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TIFF Day #3 – 2023

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Hello Everyone,

Just three screenings today…but a solid day.  It’s hard to believe that 3 days have flown by so quickly.  I’ve seen 11 films, spent time with Jake (before he returned to Dayton earlier today) run into a handful of old friends and colleagues on the street, watched a movie with a filmmaker whose work we’ve screened at OUT HERE DAYTON FILM FEST (formerly known as The Dayton LGBT Film Fest), and still managed to keep up with this blog.  That said, I have yet to do the whole late night party scene…things have changed a bit since I’ve been gone – the festival and myself.

My first film was made in Montreal.  SOLO, dir. Sophie Dupois (Canada). “Set in Montreal’s vivacious drag scene, this tender character study from writer-director Sophie Dupuis (Underground) focuses on a talented young performer whose past and present merge in unexpected ways.” (TIFF Catalog) Simon is a successful makeup artist and drag performer, but when a Oliver, new guy shows up in the dressing room, he sets his eyes on something new.  At first, the chemistry is wonderful – but eventually we realize that Simon is willing to compromise himself for what he thinks he needs in his life..and Oliver is a master manipulator.  This film is well done with great, fleshed out performances…and full of people I “know.”

HIS THREE DAUGHTERS, dir. Azazel Jacobs (USA). “A tense, captivating, and touching portrait of family dynamics starring Carrie Coon, Elizabeth Olsen, and Natasha Lyonne as sisters who converge after their father’s health declines.” (TIFF Catalog) What this film lacks in visual appeal (there are some very strange choices about shooting people up against a blank wall), it makes up for in screenplay and performances.  This little gem’s third act is terrific…and the claustrophobia of being in a relatively small New York apartment for the majority of the film works on a lot of levels in creating tension and drama.  These women are all terrific.

IN CONVERSATION WITH PEDRO ALMODOVAR (with screening of STRANGE WAY OF LIFE, dir. Pedro Almodovar (SPAIN)).  Today’s event with Almodovar was a treat.  Almodovar talked with Cameron Bailey for about 45 minutes about his career – and it was insightful and delightful.  He talked about the “transition” from screwball comedies to melodrama and the industry’s rating system.  Then he screened the short film STRANGE WAY OF LIFE – a gay Western with Ethan Hawke and Pedro Pascal…which Almodovar explained was his sort of answer to BROKEBACK MOUNTAIN (which he had been asked to direct years ago).  “Two lovers reunite after 25 years apart, but secret ulterior motives threaten to spoil the relationship, in this emotional western from Pedro Almodóvar.” (TIFF Catalog)  Pedro then returned to the stage to talk for a bit more before taking questions from the audience.  Sadly, there wasn’t much time for questions and I didn’t get to ask mine.  (Almodovar apologized to the audience that neither of the lead actors would be seen naked in the film.)

 

I’m about to head out and meet one of our Board members for a cocktail this evening.  Susan and her husband are at the festival for the first time, and I’m anxious to hear what they’re seeing and how they like their experience so far.

Until tomorrow!

Thanks for reading,

Jonathan

 

Dayton’s Beloved Human Race Theatre Provides Much Needed Laughs in ‘Tom Jones!’

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Wells, Brown and Cordes

 

The Human Race Theatre Company is on a mission…to be a resource for laughter with the World Premiere (yes, I said World) of the bawdy and outrageous ‘This is Tom Jones!’ I am again, so fortunate to have the opportunity to talk to some of the folks responsible for this fun, frenzied love story. This time around, I was able to chat with Emily Wells (Director), Mark Brown (The musical’s writer) and Jamie Cordes (one of the stars!)

JS: Thank you all for taking a minute to talk about what looks like a hoot! Mark, can you tell us a bit about the show?

Mark Brown: Of course. It’s a two hour romp…fast-paced, Boy meets Girl story based on Henry Fielding’s work.  It’s chock full of 1960’s British Invasion style music…set in the 1700’s.

JS: Weird?

MB: Yes, but this weird world that’s been created really works…full of hi-jinx and surprises.

Emily Wells: It really does work. There’s romance blended seamlessly into the show as well. It’s beautifully done.

Jamie Cordes: It has such a vibe….its a groovy, hip, fast paced, blast of a time.

JS: Mark, I know your ‘Around the World in 80 Days’ also played at the Race! Are you from somewhere near here?

MB: Actually, I am from New Jersey, but reside in Los Angeles.

Cast of ‘This is Tom Jones!’

JS: Well, I can tell you, you have quite a fan base here with ’80 Days!’ So, this being a World Premiere, have you had to make changes, or work the show differently than you anticipated.

MB: Funny you should ask….yes, putting it together here, there have been 7 revisions, 2 songs have been cut….and I have incorporated 2 scenes from the non-musical version of the show. It really has helped make the show special. I have been so lucky working with Kyle Mangold and Melinda Porto, the whole cast and crew actually. Everyone here is super nice! Truly.

EW: And the cast is only 9 people, yet they tackle 34 characters. And they do it well.

JS: Speaking of the cast, Jamie what attracted you to ‘Jones?’

JC: I am a huge fan of new(er) works in theatre.  I’ve been a part of numerous workshops of new works at The Human Race and The Puzzle in NYC.  When I read the script, I laughed out loud so many times.  I LOVE what Mark Brown has written.  It is Monty Python, Austin Powers and Airplane (the movie) humor set in an 18th century story.  Being involved in this premiere and sharing it with Dayton audiences is exciting.

JS: And the cast and crew include folks from here. Right Emily?x

EW: Yes. Correct. The show has some of our resident artists as well as others who call Dayton home. That has been a goal of ours, involving community in our productions. I believe our show Bar-B-Q was made up of 75% local people. So, we are committed to making that part of the Human Race. It’s important to put dollars into our city and our people.

JS: Great point! I feel like the Human Race is connecting well with the community and ticket-buyers. Do you guys feel that for this season?

JC: The Human Race Theatre continues to entertain and inspire audiences with new(er) works that are thought provoking and explore the human condition.  The stories on this 2023-24 season are diverse in content providing opportunities to see unique, beautiful and humorous theatrical works.

EW: We are reaching out to theater lovers in a time when many people have limited resources. We have special ticket pricing like ‘pay what can’ productions. We want everyone to see the shows. We have many young folks on staff who remind us to keep things accessible for all ages. It’s important because there is a magic in theater, that relationship between audience and artist that can only happen live. And each and every night is a unique one night experience!

Laughs Abound in 'Jones!'JS: And what do you feel audiences can expect from ‘Jones?’ 

MB: It’s one of those plays that has a message that isn’t in your face, or hitting you over the head. The show is total escapism blended with some nonsense and the message is revealed simply. I am hopeful people will laugh for 2 hours…who doesn’t want to do that?!

JC: I can’t express enough the joy This is Tom Jones! has provided.  The cast, creative team, and band are wonderful.  So much laughter in exploring this piece and we can’t wait for audiences to go on the journey with us!

JS: BREAK-A-LEG and again, thank you ALL for giving us a little insight into this show! Emily, continued success for you and your Company! BRAVO!

 

 

‘This is Tom Jones’ Plays September 7 – Septmber 24.

Showtimes :

Tuesdays and Wednesdays 7pm.

Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays 8pm

Sundays (varied, check times.)

For tickets, visit:

https://www.daytonlive.org/events/this-is-tom-jones/

The Human Race Theatre is at 126 North Main Street, Downtown.

 

 

 

 

 

 

TIFF Day #2 – 2023

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Hello Dayton937,

Today was a slimmer day for screenings.  Only three movies!

GONZO GIRL, dir. Patricia Arquette (USA). “Willem Dafoe and Camila Morrone star in Patricia Arquette’s high-flying, fast-paced directorial debut based on Cheryl Della Pietra’s semi-autobiographical novel chronicling her time as Hunter S. Thompson’s personal assistant.” (TIFF Catalog)  Though the names have been changed for the sake of the “novel,” this story of a young woman’s time as Hunter S. Thompson’s assistant is about a person meeting their “idol,” only to be be disappointed (but nonetheless grateful for the experience and the lessons along the way…and the material).  The performances are strong and Arquette’s direction is assured (Arquette has a subtle, strong supporting role, too) and the energetic “trip” is worth the ride.  There’s a cautionary line that Thompson’s secretary gives the new assistant in the movie – “Water down your drinks and fake half the lines he gives you, that’s the only way to survive.” That’s not a bad life lesson.

SUMMER QAMP, Jennifer Markowitz (Canada). “At Camp fYrefly in rural Alberta, queer, non-binary, and trans teens get to just be kids in a supportive space, surrounded by counsellors who can relate to their experience ― and help them toast the perfect marshmallow.” (TIFF Catalog). There are some powerful moments in this little documentary about queer youth going to summer camp…and there’s something wonderful about LGBTQIA+ kids getting such positive affirmations in a place where they don’t have to be afraid to express who they are.  There’s a lot to like here (I wouldn’t mind a short film about Marshall – one of the counselors), but overall, I didn’t love this doc.  I found it to be overscored and a bit repetitive. I recommend seeing it (but it’s not something I’d need to revisit).

DICKS: THE MUSICAL, Larry Charles (USA). “Larry Charles (Borat) conducts an uproarious musical-comedy riff on The Parent Trap that follows a pair of identical twins who conspire to reunite their divorced and disturbingly deranged parents (Nathan Lane and Megan Mullally).” (TIFF Catalog) A24’s raunchy, irreverent musical was my last film for the day.  This movie is based on material that comedians Josh Sharp and Aaron Jackson have been working on for years (they’re also the stars of the film).  IndieWire wrote this about the opening night, midnight screening: “No amount of context can prepare folks for the film’s final number, with a chorus that refers to God as a slur. The song that leapt from the screen out into the audience, with a flash mob of chorus members jumping out their seats to sing along, and pride balloons and penis inflatables dropping down onto attendees.”  This movie has some great melodies, fun material (Megan Thee Stallion & Megan Mullally steal the show), and some real laugh-out-loud moments.  It is destined to reach cult status, but I thought it wore a little thin pretty quickly.  The cast appears to be having a blast making this film (that’s almost always true when there’s a gag reel at the end), and I think it would be much more fun in a party-like environment (instead of the industry screening I attended).

Jake is heading back to Dayton tomorrow, and I’m sticking around for another week…lots more films to see.

Tomorrow is something I’m looking forward to most of all – IN CONVERSATION WITH PEDRO ALMODOVAR!

Hope you tune back in for Day #3.

Thanks for reading,
Jonathan

TIFF 2023 – Day #1

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Hello Everyone,

Off to the races.  I had five screenings on the agenda for today – 3 with industry folks and 2 with the general public.  Of the five, one was a real winner…and one had a lot of merit but could have been trimmed by 30 minutes (I know some critics will greatly disagree with me on that).

LAST SUMMER, dir Catherine Breillat (France).  My first film of the day was from a director who is quite used to working with taboo subject matter…and this was no exception. “In the latest film by French provocateur Catherine Breillat, a prominent lawyer’s passionate affair with her 17-year-old stepson threatens both her career and family.”  (TIFF Catalog)  In the opening scene of this (intentionally) cringe-inducing film, the protagonist is dealing with an underage client who is preparing for court.  She tells the girl, “in court, the victims often become the accused” – which sets a certain tone for the rest of the film.  Though the film certainly has some memorable moments and worked on some levels,  there were multiple decisions for a lingering camera which became frustrating and laborious.  And in the end, I ultimately didn’t buy the attraction and thus the affair – so the film really didn’t work for me.

THE CRITIC, dir Anand Tucker (United Kingdom).  Next up was a rather handsomely designed period film with Ian McKellan chewing up the dimly lit scenery. “Gemma Arterton and Ian McKellen star as adversaries forced to take desperate measures to save their careers, in this scintillating tale of ambition and deceit in the theatre world.” (TIFF Catalog). Though lovely to look at, I found some of the story a bit hard to follow initially…this was due in part to tiredness and the fact that all interior scenes at night appeared to be lit with a 20 watt bulb…which had me a little confused keeping track of characters who mostly appeared in shadows.  Though McKellan is having a ball, he is sadly better than the material.    It’s a noir-ish story which doesn’t quite commit to the genre.

FLORA AND SON, dir John Carney (US & Ireland).  My winner for the day was this little gem! “The latest from writer-director John Carney (ONCE, SING STREET) features a revelatory performance from Eve Hewson as a young mother trying to connect with her teenage son through a shared love of music.” (TIFF Catalog) The rough-around-the-edges characters are so wonderful in this heartwarming (and occasionally crass) story about an Irish woman who ends up taking on-line guitar lessons from a guy in California (played by Joseph Gordon Levitt) while trying to build a relationship with her son.  Lots of laughs and several tears…it really works.  (NOTE: We may bring this to THE NEON at the end of the month.)

ANATOMY OF A FALL, dir. Justine Triet (France). “Winner of this year’s Palme d’Or, and starring German actress Sandra Hüller, Justine Triet’s Anatomy of a Fall is a riveting portrait of a complex woman put on trial for the murder of her spouse.” (TIFF Catalog) (One big detail of the short synopsis from the catalog is the fact that the only potential witness of what transpired is the woman’s visually impaired son.)  I’ve heard a lot of great things about this (mostly) courtroom drama, and it works on a lot of levels…but boy, oh boy – it’s longer than it needs to be.  (And this was the 2nd film today which thematically explored a victim being put on trial during court proceedings.)  One of the strongest moments of the film is a tennis-match-like argument that is fascinating for its character development.  A solid film with an outstanding lead performance (but don’t go in the slightest bit tired).

NORTH STAR, dir. Kristin Scott Thomas (United Kingdom).  This is Kristin Scott Thomas’s directorial debut, and I was sadly a bit disappointed.  I considered leaving early and just going to bed…but I’m glad I didn’t.  There’s a 10-minute scene in a cemetery that’s worth the whole film (and I’d bet my next paycheck it’s the scene that was the genesis for the entire movie).  Some funny moments.  Some touching moments.  But I could have easily seen this as a short film.

NORTH STAR – directed by Kristin Scott Thomas

And now it’s time for bed!  Bright and early tomorrow!

Thanks for reading!!

Jonathan

P.S.  Here’s a little picture of me and Jake just before heading into the NORTH STAR screening.

 

Returning to Toronto International Film Fest – 4 Years Later!

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Hello Dayton937!

It’s been 4 years since I’ve made the trip to Toronto for TIFF (The Toronto International Film Festival), and my soul has truly missed it.  I know that this year will be very different.  Not only has COVID changed how festivals work, the ongoing writer & actor strikes will also likely change the energy at this year’s festival.  Regardless, I’m anxious to go and submerge myself in multiple screenings of international cinema for 9 days.

The illuminated sign on King Street West indicates the start of the festival!

I’m feeling a little out of practice, but I hope to update you every day with details about the films I’m seeing, the Q&A’s I’m observing and the glitterati I’m spotting.  I’m not sure how many parties will be happening this year, but I hope to pop in on a couple.

For industry folks, the fest works a little different.  I will have an opportunity to see 10 films with the general public.  These are the screenings where directors, producers and stars might walk the Red Carpet and be interviewed for television.  When people think “glamorous film festivals,” these are the screenings that come to mind.  That said, the majority of the films I screen will be in multiplex settings with other press and industry folks.  I might get sandwiched between an international sales agent on one side and someone writing for HOLLYWOOD REPORTER on the other.  It’s fun to rub elbows with a variety of people who make this industry tick.

Maya Hawke as Flannery O’Connor in WILDCAT

I already have a handful of tickets to screenings and events.  In addition to the premiere of NORTH STAR on Opening Night (the directorial debut of Kristin Scott Thomas – starring Scarlett Johansson), Taika Waititi’s latest NEXT GOAL WINS and the anticipated feature WILDCAT (directed by Ethan Hawke and produced by Dayton’s own Karri O’Reilly), I’m so delighted that I scored a ticket to IN CONVERSATION WITH PEDRO ALMODOVAR – a sit down interview (Charlie Rose-style – but in front of an audience)  with my favorite filmmaker of all time!

I’ll try to stay on top of updating this blog on a daily basis after my first day of movie watching.  (Screenings start on Sept. 7 – and I’ll have a full day!)  I’ll screen films through the 15th and head back to Dayton on the 16th.

Thanks for reading.

More soon,

Jonathan

Bright Star at Beavercreek Community Theatre

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Inspired by a true story and featuring the Tony®-nominated score by Steve Martin and Edie Brickell, Broadway’s BRIGHT STAR tells a sweeping tale of love and redemption set against the rich backdrop of the American South in the 1920s and ’40s. When literary editor Alice Murphy meets a young soldier just home from World War II, he awakens her longing for the child she once lost. Haunted by their unique connection, Alice sets out on a journey to understand her past—and what she finds has the power to transform both of their lives. With beautiful melodies and powerfully moving characters, the story unfolds as a rich tapestry of deep emotion. An uplifting theatrical journey that holds you tightly in its grasp, BRIGHT STAR is as refreshingly genuine as it is daringly hopeful.

Non-Profit Night at the Edward A. Dixon Gallery

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A special evening to view the artwork included in the We’re Doing It ALL Wrong® – 3rd Annual Art Exhibition will also serve as an evening to learn about some of the area’s local non-profits with goals of making safer, more sustainable and equitable communities. Waste-Free Dayton, Oasis House and The Castle are three of the highlighted organizations.

Refreshments served.  Free on-street parking available.

RenFest Returns

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The Ohio Renaissance Festival is set to open its gates once again on Sept 2nd for a season  that promises  a captivating journey back in time filled with unparalleled entertainment and excitement.Immerse yourself in a world of lively shows, tantalizing food & drink, and unique shops that transport you back in time to the days of knights and queens. Queen Elizabeth I presides over the festivities as dozens of Renaissance musicians, dancers, comedians, jugglers, sword-fighters, storytellers and hundreds of costumed performers entertain patrons of all ages on 17 stages in over 100 shows daily.

The Festival will  open on Labor Day and then every Saturday and Sunday through October 29th from 10:30am – 7:00pm, tickets run  $30 for adults and $10 for children from 5-12 years old with kids under 5 for free when you buy ahead online. Save another $2/adult ticket if you get your ticket before Sept 1st.   Tickets bought on site are a couple of dollars more.

Visitors will see a full day of entertainment including full-armored Jousting the way it was done over 400 years ago by real Knights in shining armor. Queen Elizabeth I presides over the festivities as dozens of Renaissance musicians, dancers, comedians, jugglers, sword-fighters, storytellers and hundreds of costumed performers entertain patrons of all ages on 17 stages in over 100 shows daily.

Step into the Past:

The Ohio Renaissance Festival is a cherished annual event that draws attendees from all walks of life to immerse themselves in the splendor of the 16th century. As visitors enter the festival grounds, they will be greeted by a world adorned with intricately designed period architecture, street performers, and a bustling marketplace reminiscent of a bygone era.

A World of Entertainment:

Prepare to be captivated by an array of performances that will leave you in awe. The Ohio Renaissance Festival proudly presents an unparalleled lineup of entertainment, including:

  • Combatant’s Keep: Witness brave knights engage in heart-pounding jousting matches that showcase their skill, courage, and chivalry. The thundering hooves, clashing lances, and suspenseful atmosphere will transport you to the heart of medieval competition.
  • Music and Minstrels: Let the melodic tunes of wandering minstrels whisk you away to a time of troubadours and courtly love. Enjoy live performances of period music, transporting you to a world of whimsy and romance.
  • Comedy and Improv: Laughter abounds as jesters and comedians take the stage to deliver side-splitting performances. With their witty banter and interactive humor, these entertainers are sure to have audiences of all ages in stitches.
  • Artisan Crafts: Explore the village marketplace, where skilled artisans and craftsmen showcase their wares. From hand-forged weaponry to intricate jewelry and pottery, you’ll find unique treasures that serve as timeless souvenirs of your Renaissance experience.

Delicious Fare:

Indulge in a feast fit for a king or queen as you savor delectable treats that capture the essence of the era. From turkey legs and hearty stews to sweet pastries and refreshing ales, the festival’s menus offer a delightful array of culinary delights.


Check out these special events you can add on to your adventure:

Royal Feast- Enjoy a 5-course meal including starters, multiple course entrée, a dessert PLUS alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks and a keepsake tankard. One seating per festival day 3-5pm, $75

The Naught Bawdy Pub Show– An hour of the songs, jokes, and limericks that can’t be heard on the streets hosted by The Singing Sirens and emceed by the “ORIGINAL” drunken sailor, Axel the Sot, for ages 21 and over! Held at 5:30 each festival day, $30

Whiskey Witches of Willy-Nilly Tasting -enjoy 5 premium tastes of spiritous beverages at  the Tipsy Cauldron at 1pm each festival day. $35

Pub Crawl – Be guided on an interactive adventure filled with games, fun, trivia or dare, laughter, and long-lasting memories with friends new and old. 1:30 & 3:30 daily, $30

Ohio Renaissance Festival

Where history and fantasy collide!

10542 E State Route 73
Waynesville, OH 45068

513-897-7000

Group discounts are available for groups of 15 or more. Call (937) 805-9320 for details
or visit the group sales page.

 

The Theatre Guild Continues to Move the Needle Forward with ‘Radio Golf.’

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Waldron Directs ‘Radio Golf’ at Theatre Guild.

The Dayton Theatre Guild has long been known for its cutting edge productions, and its expert presentation of tough subject matter. August Wilson’s ‘Radio Golf‘ remains firmly in that path! I was lucky enough to catch up with the show’s director, Robert-Wayne Waldron. He gave us the inside scoop to this latest performance.

JS: Rob, so good to see you and to get a minute to chat about ‘Radio Golf.’ And with that, why ‘Radio Golf?’ What stuck out about it that made it seem like the play to do today?

RWW:  I did not choose the show it was chosen by the Dayton Theatre Guild to open its 23-24 season. I was chosen from 3 other directors. I jumped at the chance it’s been a few years since I’ve been at the helm of a show and its August Wilson! Radio Golf is the final play in August Wilson’s Century Cycle of ten plays set in Pittsburgh 1997. It tells the story of Harmond Wilks a real-estate developer  who is running to be the first Black mayor of Pittsburgh. When he confronted with sacrificing the past in order to pursue progress.

JS: The show has such depth and truly looks at gentrification and politics….etc. What do you hope audiences get from this show?

RWW: I hope our audience gain a better understanding of the continuing struggle of the Black community to preserve our history and traditions and embrace progress without sacrificing that past.

JS: Timely for sure. I know the Theatre Guild is known for dynamic ‘straight’ plays (non-musicals). How would you say this show is relevant in our climate today?

RWW: First of all, it’s August Wilson, the poet of theatre’s Black America. This show puts it right out there, the things that are still happening today the destruction of neighborhoods and communities in the name of progress, but for who…. certainly not the people in those communities. That’s because this progress and the improvements are out of the financial reach of the people in these communities.

JS: We literally can look around our area and see the same. Wow! So, for you, what is it in directing that you enjoy?

Cast of ‘Radio Golf.’

RWW: I enjoy the process of get a show to the stage. Expressing my creativity and working with the actors to bring the words of the script to life.

JS: And do you have a personal favorite show you have done in the area?

RWW: I have directed a lot of theatre over the years! If I had to pick one, it would be this one Radio Golf.   It came along at a difficult time in my life, health wise, and it created an outlet for me not to be in my head with my health issue. I’m working with this amazing cast of actors and its been an awesome experience.

JS: Speaking of….who are you cast and crew?

RWW: Director: Robert-Wayne Waldron, Harmond Wilks: S. Francis Livisay, Mame Wilks: Jena Perry, Roosevelt Hicks: Lessley Scott, Sterling Johnson: Andre Tomlinson & Elder Joseph Barlow: Franklin Johnson.

August Wilson’s Radio Golf at DTG.

JS: This sounds like a real success for the Guild….what about ticket info?

RWW: August Wilson’s Radio Golf opens today, August 25th and runs weekends thru Sept 10th At the Dayton Theatre Guild 430 Wayne Avenue!

Tickets can be purchased online at Daytontheatreguild.org.
JS: Break a leg, my friend. And thanks for talking with me!
Make sure and look into all the great theater happening in dayton this weekend and every weekend!
Keep up by revisiting us at Dayton937.com.
Josh is always looking to highlight your next performance!
Reach out so he can get the story out about your upcoming production!

 

It’s Opening Night for 3 Community Theater Shows

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It’s opening night for INNOVAtheatre‘s The Hunchback of Notre Dame
Photos by #eccentricexposurephotography
Dayton Theatre Guild‘s August Wilson’s Radio Golf
Photos by: Rick Flynn Photography
Tickets: ltcplays.com
You don’t want to miss these shows!!!

 

2nd National Cinema Day – $4 Movies This Sunday

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Still haven’t seen “Barbie” or “Oppenheimer”? This Sunday, you’ll be able to catch up for $4 a ticket in movie theaters nationwide.

Theater owners announced Monday that the second annual National Cinema Day will be held Sunday, Aug. 27. For one day, all movies — in all formats and at all showtimes — will be $4 at participating theaters. More than 3,000 theaters are participating, which accounts for most of the cinemas in the U.S., including the leading chains AMC and Regal.

Some of the chains even have deals on concessions. AMC is offering a small-popcorn-and-drink combo for $5; at Regal, the same combo is only $4. You can get a drink at Angelika for $4, and Cinemark is giving every guest a dollar off any popcorn, soda, or candy.

It’s the second straight year theaters are trotting out the one-day event at the tail end of summer. Last year’s inaugural National Cinema Day, put on by the Cinema Foundation, a nonprofit affiliate of the National Association of Theater Owners, was judged an enormous success. An estimated 8.1 million moviegoers bought $3 tickets on Saturday, Sept. 3.  The discount gimmick turned into the highest attended day of the year for theaters. A normally quiet time instead saw cinemas crowded with moviegoers — and theaters sold plenty of popcorn. This year, the day is moving up slightly on the calendar, shifting from Saturday to Sunday, and costs $1 more.

An Evening of Latin Jazz kicks off The Brightside’s 2023-2024 Season

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Natalie Cressman & Ian Faquini

Between the amazing sound system, chic decor, and friendly staff have contributed to fans, The Brightside has quickly become one of Dayton’s favorite indoor music and event venues. While the bulk of their events are private, typically weddings, they are excited to kick off the concert series this fall.

“We have so many amazing outdoor venues around town that are putting out great concerts all summer,” Libby Ballengee, the venue’s music booker said. “We don’t really want to compete with them. So we’re opting for more of a performing arts style calendar, with the majority of our public events happening September through early May.”

The Brightside’s 2023-2024 season kicks off on Wednesday, September 6th with a night of Latin Jazz in their VodVil Bar space. It has an intimate, jazz club feeling that gives old school Dayton music fans a Gilly’s or Canal Street vibe. The evening starts off with local guitarist Frank Calzada, who is reminiscent of early Carlos Santana. The headliners, Natalie Cressman and Ian Falquini, hail from New York City, and are making their Brightside debut.

Natalie is known for being part of Trey Anastasio’s Band, and touring major venues with that ensemble. This duo is her side project and one that’s dear to her heart. Hailed as a “rising star” in the jazz world, she is not only an amazing musician, she’s a fabulous singer too.

Frank Calzada (Photo by Fea Fotos)

Ian Faquini is a Brazilian composer, guitarist, and vocalist who was born in Brazil and has lived in Berkeley, California since the age of eight. He was a member of the renowned Berkeley High School Jazz program, and at the age of 15, Ian met the legendary Brazilian composer Guinga, who became his mentor and inspired him to pursue a career in music.

The combination of these two artists creates an intimate collaboration, drawing from impressionism, jazz, and the great Brazilian songwriting tradition. This is a concert that Latin and jazz fans alike will not want to miss!

The rest of the concert series at The Brightside continues to be eclectic, with a Korean-American folk singer headlining a female songwriter showcase on September 25th. You can find anything from Blues, Celtic, Jam, Rock, and Hip-Hop shows to Dayton Dinner Theater and fundraisers peppered throughout the Brightside’s season. Get tickets and information here: thebrightsidedayton.com

HOW TO GO?

The Brightside Music & Event Venue (905 E 3rd St., Dayton)

Wednesday, Sept 6

Doors 7pm / Show 8pm

$18 advance or $25 day of show – https://www.venuepilot.co/events/81810/orders/new

All ages welcome!

 

 

Magnolia Theatre Company Announces Upcoming Season

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Magnolia Theatre Company, a female driven theatre organization,  announced its highly anticipated 2023-2024 season. With a focus on showcasing powerful female voices and presenting thought-provoking new works, Magnolia Theatre Company returns to the forefront of the Dayton theatre scene.

The season kicks off with the mesmerizing production of “The Moors” by Jen Silverman. This collaboration with the University of Dayton’s Theatre, Dance, and Performance Technology program promises to captivate audiences from November 30 to December 3, 2023. Set in the hauntingly beautiful moors, this play delves into the complexities of relationships and the blurred boundaries of reality, making it a must-see for theatre enthusiasts. Michelle Campbell Hayford, Associate Professor of Theatre at UD, will direct.

In April 2024, Magnolia Theatre Company will present the hilarious and groundbreaking production of “Five Lesbians Eating A Quiche” by Andrew Hobgood and Evan Linder. This uproarious play takes audiences on a journey filled with laughter, warmth, and unexpected twists. Mark your calendars for April 4-7, 2024 at the PNC Arts Annex in Dayton.

As part of the 2023-2024 season, Magnolia Theatre Company will continue the Femme Artisan staged reading series with the support of the Montgomery County Arts and Culture District. This series aims to explore three new plays that celebrate joy and highlight the talent of female playwrights. Kicking off the series is “Beheading Columbus” by Diana Burbano, a thought-provoking play that challenges historical narratives and recently named to the O’Neill Playwriting Finalist list. Andréa Morales will star in this show as Annie Pesch directs. Audiences will have the opportunity to experience this compelling work on October 13-14, 2023 at the PNC Arts Annex. The other titles will be released and produced in 2024.

Gina Handy Minyard, Founding Artistic Director of Magnolia Theatre Company, expresses her excitement about the upcoming season: “We are proud to present an exhilarating lineup of plays that celebrate the diversity and power of female voices. Our collaborations with the University of Dayton and our commitment to showcasing new works ensure that our audiences will be treated to an unforgettable feminist theatrical experience.”

Magnolia Theatre Company continues to push boundaries, champion local talent, and provide innovative and thought-provoking productions to the Dayton community. With each season, they reaffirm their commitment to showcasing the best in feminist theatre while elevating marginalized communities and supporting emerging playwrights.

To stay updated on Magnolia Theatre Company’s upcoming productions and purchase tickets, visit their website. You can also follow them on Facebook (@MagnoliaTheatreCompany) for the latest news and updates.

 

BREAKING: Raekwon of Wu-Tang Clan making opening night appearance at Yellow Springs Film Festival

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Raekwon from Wu-Tang

Yellow Springs Film Festival (YSFF) has just announce their opening film on October 6, 2023 is the Midwest Premiere of award-winning documentary short Taking Back The Groove. The moving portrait of disco legend Richie Weeks’ battle to reclaim the rights to his music and restore his legacy in the wake of the Black Lives Matter movement is directed by Celia Aniskovich (Call Me Miss Cleo) and executive produced by Raekwon of Wu-Tang Clan and trailblazing comedian Russell Peters. A post-screening panel discussion with Weeks, Aniskovich and Raekwon will be moderated by festival Founder Eric Mahoney. Tickets for the event go on sale Thursday, August 24th at 12:00pm EST.

Additional YSFF special events include a conversation with Comedian / Actor Fred Armisen (Portlandia, SNL, Documentary Now); an immersive documentary experience, 32 Sounds, with the director Sam Green and Oscar® winning director Steven Bognar in conversation; and a 40-year retrospective of the band Guided by Voices featuring their seminal documentary Watch Me Jumpstart by Banks Tarver.

Richie Weeks

The Festival program includes documentary features The Cave of Adullam by Laura Checkoway; Rather by Frank Marshall; Citizen Sleuth by Chris Kasick; We Are Fugazi From Washington DC by Joe Gross, Joseph Pattisall & Jeff Krulik; and Have You Got It Yet? The Story of Syd Barrett and Pink Floyd by Roddy Bogawa & Storm Thorgerson. Narrative features include Fancy Dance by Erica Tremblay; The Secret Art of Human Flight by H.P Mendoza, Madly by Gael García Bernal, Mia Wasikowska, Anurag Kashyap, Sebastián Silva, Sion Sono, & Bat for Lashes; and a 10 Year Anniversary screening of Only Lovers Left Alive by Jim Jarmusch.

The YSFF short films program features work by Steven Bognar, Charlotte Ercoli, Adam Meeks, Stephen Michael Simon, Max Cohn and Ellie Sachs, and will include the World Premiere of Lynn’s Fire by Steve Zahn (The Righteous Gemstones, The White Lotus).

The festival will also present a retrospective of the career of longtime Yellow Springs resident and Academy Award® winning director Julia Reichert, featuring film posters, interviews and excerpts of her incredible body of work available free to the public.

All films and events will take place October 6-8, 2023 in the village of Yellow Springs, Ohio at the historic Little Art Theatre, The Foundry at Antioch College and Crome Architecture. YSFF is produced by Hotshot Robot Productions Director / Producer Eric Mahoney and Creative Director / Musician Ian Jacobs, supported by the Yellow Springs Community Foundation.

For further info or to purchase tickets and badges please visit: www.ysfilmfest.com/

McCoy on Movies: STRAYS.

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“The audience might be as high as we are if they find this entertaining!” (From left): Bug (Jamie Foxx) Reggie (Will Ferrell), Maggie (Isla Fisher) and Hunter (Randall Park) prepare to have a snack – with unexpected consequences – in a scene from STRAYS. Credit: Chuck Zlotnick/Universal Pictures © 2023 Universal Pictures. All Rights Reserved.

WATCH THE TRAILER HERE:

 
DIRECTOR: Josh Greenbaum

KEY CAST MEMBERS: Will Forte, Brett Gelman, and the voices of Will Ferrell, Jamie Foxx, Isla Fisher, Randall Park, Josh Gad, Harvey Guillén, Rob Riggle, Jamie Demetriou and Sofia Vergara

THE STORY: Brought to you (in)famously by the team behind Cocaine Bear and 21 Jump Street, STRAYS centers on Reggie (voiced by Will Ferrell), a naive, optimistic Border Terrier who doesn’t realize his owner Doug (Will Forte), hates him. Like, really hates him. That’s why when Doug finally is able to ditch him on the streets of the Pacific Northwest, he has no idea what’s going on.
Bug, a Boston Terrier (voiced by Jamie Foxx) with a literal love of couches, however, does. That’s why he decides its best to hip Reggie to what’s happening alongside his crew of Maggie (voiced by Isla Fisher), an Australian Shepherd and Hunter, a stressed out Great Dane (voiced by Russell Park) who doesn’t want to stop wearing his protective cone. Once Reggie realizes what’s happened, he decides his time to take revenge against Doug by biting off his favorite toy (and TRUST ME, it AIN’T a toy!).
But will Reggie get his revenge? There’s only way to find out …
THE REVIEW: Let me be brief: I liked Cocaine Bear. I own 21 Jump Street on Blu-Ray.  STRAYS, however, shouldn’t be adopted by movie audiences.
In fact, for neutering comedy the ways it does, it should be put down with extreme prejudice.
There are essentially three joke subjects in strays: Feces, sex/bodily fluids and anatomy. That’s about it. And they are worn out to death in the dumbest, grossest fashion possibly for 90+ minutes. As a stand-up comedian, I know that when used well, profanity can be of the highest verbal linguistics (see Pryor, Richard and Carlin, George for proof). STRAYS, however, uses profanity (along with the aforementioned three other subjects) so gratuitously that it becomes as ineffective as it is offensive. And it’s plenty offensive simply for how much it wears out those three tropes.
I for one am extremely happy Jamie Foxx is doing better after his recent health episode not only for his own well-being, but for the fact this hopefully won’t be his last theatrical release. The film tries to break free from its 14 year-old boy juvenile nature in its last act … Only to have that derailed by more silliness before the eventual “I guess I’m still watching this” ending. Forte is a shoo-in for a Golden Raspberry nomination, which might be the only endorsement PETA or the SPCA might give this gross-out trainwreck of a comedy. I mean, the long-forgotten The Happytime Murders was FAR more entertaining than this even though you knew it was wrong (and Jim Henson Studios HATED what it did to puppets), but STRAYS …. Not so much. When you find yourself asking “How did this get made?!” and “How much money was wasted on this?!” you probably won’t be thinking “sequel!”
They say all dogs go to heaven – but as STRAYS proves, there really are some bad dogs in this world and this movie is full of them.
OVERALL RATING (OUT OF FOUR POSSIBLE BUCKETS OF POPCORN):

 

 

 

2023 Fine Art Faculty Exhibition On Display at Sinclair

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Sinclair Community College’s annual Fine Art Faculty Exhibition will usher in the beginning of the 2023/2024 academic year.

Each fall, the Burnell R. Roberts Triangle Gallery, the Works on Paper Gallery, as well as other spaces around Building 13 display work from the faculty and adjunct faculty of Sinclair’s Art Department.

The Burnell R. Roberts Triangle Gallery traditionally features one faculty member, and this year will exhibit Self-Portrait: Memory & Reflection by Professor Kelly Joslin, Ph.D. Collage and mixed media explore memory and how time fades, distorts, and reawakens memories. Through self-portraiture Dr. Joslin explores the temporal aspects of her physicality and compares past self-portraits with later and current ones through a combination of abstract compositions and straightforward images.

There will be a virtual artist talk with Dr. Joslin over Zoom on September 1, 2023, at Noon and a reception September 7 from 4:30 pm – 6 pm in Building 13’s 4th Floor Atrium. Visit sinclair.edu/artgalleries for further details.

The Fine Art Faculty Exhibition will be on display from August 14 through September 12, 2023. Gallery spaces are located on the third and fourth floors of building 13 (located at W. Fifth and S. Perry Streets in downtown Dayton). The galleries are free and open to the public from 8 am – 6 pm  Monday–Friday and 9 am – 12:00 pm Saturdays.