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TIFF 2015 – Day #3

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a5e418c00d1f88a05b2165e602f9f7f0_originalHello Again,

After my successful turn in line this morning, I was off to my first screening – MISS YOU ALREADY, directed by Catherine Hardwicke.  Many people refer to this type of a film as a “chick flick.”  Though there are many films that get this label, there are a handful of these guilty pleasures that I have absolutely adored over the years…and I was hoping to find a new BEACHES today.  Hardwicke takes the story of two best friends since childhood (Toni Collette and Drew Barrymore) and gives it the energy and style of her film THIRTEEN.  There’s lots of crazy camera moves and a series of montages in an attempt to keep it fresh, but I feel that style detracts from this already overlong story.  Though there are certain elements of this film that work (namely Collette), I was mostly disappointed.  However, I was still moved by the ending – so I still had some sort of emotional attachment.

I had only planned on 4 films today, but when I had a window of time, I snuck in another film instead of a nap.  SLEEPING GIANT, by first-time Canadian director Andrew Cividino, is a lakeside summertime coming-of-age story about a teenage boy of privilege and his friendship with two much rougher boys living with their grandmother for the season.  It’s pretty early on in the film that we feel the powder keg sensibility of what’s in store, and the story becomes a little predictable.  But the cadence of the contemporary youthful dialog is just right and the boys’  performances are all strong.   What’s especially lovely about this film is the subtext.  This is one of the stronger films I’ve seen so far…but a hard sell – teen dramas that aren’t really meant for teens are always tricky (even when they’re as wonderful as ME AND EARL AND THE DYING GIRL).

THE LADY IN THE VAN, directed by Nicholas Hytner, was next on my list.  Hytner was in attendance for this film, and the Q&A was fantastic.  Based on the memoir and subsequent play by Alan Bennett, the films stars Maggie Smith (who originated the role in the play in 1999).  As this was the world premiere, it was Hytner’s first time seeing the finished film with an audience, and he had such eloquent things to say.  Maggie Smith is divine, and I must say that it’s smarter, funnier and significantly more touching than the trailer alludes. (Sony Classics has picked this up, so it’s pretty certain it will get a NEON run.)

Then I got to see the North American premiere of THE DANISH GIRL, directed by Tom Hooper (KINGS SPEECH).  This lovely film isn’t without a couple problematic moments, and it will certainly have its LGBT detractors – harping that it’s too “easy.”  That said, I think it works.  With lovely art direction, exquisite costumes and incredible performances across the board, this is a love story about artists Lili Elbe and Gerda Wegener (Eddie Redmayne & Alicia Vikander).   Lili, first introduced to us as Einar Wegener, is known to be the first recorded person to receive sexual reassignment surgery in the 1930’s.  Her diaries, posthumously used as the basis for the book MAN INTO WOMAN, remain highly regarded work for the transgender community.  There will certainly be a lot of award season buzz for this film. (In addition to a fantastic Q&A with Tom, Eddie and Alicia, the audience at this screening included many stars from other films at the festival – including Johnny Depp (his wife Amber Heard plays a wonderful role in the film, and she was stunning tonight).)

TE PROMETO ANARQUIA, directed by Julio Hernández Cordón, was my last film for the night.  This gritty film set in Mexico City is about two skateboarder boyfriends and their attempt to make some cash.  It feels a bit like some of Gus Van Sant’s indie work (less GOOD WILL HUNTING and MILK, more PARANOID PARK and ELEPHANT).  There are a lot of scenes where we simply see people traveling through the landscapes of the town with a loud, music-driven soundtrack.  And there a handful of scenes with dudes showing off their machismo – which I understood their intent but felt were some of the weaker moments.  The storytelling was uneven and overly long, and I think some of the plot points were haphazardly executed. About 25 minutes in, I considered leaving…but I’m glad I stuck it out.

I finished up the night with cocktails and catching up with some friends from NYC.  Some high profiles films are on the docket for tomorrow – looking forward to them.

Thanks for reading!

Jonathan

TIFF 2015 – Day #2

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KillYourFriends2-600x400Hello Again!

Today started off much the way they’ll all start.  I pulled myself out of bed after 4.5 hours sleep and scurried into the industry ticket line.  (Not having to run across town each morning is really fantastic.)

The first film I saw today was from one of Canada’s most beloved filmmakers – Atom Egoyan (THE SWEET HEREAFTER, CHLOE, and many more).  REMEMBER stars Christopher Plummer as a Holocaust survivor with dementia who escapes from his nursing home to seek revenge on the Auschwitz commander who killed his family.  Though a serious and intriguing subject, with moments of great tension, the film sometimes comes off as a bit twee when dealing with Plummer’s age and condition.  There’s a good story here, but I just didn’t completely buy it.  That said, I know many people will love this film.

Next up was IN CONVERSATION WITH JULIANNE MOORE.  Clips from Moore’s career (BOOGIE NIGHTS, BIG LEBOWSKI, FAR FROM HEAVEN, THE HOURS, STILL ALICE, and more) played before she took the stage for a hour-long interview with Cameron Baily (and eventually a handful of audience questions).  As I already knew, this woman is a class act.  It was exciting to hear her insights on acting and her eloquence and command of language is so refreshing.  She mostly spoke of her career in indie films, but she still referenced all the Hollywood material (JURASSIC, HUNGER GAMES, etc) she’s done…and she attributes her years on soap opera for giving her an opportunity to really learn to work.  When asked by a young, college bound actress about seeking a career and having a “plan B” (referencing STILL ALICE), Julianne suggested always getting a college degree (even if it is in acting) and “do everything that interests you.”  I love her! (The Star covered this event.  For their story, visit this LINK…though the link might not work outside of Canada.)

After lunch and a 30 minute nap, I scurried to THE LOBSTER, directed by Yorgos Lanthimos.  This is a film set in a parallel universe – but it’s not really science fiction.  It’s the story of a man who goes to a hotel where people go to find partners.  After 45 days, if they haven’t found a partner, they get turned into an animal of their choice (OK, so maybe a hint of science fiction).  This quirky allegory is from the man who brought us DOGTOOTH – one of my favorite challenging films of the past decade.  THE LOBSTER is the director’s first English language film, and though I certainly like some of its themes and some of its moral and societal questions, I felt it was a little more disjointed than I’d prefer.  I felt like the film began to lose steam in its second and third act.  That said, I’d certainly watch it again…so there’s a testament to its strengths.

My last film for the day was KILL YOUR FRIENDS, directed by Owen Harris.  This is a super-polished and scathing look at the music industry – starring Nicholas Hoult and based on a best-selling novel.  The portrait of how things get done for record labels (though I’m sure you could substitute any number of high profile “glamorous” jobs) is relentless, and the drug use, the disregard for women (and in this over-the-top case, even violence) was terribly off-putting.  Now here’s the question.  Will some audiences simply revel in it?  Will the drug use and hookers with bare breasts seem the ultimate goal to some…or will audiences really read it as a cautionary tale?  I’m hoping for the latter. Nicholas Hoult plays the adorable maniac very well, and the movie recalls the tone and message of films like THE PLAYER and AMERICAN PSYCHO.

That’s it for today.  I’m off for a beer with some friends.  Hoping to be in bed by midnightish….we’ll see.

Thanks for reading,

Jonathan

P.S.  You can quickly look at all my Toronto posts by going to www.mostmetro.com/tag/tiff  Thank you!

TIFF 2015 – Day 1

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MV5BMTU1MDcxODk2OV5BMl5BanBnXkFtZTgwNzA5Nzc2NTE@._V1_SY317_CR2,0,214,317_AL_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.)

Truffaut.Hitchcock_Photo.by.Philippe.Halsman.Courtesyof.CohenMediaGroup.3_{26725b4d-9af9-e411-8342-d4ae527c3b65}_lg

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)

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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).

TIFF apt

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!

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MV5BMTQ4MDM3NjY2Nl5BMl5BanBnXkFtZTgwNjkyNTIzNjE@._V1_SY317_CR2,0,214,317_AL_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

Noah Baumbach’s MISTRESS AMERICA at THE NEON!

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mistress_america_xlgHello 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!

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.

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

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

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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.

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.

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

Documentary About Dayton Basketball Player “The Blur” Debuts Wed

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4174406_1429028451.088-1It’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.1102729_10151799241124406_1986508114_o-e1440018347319-209x300

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.

Woody Allen’s IRRATIONAL MAN – starring Joaquin Phoenix, Emma Stone & Parker Posey – Opens Friday at THE NEON

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irrational_man_posterHello Everyone,

We had another solid weekend at THE NEON. Many thanks for your continued support! MR. HOLMES is going to stick around, but as anticipated, INFINITELY POLAR BEAR will only screen until Thursday. For this week’s remaining showtimes, please visit our website at www.neonmovies.com. On Friday, we will open Woody Allen’s latest film – IRRATIONAL MAN – starring Joaquin Phoenix, Emma Stone & Parker Posey.

Synopsis for IRRATIONAL MAN: “Woody Allen’s IRRATIONAL MAN is about a tormented philosophy professor who finds a will to live when he commits an existential act. Philosophy professor Abe Lucas (Joaquin Phoenix) is at rock bottom emotionally, unable to find any meaning or joy in life. Abe feels that everything he’s tried to do, from political activism to teaching, hasn’t made any difference. Soon after arriving to teach at a small town college, Abe gets involved with two women: Rita Richards (Parker Posey), a lonely professor who wants him to rescue her from her unhappy marriage; and Jill Pollard (Emma Stone), his best student, who becomes his closest friend. Pure chance changes everything when Abe and Jill overhear a stranger’s conversation and become drawn in…” (taken from Sony Classics) Click this LINK to visit the film’s official website.

Don’t forget that this Thursday, August 6 at 7:30, director Enzo Libertini will premiere his new film THRESHOLD (Libertini has a background in theater, this is his first feature film). “Three slackers wake up to find their friend is missing and in the search for his whereabouts they continue their normal routine that is both odd and compelling. When this routine becomes threatened they must face what’s been holding them back and cross the threshold into truly living. Filmmaker Enzo Libertini brings an epic comedy to the screen for the first time. Libertini began his work on the stage, with original plays Fulmination and Fall for This.” (taken from press notes) Tickets are on sale now for $8 each at THE NEON’s box office.

On Thursday, August 27 at 7:30, we will hold the world premiere of the new film DIARY OF A DEADBEAT: THE STORY OF JIM VANBEBBER. “Jim VanBebber, an uncompromising, underground, outlaw filmmaker from Greenville, Ohio has become one of the most infamous and controversial American independent filmmakers of our time. VanBebber brought us such cult classics as DEADBEAT AT DAWN (The first feature film made in Dayton, Ohio) MY SWEET SATAN, THE MANSON FAMILY, and many others. Diary of a Deadbeat is a documentary that follows his life from his early super 8mm films to his strange days in Hollywood. It features interviews with an eclectic group of artists such as Phil Ansemlo (Pantera), Richard Kern (Trangressive Film Director), Nivek Ogre (Skinny Puppy), R.A the Rugged Man, and many more. Director Victor Bonacore will be in attendance, granting the world the first look at this documentary that has been in the works for over five years! Be the first to see the much-anticipated and long-awaited Diary of a Deadbeat at its world premiere, for only $5!” Tickets on sale now at THE NEON’s box office.

A Reminder About PARKING! Parking across from our front door (the old Greyhound lot) is free for our customers at any time. In addition, we do validate for parking in the parking garage on weekdays after 6pm and all day on Saturday and Sunday. (In the event that the Convention Center is hosting a special event, do not pay an attendant for parking on your way in…simply state that you’re heading to THE NEON and you require a ticket that will be later validated.)

Thanks for your continued support.

We hope to see you this weekend!

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Friday, August 7 – Thursday, August 13:

IRRATIONAL MAN (R) 1 Hr 36 Min
Friday, Saturday: 12:45, 3:00, 5:15, 7:30, 9:45
Sunday: 12:45, 3:00, 5:15, 7:30
Monday – Thursday: 3:15, 5:30, 7:40

MR. HOLMES (PG) 1 Hr 45 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, 5:15, 7:30

COMING SOON:
(All Dates Are Tentative. Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear.)
Aug. 14 – TESTAMENT OF YOUTH
Aug. 21 – THE END OF THE TOUR
Aug. 28 – DIARY OF A TEENAGE GIRL
Sept. 11 – MISTRESS AMERICA                                                                                                                                                                Sept. 18 – LEARNING TO DRIVE
TBD: THE HUNDRED YEAR OLD MAN WHO CLIMBED OUT THE WINDOW AND DISAPPEARED

Ian McKellen’s MR. HOLMES Opens Friday at THE NEON!

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MV5BMTg5MjE0Njk0MF5BMl5BanBnXkFtZTgwNTgwMjQ4NTE@._V1_SX640_SY720_Hello Everyone,

This Friday, we will open the film that many regulars have been asking about – MR. HOLMES. Directed by Bill Condon (KINSEY) and starring Ian McKellen & Laura Linney, this film premiered at the Berlin International Film Festival and I’m certain many of you will love it. In addition, we will hold all three current films for one more week – AMY, THE OVERNIGHT and ME AND EARL AND THE DYING GIRL. For this week’s remaining showtimes (they’re different than the upcoming week – which are listed below), please visit our website at www.neonmovies.com. On July 31, we plan to open INFINITELY POLAR BEAR – starring Mark Ruffalo and Zoe Saldana.

Synopsis for MR. HOLMES: “MR HOLMES is a new twist on the world’s most famous detective. 1947, an aging Sherlock Holmes returns from a journey to Japan, where, in search of a rare plant with powerful restorative qualities, he has witnessed the devastation of nuclear warfare. Now, in his remote seaside farmhouse, Holmes faces the end of his days tending to his bees, with only the company of his housekeeper and her young son, Roger. Grappling with the diminishing powers of his mind, Holmes comes to rely upon the boy as he revisits the circumstances of the unsolved case that forced him into retirement, and searches for answers to the mysteries of life and love – before it’s too late.” (taken from Roadside Attractions) Kenneth Turan of The Los Angeles Times wrote, “Maneuvering shrewdly within the boundaries of the traditional canon and aided by the impeccable performance of Ian McKellen, Bill Condon directs an elegant puzzler that presents the sage of Baker Street dealing with the one thing he’s never had to contend with before: his own emotions.” Click this LINK to visit the film’s official website.

On Thursday, July 30 at 7:30, the Sierra Club Miami Group will host a special screening of a new film. “BAG IT is a documentary centered around life without plastic. ‘Everyman’ Jeb Berrier embarks on a global tour to unravel the complexities of the plastic world. BAG IT investigates plastic on our waterways, ocean gyres, and even our own bodies! Finally, a movie that tackles the plastic industry and what we can do about it. Today! Right now! BAG IT won the Audience Choice at Telluride Mountainfilm Festival and Princeton Environmental Film Festival. This screening will be presented by the Sierra Club Miami Group, one of Ohio’s largest and oldest environmental group with over four thousand members.” (taken from press notes) Tickets for this FREE Screening will be given on a first come, first serve basis starting one hour before showtime.

On Thursday, August 6 at 7:30, director Enzo Libertini will premiere his new film THRESHOLD (Libertini has a background in theater, this is his first feature film). “Three slackers wake up to find their friend is missing and in the search for his whereabouts they continue their normal routine that is both odd and compelling. When this routine becomes threatened they must face what’s been holding them back and cross the threshold into truly living. Filmmaker Enzo Libertini brings an epic comedy to the screen for the first time. Libertini began his work on the stage, with original plays Fulmination and Fall for This.” (taken from press notes) Tickets will be $8 each and will be available at THE NEON’s box office starting this weekend.

The Dayton Tiny House Community is hoping to bring a new film to town – SMALL IS BEAUTIFUL: A TINY HOUSE DOCUMENTARY. This is a tugg event, so 50+ more tickets must be reserved for the screening to take place on Wednesday, August 12 at 7:30 (those reservations need to be made on the official site by Aug. 1). “In Portland, Oregon, we meet four characters, each of whom are at various stages of building and living in their own tiny homes…Ultimately this story proves that it’s not what’s inside the walls of a tiny house that counts, but rather it is the strong community of like minded people who support each other as they dare to be different.” (taken from tugg) You can read more about this film, watch a trailer and reserve your tickets on the official site. Here’s the LINK.

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

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Wednesday, July 24 – Thursday, July 30:

AMY (R) 2 Hrs 8 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 7:15
Monday – Wednesday: 7:30

ME AND EARL AND THE DYING GIRL (PG-13) 1 Hr 45 Min
Friday, Saturday: 12:45, 5:15
Sunday: 12:45
Monday – Thursday: 3:00

THE OVERNIGHT (R) 1 Hr 20 Min
Friday & Saturday: 3:15, 9:45
Sunday: 3:15
Monday – Thursday: 5:30

MR. HOLMES (PG) 1 Hr 45 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, 5:15, 7:30

BAG IT (NR) 1 Hr 14 Min
Thursday: 7:30

COMING SOON:
(All Dates Are Tentative. Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear.)
July 31 – INFINITELY POLAR BEAR
Aug. 7 – IRRATIONAL MAN
Aug. 14 – TESTAMENT OF YOUTH
Aug. 21 – THE END OF THE TOUR
Aug. 28 – DIARY OF A TEENAGE GIRL
GRANDMA, SAINT LAURENT,
THE HUNDRED YEAR OLD MAN WHO CLIMBED OUT THE WINDOW AND DISAPPEARED

AMY Winehouse Doc & Sundance Sex Comedy THE OVERNIGHT at THE NEON!

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OVERNIGHT 2Hello Everyone,

Many thanks to everyone who has come out and supported AMY. Documentaries can be a tough sell, but we had several well attended screenings this past weekend. AMY will stick around for another week. On Friday, we will open a sex comedy that was a hit at this year’s Sundance Film Festival – THE OVERNIGHT (this will likely be a one-week only engagement). We will also hold ME AND EARL AND THE DYING GIRL for one more week…if you haven’t given this film a chance yet, I urge you to do so. For this week’s remaining showtimes (they’re different than the upcoming week – which are listed below), please visit our website at www.neonmovies.com

Synopsis for THE OVERNIGHT: “Alex, Emily, and their son, RJ, have recently moved to Los Angeles’s Eastside from Seattle. Feeling lost in a new city, they are desperate to find their first new friends. After a chance meeting with Kurt at the neighborhood park, they gladly agree to join family pizza night at his home. But as it gets later and the kids go to bed, the family ‘playdate’ becomes increasingly more revealing as the couples begin to open up.” (taken from The Orchard) Rolling Stone called this film “Sundance’s best sex comedy.” New York Magazine wrote, “Hilarious…there’s so much to love about this movie.” THE OVERNIGHT stars Adam Scott (PARKS AND RECREATION), Taylor Shilling (ORANGE IS THE NEW BLACK), Jason Schwartzman (a Wes Anderson favorite) and Judith Godreche (she’s been in numerous NEON films including POTICHE, STOKER, and L’AUBERGE ESPAGNOLE). Click this LINK to visit the film’s official website.

On Thursday, July 30 at 7:30, the Sierra Club Miami Group will host a special screening of a new film. “BAG IT is a documentary centered around life without plastic. ‘Everyman’ Jeb Berrier embarks on a global tour to unravel the complexities of the plastic world. BAG IT investigates plastic on our waterways, ocean gyres, and even our own bodies! Finally, a movie that tackles the plastic industry and what we can do about it. Today! Right now! BAG IT won the Audience Choice at Telluride Mountainfilm Festival and Princeton Environmental Film Festival. This screening will be presented by the Sierra Club Miami Group, one of Ohio’s largest and oldest environmental group with over four thousand members.” (taken from press notes) Tickets for this FREE Screening will be given on a first come, first serve basis starting one hour before showtime.

On Thursday, August 6 at 7:30, director Enzo Libertini will premiere his new film THRESHOLD (Libertini has a background in theater, this is his first feature film). “Three slackers wake up to find their friend is missing and in the search for his whereabouts they continue their normal routine that is both odd and compelling. When this routine becomes threatened they must face what’s been holding them back and cross the threshold into truly living. Filmmaker Enzo Libertini brings an epic comedy to the screen for the first time. Libertini began his work on the stage, with original plays Fulmination and Fall for This.” (taken from press notes) Tickets are now available at THE NEON’s box office.

The Dayton Tiny House Community is hoping to bring a new film to town – SMALL IS BEAUTIFUL: A TINY HOUSE DOCUMENTARY. This is a tugg event, so 50+ more tickets must be reserved for the screening to take place on Wednesday, August 12 at 7:30 (those reservations need to be made by Aug. 1). “In Portland, Oregon, we meet four characters, each of whom are at various stages of building and living in their own tiny homes…Ultimately this story proves that it’s not what’s inside the walls of a tiny house that counts, but rather it is the strong community of like minded people who support each other as they dare to be different.” (taken from tugg) You can read more about this film, watch a trailer and reserve your tickets on the official site. Here’s the LINK.

We are slated to open MR. HOLMES (starring Ian McKellen) next Friday. I know many of you are quite excited about this film, and I’m truly looking forward to it.

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

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Wednesday, July 17 – Thursday, July 23:

AMY (R) 2 Hrs 8 Min
Friday, Saturday: 1:00, 4:00, 7:00, 9:40
Sunday: 1:00, 4:00, 7:00
Monday – Thursday: 2:45, 5:20, 7:50

ME AND EARL AND THE DYING GIRL (PG-13) 1 Hr 45 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunda: 12:40, 5:00, 7:30
Monday – Thursday: 3:30, 7:45

THE OVERNIGHT (R) 1 Hr 20 Min
Friday & Saturday: 3:00, 9:45
Sunday: 3:00
Monday – Thursday: 6:00

COMING SOON:
(All Dates Are Tentative. Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear.)
July 24 – MR. HOLMES
Aug. 7 – IRRATIONAL MAN
TBD: TESTAMENT OF YOUTH, INFINITELY POLAR BEAR,
DIARY OF A TEENAGE GIRL, GRANDMA, SAINT LAURENT,
THE HUNDRED YEAR OLD MAN WHO CLIMBED OUT THE WINDOW AND DISAPPEARED

Big Sundance Winner ME AND EARL AND THE DYING GIRL Now Playing at THE NEON!

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me-and-earl-and-the-dying-girlHello Everyone,

ME AND EARL AND THE DYING GIRL – the big winner and giant crowdpleaser (especially for film lovers) from this year’s Sundance Film Festival – is now playing at THE NEON! In addition, I’m pleased to announce that we’re able to hold both LOVE & MERCY and I’LL SEE YOU IN MY DREAMS for one more week!

Synopsis for ME AND EARL AND THE DYING GIRL: “Winner of the 2015 Sundance Grand Jury Prize as well as the Audience Award, ME AND EARL AND THE DYING GIRL is the story of Greg Gaines (Thomas Mann), an awkward high school senior whose mom forces him to spend time with Rachel – a girl in his class (Olivia Cooke) with whom he hasn’t spoken to since kindergarten – who was just diagnosed with cancer.” (taken from Fox Searchlight) Joe Morgenstern from The Wall Street Journal wrote, “This brilliantly funny, casually profound and deeply affecting coming-of-age chronicle…even manages to be life-enlightening – it’s a fresh take on contemporary adolescence as a journey from ironic detachment to openhearted feeling.” Click on this LINK to visit the film’s official site.

Single Payer Action Network Ohio (SPAN Ohio) and Doctors for America are proud to host a screening of the powerful documentary REMOTE AREA MEDICAL. During the U.S. debate about healthcare reform, the media failed to put a human face on what it means to not have access to healthcare. Over three days in April 2012, Remote Area Medical, the pioneers of “no-cost” healthcare clinics, treated nearly 2,000 patients on the infield of Bristol, Tennessee’s massive NASCAR speedway. REMOTE AREA MEDICAL affords us an insider’s perspective on the ebb and flow of the event. It is the extraordinary stories of the patients, desperate for medical attention, that create a lasting impression about the state of modern healthcare in America. Admission is free and open to the public. A panel discussion will be held after the movie with local physicians and health policy advocates. The film will screen on Sunday, July 12 at 3pm. Tickets will be given on a first come, first serve basis on the day of the screening.

On Thursday, July 30 at 7:30, the Sierra Club Miami Group will host a special screening of a new film. “BAG IT is a documentary centered around life without plastic. ‘Everyman’ Jeb Berrier embarks on a global tour to unravel the complexities of the plastic world. BAG IT investigates plastic on our waterways, ocean gyres, and even our own bodies! Finally, a movie that tackles the plastic industry and what we can do about it. Today! Right now! BAG IT won the Audience Choice at Telluride Mountainfilm Festival and Princeton Environmental Film Festival. This screening will be presented by the Sierra Club Miami Group, one of Ohio’s largest and oldest environmental group with over four thousand members.” (taken from press notes) Tickets for this FREE Screening will be given on a first come, first serve basis starting one hour before showtime.

Next Friday, July 10, we plan to open the new powerful documentary AMY about the brilliant singer and songwriter Amy Winehouse – a smash at this year’s Cannes Film Festival. Please help us spread the word to any of your friends and family who are interested in music or strong documentaries.

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

SHOWTIMES for Wednesday, July 1 – Thursday, July 9:

LOVE & MERCY (PG-13) 2 Hrs 1 Min
Wednesday & Thursday: 5:20
Friday & Saturday: 4:50, 9:30
Sunday: 4:50
Monday – Thursday: 5:20

I’LL SEE YOU IN MY DREAMS (PG-13) 1 Hr 32 Min
Wednesday & Thursday: 3:15, 7:45
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:40, 2:50, 7:20
Monday – Thursday: 3:15, 7:45

ME AND EARL AND THE DYING GIRL (PG-13) 1 Hr 45 Min
Wednesday & Thursday (July 1 & 2): 2:30, 5:00, 7:30
Friday & Saturday: 12:15, 2:30, 5:00, 7:30, 9:45
Sunday: 12:15, 2:30, 5:00, 7:30
Monday – Thursday: 3:00, 5:15, 7:40

COMING SOON:
(All Dates Are Tentative. Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear.)
July 10 – AMY
July 17 (or later) – TESTAMENT OF YOUTH
July 24 (or later) – INFINITELY POLAR BEAR
July 24 – MR. HOLMES
Aug. 7 – IRRATIONAL MAN
TBD – END OF THE TOUR, DIARY OF A TEENAGE GIRL,
GRANDMA, SAINT LAURENT

12 Screen Movie Theater Coming to Austin Landing

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1420562635-13-Cinepolis_Playa_del_CarmenRG Properties today announced that Cinépolis USA, a leading world-class exhibitor, will open a 12-screen, 1,560-seat sophisticated cinema with enhanced theater offerings in Austin Landing, a 142-acre development located off of the I-75 at the Austin Boulevard exit in Dayton, Ohio.
“Adding Cinépolis USA is the perfect complement to Austin Landing and surrounding areas,” said Bo Gunlock, President of RG Properties and the developer of Austin Landing. “We couldn’t be more thrilled to have this theater available for the community as we continue to bring new and exciting options for everyone to enjoy.”
Cinépolis Dayton marks Cinépolis USA’s debut into Ohio. The exhibitor’s sophisticated movie theater concept, set to debut in fall 2016, will consist of a 52,750-square-foot cinema featuring Cinépolis’ sophisticated and approachable décor, with a lounge-style lobby that will encourage guests to relax and socialize before the movie begins. With its cutting-edge sound and projection technology, comfortable seats, spacious auditoriums, elegant lobby space, gourmet snacks and a full bar, Cinépolis Dayton will provide an exciting new movie-going experience for area residents.
“We are fortunate to grow and introduce Cinépolis USA’s cinematic experience to new communities through extraordinary developments like Austin Landing,” said Neil Baron, Vice President of Real Estate, Cinépolis USA. “Dayton, Ohio is an exceptional town and we couldn’t be happier to have teamed with a partner so adept at providing its community with nothing but the best in entertainment.”

Cinepolis-Rancho-Santa-Margarita-Restaurant-Bar
As Dayton’s central hub for community members and traveler s alike, Austin Landing offers a diverse selection of entertainment, dining, shopping and hotel offerings. The development features 10 upscale eateries, including Firebirds Wood Fired Grill and Noodles & Company, two hotels – Hilton Garden Inn and Staybridge Suites – and a variety of shopping venues, alongside fun events like First Friday concerts and luxury car shows. Cinépolis Dayton will further establish the development’s status as a top location within the Dayton community.
The leading world-class cinema exhibitor will screen movies seven days a week with ticket prices around $10 – $14. Guests will be able to reserve seating via www.cinepolisusa.com upon the theater’s opening. Additionally, Cinépolis Dayton offers the opportunity for employment in the area and will be hiring approximately 75-100 full time and part time team members. For more information and to apply, contact [email protected].

Me and Earl and The Dying Girl **Ticket Giveaway**

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earlWinner of the Grand Jury Prize and the Audience Award at the 2015 Sundance Film Festival, ME AND EARL AND THE DYING GIRL is the uniquely funny, moving story of Greg (Thomas Mann), a high school senior who is trying to blend in anonymously, avoiding deeper relationships as a survival strategy for navigating the social minefield that is teenage life.  He even describes his constant companion Earl (RJ Cyler), with whom he makes short film parodies of classic movies, as more of a ‘co-worker’ than a best friend. But when Greg’s mom (Connie Britton) insists he spend time with Rachel (Olivia Cooke) – a girl in his class who has just been diagnosed with cancer – he slowly discovers how worthwhile the true bonds of friendship can be.

DaytonMostMetro Wants to Send You to A Screening! If you’d like to enter our random drawing, fill out  the form below and leave us a comment telling us why you should win.  We’ll pick 10 winners  and notify you this Sunday.

ME AND EARL AND THE DYING GIRL

Tues. 6/23 @ The Greene at 7PM

[form 55 “DMM Contest Entry – Generic”]

 

I’LL SEE YOU IN MY DREAMS With Blythe Danner & Sam Elliott Opens at THE NEON

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isyimd-poster-final-1Hello Everyone,

As planned, we’re moving forward this weekend with a film that many of you are anticipating. The trailer for I’LL SEE YOU IN MY DREAMS has been causing a lot of laughs and even some swoons (I had no idea that Sam Elliott had such a fan base)! LOVE & MERCY was a hit this weekend, and it will stick around. If you still need to see FAR FROM THE MADDING CROWD or LAMBERT AND STAMP, you only have until Thursday to catch them at THE NEON. For this week’s remaining showtimes (they’re different than the upcoming week – which are listed below), please visit our website at www.neonmovies.com

Synopsis for I’LL SEE YOU IN MY DREAMS: Currently rated “94% Fresh” on rotten tomatoes.com! “In this vibrant, funny, and heartfelt film, a widow and former songstress discovers that life can begin anew at any age. With the support of three loyal girlfriends (June Squibb, Rhea Perlman, and Mary Kay Place), Carol (Blythe Danner) decides to embrace the world, embarking on an unlikely friendship with her pool maintenance man (Martin Starr), pursuing a new love interest (Sam Elliott), and reconnecting with her daughter (Malin Akerman).” (taken from Bleecker Street) Click on this LINK to visit the film’s official site.

Don’t forget that we still have tickets to the crowd-pleasing documentary TAB HUNTER CONFIDENTIAL. It screens this Thursday (June 18) at 7:30. Tickets are just $8.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CKrhi2una2w

Director Kevin Nam will be debuting his first short film this Monday, June 22 at 8pm. “What if you were given a chance to traverse your own subconscious? Would you be afraid of what you may see? We all have our demons kept at bay buried under the lies we tell ourselves. Keaton, a heartbroken man, is given this chance to reshape and reform his memories. With the help of Dr. Darren Vonnuxley at Entropy’s Enlightenment, Keaton is plunged deep into his own subconscious, where he must confront and conquer his demon, face to face. HOW TO MURDER YOUR MELANCHOLY is a short dark psychological drama with horror elements filmed entirely in the Dayton, Ohio region. This one and only screening of the short film is the directorial debut of local resident Kevin Nam. The director requires a mature audience due to scenes of graphic violence, blood, and gore. The director will also be in attendance for a brief Q & A immediately following the film. Please arrive early, screening will promptly begin at 8 pm. Tickets are on a first-come first-serve basis. Admission is FREE.” (taken from Kevin Nam’s press notes)

Single Payer Action Network Ohio (SPAN Ohio) and Doctors for America are proud to host a screening of the powerful documentary REMOTE AREA MEDICAL. During the U.S. debate about healthcare reform, the media failed to put a human face on what it means to not have access to healthcare. Over three days in April 2012, Remote Area Medical, the pioneers of “no-cost” healthcare clinics, treated nearly 2,000 patients on the infield of Bristol, Tennessee’s massive NASCAR speedway. REMOTE AREA MEDICAL affords us an insider’s perspective on the ebb and flow of the event. It is the extraordinary stories of the patients, desperate for medical attention, that create a lasting impression about the state of modern healthcare in America. Admission is free and open to the public. A panel discussion will be held after the movie with local physicians and health policy advocates. The film will screen on Sunday, July 12 at 3pm. Tickets will be given on a first come, first serve basis on the day of the screening.

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

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Friday, June 19 – Thursday, June 25:

LOVE & MERCY (PG-13) 2 Hrs 1 Min
Friday & Saturday: 11:40, 2:10, 4:40, 7:20, 9:50
Sunday: 11:40, 2:10, 4:40, 7:20
Monday: 2:45, 5:20
Tuesday – Thursday: 2:45, 5:20, 7:50

I’LL SEE YOU IN MY DREAMS (PG-13) 1 Hr 32 Min
Friday & Saturday: 12:30, 2:40, 4:50, 7:15, 9:20
Sunday: 12:30, 2:40, 4:50, 7:15
Monday: 3:00, 5:15, 7:30
Tuesday: 12:30, 3:00, 5:15, 7:30
Wednesday & Thursday: 3:00, 5:15, 7:30

HOW TO MURDER YOUR MELANCHOLY (NR) 19 min + Q&A
Monday: 8:00

COMING SOON:

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

TBD – SUNSHINE SUPERMAN, SAINT LAURENT,
ALOFT, IRRATIONAL MAN, INIFINITELY POLAR BEAR
July 1- ME AND EARL AND THE DYING GIRL
July ? – AMY
July ? – MR. HOLMES

BEACH BOYS’ Brian Wilson, THE WHO, and TAB HUNTER – Check Out THE NEON This Weekend!

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23723_320_470Hello Everyone,

As promised, we’re excited to open the new biopic about Brian Wilson of The Beach Boys this Friday. It’s called LOVE & MERCY, and the reviews are terrific. The Village Voice, The San Francisco Chronicle, The Washington Post, The Chicago Tribune and many others have given the film a 100% Review! In addition, we will open a documentary about the famous managers of The Who – LAMBERT AND STAMP. Lastly, we’ll have a one-night only screening of the crowd-pleasing documentary about Hollywood’s “boy next door” – TAB HUNTER CONFIDENTIAL. If you still need to see IRIS or DIOR AND I, you’ll need to hurry down. Thursday will be your last chance to catch those films at THE NEON. FAR FROM THE MADDING CROWD will stick around for one more week. For this week’s remaining showtimes (they’re different than the upcoming week – which are listed below), please visit our website at www.neonmovies.com

Synopsis for LOVE & MERCY: “LOVE & MERCY presents an unconventional portrait of Brian Wilson, the mercurial singer, songwriter and leader of The Beach Boys. Set against the era defining catalog of Wilson’s music, the film intimately examines the personal voyage and ultimate salvation of the icon whose success came at extraordinary personal cost.” (taken from Roadside Attractions) This film has been winning rave reviews – especially for the two men who play Wilson – John Cusack and Paul Dano. Click on this LINK to visit the film’s official site.

Synopsis for LAMBERT AND STAMP: “Aspiring filmmakers Chris Stamp and Kit Lambert set out to find a subject for their underground movie, one that will reflect the way it feels to be young and dissatisfied in postwar London. This unlikely partnership of two men from vastly different backgrounds was inspired by the burgeoning youth culture of the early 1960s. Lambert and Stamp searched for months and finally found in a band called the High Numbers a rebellious restlessness that was just what they were looking for. Abandoning their plans to make a film, they instead decided to mentor and manage this group, which evolved into the iconic band known as the Who. The result was rock ‘n’ roll history” (taken from Sony Classics) Click on this LINK to visit the film’s official site.

The crowd-pleasing, insightful and kinda gossipy SXSW hit documentary TAB HUNTER CONFIDENTIAL will make its way to town for one special screening. If you’re a Tab Hunter fan or if you’re interested in how the Hollywood machine worked (and still does to some extent), I encourage you to attend. This film will only screen one time – Thursday, June 18 at 7:30 – as Pride Night at THE NEON. Tickets, just $8 each, are available now at THE NEON’s Box Office! “In the 1950s, Tab Hunter is number one at the box office and number one on the music charts. He is Hollywood’s most sought-after star and America’s boy next door. Natalie Wood, Debbie Reynolds and Sophia Loren are just a few of the actresses he is romantically linked to. Nothing, it seems, can damage Tab Hunter’s career. Nothing, that is, except for the fact that Tab Hunter is secretly gay. Now, Tab Hunter’s secret is out. In TAB HUNTER CONFIDENTIAL we will meet, for the first time, the real Tab Hunter as he shares with us the whole story of a happy, healthy survivor of Hollywood’s roller coaster.”

Director Kevin Nam will be debuting his first short film on Monday, June 22. “What if you were given a chance to traverse your own subconscious? Would you be afraid of what you may see? We all have our demons kept at bay buried under the lies we tell ourselves. Keaton, a heartbroken man, is given this chance to reshape and reform his memories. With the help of Dr. Darren Vonnuxley at Entropy’s Enlightenment, Keaton is plunged deep into his own subconscious, where he must confront and conquer his demon, face to face. HOW TO MURDER YOUR MELANCHOLY is a short dark psychological drama with horror elements filmed entirely in the Dayton, Ohio region. This one and only screening of the short film is the directorial debut of local resident Kevin Nam. The director requires a mature audience due to scenes of graphic violence, blood, and gore. The director will also be in attendance for a brief Q & A immediately following the film. Please arrive early, screening will promptly begin at 8 pm. Tickets are on a first-come first-serve basis. Admission is FREE.” (taken from Kevin Nam’s press notes)

Many thanks to Oldies 97.3 and Omega Music for their help in spreading the word about LOVE & MERCY. Visit their facebook pages and enter their contests for your chance to win LOVE & MERCY Prize Packages!

Next Friday (June 19), we will open the film that many of you have been waiting for – I’LL SEE YOU IN MY DREAMS – starring Blythe Danner and Sam Elliott.

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

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Friday, June 12 – Thursday, June 18:

LOVE & MERCY (PG-13) 2 Hrs 1 Min
Friday & Saturday: 11:40, 2:10, 4:40, 7:20, 9:50
Sunday: 11:40, 2:10, 4:40, 7:20
Monday – Thursday: 2:45, 5:20, 7:50

LAMBERT AND STAMP (R) 1 Hr 57 Min
Friday, Saturday: 4:45, 9:40
Sunday: 4:45
Monday – Thursday: 5:15

FAR FROM THE MADDING CROWD (PG-13) 1 Hr 59 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 11:50, 2:15, 7:15
Monday – Wednesday: 2:50, 7:45
Thursday: 2:50

TAB HUNTER CONFIDENTIAL (NR) 1 Hr 30 Min
Thursday: 7:30

COMING SOON:
(All Dates Are Tentative. Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear.)
June 19 – I’LL SEE YOU IN MY DREAMS
TBD – SUNSHINE SUPERMAN,
SAINT LAURENT, ALOFT
July 1- ME AND EARL AND THE DYING GIRL
July ? – MR. HOLMES
July ? – AMY