By: Lana K. Wilson-Combs
"Dandelion," directed and written by
Nicole Riegel ("Holler"), is often a stirring music drama that chronicles the journey of Theresa, a determined singer-songwriter in Cincinnati, Ohio, known onstage as Dandelion. (KiKi Layne, "If Beale Street Could Talk" and "The Old Guard").
The film tackles the highs and lows of the creative musical process as Dandelion/Theresa tries to develop her own authentic voice.
Despite her undeniable talent, Theresa/Dandelion faces the harsh reality of performing part-time gigs at a local upscale hotel, where disengaged audiences bury their heads in cellphones rather than appreciate her soulful singing and guitar playing. Compounding her artistic frustrations is the responsibility of caring for her ailing mother, Jean (Melanie Nicholls-King, TV's "The Gilded Age").
While somewhat supportive of her daughter's passion, Jean has concerns about the fickle music industry and she advocates for a backup plan. She cautions Dandelion/Theresa that "there's nothing cute about a forty-year-old troubadour," and urges her to consider stability over artistic ambition.
However, Dandelion/Theresa is committed to her music, dismisses her mother's pragmatic advice and opts to pursue her dreams. Tensions between them escalate one evening, reaching a breaking point.
During a heated argument, Dandelion/Theresa impulsively leaves home, in her old Mustang. While this scene introduces a dramatic turn in their relationship, its abruptness raises questions about the plausibility of Theresa's departure, given her deep-seated devotion to her mom's care.
Undeterred, Dandelion/Theresa heads to South Dakota after learning about a paid gig at a predominantly white motorcycle rally and music festival. Amid both acceptance and rejection from fellow musicians, she encounters Casey (Thomas Doherty, "The Invitation"), a Scottish guitarist who becomes an unexpected ally.
Could this be Dandelion/Theresa's big break? Or is Casey merely looking for a quick hook-up?
As she navigates the thrill of newfound admiration and the allure of a romantic fling with Casey, Dandelion/Theresa grapples with revelations that threaten to shatter her burgeoning dreams of stardom.
A number of obstacles lead her back home. It's here that Dandelion/Theresa experiences a pivotal moment of reconciliation and self-discovery and finds solace in her mother's embrace.
"Dandelion," co-executive produced by Layne, delves into the intricate dynamics of love and family, while emphasizing the transformative influence of music and determination.
Although the film stumbles and has its predictable moments, Layne--who actually does her own singing--gives the movie much of its spark.
Editor's Note: Be sure to catch my N2Entertainment.net movie talk segment on the Kitty O'Neal Show Fridays now at 5:17 p.m. and 6:47 p.m. on radio station KFBK 93.1 FM and 1530 AM.
Look At This Trailer For
"DANDELION"
Lana K. Wilson-Combs is a member of the Broadcast Film Critics Association (BFCA), The American Film Institute (AFI), and a Nominating Committee Voting Member for the NAACP Image Awards.
