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Kiyoko's 'Girls Like Girls' Film: A Queer Love Letter
2 Oct
Summary
- Singer Hayley Kiyoko directs film inspired by her 2015 hit song.
- The film is a personal 'love letter' to Kiyoko's 17-year-old self.
- It features a queer love story reflecting Asian heritage and acceptance.
Singer Hayley Kiyoko has transitioned from music to filmmaking with her directorial debut, 'Girls Like Girls.' This feature film expands on the narrative of her 2015 hit song and music video, serving as a deeply personal tribute to her teenage self, particularly her experiences at age 17.
Kiyoko aimed to create a queer love story that also reflects her Asian heritage, noting the lack of such representation during her own youth in Los Angeles. The film, co-written by Kiyoko, emphasizes positive portrayals of queer joy and self-discovery, including an accepting father figure, which contrasts with her own family's initial reaction to her sexuality.
The film's journey to the screen was extensive, evolving from the song and music video to a YA romance novel published in 2023, which ultimately helped secure the movie's greenlight. Kiyoko sees the film's release as a powerful statement of queer resilience amidst current political challenges.
Having recently celebrated the film's release in Bangkok and preparing to headline The Dinah festival, Kiyoko finds directing to be her true calling. She is engaged to Becca Tilley, a former contestant on 'The Bachelor,' and is balancing her personal life with her burgeoning directing career, hoping to take on more film and TV projects.
