Margot Robbie has finally found her role that she was born to play in the newest film, Barbie.
The story consists on a “perfect” barbie suddenly contemplating all things when things seem to be a little less than perfects. She ends up, through the persuasion of “Weird” Barbie, venturing out of Barbieland into the “Real World” in search of the child who is unhappy. Along the way, she realizes the “Real World” is very much different than what she imagined as she for the first time sheds a tear of emotion. All the while, her sidekick companion Ken, also gets a wake up call that he takes back to Barbieland and seeks to make his life even more meaningful.
All in all, Barbie is a story of finding oneself and embracing the true value of Barbie that everyone can in fact be exactly who they seek to be. Directed by 2 time Oscar nominee, Greta Gerwig, the film shares many of the same values as past films including Little Women and Lady Bird, that is a strong feminine standpoint. Robbie as Barbie does an exceptional job of carrying that strong persona. The film also stars a wide list of barbies, many of whom were unpopular in their time, but none the less, creates a bigger message to the stereotypes that audiences had for the beloved doll.
Gerwig also does an exceptional job of showcasing the over 50 history of Barbie in a clever, documentary style film that nearly everyone who loves and hates Barbie will enjoy. Additionally, she uses subtle easter egg film nods to some popular ones including Grease, Matrix and even the iconic Top Gun scene. As well as bringing the creator of Barbie on screen and reminding audiences of just who Barbie really is, inspired by Ruth Handler and her real life daughter, Barbara.
In addition to Robbie, the film also includes a long list of actors portraying a variety of both Barbies and Kens, including Lalaland’s Ryan Gosling, Kate McKinnon and John Cena. Additionally America Ferrera, plays the mother of the child whom Barbie belongs to and ultimately tries to recapture the love of her daughter through the beloved toy. This adds the other element of the power of Barbie which ultimately connects generations. Finally, the role of creator Ruth is played by Rhea Perlman, though Helen Mirren does a remarkable job of narrating throughout.
Barbie the movie came out in theaters July 21, 2023 same time as Universal’s war based Oppenheimer and well succeeded in its expectations as it’s opening day alone brought in well over half as much as Oppenheimer. It’s currently showing in a theater near you and will have you laughing, crying and reminiscing over the beloved doll that we either love or hate.