DANDELION
Director: Nicole Riegel
Cast: KiKi Layne, Thomas Doherty, Melanie Nicholls-King, Brady Stablein, Jack Stablein, and Grace Kaiser
Premiered Mar. 10 @ 6:15 p.m. at the Alamo Drafthouse South Lamar, with an encore screening on Mar. 11.
Rising star KiKi Layne (If Beale Street Could Talk) shines as the titular Dandelion, a Cincinnati singer-songwriter not motivated by fame but rather by the desire to be heard and to share her truth. Writer-director Nicole Riegel (Holler) renews a familiar narrative beat by delving deep into the songwriting process through emotionally captivating drama and visually stunning imagery that would make Terrence Malick smile.
Much of the film’s satisfaction comes from watching its central star, Layne, who sings and plays tunes that will surely be stuck in your head (thanks to Aaron and Bryce Dessner of The National). Layne portrays Dandelion with a beating pulse and soul. She doesn’t have to say much for you to recognize her feelings and feel the history of her existence before the start of her story. So much is conveyed through Layne’s expressive eyes, and she’s a live wire from the get-go.
This is all especially true when Dandelion breaks into true songwriting with Casey (Thomas Doherty of Gossip Girl), a guitarist who walked away from his dream and now plays with a group of struggling musicians. Their whirlwind romance is incredibly human and sweet. You’ll swoon over them writing lyrics on each other’s arms and having meaningful conversations over pretty landscape shots. Their passion and dedication to the story are evident, especially in a scene where Doherty’s neck veins are clearly visible, emphasizing how he feels the words he’s singing deep within his bones.
Dandelion often suppresses the screams of frustration she feels along her artistic quest. She is trying to balance her dreams with taking care of her ill mother. Riegel’s depiction of this situation is a poetic illustration of the insurmountable obstacles that creative artists must sometimes face.
However, this film is not a mere cover song of A Star is Born. The story takes sharp and unexpected turns, making Dandelion a subversive experience. There are many details to admire, such as the moments when the characters jam together and the scenes involving little to no dialogue. Keep an eye out for the micro journey of the characters’ hands.
Dandelion is drenched in realism and takes an unconventional approach to capturing the story of dreamers. It says the only way to change is to look inward, and it’s beautiful to see unfold.
Grade: B+
Look out for an interview with filmmaker Nicole Riegel soon!
