Photo by Finding Her Voice: KiKi Layne Shines in Nicole Riegel’s ‘Dandelion’
In the world of music, it takes courage to find your voice and share it with the world. In Nicole Riegel’s latest drama, ‘Dandelion,’ we follow the story of a young woman who embarks on a journey to discover her passion and talent.
The talented KiKi Layne stars as Dandelion, a young woman who dares to dream big.
With charming and intense performances from KiKi Layne and Thomas Doherty, this low-key musical drama celebrates the creative urge and charts the ups and downs of a burgeoning romance.
Riegel, who has been open about her struggles to get movies made, brings an instinctive and clear-voiced spine to the film, on which the cast layers some effective, unshowy performances. The script and direction are authentic, chronicling the creative process with nuance.
The film’s visuals are stunning, with Riegel infusing her work with urgent energy when required and hazy romance elsewhere. The beautiful natural backgrounds of the music festival and other venues are brought to vibrant, realistic life.
The movie also benefits from some heartfelt songs, a collaboration between Riegel, Layne, and The National’s Aaron Dessner and Bryce Dessner. The songs are raw and emotive, adding depth to the storyline.
Layne’s powerful, soulful performance dominates the film, and her chemistry with Doherty is palpable. Her interactions with her mother, played by Melanie Nicholls-King, are warm and believable.
Doherty brings a world-weary sensitivity to his role as Casey, a musician whose own career has been a frustratingly unsuccessful one. His rediscovering his passion through Dandelion’s works is a joy to watch on screen.
In the supporting cast, Nicholls-King shines as Jean, laid low with health concerns but stubbornly unwilling to grasp the truth of her situation, or to truly acknowledge her daughter’s talent.
The film’s small but effective ensemble adds real color and spirit to the movie.
Thomas Doherty stars as Casey, a musician who finds his passion again.
‘Dandelion’ is one of those festival films that deserves wider attention but may not end up getting as much as it deserves. However, it will likely drum up a faithful audience, even if that audience doesn’t turn out to see it initially.
Is this a movie that works just as well on the small screen as the big? Yes, but that’s not a reason to seek it out opening weekend and support something that offers a little variety to the usual summer season fare.
Dandelion and Casey’s romance blossoms in this heartfelt drama.
Final Thoughts
‘Dandelion’ receives high praise for its authentic portrayal of the creative process and its heartfelt performances. With its stunning visuals and raw, emotional soundtrack, this film is a must-see for music lovers and fans of indie drama.
