Bibliographic Information:
- Title: Dash & Lily
- Network: Netflix
- Creator: Joe Tracz
- Release Date: November 10, 2020
Genre: Romantic Comedy, Romance, Drama
Format: TV Series
Rating/Interest Level: Rated TV-14, Recommended for ages 13 and up (Commonsensemedia.org, 2021).
Awards: None at this time.
Quality of Media: Dash & Lily is an eight-part mini-series based on the Dash & Lily series of books by Rachel Cohn and David Levithan. The acting was excellent and both leads, Austin Abrams (Dash) and Midori Frances (Lily) were believable in their roles. The cinematography was beautiful and really portrayed the feel of New York City at Christmas time. The story is fast moving and engaging.
Plot- First Episode: When Dash, a teenage boy who is spending Christmas alone in New York City, finds a notebook hidden in his favorite bookstore with the message “do you dare” on the cover, he is intrigued to discover who is behind the mystery. In the notebook, Dash finds a list of clues, which lead him to different books in the store and eventually to hopefully, finding the notebook owner’s identity. Dash discovers from the bookstore clerk that the notebook was left by a girl, and leaves her a message back. Dash, who despises Christmas and is suffering from a recent heartbreak, believes that the girl behind the notebook is his soulmate and becomes obsessed with finding her. When “Clue Girl,” as Dash starts referring to her, responds with a dare to steal the hat from the Macy’s Santa, Dash does so. In the process, he knocks over many displays, enrages parents and an elf, but gets the hat. Clue Girl’s name is written in glitter on the hat, and Dash is hooked!
Reaction/Interest: According to Commonsensemedia.org (2021), most teens gave Dash & Lily 4 or 5 stars out of a possible 5. They describe the show as being “good, entertaining, great, and addicting.” It is also described as a “heart-warming holiday show.” Critic reviews describe Dash & Lily as “a delightful holiday show, perfect to binge on a cozy winter evening, cute and funny, and a feel-good Christmas show” (Rotten Tomatoes, 2021).
Critical Evaluation: Dash & Lily is a fun, fast-paced romantic comedy that will keep viewers engaged as they watch the title characters follow clues to discover each other’s identities. The acting is excellent, as is the scenery of New York City at Christmas. The setting offers a nostalgic feeling, especially this year since most of the traditional NYC Christmas festivities were cancelled due to COVID. Although the plot is somewhat predictable, the side stories of family interference, Lily’s brother’s romance, and Dash’s broken heart all create interest. Dash and Lily’s relationships with their families also add to the story to create this heartwarming romance. The literary and cultural references and the diverse cast set this apart from other holiday TV shows and movies. Teens who like romance and romantic comedies and are fans of the book Dash & Lily’s Book of Dares by Rachel Cohn and David Levithan will enjoy this show.
Speed-Round TV Talk: Who can resist New York City at Christmas time? It is the perfect backdrop for a “nerdy” romance between book lovers! Join Dash and Lily as they challenge each other with dares to discover each other’s identities. Guaranteed to get you in the holiday spirit, regardless of the time of year!
Creative Use for a Library Program: For a library program, I would have a book club read the book Dash & Lily’s Book of Dares by Rachel Cohn and David Levithan. I would have book discussion, then show the first episode of the tv series and discuss the differences between the two. For an activity at the book discussion, I would set up a scavenger hunt in the library, similar to the one in the first episode of the series. The teens would follow clues and solve riddles hidden in books to discover the identity of a mystery library staff member.
Potential Challenge Issues and Defense: Potential challenges for Dash & Lily could include underage drinking and some sex scenes. Although no actual sex is shown, Lily’s brother is seen partially nude in bed with his boyfriend. Since the show is rated for ages 14 and up, teens in that age group and their parents should not have a problem with this show.
Reason for Inclusion: I included Dash & Lily because it is a sweet, fun, heartwarming romance. It is enjoyable to watch, especially around the holidays with the scenes of New York City. It is definitely a show that will be binge-watched! Teens who like the book series and romantic comedies will love this show.
References:
Common Sense Media. (2020). Dash & Lily. Retrieved from https://www.commonsensemedia.org/tv-reviews/dash-lily
IMDb. (2020). Dash & Lily. Retrieved from https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1758589/
Netflix. (2020, October 23). Dash & Lily official trailer. . YouTube. Retrieved fromhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AmW5GO6btMM&ab_channel=Netflix
Rotten Tomatoes. (2020). Dash & Lily: season 1. Retrieved from https://wordpress.com/post/ddavidowitzinfo265mini.com/350
Debby's YA Mini Library Collection 