Barbie, the 2023 fantasy comedy directed by Greta Gerwig, emerges as a groundbreaking live-action adaptation of the iconic Mattel dolls. Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling lead an ensemble cast through a whimsical exploration of self-discovery and societal expectations. The film’s journey from development hurdles to cultural phenomenon culminates in a visually striking and narratively profound experience.
Development Odyssey
The inception of a live-action Barbie film traces back to 2009, with Universal Pictures initially taking the reins. However, a series of transitions, including shifts in writers and directors, led to Warner Bros. Pictures finally acquiring the project in 2018. Margot Robbie’s casting in 2019 marked a turning point. For instance, Greta Gerwig’s directorial announcement in 2020 added a fresh perspective. The film’s ensemble cast, unveiled in 2022, contributed to the anticipation surrounding Barbie.
Premiere and Cultural Impact
Barbie premiered at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles on July 9, 2023, with a subsequent U.S. release on July 21, 2023. Contrarily, the simultaneous release with Universal’s Oppenheimer sparked the “Barbenheimer” cultural phenomenon, encouraging audiences to embrace both films in a double feature. This strategic move, along with the film’s unique narrative, propelled Barbie into becoming the highest-grossing film of 2023, surpassing $1.446 billion.
Plot: A Feminist Exploration
Barbie’s plot unfolds in Barbieland, a matriarchal society challenging traditional gender roles. Barbie’s existential crisis leads her on a journey with Ken, played by Ryan Gosling, exploring societal expectations and self-discovery. The narrative cleverly addresses feminism, body image, and societal norms through Barbie’s encounters in both Barbieland and the real world.
One evening at a dance party, Barbie is suddenly stricken with worries about mortality. For instance, overnight, she develops bad breath, cellulite, and flat feet, disrupting her usual routines the next day. In other words, she seeks out Weird Barbie, a disfigured doll, who tells her she must find the child playing with her in the real world to cure her afflictions. To illustrate, Ken stows away in her convertible to join her, to which Barbie reluctantly agrees.
A Stellar Cast’s Impact
Margot Robbie’s portrayal of Barbie, often dubbed “Stereotypical Barbie,” anchors the film. In particular, the ensemble cast, including Issa Rae, Kate McKinnon, and Ryan Gosling as “Beach Ken,” enriches the narrative with diverse characters. Each actor brings a unique energy to their respective Barbie variations, contributing to the film’s charm and depth.
Greta Gerwig’s Directorial Vision
Gerwig’s direction, coupled with her co-writing efforts with Noah Baumbach, infuses Barbie with creativity and depth. The film’s unique blend of fantasy and reality is enhanced by Gerwig’s childhood experiences with Barbie, adding a personal touch to the narrative. Nevertheless, the director’s commitment to feminist themes and the subversion of Barbie’s traditional image elevates the film beyond a mere adaptation.
Cinematic Marvels: Set Design and Costumes
Sarah Greenwood’s set design and Jacqueline Durran’s costume creations stand out as visual marvels. To illustrate, Barbieland, inspired by mid-century modernist architecture, captures the essence of the dolls’ Dreamhouse with vibrant aesthetics. Conversely, practical effects, a distinct shade of pink, and tactile builds contribute to the film’s visual richness.
Costume designer Jacqueline Durran, who previously collaborated with Gerwig on Little Women (2019), employed a practical approach to create Barbie’s wardrobe. For example, “The defining characteristic of what she wears is where she’s going and what she’s doing.” In contrast, to match the film’s Barbieland setting, Durran and her team created costumes made of roughly fifteen color combinations “that riffed off the idea of a French Riviera beach in the early 1960s” and drew inspiration from actress Brigitte Bardot.
Innovative Writing and Powerful Themes
Gerwig and Baumbach’s writing process during the COVID-19 pandemic showcases their creative synergy. At the same time, the script’s abstract poetry, influenced by the Apostles’ Creed, and nods to real-world societal pressures on women make Barbie more than a mere fantasy comedy. On the contrary, the film courageously tackles controversial aspects of Barbie’s legacy, presenting a feminist narrative with nuanced storytelling.
Casting Choices and Behind-the-Scenes Anecdotes
The casting decisions, from Margot Robbie’s Barbie to Ryan Gosling’s Ken and the diverse variations of Barbie played by an ensemble cast, align seamlessly with Gerwig’s vision. Yet, noteworthy is John Cena’s spontaneous inclusion after an act of generosity, highlighting the camaraderie on set. On one hand, the film’s production journey, including challenges and creative decisions, adds depth to the behind-the-scenes narrative.
Conclusion: Barbie Beyond the Plastic World
In conclusion, Barbie transcends its plastic origins to deliver a thought-provoking and visually enchanting cinematic experience. To illustrate, Gerwig’s directorial vision, coupled with Robbie’s stellar performance and a talented ensemble, breathes life into the iconic dolls. In contrast, Barbie not only entertains but also challenges societal norms, making it a standout film of 2023 and a testament to the enduring power of storytelling.
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