Arts & Entertainment

TIFF 2015 – Day 1

September 11, 2015 By Jonathan McNeal

Hello Daytonians & Film Lovers!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

All the best,

Jonathan

Toronto 2015 – Day 0.5 (Pre-Festival)

September 9, 2015 By Jonathan McNeal

Hello Readers.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

And of course a little something with Dame Maggie…

Stay tuned.

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

Thanks for stopping by,

Jonathan

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

September 8, 2015 By Jonathan McNeal

Hello Everyone,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Human Race Goes Full Monty!

September 8, 2015 By Dayton Most Metro

The Human Race proudly launches its 2015-2016 Eichelberger Loft Season with the smash hit The Full Monty: The Broadway Musical. With a book by Tony Award winner Terrence McNally and music and lyrics by Drama Desk Award winner David Yazbek, the hilarious and heartwarming story follows six unemployed Buffalo steelworkers who, in need of quick cash and low on prospects, come up with the outrageous idea to put on a strip act after seeing the local women’s wild enthusiasm for touring Chippendales dancers.

Short on time and with little talent or physical appeal, the gang promises their show will be better because they’ll go “the full monty” and bare it all! As they prepare for the big night, they learn to let go of their doubts and insecurities—and their clothes—in this hilarious adaptation of the hit 1997 film from Fox Searchlight Pictures. The Human Race Theatre Company’s production of The Full Monty: The Broadway Musical is directed by Resident Artist, Distinguished Professor of Musical Theatre at Wright State University and new Dayton Theatre Hall of Fame inductee Joe Deer, who has also directed Avenue Q, Big River, Lend Me a Tenor and It’s a Wonderful Life for The Human Race.

The preview performance of The Full Monty: The Broadway Musical is Thursday, September 10. Opening night is Friday, September 11. This production contains adult language and situations and, as the title implies, a bit of full frontal male nudity. It is definitely for mature audiences only.

Human Race President & Artistic Director Kevin Moore has been enamored with the show since he caught a preview performance before it opened on Broadway in October 2000. “From the minute that overture started,” he exclaims, “I was like, ‘Wow! This is hot. This is fun. This show is amazing. We have to find a way to do this.’” He acknowledges the large size of the show, with its numerous scene locations and set pieces, will be a challenge to stage in the intimate Loft Theatre. “We have a history of taking large musicals—Man of La Mancha, Fiddler on the Roof, Mame—and adapting them to successfully fit the space,” says Moore. “Our audiences love it, we enjoy the challenge and we’ll do it again here with The Full Monty.” Aside from the title-revealing “dare to bare” moment, The Full Monty: The Broadway Musical offers audiences a great deal more than scantily-clad men. Moore praises its overarching subject matter, “It addresses parental devotion in how far a father would go for his son, how to find courage when there’s little to hope for, and the superficiality of body issues (this time, about men), and it does it all with genuine warmth, tremendous sincerity and outrageous humor.”

Joe Deer describes The Full Monty: The Broadway Musical as “an incredibly fun, high energy show. When people ask me what it’s about, I say, it’s like ‘Rocky meets Magic Mike.’” He admires the story about a group of men who are down on their luck, who manage to pull themselves together and redeem themselves and bring everyone up with them. “I love that,” he beams. “I think there is no better show for people in Dayton to experience right now because we know—as a city—what that’s like.” Deer sees the parallels between the personal and community-wide losses caused by the end of Buffalo’s steel industry in The Full Monty and the decades-long commercial and industrial losses felt by Dayton. “This was a mighty, mighty town and when the economy went south, when so many large businesses left, we were abandoned by people we had stood by.” He likens it to the show’s opening song, “Scrap.” “We felt pretty much abandoned like scrap. But what I love about this show is exactly what’s happening in Dayton right now,” he states. “We are being redeemed and lifting up. We are being revitalized in a whole new way.” Deer feels confident that audiences are going to come away from this show exuberant and recharged by its message and spirit.

Dionysia Williams, a Wright State University graduate and BalletMet Dance Academy faculty member, serves as the choreographer. Having performed in a previous production of The Full Monty, Williams describes her task as creating “character-driven” choreography for the show’s blue collar Buffalo citizens, “In the choreography, you’re going to see that the movement is very authentic as to who these characters are.” When discussing the show’s highly anticipated strip tease dance number, she says, “These guys will be slick. Maybe not Magic Mike slick, but in their own way.”

PERFORMANCE AND SPECIAL EVENT INFORMATION
Tickets for the preview performance of The Full Monty: The Broadway Musical on September 10 start at $35 for adults, $32 for seniors and $17.50 for students. For all performances September 11 – October 4, single ticket prices start at $40 for adults, $37 for seniors and $20 for students. Prices vary depending on the day of the week and seating location. Group discounts are available for parties of 10 or more. The Human Race is offering a pair of discount ticket opportunities. Side-area seats are available at all performances for $25 each, on sale two weeks prior to performance. The Sunday, September 13 7:00 pm performance is “Sawbuck Sunday”, when any available seat can be purchased in person for just $10 at The Loft Theatre box office two hours prior to the show. Discounts are subject to availability and some restrictions apply.

All performances are at the Metropolitan Art Center’s Loft Theatre, located at 126 North Main Street in downtown Dayton. Tickets and performance information on The Full Monty: The Broadway Musical are available at www.humanracetheatre.org or by calling Ticket Center Stage at (937) 228-3630, and at the Schuster Center box office.

‘Into the Woods’ Review – Dare to Defy Productions – It Takes Time

September 5, 2015 By Russell Florence, Jr.

Dare to Defy Productions beckons the imagination with its stark, minimalist production of composer Stephen Sondheim and librettist James Lapine’s 1987 musical dramedy “Into the Woods,” but the attempt doesn’t coalesce.

Presented at the Victoria Theatre under the direction of Mathys Herbert, this “Into the Woods” appears to be pulling in different directions with musical awkwardness and structural unpreparedness resting underneath the surface. Part of the problem lies in the odd conceptual atmospherics (there are no woods in these “Woods”) which confines the action within an ominous, nondescript locale with columns, tattered draperies, candelabras, and a large clock accented by an array of baskets, boxes, cabinets, suitcases, trunks, and trinkets signifying a cluttered attic or an abandoned house. However, this impressively detailed creation, attractively designed by Ray Zupp, suggests a setting more appropriate for Sondheim’s “Follies,” his beautifully melancholy 1971 musical about chorus girls reuniting one last time on the stage of a soon-to-be-demolished theater. Perhaps if Herbert opened the show with his cast taking the stage as random individuals eager to put on “Into the Woods” in a dilapidated setting instead of what seems like ghosts or mannequins merely being awakened in the dark by a spooky stranger waving a flashlight it would have made for a more effective transition into the tale, especially to avoid alienating newbies unfamiliar with the show’s foundation.
As the musical’s insightful, thought-provoking plot weaves an introspective, profound course through the desires and regrets of multiple fairy tale characters, particularly stressing the importance of community, sacrifice and survival, the players run the gamut from admirable to ambiguous. Considering the strengths of the cast – a fantastic conglomeration of actors from Wright State University, Sinclair Community College, Dayton Playhouse, Dayton Theatre Guild, Playhouse South, and more – issues of cohesion wouldn’t appear to be a concern but that isn’t the case. Perhaps some members needed time to find or fine-tune their character arcs or simply become more comfortable with the score. Sondheim isn’t easy, and there were many missed cues on opening night, orchestra included. And in terms of musicianship, I’m still wondering why Mimi Klipstine, offering a terrifically commanding and emotionally grounded portrayal of the Witch, was told to bring the gorgeous “Children Will Listen” to a slow, terrible halt before the finale?

If only this production featured more surprising, inspired, character-conscious moments of pure exhilaration specifically evident in Evan Benjamin’s thrilling rendition of “Giants in the Sky,” a knockout example of attacking an incredibly descriptive lyric with all the expressive astuteness one can muster (while filling the space!) in order for the audience to completely immerse themselves in every ounce of the journey presented. Thanks to Benjamin’s absolutely radiant breakthrough performance, the trepidation and joy within Jack’s life-changing beanstalk journey is a truly dynamic highlight. Along with Benjamin and Klipstine, estimable work extends to Zupp in a sweetly understated turn as the cursed yet determined Baker longing to be a father while coping with his past, a spunky Tori Kocher as Little Red Riding Hood, a regally vain Amy Askins as Cinderella’s Stepmother, pretty soprano Jackie Darnell as humorous, sheltered Rapunzel, Mackensie Vonderbrink as Cinderella’s conceited stepsister Florinda, and the quiet strength of Zoot Theatre Company puppeteer Eric Arntz as Jack’s faithful pet cow Milky White.
In addition to Zupp, Herbert’s commendable artistic team includes lighting designer Sammy Jelinek (certainly bringing her evocative expertise to “Last Midnight”), costumer Carolyn McDermott (particularly dressing Natalie Sanders in a lovely silver and gold gown as Cinderella), puppet builder Danielle Robertson, and sound designer David Meyer. Also, Herbert’s decision to showcase the vengeful Giant (intimidatingly voiced by Tia Seay) as a shadow puppet is inspired.
Dare to Defy doesn’t overreach with “Into the Woods,” but if given a few more days or midnights this show could have ascended to greater heights.

“Into the Woods” continues today at 2 and 8 p.m. at the Victoria Theatre, 138 N. Main St., Dayton. Act One: 85 minutes; Act Two: 60 minutes. Tickets are $25-$50. For tickets or more information, call Ticket Center Stage at (937) 228-3630 or visit www.ticketcenterstage.com.

Sword Fights in Garden Station

September 4, 2015 By Bryan Suddith

You read that right! Sword fighting in Garden Station. Among the garden plots of tomatoes, cucumbers and peppers a sword fight or two will happen this weekend. Dayton’s all volunteer BeSpoke Theater will be sharing their production of Macbeth for free this weekend. Bring a lawn chair and a few dollars for a cold 5th Street Brewpub beer and enjoy the show nestled into the back Garden Station.

Bespoke is one of Dayton’s newest production companies specializing in Classical Theatre. Shakespeare in the park is a lot different than enjoying a show in a traditional theater. The actors compete against the elements and surrounding environment. When Macduff has to pause for a passing train or Lady Macbeth has to enunciate beyond siren moving up Wayne Avenue. I was in attendance for the Sunday afternoon performance last week and found the benefits outweigh the distractions.

First, much of the story of Macbeth happens in the out of doors. The sounds of buzzing cicadas added to the story. Tonight’s show and Saturday’s as well will be visually more interesting as the torches come out as the sun sets in Dayton. Outdoor theater also allows the actors to bring the story withing feet of the audience. Having Banquo or Malcom run past you so close you feel it is an experience you normally don’t get in the Schuster or Victoria.

There are three shows remaining. 7:00 pm Friday and Saturday and a 4:00 pm start on Sunday. The show is free and donations are accepted at the end of the show. Stop in to Garden Station, soak up the city with a 5th Street Brew and take in some Shakespeare. The price point is perfect and the venue is perfect for children and families.

Noah Baumbach’s MISTRESS AMERICA at THE NEON!

September 3, 2015 By Jonathan McNeal

Hello Everyone,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Free Admission For Servicemen & Women For Call To Duty Exhibition

August 31, 2015 By Dayton Most Metro

The Dayton Art Institute will honor those who have served in the United States military with a special offer for the exhibitions Call to Duty: World War Posters and Tears of Stone: World War I Remembered, Photographs by Jane Alden Stevens.

On the first three Thursdays in September, all veterans, as well as active-duty, discharged and retired military personnel, will receive free admission to the exhibitions.

“The Dayton Art Institute is celebrating a ‘Year of American Art’ in 2015, and Call to Duty gives us the opportunity to recognize current and former military personnel who have given so much to protect our country,” says The Dayton Art Institute’s Director & CEO Michael R. Roediger.

Free admission to the special exhibitions will be offered on:

Thursday, September 3, 11:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Thursday, September 10, 2015, 11:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Thursday, September 17, 2015, 11:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Active, discharged and retired military personnel may show their military ID or DD-214 at the Guest Services Desk on those days to receive a free ticket for the exhibitions. This offer is good for one free adult admission per visit. Accompanying family members and friends may purchase exhibition tickets at the discounted rate of $11 adults and $9 seniors (age 60+). Exhibition admission is $6 youth (ages 7-17) and free for children 6 and under. Medically necessary caregivers will not be charged.

Call to Duty includes more than 80 original images from both World Wars that helped promote a variety of homefront efforts during the wars. The exhibition also includes related items on loan from the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force and the Dayton Chapter of the American Red Cross, as well as other original items, such as signed photographs of five-star generals and war bond books with local connections.

The companion exhibition, Tears of Stone, features haunting, large-format photos by Cincinnati photographer Jane Alden Stevens, depicting monuments, cemeteries and battlegrounds of World War I.

Both exhibitions are on view at The Dayton Art Institute through October 4.

For more information about the exhibitions, visit www.daytonartinstitute.org/calltoduty or call the museum at 937-223-4ART (4278).

Call to Duty and Tears of Stone are presented with support from Benefactor Sponsor Premier Health, Patron Sponsors DP&L, U.S. Bank and Wanda and Bill Lukens, Supporting Sponsors Suzi and Jeff Mikutis, Miller-Valentine Group, and the White Allen Family of Dealerships, with additional support from School of Advertising Art, Square One Salon and Spa, University of Dayton, Jessup Wealth Management and Taft/.

Call to Duty has been organized by the Reading Public Museum, Reading, PA, with additional loans provided by the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force, Red Cross Dayton, and private collections.

DMM Wants to send you Into The Woods Ticket Giveaway

August 30, 2015 By Dayton Most Metro

Dare to Defy Productions will open their 2015-16 season with Stephen Sondheim’s Tony Award-winning Broadway musical Into The Woods In this show you’ll meet characters from several Brothers Grimm fairy tales that weave together story lines taken from “Little Red Riding Hood”, “Jack and the Beanstalk”, “Rapunzel”, and “Cinderella.”

All these tales are woven together by an original story that involves a Baker and his Wife who wish to have a child, Cinderella who wishes to attend the King’s Festival, and Jack who wishes his cow would give milk. When the Baker and his wife learn that they cannot have a child because of a Witch’s curse, the two set off on a journey to break the curse. Everyone’s wish is granted, but the consequences of their actions return to haunt them later with disastrous results

Cast includes:
Jack – Evan Benjamin
Jack’s Mother – Amy Brown
Baker – Ray Zupp
Baker’s Wife – Kelsey Hopkins
Witch – Mimi Klipstine
Cinderella’s Prince/Wolf – Bobby Mitchum
Rapunzel – Jackie Darnell
Rapunzel’s Prince – A.J. Breslin
Cinderella– Natalie Sanders
Cinderella’s Mother/Granny/Giant – Tia R. Seay
Cinderella’s Stepmother – Amy Askins
Florinda – Mackensie Vonderbrink
Lucinda – Katie Hubler
Steward – Zach King
Cinderella’s Father – Jeffrey Campbell
Puppeteers: Eric Arntz and Juliet Howard-Welch

Into The Woods are 8pm on September 4th and 2pm and 8pm on September 5th, 2015. Tickets can be purchased online at my.ticketcenterstage.com or by calling the Box Office at 1-888-228-3630.

DMM has a pair of ticket for each showing to giveaway.

If you’d like to be our guest, tell us why and which show you prefer in the comments below and fill out this online form as well. Our contest is over, Congrats to Alicia, Chad and Donna!

Next up for Dare to Defy Productions:

Godspell will be presented in the Mathile Theatre, located in the Schuster Center, at 8pmon October 16th and 23rd and 2pm and 9pm on October 17th and 24th, 2015.

‘Outside Mullingar’ Review – Dayton Theatre Guild – Learning to Love

August 29, 2015 By Russell Florence, Jr.

The Dayton Theatre Guild’s 71st season opens with an outstanding local premiere of John Patrick Shanley’s 2014 Tony Award-nominated dramedy “Outside Mullingar,” a poignant look at romance between fortysomethings on a cattle and sheep farm in rural Ireland.

(l to r) Dave Nickel as Tony Reilly, Mike Beerbower as Anthony Reilly, Teresa Connair as Rosemary Muldoon, and Connie Fowler Strait as Aoife Muldoon in the Dayton Theatre Guild’s local premiere of John Patrick Shanley’s 2014 Tony Award-nominated romantic comedy “Outside Mullingar” (Contributed photo)

Deftly directed by David Shough, “Outside Mullingar,” sharing an Irish kinship to the plays of Martin McDonagh in terms of intimate authenticity, carries itself as contemporary (it begins in 2008) although it has a wonderful throwback quality at its core as if it could have been written 40 years ago. Neighbors Anthony Reilly and Rosemary Muldoon have been lifelong pals but due to mutual awkwardness and fear they never acted upon their obvious attraction, especially the shy, introverted and virginal Anthony whose heart remains crushed by the rejection he faced as a teenager from local lass Fiona. It is only through prodding and encouragement from the determined Rosemary, particularly in the excellently written final scene, that Anthony is able to release himself from his lonely, emotional shell and simply accept the possibilities a meaningful relationship can bring. As so, I can’t help but link Anthony to Robert in Stephen Sondheim’s “Company” considering both bachelors ultimately realize “alone is alone – not alive.”

Shanley, very adept at creating gender conflicts as evidenced in his Academy Award-winning screenplay for “Moonstruck” and his Tony and Pulitzer Prize-winning drama “Doubt,” is truly at his best when Anthony and Rosemary’s bickering, flavorful bond is front and center. Less successful is his subplot about property and family rivalry commonly addressed by Anthony’s gruff father Tony and Rosemary’s gentle mom Aoife. The strip of land dividing the two farms has significance as backstory but doesn’t necessarily engage. Even so, Tony and Aoife are genuinely charming catalysts for comedy with a slight Archie and Edith Bunker sensibility.

Mike Beerbower, in his remarkable Guild debut, fully embraces Anthony’s idiosyncrasies and good-natured persona to deliver a terrifically sensitive and endearing portrayal packaged in fidgety beauty. The stellar Teresa Connair, in one of her most expressive, intuitive and understated performances, captivates to the hilt especially as the opinionated, feisty and humorous Rosemary (who particularly feels the Bible should be renamed “The Book of Ugly Stories”) tries to dissect Anthony’s indifference throughout and strongly advises Tony not to be so unsympathetic about Anthony and his commitment to the Reilly farm. Dave Nickel, who appeared in Shough’s production of “An Inspector Calls” last season, is delightfully persnickety overall but becomes particularly powerful toward the end of the play in a tear-jerking scene with Beerbower that finds Tony in need of late night confession. Connie Fowler Strait, in her enjoyable Guild debut, tenderheartedly accents the cast as the likable if underwritten Aoife.

In addition, Shough serves as co-scenic designer with Chris Newman, who returns to the Guild having terrifically designed “Heartbreak House” and “An Inspector Calls.” The efficiently cozy unit sets they created breezily serve the material and are swiftly handled by the stage crew in some of the finest scene changes ever witnessed at the Guild. In fact, the nearly breathtaking final transition feels impressively cinematic. Shough also serves as lighting designer and effectively partners with K.L. Storer to contribute sound design.

“You can’t live against your life,” Rosemary warns Anthony. There is compelling truth in her statement and the overriding fact that this crowd-pleasing production is absolutely unforgettable.

“Outside Mullingar” continues through Sept. 6 at the Dayton Theatre Guild, 430 Wayne Ave., Dayton. Performances are Fridays at 8 p.m., Saturdays at 5 p.m., and Sundays at 3 p.m. The play is performed in 1 hour and 40 minutes without intermission. Tickets are $20 for adults, $18 for seniors and $13 for students. Call (937) 278-5993 or visit www.daytontheatreguild.org.

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

August 27, 2015 By Jonathan McNeal

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Broadway Bombshell Plays Fraze

August 24, 2015 By Dayton Most Metro

She may be most remembered by Broadway lovers everywhere for her origination of the role of Glinda the Good Witch in Wicked, which earned her a Tony Award Nomination, and her Tony-winning performance in You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown, for which she stole the show and many hearts in the process.

‘The Book of Mormon’ Review – Victoria Theatre Association – Irreverent Bliss

August 21, 2015 By Russell Florence, Jr.

Genuine hilarity abounds within Trey Parker, Matt Stone and Robert Lopez’s masterfully irreverent, jaw-dropping, unabashedly vulgar, and delightfully tuneful musical “The Book of Mormon,” the 2011 Tony Award winner for Best Musical currently having an outstanding local premiere at the Schuster Center as a special Star Attractions courtesy of the Victoria Theatre Association.

David Larsen (Elder Price, center) and the cast of “The Book of Mormon” (Contributed photo by Joan Marcus)

Primarily taking direct and often startling jabs at the formation and followers of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Parker and Stone (the naughty provocateurs behind the wit and popularity of “South Park”) with astute aid from Lopez (who brought raunchiness back to the Great White Way with gusto thanks to his co-creation of “Avenue Q”) fashion a bold, no-holds-barred satiric universe rarely attempted in the world of commercial musical theater. As the Mormon faith is dissected with humorous, eye-opening bluntness, these revelatory collaborators, knowing full well that Mormon skewing would be entirely one-dimensional, skillfully expand the storytelling at hand by spoofing everything from pop culture and musical theater conventions to African stereotypes and Jeffrey Dahmer’s salaciousness. Even so, the central relationship between two young missionaries sent to spread their faith to a Ugandan village remains sharply focused and meaningful as themes of friendship, courage, perseverance, and self-discovery resonate with absurdity and heart under the vibrant, fast paced co-direction of Parker and Casey Nicholaw.

David Larsen and Cody Jamison Strand are exceptionally and respectively paired as the bubbly, optimistic Elder Price and his simple sidekick Elder Cunningham. Larsen, terrifically chipper and believably wholesome, and Strand, goofy and grounded, perfectly capture the oddity and unease of polar opposites thrust into an atmosphere beyond their imagination heightened by a despicable warlord, female circumcision, infant rape, and AIDS. Strand’s portrayal is showier due to the juiciness of his material, but Larsen’s charm, vulnerability and strong tenor (particularly showcased in his knockout rendition of Act 2 anthem “I Believe”) ensures balance. This dynamic duo is tremendously supported by an assortment of first-rate featured players specifically the radiantly sweet Candace Quarrels as sensitive, impressionable villager Nabulungi, the energetic and flamboyant Daxton Bloomquist as closeted Elder McKinley (“Turn it Off,” his Mormon ode to suppressed feelings, is an absolute razzle dazzle hoot), Marcus Terrell Smith as Nabulungi’s amiable father/village prefect Mafala, and the wonderfully intimidating David Aron Damane as the evil General.

Candace Quarrels (Nabulungi) and Cody Jamison Strand (Elder Cunningham) in “The Book of Mormon” (Contributed photo by Joan Marcus)

In addition, Nicholaw’s fantastically clever choreography utilizes the same kind of funny, character-infused movement seen in his sprightly routines for “Monty Python’s Spamalot” and “Something Rotten!” The shockingly joyful “Hasa Diga Eebowai” and “Joseph Smith American Moses” as well as the phenomenally conceived “Spooky Mormon Hell Dream” are three of the most creative moments you will ever see in a contemporary musical. The production is also greatly accented by Scott Pask’s striking sets depicting Salt Lake City, Orlando and Uganda, Ann Roth’s imaginative Ugandan costumes, Brian MacDevitt’s evocative lighting, and music director David Truskinoff’s firm, full orchestra including six local musicians.

“The Book of Mormon” isn’t for the easily offended, but if you’re simply looking to be entertained to the hilt you cannot let your weekend pass by without seeing this one-of-a-kind, Broadway-caliber experience.

“The Book of Mormon” continues through August 23 at the Schuster Center, Second and Main Streets, Dayton. Performances are Friday at 8 p.m., Saturday at 2 and 8 p.m., and Sunday at 2 and 7:30 p.m. The production is performed in 2 hours and 30 minutes with one 15 minute intermission. Tickets are $43-$132. Patrons are advised the show contains strong adult language. For tickets or more information, call Ticket Center Stage at (937) 228-3630 or visit www.ticketcenterstage.com.

Get To Know Local Comedian, Trace Martin

August 20, 2015 By LIbby Ballengee

I had the pleasure of catching up with local funny guy, Trace Martin. He’s hosting the upcoming open mic night at Wiley’s, as well as other events all over town. I wanted to see what makes this new comedian tick, and where I can catch his next sets!

Q. What made you take the leap of faith to actually do your first stand-up gig?

A. I have been telling jokes since I was 11 years old, but writing and performing your own material, that was a different beast altogether. I have always loved stand-up and thought it would be fun to try to get laughs off of something I had written, not just being a goofball, although that still gets a laugh. Performing actual stand-up comedy is much harder than it looks. I wrote jokes for about 8 years, and made it my goal to perform before I turned 50 years old. I saw a guy do his set at the old Jokers Comedy Café and I wasn’t impressed, but he still got some laughs. I thought “Well hell, I can do better than that.” So I started writing my set and practicing in the bathroom mirror.

Q. Is doing stand-up intimidating or the ultimate rush?

A. Hosting a comedy show is actually a lot of work. Not only do you open the show – so you have to be funny right out of the gate – but you have to know how to warm up the audience, gauge the room and get them fired up to receive the upcoming comedians. Then you have to get each comedian’s name, a bit about them, and be witty on your feet, so you can introduce them in an interesting and funny way that helps them launch into their particular bits. There’s a lot of thought and planning that has to happen quickly, not to mention keeping the energy of the room going between acts.

Q. What is the inspiration of your material typically?

A. I have so much life experience to draw from… and I use it all. I served in the military as a Combat Engineer in the Army and I’ve worked for a police department in Colorado. Work-related stuff is fun because everyone has a work history, good or bad. I drink and have have done “experimental research” with various forms of mind-altering substances in the past, as a lot of people have. Those experiences are always great material. I have been married for 26 wonderful years and I get a lot material from that, because many can relate to that. My wife, Samantha, is also my writing partner, and a great sounding board for new material. She has been to enough comedy shows to know what works and what needs more work. We still make each other laugh every day.

Q. Who are your favorite comedians?

A. First and foremost, George Carlin. His observational humor captured my heart as a kid from the first time I saw him. Steve Martin gave me a love of slapstick and physical, goofy humor, from his early days on Saturday Night Live. Robin Williams gave me a love of improvisation – he could do it like no one else. Finally, Tim Allen, during his early stand-up comedy days, had such a great way of communicating “funny”, often without words. All of these guys still make me laugh to this day!

Q. What is the Dayton comedy scene like, especially for those who are new to going to comedy here?

A. The Comedy scene in Dayton is Fan-FREAKIN’-tastic!! Whether you’re a new comic or a seasoned veteran who wants to work on new material, you can get stage time 5 to 6 times a week at various clubs and venues around town. Sometimes you can hit 2 shows a night. If you like to enjoy laughing as a great evening out with friends, there are many Open Mic nights and comedy showcases happening all over Dayton, almost any day of the week! Check on Facebook for Dayton Comics for show listings, or any of the many other resources dedicated to local comedy.

Q. What do you hope to accomplish through your comedy?

A. I like to give people the opportunity to relax and laugh. So much of life is so serious these days. I like to make people laugh, in a way that stays with them, far after the show. I love to hear that people are still thinking of one of my bits days–even weeks–later, and still laughing about it. That gives me great satisfaction. Making a room full of strangers laugh is the the best thing ever!

Where to see Trace Martin perform this weekend:

Friday August 21st at Chimney’s of Oak Creek in Kettering. Show starts at 9pm. It’s BYOB with $5 admission. Residents get in free. If you haven’t been to a Chimney’s show… you just gotta! These shows are off the hook and usually sell out.

Saturday Aug 22nd, performing at 2pm at Samson’s Summerfest in Jamestown. $5 cover for entire day of music and comedy.

Sunday August 23rd at Wiley’s Comedy Joint in the Oregon District, Dayton. Show starts at 8pm and I get to Feature!! Mention Trace’s name when making reservations (@224-JOKE) and get in FREE! This will be a great evening of hilarity.

Documentary About Dayton Basketball Player “The Blur” Debuts Wed

August 20, 2015 By Lisa Grigsby

It’s been a labor of love for sports writer turned film producer and director Branson Wright, but after 8 years of working on a documentary about one of our region’s sports legends, he’s excited and nervous for the premiere. Scheduled for 6pm on Wednesday, August 26, The Dwight Anderson Story: From Stardom, to Streets, to Survival will be shown at the Kroc Center, located at 1000 N. Keowee St. in Dayton. Admission is free, and the community is welcome to attend.

The film tells a compelling story of the early success, subsequent struggle and ultimate redemption of a Dayton high school basketball phenomenon whose speed in the late 1970s earned him the nickname “The Blur.”

While superficially a story of cheers and tears, Wright’s film is also a cautionary tale for young people and ultimately an uplifting message about overcoming drug addiction and its consequences.

Dwight Anderson is considered by many to be the greatest basketball player hailing from Dayton. He led Roth High School to the state title as a sophomore in 1975 and was the top high school player in the country in 1978, averaging a triple double in his senior year. His speed earned hm the nickname “The Blur.” Anderson played for the University of Kentucky and the University of Southern California and was selected by the Washington Bullets in the second round of the 1982 NBA draft. He also spent several seasons in the Continental Basketball Association, averaging 21 points per game in 112 CBA games. Just how good was Anderson? NBA great Isiah Thomas put it best: “He was the Michael Jordan of our era.” The father of two, he currently plays in the Old Timers Basketball League and trains youth in basketball.

Cincinnati born and currently a Cleveland based sports writer, Branson Wright will be present at the documentary’s debut, which he insisted by in Dwight’s hometown of Dayton. After the screening, Wright and Anderson will be part of a discussion about the movie. In speaking with Wright, who started working on this film in 2007 as a first time filmmaker, he explained “how this project truly became a labor of love, as he learned to raise the funds, called in favors from friends to film, and tracked down interviews with UK greats like Kyle Macy, former coach Joe B. Hall and NBA legends Dominique Wilkins, Mark Aguirre and Isiah Thomas.

Wright explained that his passion for telling Dwight’s story is what carried him through, as months became years. While he was discovering the story of Dwight’s bravery he felt this film was worth fighting for. “I learned a lot about my own perseverance, I had put so much of my own time into this that I just had to finish,” Wright reflected. He launched a GoFundMe campaign about 4 months ago to fund the final editing of the documentary. Wright shared, one of the best things that came from taking so long to finish the project was the story changed. Dwight went to rehab and has been sober for 4 years now.

While this might have been Wright’s first film, he’s sure it’s not his last. He’s got a concept for another basketball project, this time women’s basketball with Cheryl Miller and the McGee twins. He’s hoping that his experience on this first project will make finding an investor a little easier the second time around. And he’s learning, as he reminded me Wednesday’s premiere is free, but donations will be gladly accepted.

The Dayton Human Relations Council is proud partner in the hosting of the film premiere. “We are excited to partner with Branson Wright on this screening,” said Catherine Crosby, Executive Director of the Human Relations Council. “We hope that this documentary will engage young people in reflection and discussion on perseverance, leadership, and personal responsibility.” As part of its mission, the Human Relations Council works to create safe and inclusive neighborhoods, to connect young adults to their community and to give them a voice and vehicle to make positive changes in their lives.

24th 20×20 Pecha Kucha Night Thursday

August 18, 2015 By Bryan Suddith

Dayton’s Engineers Club is a living memorial to the men and women that built our city. Walking through the Club you can easily imagine Charles Kettering or the Wright Brothers sitting and discussing the social and political issues of the day. It is here you can find rich pieces of Dayton’s at every turn.

It is the mission of the Engineers Club to “foster the advancement of business, education, engineering and science, and to promote the professional development of its members.” If you have never had the pleasure of visiting the club Thursday night is your chance to soak up all that is Dayton while enjoying the 24th Volume of Pecha Kucha.

Pecha what? Pecha Kucha are 6-minutes 40-seconds presentations accompanied by 20 slides. The speaker must use 20 slides that automatically advance every 20-seconds. Pecha Kucha rules are strict and going over your time is prohibited. Generally each slide only will contain a single image. The format was developed in Tokyo (hence the Japanese name) by two foreign architects: Mark Dytham and Astrid Klein.

Dayton gathers 4 times a year for Pecha Kucha. It is free and open to the public. Volume 24 is scheduled for Thursday August the 20th and will begin at 7:30 pm. According to the Dayton PK website you can expect a diverse roster of presenters.

“Emcee Duante Beddingfield will keep us on our toes as the mic passes between: Emmy-winning artist Rodney Veal, Rue Dumaine bartender Brian Petro, artist Austin Radcliffe of “Things Organized Neatly,” attorney Lela Klein, the “great” PR man Charlie Campell, Chef Anthony Head, librarian Lisa Holmes, Tibetan traveler Emily Fleitz, veterinarian Bethany Horn and adventurer Kriss Gang.”

The event is free and a cash bar will be available. Don’t miss out on this unique style of presenting in one of Dayton’s most unique spots.