In the realm of teen romance, where stories often feel like a recycled script, Hayley Kiyoko's debut feature, 'Girls Like Girls', emerges as a refreshing and poignant exploration of first love. This film, set in the summer of 2006, captures the essence of young love with a delicate touch, steering clear of the typical cliches that often plague such narratives. What makes this movie truly captivating is its ability to evoke a sense of discovery and revelation, even in the face of a familiar premise.
The story centers around Coley (Maya da Costa), a shy and sad-eyed teenager who has recently moved in with her father, Curtis (Zach Braff). Her life takes an unexpected turn when she meets Sonya (Myra Molloy), an effervescent and popular girl. Despite their contrasting personalities, an instant connection forms, and their bond intensifies as they spend every spare moment together, from biking down tree-lined streets to splashing in Sonya's pool. The chemistry between da Costa and Molloy is electric, and their performances are a testament to the power of young love.
What sets 'Girls Like Girls' apart is its nuanced portrayal of the complexities of first love. As Sonya's initial warmth evolves into deeper sentiment, her performance becomes more layered and complex. Molloy's portrayal of Sonya's coming of age and the realization of her feelings is a subtle yet powerful depiction of the challenges of young love. The film also excels at capturing the headiness of this experience, from the gravitational pull of a crush's proximity to the oppressive weight of rejection.
However, the film's strength lies not only in its performances but also in its ability to convey the raw emotions of first love. Coley's subsequent heartbreak is as raw as her infatuation once was, and is amplified further by an unrelated sorrow. The film's script, credited to Kiyoko, Chloe Okuno, and Stefanie Scott, refrains from throwing harrowing external obstacles into their path, instead focusing on the internal struggles of the characters. This approach allows the audience to connect with the characters on a deeper level, as we witness their growth and the challenges they face.
In my opinion, 'Girls Like Girls' is a gem that feels all the more special for appearing, at first, so ordinary. It is a testament to the power of pure emotion and the ability of a film to evoke a sense of discovery and revelation, even in the face of familiarity. This movie is a must-watch for anyone who has ever experienced the giddy thrills and crushing devastations of first love.
