Movies News Talk
Though sadly it's also burdened by a romantic subplot that finally fails to resonate, Nicole Riegel's Dandelion offers a fascinating examination of artistic development and the difficulties of following a career in music.
Dandelion (Kiki Layne) a gifted musician struggling with the demands of her career opens the movie. Though passionate, she is disappointed with her present job—she performs in a hotel lounge to a bored audience. Layne captures Dandelion's feelings and the unadulterated intensity she brings to her work. Reflecting Dandelion's experiences and providing a window into her soul, the movie shines in showing how music turns into a release for her.
Delving into the creative process, Dandelion shows her will to discover her voice and follow her musical aspirations. Her path from the hotel lounge to the vibrant energy of a motorcycle rally—a scene that first seems at odds with her style—is interesting and familiar. Many creative people struggle to balance artistic integrity with commercial appeal, and the movie catches that struggle.
The romantic relationship between Dandelion and Casey (Thomas Doherty) finally reduces the general impact of the movie. Layne and Doherty have obvious chemistry, but their whirl-around romance seems forced and unreal.
The movie mostly relies on romantic clichés, which produces a jumbled tone that conflicts with Dandelion's artistic path based on grounded reality. The romance seems shockingly out of place, so compromising the film's otherwise convincing representation of the creative process.
The way the movie uses music is among its strong points. The emotionally charged songs of dandelion deftly fit the story. The movie emphasizes the transforming ability of music, how it might unite people, and how one might express heartache as well as delight using it.
Especially poignant is the scene where Casey riffs on one of Dandelion's unfinished songs, producing a strong working relationship. The movie shows how music might act as a link between people so they might connect on a deeper level.
Dandelion finally offers a split view experience. Although the way the movie shows Dandelion's creative development and Kiki Layne's amazing performance is admirable, the weak romance greatly lessens the overall impact. The forced character of the relationship renders the audience emotionally disengaged, so overshadowing the other strengths of the movie.
Dandelion will probably appeal much to those who value movies that explore the creative process and feature outstanding performances. Viewers looking for a realistic and engaging romantic subplot, however, could be let down.