Dandelion Reviews
As a singer songwriter whose daughter is a singer songwriter married to an Irish singer songwriter, this movie really hit home. The two leads are spectacular, worth watching just for their performances. Beautiful cinematography and a compelling narrative. Only criticism is the song writing scenes for Dandelion seem to be written by a non songwriter. Lots of angst and paper crumpling. The best expression of songwriting I ever heard was from Sheryl Crow who said songs just come to you and then you say "thanks for the song" to the heavens. Yep. But this aside, really loved this movie - partly because it is such a different tale. Two deeply feeling people searching, but bound by their circumstances. Just life life.
Dandelion is a breathtakingly beautiful film that will leave you mesmerized and contemplative. The cinematography is stunning, with each frame meticulously crafted to evoke a sense of wonder and awe. The film's use of natural light and vibrant colors transports you to a world that is both familiar and yet, utterly unique. The music is equally impressive, perfectly complementing the on-screen action with a haunting and evocative score. The soundtrack is a character in its own right, adding depth and emotion to the narrative. At its core, "Dandelion" is a character study, delving deep into the psyche of its protagonist with sensitivity and nuance. The performances are outstanding, with the lead actor delivering a nuanced and captivating portrayal of a complex and multifaceted individual. The film's pacing is deliberate and measured, allowing the audience to absorb the beauty and emotion of each scene. The narrative is layered and open to interpretation, inviting viewers to reflect on their own experiences and emotions. Overall, "Dandelion" is a masterpiece of cinematic storytelling, a film that will linger in your mind and heart long after the credits roll. It is a testament to the power of cinema to inspire, to heal, and to transform. Shout out to Grace Kaiser - a great actress and singer.
Most excellent! The story, casting, editing, cinematography, and that fabulous music! - every single element was pitch perfect. Bravissimo, Nicole Riegel! A masterful achievement. Highly recommended!
Dandelion invites the audience to intimately experience what it means to struggle with living authentically. From the first frame we’re brought into Dandelion’s world as an audience member and a friend. We are told the story of Dandelion’s uneven relationship with her work and her mother. She is giving more than she is getting on all fronts. She needs a change of scenery to regain her clarity and confidence as an artist. She does just that by the end of the film. Dandelion gives us the experience of being in a real world, documentary style setting while telling a powerful narrative. The camera work allows us to be a part of the story as an intimate friend and not just a spectator. We’re never really looking through the character’s POV and we’re almost always looking up to our characters, not down on them. This is not the god’s eye view. This feels real. The locations matter. We are exploring these landscapes with Dandelion. This is a story that people have told before but Riegel is telling us in a new way. The specifics matter. The person, the dream, the landscapes, the other people. This story is very, very specific. The music is raw and emotional. There is heartbreak on both sides. The music was telling us all along that these two characters will not last. They can only exist together in this liminal space. They are both looking for answers and projecting onto each other. Riegel hints at this from their very first conversation. The cut between the two crying for their loss of each other is gut wrenching. Both Kiki Layne and Thomas Doherty deliver compelling performances through out. This story isn’t about a short love affair, it’s about Dandelion becoming herself. Her rejection of Casey is good and necessary. The ending is just right. Dandelion is living the life she wants, in the location she wants, with the loved ones she chose. I will watch this movie again and again.
I'm always so thankful to see a film where characters are layered & 3D. Rarely do you see films where characters can change and grow, be both good & complicated at the same time. Dandelion is one of those films! The fight btw Dandelion & her mom really got to me. The original music is so so good & Kiki shines as much as she did in If Beale Street Could talk.
DANDELION is a gorgeous film that should be seen on the biggest screen possible. The performances are fantastic, the photography is lovely, and you'll want to download the soundtrack right away. Don't miss it during its theatrical run!
Riegel did an exemplary job of telling this story. It was passionate, emotional, and inspirational.
Really hit home from beginning to end. Beautifully human film, loved the directors choice of shots, when to linger. Music is a bonus
I went into the theater not knowing what to expect. Normally, this would not be my type of movie, but I was pleasantly surprised! I can't say enough good things about this movie. The actors and the story kept me engaged throughout. Do yourself a favor and give this a watch,
"Dandelion," Nicole Riegel's sophomore film starring Kiki Layne and Thomas Doherty, is an artfully crafted narrative that takes its time, allowing the chemistry between Layne and Doherty to blossom into a sweetness reminiscent of your last giddy romance. The true love story here, however, is for music and the often-painful, beautiful creative process it entails. Riegel's direction offers an intimate look at this love affair, making audiences root for Layne's success even more fervently than her character does at times. Set against a stunning backdrop, "Dandelion" is a gorgeous film that shouldn't be missed! I'm looking forward to the inevitable Broadway adaptation.
Felt a bit rough to me at first. But by the end the beautiful heartfelt singing and lovely nature cinematography had won me over.
Cinematography 3/10 Story 3/10 AV 2/10 Rewatchability 0/10 Overall 1.5/10 Main plot: Dandelion is a story about a female singer/songwriter who sings under the alais Dandelion. She takes a last second gig in South Dekota to try and 'make it' The main reason I rated this movie so low is the poor storytelling, choice of shaky cam, and overall inconsistencies. Along with very poor use of "follow your dreams" cliche The other main drag for me is that most if not all of the plot and sub plots do not get tied ends and do not explain how we get there. You are going to go home confused and wondering how she got her car to start back up with a thought of why they had a useless sex scene.
If you want to see a selfish story about a careless daughter, only focus on being famous while being a loser, even being 40 years years old and falling in love with a married man, then go and see this waste of time movie. I couldn’t even wait until the end.
A beautifully done film- the music, relationships, depth of heart, and cinematography all captured mY heart. A must see.
A beautifully shot and produced story about the soaring highs and crushing lows of the creative process and the desire to pursue a dream. The original music by Brother Elsey and others helps weave together the storyline and create a pulse for the film.
Great music. Authentic movie. Everyone searches for connection and purpose in life, hoping it comes with a little success and recognition.
The movie was beautifully shot with an engaging storyline. The music was moving, entertaining, and enhanced all parts of the film. Through the characters we were able to see the highs and lows of a musician, the camaraderie, and the passion to play music.
Great movie! Loved every second. The soundtrack is the best part.
This film beautifully delves into the journey of an artist striving for recognition, making it a must-see for all creatives. It's honest, poignant, and deeply affirming. Riegel's direction is intimate, raw yet delicate, offering a profoundly human touch. The cinematography is dreamy, music is done well and it was captivating, and an absolute joy to behold. Highly recommended for its genuine portrayal and visual allure!
Brother Elsey was the best!! ❤️