Dandelion
2025 (Short)
Debut Screening: March 9/2025 (Spokane International Film Festival) U. S.
Genre: Short/ Drama
Length: 20 min.
Country: U.S.
Starring: Vic Michaelis (Joyce Harris), Ava Lalezarzadeh (Margaret Levine), & Sarah Cortez (Ruth)
Written by: Corey Pinchoff
Directed by: Fiona Obertinca
Synopsis: Set in 1970s Los Angeles, this poignant short film follows the story of Margaret, a resilient queer teenager navigating the complexities of the foster care system. The narrative centers on a pivotal day when her dedicated but mysterious social worker must find her a new placement after her stay at a Catholic girls school fails to provide the safety & acceptance that she needs. Named after the hardy wildflower that can grow through even the toughest cracks in the pavement, the film uses the dandelion as a metaphor for the protagonist’s own spirit. It is a quiet, naturalistic look at the strands of connection—or lack thereof—within the social system, highlighting the specific vulnerabilities of LGBTQ+ youth in care & the small, vital acts of advocacy that can change the trajectory of a young life.
Sites: imdb.com/title/tt31491806/?ref_=ttrel_ov_bk
instagram.com/dandelionthesisfilm/
DANDELION by Fiona Obertinca @ Brooklyn Film Festival
FYI: The filmmakers are currently making a feature length version of this short film. Corey Pinchoff is a queer filmmaker. Dandelion was her thesis film.
Keywords: short film, teen
Stills:
Trailer:
The film is available to stream for free on YouTube.