Dash & Lily

Dash & Lily is a coming-of-age romantic drama series that was released on Netflix in 2020. Set against the enchanting backdrop of New York City during the Christmas season, the eight-episode series is an adaptation of the young adult book series 'Dash & Lily's Book of Dares' by authors Rachel Cohn and David Levithan.

This heartwarming series revolves around the lives of two teenagers: the titular Dash and Lily. Dash is characterized as a cynic, very much the disillusioned type who despises Christmas and views it as the most detestable time of the year. Lily, on the other hand, has a personality opposite to Dash. She's a glass-half-full kind of girl who is enthusiastic, optimistic, and relishes the magic that Christmas time brings to the city.

What binds these two contrasting souls together is a red notebook, filled with dares and challenges. Lily, a believer in the romantic potential of the holiday season, leaves the book at her favorite bookstore, intending for a brave soul to pick it up and accept the dares within. Dash, with his curiosity piqued by the notebook's intrigue, stumbles upon it and becomes the unexpected recipient of its adventurous challenges. Thus unspools a series of events as Dash and Lily send each other on a treasure hunt across the city, each daring entry revealing a bit more about them. They take turns trading secrets, dreams, and desires via the notebook, growing closer despite not having met in person.

Interestingly, the series highlights how perceptions can sometimes be off as Dash and Lily each form mental images of the other based on their written exchanges, setting up expectations that may (or may not) align with reality. This thought-provoking narrative reveals the risk and excitement in getting to know someone without face-to-face interaction, exploring themes of acceptance, understanding, and finding love and companionship in unexpected places.

Dash & Lily beautifully encapsulates the spirit of youth, blending in elements of adventure, mystery, and romance. It showcases the budding romance that develops between its lead characters despite their apparent differences. By incorporating unique events happening across the city, the story gives viewers glimpses of several iconic places in New York – from its bustling streets to its cozy bookstores, adding to the series' allure.

The series is perfectly geared towards a younger demographic, with the high school setting and teenage dialogues that will resonate with younger viewers. Nevertheless, its upbeat narrative and interesting plot twists make it appealing to a broader age group. The series paints an idealistic portrayal of love and companionship that can draw viewers in, offering escapism and some heartwarming and relatable moments.

The showrunners, Joe Tracz and Shawn Levy, deserve due credit for bringing to life this layered story with a perfect blend of enthusiasm, warmth, charm, and wit. Meanwhile, actors Austin Abrams and Midori Francis, who play Dash and Lily, respectively, have been highly praised for their performances. Their valuable contributions to the series have been pivotal in highlighting its underlying themes and propelling its narrative forward. The supporting cast, too, each add their unique flair to the series, making it a captivating ensemble piece.

On the technical front, Dash & Lily stands out with its vibrant cinematography and compelling visuals, making the most of its festive New York setting. From the glittering Manhattan skyline to quaint bookshops, the city becomes a character in itself, playing a pivotal role in the storyline. The scenic shots and engaging soundtrack, featuring a mix of classic Christmas tunes and contemporary indie tracks, help to further enrich the overall viewing experience.

In conclusion, Dash & Lily is a charming blend of romance, drama, and a dash of holiday magic. Its unique premise, endearing characters, and warm narrative are sure to resonate with viewers seeking a feel-good series with plenty of heart. Whether you’re a fan of young adult rom-coms, or just someone looking for a bit of uplifting entertainment, this Netflix series is definitely worth checking out.