.” My first Guadagnino film at TIFF is one of my favorite memories…it was a screening of I AM LOVE – which is still one of my favorite films for the 17 years I’ve been attending the festival.  On top of that, other Guadagnino films have played very well for us at THE NEON – CALL ME BY YOUR NAME and CHALLENGERS are among them.  This story is told with magical and drug-induced imagery in wonderful ways, and the Craig’s performance is really quite wonderful.  The film is a slow burn, and I think it might grow on me in time…but about half way through, I was feeling underwhelmed (though I thought the last 20 minutes were very strong).  I had been told by some industry folks that the sex scenes were more than theater-goers could handle – so I was prepared…but in the end,  they weren’t as risqué as I’d thought they might be.

Next up was a complete surprise.  I like Tom Hiddleston & Chiwetel Ejiofor, so I decided to try THE LIFE OF CHUCK, dir Mike Flanagan (USA) “Mike Flanagan takes a detour from the macabre with this adaptation of a uniquely structured Stephen King novella that unravels a seemingly ordinary accountant’s world. The world feels like it’s ending and everybody’s saying goodbye to Chuck. Wherever Marty (Chiwetel Ejiofor) goes, he can’t get away from Charles Krantz (Tom Hiddleston). His face is showing up on billboards, window signs — even TV commercials. What’s so special about this seemingly ordinary accountant and why does he warrant such a sendoff?” (taken from TIFF catalog) This is told in three parts, and Part 3 is where we start.  It’s inventive and plays with genre in an interesting way (Part 3 is a scary end-of-days sci-fi genre (but seeming more like real-life these days) and Parts 2 & 1 are origin story dramas.  At the end of the day, it’s a film about memories and how we’re shaped as adults. Some may say it’s a little too saccharine, but I absolutely adored this film – and it is definitely in my Top 5 of this year’s festival!

My last film of the festival was from the “Midnight Madness” category – THE SUBSTANCE, dir Coralie Fargeat (United Kingdom, United States of America, France) “Demi Moore portrays a fading Hollywood star feuding with the manifestation of her younger self (Margaret Qualley) in this award-winning body-horror satire from writer-director Coralie Fargeat (Revenge)” (taken from TIFF catalog) This film has a lot to say about beauty and age standards for television and film (and even the general public), and it’s hyper-stylized.  It’s a kind of DEATH BECOMES HER directed by Cronenberg, and it’s very fun (and rather grotesque).  For the first 90 minutes, I wished we had booked it at THE NEON next week…but then it jumped the rails and became a full-on gore fest…I’m glad we didn’t. (I think a large part of our regular customers would revolt…plus it will be playing at the multiplexes.)  Overall, I personally liked it – but it absolutely not for everyone.

So that’s that!
32 Films (33 screenings overall – I saw 1 film 2 times), 2 sit-down interviews with a big star and a big director, lots of connections with other people in the business, 1 star-studded party and a couple good meals.  Thanks for coming along on this ride with me.  I hope to see you soon at THE NEON.

Take care,
Jonathan

 

TIFF Day #8 – 2024

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Hello NEON Community.

Things are winding down at TIFF.  Lines are shorter and energy is dwindling (especially mine)…but today had a couple nice surprises in store!

Nobody plays tormented better than Sarah Paulson…so I went to see HOLD YOUR BREATH, dir Karrie Crouse, Will Joines (USA) “Sarah Paulson returns to her home in genre work in this supernatural and psychological film from Karrie Crouse and Will Joines…In dust bowl Oklahoma of the 1930s, a mother (Paulson) nears the breaking point as she tries to protect her daughters from deadly windstorms and the impact of her own harrowing past. ”  (taken from TIFF catalog) Though the set-up was great and the photography is lovely (sometimes almost sepia-toned), this film didn’t trust its own material enough.  The addition of jump scares just for the sake of jump scares cheapened the experience.  Though this film is not without some wonderful, haunting moments (like when Sarah is sewing late at night and sews the fabric to her skin without realizing it), I can ultimately see why Searchlight has decided to move this one directly to the Hulu streaming platform instead of giving it a theatrical release.

The next film on today’s list was fantastic! WILL AND HARPER, dir Josh Greenbaum (USA) “This heartfelt documentary from director Josh Greenbaum (Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar) follows Saturday Night Live alumni and close friends Will Ferrell and Harper Steele as they traverse the US by car following Steele’s announcement of her transition.” (taken TIFF catalog). This roadtrip doc is full of friendship, laughter, and a desire to better know a friend…it also deals with some emotional truths that many Americans have never faced.  We were told at the beginning of the screening that we would be joined by special guests for a Q&A afterward…and it was delightful to process the film with the director, producer as well as Will Ferrell and Harper Steele!  Harper right away addressed the fact that many people who transition don’t have the resources or the support that she has had.  That said, the inner struggle and turmoil when deciding to come out was just as strong for her.  I highly recommend this film. It works! (the photo below is one that I snapped during the Q&A)

My last film of the day was an unsettling and transfixing period piece. THE GIRL WITH THE NEEDLE, dir Magnus von Horn (Denmark, Poland, Sweden) “In Magnus von Horn’s stylish and audacious blend of true-crime drama and expressionist nightmare, a young seamstress trying to survive in post-WWI Copenhagen makes a fateful connection with one of the era’s most infamous figures.” (taken from TIFF catalog) At the end of the day, this is a horror film.  That said, it’s not what you think of for today’s horror market.  It’s beautifully shot, the script is terrific, the score is inventive…yet there’s something upsetting and potentially sinister at most every turn.  It’s hard to say I “like” this film, but I do think it’s quite brilliant.

Tomorrow is my last day of films…and it’s likely going to be a short day.  I’ll at least hit 30 films by tomorrow – and I’m very anxious to see Luca Guadagnino’s new film QUEER – starring Daniel Craig.

Thanks for checking in,
Jonathan

TIFF Day #7 – 2024

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Hello NEON Community!

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

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

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

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

Jonathan

TIFF Day #6 – 2024

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Hello NEON Community,

I want to make sure I send a big THANK YOU to Dayton937 for allowing me to use their platform for daily postings while at TIFF.  It’s a great way to stay in touch with all of you while’s I’m on the road.

My first movie today was a BIG one.  It’s a musical set in many cities around the world (produced by France) – but mostly set in Mexico. EMILIA PEREZ, dir Jacques Audiard (France) “Featuring fearless performances from Zoe Saldaña, Selena Gomez, and the amazing Karla Sofía Gascón, the latest from director Jacques Audiard (Rust and Bone, TIFF ’12) audaciously merges pop opera, narco thriller, and gender affirmation drama.” (taken from TIFF catalog) I didn’t quite know what I was in for, but this musical, gangster melodrama took me for quite a ride.  I was a huge fan of RUST AND BONE over a decade ago, so I was intrigued to see what Audiard would do with a musical.  It’s big and bold and whirlwind of styles and voices – and it ultimately works in its sometimes frenetic style…and the three leads are really wonderful (Saldaña really shines).

Next on my list was RIFF RAFF, dir Dito Montiel (USA) “With an all-star ensemble that includes Ed Harris, Gabrielle Union, Jennifer Coolidge, and Bill Murray, the latest from director Dito Montiel (Man Down, TIFF ’15) is a pitch-black comedy about family, loyalty, and murder.” (taken from TIFF catalog) I 100% know there’s an audience for this film…It’s just not me.  Back in college, all of my classmates loved Tarantino.  He made a joke out of violence..and it was widely copied and embraced by numerous filmmakers.  I wasn’t interested.  The screenwriter for RIFF RAFF noted that several years ago, people read his script and told him “people don’t make movies like this anymore”…he then noted that the director fought to get it made and now people are loving it – he said, “it’s like the new old-fashion.”  The comedic use of shooting people – seeing their brains splatter on the wall..watching someone get their head bashed in…all surrounded by dialog that’s meant to evoke laughter – it’s all here.  It’s just not my thing.  (In addition – There’s some really bad idiot dialog in the beginning of the film to set everyone up…and then the use of bad voice overs – so even more reason for me not to like it.) The one aspect of the film I did like?  Jennifer Coolidge!  From her first entrance on screen to some key moments of droll delivery, she’s gold.

After meeting Jake at the train station, I scurried to my next screening – MISERICORDIA, dir Alain Guiraudie (France, Spain, Portugal) “The latest feature by acclaimed French writer-director Alain Guiraudie (Stranger by the Lake, TIFF ’13) is a deliciously twisted tale of sexual repression in a small town marked by death.” (taken from TIFF catalog) This quirky, sexually repressed, dark and funny tale is set in a very small, pastoral town (it seems to be populated by about 8 people), and it’s a slow burn.  With unsettling occurrences throughout, this story is a quiet treat.  The director was sadly not in attendance because the film is currently getting a release in France – and he had obligations to make appearances at many of those screenings.

My last film of the night was one I was excited to see – BABYGIRL, dir Halina Reijn (USA) “Nicole Kidman is captivating as a high-powered executive who risks everything when she starts a sexual relationship with an intern (Harris Dickinson) in this thrilling erotic drama from writer-director Halina Reijn (Bodies Bodies Bodies).” Sadly, I found this one to be a disappointment.  The audience was laughing and gasping at every turn…but I found myself quite often rolling my eyes and shaking my head.  Though Kidman’s performance is very good, I questioned a lot of the material and thought if felt repetitive.  It’s being billed as an erotic thriller, but I found very little thrilling or fresh material here.

Only three days of movies left!

Thanks for checking in,
Jonathan