Being underappreciated and stuck in a rut is universally relatable to any independent artist. The classic trope of a struggling musician may be stereotypical, but it rings true, especially when it’s as empathetically written as this one by writer/director Nicole Riegel. It also helps to have the radiant KiKi Layne in the title role, she’s resplendent as if lit from within, even during her lowest moments.

Interesting that our protagonist Theresa picked Dandelion as a stage name, a flower that’s often dismissed as a mere weed, but symbolizes hope, transformation,  and resilience. We first see Dandelion as a troubadour musician performing at a fancy Cincinnati hotel where she’s practically invisible. She was singing her rendition of Debby Ryan’s Hey Jessie but changed the lyrics to ‘Hey Jealousy’ – not that any of the guests would notice as they were all talking to each other or preoccupied with their phones during her performance. She could barely get any attention from her ailing mother (Melanie Nicholls-King) who stubbornly ignores her doctor’s orders for healthy living and provides no support nor encouragement to her daughter.

A sympathetic bartender tells Dandelion about a singing competition at a South Dakota bike rally/music festival (taking place at Sturgis, though the town is never mentioned) that could offer her the big break. While she initially scoffs at the idea, after a screaming match with her mom, she decides to make a go of it. It’s there that she encounters a charming Scottish guitarist named Casey (Thomas Doherty), who invites her to join his nomadic group of struggling musicians.

Sparks immediately fly between Casey and Dandelion, but the romance that develops is as slow-burning as it gets. The film’s visual language is intimate, evocative, and ethereal… spoken through warmly-lit closeups mixed with lush Badlands landscape along twisty highways as the two embark on a road trip. I love the stunning camera work by Lauren Guiteras, which adds to the poetic vibe of the overall narrative.

While the slow pacing might frustrate some, it leaves room for self-reflection for the viewers and is such a respite from the brisk but overloaded summer movies. I applaud Riegel for keeping the focus on the duo’s creative collaboration more so than the sexual escapades. The sweaty sex scene is quite erotically charged but their tryst never overshadows the artistic, soulful side of the story. Music remains the beating heart throughout Dandelion’s journey.

I love the impromptu songwriting and jamming sessions where they clearly feel the happiest. The scene of them making music together atop a lookout is simply magical, one of the most memorable scenes I’ve seen all year. The indie folk song that they wrote is lovely and catchy, composed by The National’s Aaron and Bryce Dessner, who also did amazing work for Cyrano.

After seeing her in If Beale Street Could Talk and The Old Guard, I’m glad to see Layne get a leading role. There’s a mesmerizing quality about her and Riegel allows her to really sink her teeth into this role. She conveys so much with just a look and Dandelion is put through the wringer emotionally and artistically. I’ve never seen Doherty before and I initially thought he’s a musician who acts on the side as he looks like a real rock star. He and Layne are well-matched and their chemistry is off the charts.

At times the movie reminds me of John Carney’s ONCE and Flora and Son, which also deal with the creative process and the struggles of pursuing one’s dream. But in many ways, Dandelion is a more raw and edgy character study, thanks to Riegel’s affecting screenplay and Layne’s layered performance. Those who prefer a neat ending tied with a big red bow might not appreciate the film’s ending, but life doesn’t always have a picture-perfect resolution. As they say, pain produces character, and the movie shows that in the end, Dandelion is as resilient as she is talented. 

This is my intro to Riegel’s work as I haven’t seen her debut Holler which was nominated for the Indie Spirit Award. This sophomore feature showcases her impressive writing and directing talent, and I hope she continues to create original stories like this one.

Have you seen DANDELION? I’d love to hear what you think!
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