Written by Mateo Biggs
If you didn’t answer that phrase with “fantastic” then many will disagree with that claim with the drop of 2023’s most fabulous movie thus far. Barbie has already made waves since her original release in 1959 but as of this past July 21st, her own film has made just as much of a splash to the movie industry.
Directed by Greta Gerwig (2019’s “Little Women”, 2017’s “Lady Bird”, 2018’s “Isle of Dogs”) and starring prominent names such as Australian Actress Margot Robbie (2017’s “I, Tonya”, 2013 “About Time”, and her most infamous role in 2020’s “Harley Quinn: Birds of Prey”), Ryan Gosling (2016’s “La La Land”, 2022’s “The Gray Man”, and 2004’s “The Notebook”) and even Simu Liu (2014’s “Akira Project”, and 2021’s “Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings”).
With a 3.0 out of 5 stars on Google, an 88% on the Tomatometer and 83% audience score both from Rotten Tomatoes, 7.3/10 on IMDb, it’s impressive to see the continued growth and audience approval.
Plus with the genius way the film was advertised, “Barbie” holds a comedic tone while also nodding to plenty of real world issues that many had been phased with such as; unrealistic body proportions, existential identity crisis, and learning how to comfortably be yourself without giving anything up– all wrapped up in a hilarious and pink package. Honestly, it was no wonder the film made such an impact on the audience as we watch Barbie, herself (Margot Robbie), learn about the world she lives in and the world she’s made such an impact on. Plus with a nod to Ken’s (Ryan Gosling) entire existence being based around Barbie in the form of an interesting power ballad, the film engages everyone in the family.
Despite the general love “Barbie” has garnered, there have been a few naysayers who state that the film is severely “anti-man” and “pushes the feminist agenda”. However, the film doesn’t exactly equate to said agenda or anything anti-man. It’s simply a film to enjoy, and a film that hits heavy topics while continuing to be light hearted and hilarious.
In fact, perhaps it was this reason that made the film such a big hit.
If you haven’t seen it, then know that “Barbie” is at any nearby theater and finally understand why life out of plastic can be just as fantastic.
