Hayley Kiyoko on the Transformative Journey of "Girls Like Girls" from Song to Screen

Hayley Kiyoko, an artist known for her multifaceted talents, has successfully expanded her 2015 musical hit, 'Girls Like Girls,' into a comprehensive artistic endeavor, encompassing a music video, a literary work, and now, a cinematic production. Starting her career in acting with roles in Disney's 'Lemonade Mouth' and 'Scooby-Doo!' live-action films, Kiyoko soon shifted her focus to music, utilizing her compositions as a medium for authentic expression and personal growth. Her song 'Girls Like Girls' evolved into a significant anthem for self-acceptance, establishing her as a prominent voice within the music industry. Her commitment to sharing her narrative through various art forms has been a challenging yet deeply fulfilling experience for Kiyoko, who felt an inherent drive to bring these stories to life.

The film 'Girls Like Girls,' produced by Focus Features, is a poignant coming-of-age narrative. It centers on Coley, a grieving teenager portrayed by Maya da Costa, who relocates to a small Oregon town to reside with her estranged father, Curtis, played by Zach Braff. In this new setting, Coley develops a romantic connection with Sonya, a captivating character brought to life by Myra Molloy. Kiyoko views this cinematic project as a crucial aspect of her life's purpose, believing it will significantly contribute to others' journeys of self-love and discovery. She candidly shares the decade-long process of developing 'Girls Like Girls' for the big screen, the necessity of more LGBTQ+ coming-of-age narratives, the intricate casting decisions, and her broader aspirations in filmmaking, including the creation of a companion album for the movie.

Kiyoko's initial foray into the arts stemmed from a very early understanding of her own differences and the need to conceal her sexuality. Music became her refuge, a means to articulate her truth even when she was not fully honest with herself. She recalls being inspired by musical performances, which ignited her desire to create. Her experience co-directing the 'Girls Like Girls' music video in 2015 solidified her passion for directing, leading her to direct eleven more music videos. This journey eventually led to her ambition to adapt 'Girls Like Girls' into a feature film, driven by a desire to produce optimistic queer content. The extensive 10-year process involved scriptwriting, securing funding, and finding distribution, culminating in the film's theatrical premiere, a realization that still amazes her.

The evolution of 'Girls Like Girls' from a song to a film has been a profound process for Kiyoko, who constantly strives for greater authenticity and impact. Each iteration—the song, the music video, the novel with a half-Japanese protagonist, and the film featuring two Asian leads—has allowed her to deepen the narrative and expand representation. This continuous engagement across different mediums has been immensely rewarding, providing new avenues for self-expression and connection. She recounts the meticulous casting process, including how Maya da Costa's audition for Coley immediately stood out, and how Myra Molloy, initially auditioning for Coley, was perfectly suited for Sonya. The unexpected involvement of Zach Braff, a fellow director whose work 'Garden State' profoundly influenced Kiyoko, was a testament to the power of manifestation. Braff's understanding of a first-time director's challenges made his contribution invaluable.

Kiyoko's brief cameo in the film, a playful decision made at the end of production, symbolizes the long and personal journey of creating 'Girls Like Girls.' She expressed immense honor in being a pioneer for LGBTQ+ coming-of-age stories on screen, particularly those featuring two female leads. This project, heavily supported by her fanbase, provided a sense of community and validation that she lacked during her own formative years. Kiyoko hopes that her work will pave the way for more diverse narratives in cinema. She believes that despite the film's specific title, its themes of first love, vulnerability, and the universal experience of seeking reciprocated affection resonate with everyone, regardless of age or identity. The decision to include a post-credits scene, emphasizing Coley and Sonya's relationship, was a deliberate choice to highlight their connection and ensure a hopeful ending. Kiyoko's integration of a full album with the film allowed her to merge her musical and directorial passions, crafting songs that deepen the cinematic experience. Collaborating with other queer artists on the album further amplified its cultural significance within the community. Looking ahead, Kiyoko hopes to adapt her second book, 'Where There’s Room for Us,' into a film or TV series, and dreams of a lifelong career in directing and composing music for her projects. While she stepped away from acting years ago, Kiyoko does not rule out returning for the right role, acknowledging the parallel between her own journey and the inspiring character she once played in 'Lemonade Mouth.' She defines herself by her love for trying new things and her constant pursuit of novel creative endeavors, always seeking to explore new artistic territories.