Dandelion

Colour, 35 mm
USA, 2003, 94 min
Section: Forum of Independents

Synopsis

The teenager Mason grows up among the infinite fields and skies, but nature is the only place that can ease his pain. His parents are distant from each other and from him. His mother numbs herself with pills and alcohol, his father is frustrated about the missed opportunities in his life. His beloved uncle is mentally disturbed and his best friend Eddie suffers under his dominant brother, Arlee. Then the self-destructive Mason meets Danny, a girl who recently moved into town with her mother. Danny’s life is tough as well but she is not cynical. It looks like something deeper might blossom between the two of them. Then Mason’s father accidentally runs over and kills a man. Mason decides to sacrifice himself for his father... A sensitive psychological drama about growing up, the chaos of first love, and family values. Beautifully shot by Tim Orr, who was also the cinematographer of George Washington and All the Real Girls (dir.  David Gordon Green), films screened at Karlovy Vary in 2000 and 2003. 

About the director

Mark Milgard started his career in the entertainment business by founding the independent record company Lakeshore Pictures, a label that produced numerous soundtracks. Since 1999 Milgard has turned his focus to writing and directing films. Dandelion (2004) is his first feature film.