Hold onto your tiaras, folks, because “Barbie” is not your childhood doll’s movie. This vibrant, thought-provoking, and surprisingly deep film takes the iconic Barbie world and flips it on its head, delivering a message that’s both empowering and entertaining.
Now, I’ll admit, I went into this expecting a lighthearted romp through Barbie Land, full of pink fluff and catchy tunes. But Greta Gerwig, the mastermind behind this cinematic masterpiece, had other plans. She took the Barbie mythos and infused it with social commentary, tackling issues like body image, gender roles, and the complexities of being a woman in today’s world.
Margot Robbie is absolutely radiant as Stereotypical Barbie. She captures the essence of Barbie’s bubbly personality while also bringing a depth and vulnerability to the role that’s both captivating and relatable. And Ryan Gosling as Ken? Pure comedic gold. He steals every scene he’s in, delivering a performance that’s both hilarious and surprisingly poignant.
The supporting cast is equally fantastic. From the diverse array of Barbies and Kens to the scene-stealing humans in the real world, every character brings something unique and memorable to the film. And let’s not forget America Ferrera’s powerful monologue about the contradictions and complexities of womanhood. That scene alone deserves an Oscar!
“Barbie” is a visual feast, with vibrant colors, stunning costumes, and a whimsical set design that perfectly captures the essence of Barbie Land. But it’s also a film that’s not afraid to tackle serious issues. We see Barbie grapple with existential questions, confront societal expectations, and ultimately discover the power of embracing her true self.
It was also a surprise to see the song Barbie Girl by Aqua make a re-imagined appearance. I recall Mattel suing them; they must have reconciled, as I am sure Mattel has a say in this movie.
This movie is a must-see for anyone who’s ever played with a Barbie doll, dreamed of a perfect world, or struggled with the pressures of fitting in. It’s a film that celebrates individuality, challenges stereotypes, and reminds us that we can be anything we want to be, even if we don’t have a Dreamhouse or a pink convertible.
Now, let’s talk about those Oscars…
Okay, maybe “Barbie” didn’t sweep the Oscars (yet!), but it definitely made a splash. The film’s critical acclaim and box office success have solidified its place as a cultural phenomenon, and its impact on the cinematic landscape is undeniable.
While it didn’t snag any of the major awards, “Barbie” did receive a historic nomination for Best Original Song for “Dance the Night” by Dua Lipa. This catchy tune perfectly captures the film’s energy and spirit, and it’s a testament to the power of music to elevate storytelling.
And let’s not forget the buzz surrounding Margot Robbie’s performance. While she didn’t receive a nomination this year, many critics and fans believe she delivered an Oscar-worthy performance that deserves recognition.
“Barbie” might not have taken home a golden statue (yet!), but it’s a film that has already made history. It’s a bold and innovative take on a beloved icon, and it has sparked important conversations about gender, identity, and the power of self-acceptance. And who knows? Maybe next year, we’ll see “Barbie” take its rightful place among the Oscar winners. After all, anything is possible in the world of Barbie!
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Watch or Order Barbie (with ASL/American Sign Language) here!
Rated: PG-13(USA)
Runtime: 114 minutes
Release Date: July 9, 2023 (Shrine Auditorium)
July 21, 2023 (United States and United Kingdom)
My rating: 9.0 Mainasty Masterpieces
| Directed by | Greta Gerwig |
|---|---|
| Written by | Greta Gerwig Noah Baumbach |
| Based on | Barbie by Mattel |
| Produced by | David Heyman Margot Robbie Tom Ackerley Robbie Brenner |
| Starring | Margot Robbie Ryan Gosling America Ferrera Kate McKinnon Issa Rae Rhea Perlman Will Ferrell Michael Cera John Cena Dua Lipa |
| Narrated by | Helen Mirren |
| Cinematography | Rodrigo Prieto |
| Edited by | Nick Houy |
| Music by | Mark Ronson Andrew Wyatt |
BONUS Barbie Girl by Aqua
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