Barbie

by Kristen May

The Barbie movie is a female empowerment film focused on addressing the feminism issue through comedy and symbolism. In the feature, Barbie, played by Margot Robbie, sets out on a journey to the Real World in order to answer questions about her identity and her place in Barbie Land. However, in her quest, she discovers that the Real World is not as perfect and equal as she believes, and therefore, she takes it upon herself to change society for the better.

This movie is a must watch for all, regardless of gender. It presents issues relevant to all of society. The film reaches its intended audience quite well, as it portrays heavy topics in a very lighthearted way that allows its viewers to enjoy the film while still leaving them with an impactful message at the end. The most direct aspect of the film is the importance of staying true to one’s self and being completely and wonderfully authentic, always. Barbie is the doll that is supposed to be the inspiration for all girls, teaching them to never give up and always fight for what they want and deserve.

The movie is directed by Greta Gerwig, who is known for her feminism-focused films and is a renowned director, screenwriter, and actress. Some of her other productions include Lady Bird, Little Women, and Nights and Weekends Barbie attracted people from all walks of life as they dressed up in what became known as “the pink trend” or “Barbiecore” and flocked to the theaters. As a result, pink became the iconic color of the Barbie film and a symbol of empowerment, rather than “girliness.” Although the movie is geared towards all ages, Generation Z truly embraced it, as it represents all the gender equality issues of today’s society, but mixed with comedy and Ryan Gosling. I mean, how could someone not fall in love?

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Barbie was a huge success, raking in over $1.4 billion, and earning the title of the biggest global-earning Warner Bros. movie ever. Part of what drew people to the movie were the actors and actresses. Ryan Gosling stars as Ken: the funny, desperately-in-love-with-Barbie “side character.” Ken acts as a side character in some aspects, as he’s not the main focus of the film, but he is important to the plot. His actions are what drive the change in Barbie Land, and he also embarks on a journey of self-love and realization along with the rest of the residents of Barbie Land. Both Gosling and co-star Robbie are well-known actors, who have had many successes prior to starring in Barbie. Robbie has had a wide range of roles, such as Harley Quinn, Nellie LaRoy, and Naomi Lapaglia, and Gosling had several starring roles as well, such as Sebastian Wilder and Six. Once you’ve seen the actors in these roles, it’s nearly impossible to picture anyone else in them. The casting choices made for this movie are part of the allure of Barbie. The traits reflected in the characters truly reflect the traits of the actors. For example, Ryan Gosling is known as one of the best-looking men in Hollywood, and Ken is known as one of the best-looking men in Barbie Land. Casting Gosling as Ken is one of the smartest choices Hollywood could’ve made. They’re both blonde, hilarious, have epic dance moves, and, if we’re being honest, not too bad to look at. Essentially, they exemplify the perfect man. The same can be said for Robbie, who shines bright through her character. She embodies the idea that a woman can do anything and everything, just as Barbie does.

Barbie is an amazing movie. In my humble opinion, it’s one of the best films of all time. It’s inspiring, beautifully written and produced, and an eye opener into the inequality of today’s society. //