TL;DR
- Hayley Kiyoko’s film marks her directorial debut.
- ‘Girls Like Girls’ is a queer coming-of-age story.
- The film explores themes of love and self-discovery.
- Kiyoko aims to inspire representation in media.
- The lead characters navigate their first love.
Hayley Kiyoko is making waves with her directorial debut, ‘Girls Like Girls’, a film that’s not just a flick but a heartfelt love letter to her younger self. This film has blossomed from her 2015 song and a recent book, both carrying the same title. Kiyoko, who has always been a beacon of representation in the LGBTQ community, shares, “I wish I had believed in a hopeful future for myself when I was younger.” And let’s be real, who hasn’t felt that way?
In an era where representation matters more than ever, Kiyoko’s film is a powerful reminder that we all deserve to be loved by ourselves. She reflects on her own experiences, stating, “I felt I lacked that representation just in media whether it was TV, film, and books.” With ‘Girls Like Girls’, she hopes to change that narrative, making it a must-see for every generation.
The film follows Coley, a teenage girl who is navigating the stormy seas of grief after losing her mother. Moving in with her father, she finds herself in a new world where she meets Sonya, the popular girl who quickly becomes her closest friend. As their friendship blossoms into romance, Sonya struggles with her own fears and the societal pressures that come with embracing her true self. It’s a summer filled with first love, heartbreak, and the journey of self-discovery.
Maya da Costa and Myra Molloy star as Coley and Sonya, respectively, and they resonate deeply with the film’s themes. Da Costa shares, “Although it is magical, it can be incredibly volatile if you’re not loving yourself.” Molloy echoes this sentiment, noting how the story reflects the messy, beautiful, and raw emotions of young love. “That’s what happens when you’re young,” she says. “You learn and you fall in love.” And isn’t that the truth?
With over 4,000 auditions, Kiyoko found her leads in da Costa and Molloy, whose chemistry is palpable on screen. Kiyoko recalls, “I told them this is a huge part of my story, but this is their story and now this is everyone else’s story.” Talk about a powerful mantra!
As the film hits theaters, Kiyoko hopes audiences will see themselves reflected in Coley and Sonya’s journey, navigating the complexities of love and life. She aims for viewers to heal parts of themselves that they may have abandoned. ‘Girls Like Girls’ is more than just a film; it’s a movement towards acceptance and love in all its forms. So grab your popcorn, sit back, and prepare to be moved by this stunning portrayal of queer love and self-acceptance. It’s time to celebrate the stories that matter!