STARRING: MARGOT ROBBIE, RYAN GOSLING, WILL FERRELL, AMERICA FERRERA
DIRECTED BY: GRETA GERWIG
RELEASE DATE: JULY 21, 2023
Come on Barbie, let’s go party! The world’s most popular doll has been brought to life in the highly anticipated film, “Barbie”! Released on July 21st, people all around the world lined up, while dressed in pink from head to toe, to enjoy 114 minutes of this comedy. This film was written and directed by American actress and director, Greta Gerwig, previously known for her directorial efforts in Little Women (2019) and Lady Bird (2017). Distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures, the companies credited for the production of “Barbie” are Heyday Films, LuckyChap Entertainment, NB/GG Pictures, and Mattel Films. This star-studded cast includes Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling, Will Ferrel, Issa Rae, and America Ferrera. The film has amassed $1.3 billion with a budget between $128 million to $145 million. Warner Bros. declared on August 28th, that “Barbie” is well on its way to surpass “Harry Potter” in becoming its highest grossing film globally.
In the vibrant and seemingly ideal realm of Barbie Land, Barbie, played by Margot Robbie, and Ken, played by Ryan Gosling, are living their best lives. Everything’s superb! The outfits are fabulous, and the dance parties are amazing. Each day is the same perfect routine, and every night is girl’s night. Nothing can go wrong until stereotypical Barbie herself starts malfunctioning. These defects give Barbie and Ken the opportunity to meet humans in the real world and it is through this transition that they both soon learn what this world has to offer.
What are your first thoughts when you think of Barbie? Her perfect hair, body, and features? Maybe trendy, chic clothes? Is it the fact that she can do anything? She can be a doctor, professional athlete, or even an astronaut. She’s the ideal role model for any little girl, right? At least, this is what Barbie believes before she enters the real world and encounters humans. Barbie Land is a matriarchal society that focuses its attention on the livelihood of women. As Barbie starts to experience the real world, she shortly discovers that it is the exact opposite for humans. Ken was created as an extension to Barbie just like Eve was to Adam. Women are oppressed and the societal views of how women should live their lives and conducts themselves weighs heavily on the hearts of all the girls who once played with Barbies.
This film sheds light on the unrealistic standards that society holds over women, and it is important to note that this film is not anti-men. As Ken struggles to find his identity, whether it is through horses, the patriarchy, or mojo dojo casa houses, Barbie lends him a hand in realizing that he can be his own person without Barbie. He is “Kenough” just as himself. The same applies to Barbie. Although a woman can be a doctor, professional athlete, and astronaut, she can also just be a mom or someone who doesn’t know what they want to be yet. It is enough to just live as our authentic selves and be in the moment. Barbie is for everyone.
Whoever made the decision to cast Ryan Gosling as Ken needs a raise. Immediately! His accurate portrayal of a lovesick bro was exemplary. He was “Kenough”. Margot Robbie was also cast perfectly as Barbie. She proved yet again her versatility in different acting roles. As for the movie as a whole, it was surprising in a good way. As expected, it was comical and bubbly, but it had its deep moments. It was very comprehensive in the sense that all of the Barbies and Kens were diverse in race and body types. This film was nothing short of empowering and inclusive. Come on Barbie, everyone’s invited to the party.
