History will not be easily erased, especially as we continue telling stories that bear the weight of what has come to pass. Based on a real organization called Youth Advocates, the short film Dandelion follows Margaret, a queer teen, and her social worker Joyce, on their journey to find Margaret a new foster home with queer foster parents.

This twenty minute short film spectacularly captures an intimate and emotional glimpse into the struggles of queer youth, as well as the hope that can blossom upon providing them with support, acceptance, and visibility.

When speaking on why she was inspired to work on the project, the film’s director Fiona Obertinca said, “it had all the ingredients of a great story; heart, humour and a hopefulness that I think the world really needs right now and that I often try to infuse into my films.”

I can’t help myself but agree with that sentiment, especially after seeing the stunning execution of the final product.

The set design beautifully reflects 1972 Los Angeles. The set design and colouring of the film throw you back five decades almost instantaneously. The classic, warm tones often associated with the 70s, radiate through the film on a wide range, from burnt oranges to deep blues. These colours are even reflected in the characters’ clothing, as Margaret wears a blue vest, an utter contrast to Joyce’s brown/orange coloured ensemble.

Ava Lalezarzadeh (Margaret) and Vic Michaelis (Joyce) star in the film, giving compelling performances that pull at the heartstrings from start to finish. The two have unbelievable on-screen chemistry that kicks into high gear as soon as their paths cross. With a push and pull/give and take dynamic to their conversations, the characters press to understand each other and the situation they’re in.

One particular scene has Joyce help clean and bandage a small wound that Ava self-inflicted, and we start seeing beyond both character’s walls. Amidst Joyce’s struggle to find Ava a placement, there’s this release of tension between the two of them, as they experience a brief heart to heart and mutual understanding.

As a fan of Michaelis’s work on Dropout, I did initially worry I wouldn’t take Joyce seriously, as Vic is known to be a slightly chaotic personality. However, I was pleasantly surprised and deeply moved by the genuine sincerity Vic delivers in this role. They still execute a somewhat socially awkward persona, but it reads more like a facade within Joyce’s character, rather than just a staple aspect of Michaelis’s acting style. I interpret the awkwardness as a more unexpected discomfort, as Joyce is desperate to find Margaret a new placement overnight.

As parts of the United States of America continue trying to suppress and erase LGBTQ+ communities and their history, this film loudly pushes back against that narrative. Dandelion is a beautifully kind love letter to all queer youth. It paints a picture of hope in finding not just acceptance, but a home. Regardless of who you are or who you love, there is a place for you.