TL;DR
- Hayley Kiyoko’s film ‘Girls Like Girls’ expands on her iconic music video.
- The film tells a romantic story between Coley and Sonya.
- Nostalgic elements from the 2000s enhance the viewing experience.
- Lacks tension and clear conflict in the narrative.
- Features a soundtrack with queer artists, enhancing the film’s charm.
Grab your popcorn and prepare for a trip down memory lane because Hayley Kiyoko’s long-awaited film adaptation of ‘Girls Like Girls’ is finally here. This isn’t just any film; it’s a love letter to her OG fans while inviting a new generation to fall head over heels for the story of Coley and Sonya.
If you missed the iconic music video that first captured hearts back in 2015, let me set the scene for you. The film kicks off with Coley (played by Maya da Costa) moving to the Pacific Northwest to live with her estranged dad after her mom’s death. Cue the emotional baggage! Enter Sonya (Myra Molloy), a local girl who turns Coley’s world upside down. Their friendship blossoms into a summer romance, but hold onto your hats because things get complicated.
Now, let’s talk nostalgia. The film is drenched in 2000s vibes, from Coley’s signature denim jacket to the classic AIM chats that will have you reminiscing about your own teenage crushes. Seriously, when that door creaked to signal an incoming message, my heart skipped a beat. It’s like Kiyoko reached into my teenage diary and pulled out all the feels!
But here’s the tea: while the film is visually stunning and dripping with nostalgia, it misses the mark on creating real tension. Every great story needs a villain, right? Unfortunately, the conflicts in ‘Girls Like Girls’ feel more like whispers in the wind. Sonya’s pressures from her mom are mentioned but never fully explored, leaving viewers wanting more. And don’t even get me started on Sonya’s boyfriend, Trenton (Levon Hawke), who feels more like a ghost than a character.
However, the relationship between Coley and her dad, played by Zach Braff, is a bright spot. Watching their dynamic unfold adds depth and a sprinkle of warmth to the film. It’s a tricky business being a dad to a teenage girl, especially when you’ve been absent for most of her life. But Braff nails it, showing that connection can be rebuilt, even amidst grief.
As for the soundtrack, it’s a glorious celebration of queer artistry, featuring tracks from Tegan and Sara, Joy Oladokun, and more. Kiyoko even recorded a new version of ‘Girls Like Girls’ for the film, which is a delightful nod to her roots.
In the end, ‘Girls Like Girls’ is a beautiful homage to love, loss, and the bittersweet experience of first crushes. While it may lack the dramatic tension some viewers crave, it’s a heartfelt journey that resonates with both longtime fans and newcomers alike. So, whether you’re a die-hard Kiyoko fan or just looking for a sweet summer flick, this film is worth a watch. Now, go grab your best friend, and get ready to swoon!
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