Hayley Kiyoko Transitions From Pop Star to Director with 'Girls Like Girls'

Hayley Kiyoko’s directorial debut, the film adaptation of her 2015 viral hit "Girls Like Girls," marks a significant milestone in the artist's career. Originally a breakout song that brought queer desire into the mainstream, the narrative evolved from a music video into a young adult novel before finally reaching the screen as a feature film. Despite the decade-long journey from the song's initial release, the film retains a poignant, contemporary resonance in its exploration of adolescent yearning and self-discovery.

At its core, the film follows the relationship between two teenage girls, Coley and Sonya, navigating the complexities of suburban life and burgeoning romance. While the movie operates within the familiar tropes of the coming-of-age genre, it distinguishes itself by treating the protagonists' queerness as a fundamental, unremarkable aspect of their identities rather than a source of conflict or trauma. This narrative choice offers a refreshing, normalized perspective on queer youth that remains relatively rare in mainstream cinema.

For the entertainment industry, this project serves as a compelling case study in intellectual property expansion. By successfully translating a singular musical concept across multiple mediums—from song to literature to film—Kiyoko demonstrates the enduring power of authentic storytelling. The film’s release, strategically aligned with Pride Month, highlights the growing market demand for narratives that center queer joy and emotional depth, signaling a continued shift toward more inclusive and nuanced representation in Hollywood.