Hayley Kiyoko, known to many as Lesbian Jesushas been a beacon for the queer community since her rise to fame. Her music video for Girls Like Girls became an anthem for many, and now, eleven years later, it has been transformed into a full-length feature film. This cinematic adaptation is a heartfelt tribute to the original video, expanding the story of Coley and Sonya and bringing it to life on the big screen.
The film follows Coley, a teenage girl who moves to the Pacific Northwest to live with her estranged father after her mother’s death. There, she meets Sonya, and their friendship quickly blossoms into a romantic relationship. The story is a poignant exploration of first love, identity, and the challenges that come with it. Kiyoko’s attention to detail and her ability to capture the essence of teenage life make this film a must-watch for anyone who has ever experienced the complexities of young love.
The Evolution from Music Video to Film
The journey from music video to film was not a straightforward one. Kiyoko first adapted the story into a young adult novel, her first foray into expanding the universe of Coley and Sonya. The film, co-written with Stefanie Scott, who originally played Coley in the music video, is a labor of love that pays homage to the original while adding new layers to the story.
Fans of the music video will find plenty of callbacks and Easter eggs throughout the film. Coley’s signature denim jacket and yellow bike make appearances, and the nostalgic feel of the movie transports viewers back to the mid-2000s. The attention to detail is impeccable, from the platform flip-flops and Sidekick phones to the iconic iPod with the click wheel. These elements not only enhance the nostalgia but also contribute to the dream-like feeling of meeting your first crush and falling in love during the summer.
The Strengths and Weaknesses of the Film
One of the standout aspects of the film is its ability to evoke nostalgia. The hazy effect used by Kiyoko enhances the dream-like quality of the story, making it a perfect backdrop for the emotional journey of the characters. The soundtrack, featuring vintage tracks from artists like Tegan and Saraadds another layer of nostalgia, taking viewers back to their own teenage years.
However, the film is not without its flaws. The lack of a clear antagonist or external stakes for the characters is a noticeable weakness. Sonya’s boyfriend Trenton, who plays a significant role in the original music video, is barely present in the film. This missed opportunity to expand or complicate his character leaves a void in the narrative. Similarly, Coley’s grief, while a powerful character device, could have been explored more deeply to show how she presents it to the world.
The Emotional Impact and Legacy
Despite its shortcomings, Girls Like Girls is a film that will resonate deeply with many. The emotional impact of the story, combined with the nostalgic elements, makes it a powerful experience. Kiyoko’s ability to capture the essence of teenage life and the complexities of first love is evident throughout the film. The relationship between Coley and her father, played by Zach Braff, is a bright spot, showcasing the genuine effort to connect and the challenges of being a father to a teenage girl.
The film’s release in 2026 has allowed it to reach a new generation of viewers, many of whom were teens when the original music video was released. The emotional responses from the audience, including tears and laughter, are a testament to the film’s impact. Hayley Kiyoko has not only created a film for her original fans but has also made space for a new generation to fall in love with Coley and Sonya.
