Hayley Kiyoko's directorial debut, 'Girls Like Girls,' revisits her 2015 hit song, offering a new film adaptation that explores queer self-discovery with emotional purity and standout performances from Maya da Costa and Myra Molloy.
The Journey from Song to Screen
In 2015, pop singer Hayley Kiyoko released 'Girls Like Girls,' a viral hit with an accompanying music video co-directed by Kiyoko herself. The five-minute video told a story of two teenage girls discovering their feelings for each other. This led to a YA novel, expanding the journey of the characters Coley and Sonya. Now, a decade later, the narrative evolves into a feature film.
A Familiar Yet Fresh Tale
The film, set in the early 2000s, explores first love and heartbreak with a nostalgic backdrop of desktop IM messaging. While aimed at younger viewers, older LGBTQ audiences may find resonance in the portrayal of queer visibility's evolution over the decades. Unlike typical coming-out stories, the film focuses on protagonist Coley, played by da Costa, who is already comfortable with her sexuality but awaits true love.
Dynamic Performances and Direction
Maya da Costa and Myra Molloy deliver engaging performances as Coley and Sonya, respectively. Kiyoko's direction captures the subtleties of young love—small gestures and tentative interactions that carry significant emotional weight. The chemistry between the characters is palpable, illustrating both the intensity and fragility of their burgeoning relationship.
Visual and Emotional Impact
Cinematographer Sonja Tsypin's work adds to the film's atmosphere, using warm, glowing visuals to enhance the story's emotional depth. The film's second half delves into the complexities of Coley and Sonya's relationship, maintaining its emotional pull despite a more predictable narrative arc.
In summary, 'Girls Like Girls' is a heartfelt exploration of teenage love and identity, enriched by its strong performances and Kiyoko's assured direction. The film closes with a new recording of Kiyoko's song, underscoring the enduring appeal of first love's idealism.
Source: https://variety.com/2026/film/news/girls-like-girls-review-hayley-kiyoko-1236782690/
