Barbie and Ken are having the time of their lives in the colorful and seemingly perfect world of Barbie Land. However, when they get a chance to go to the real world, they soon discover the joys and perils of living among humans.
In a daring departure from traditional film-making, the live-action Barbie movie, directed by the talented Greta Gerwig, embarks on a journey that both celebrates and deconstructs the iconic doll's legacy. In a whirlwind of nostalgia, satire, and gender exploration, the film presents an intricate web of themes, ranging from the history of Barbie to contemporary gender dynamics. With Margot Robbie's portrayal of the titular character and Gerwig's distinctive directorial style, the movie offers a blend of social commentary, humor, and emotional depth.
The movie opens with a nod to Barbie's rich history, meticulously delving into the myriad incarnations of the doll that have adorned generations of playrooms. This trip down memory lane caters to die-hard Barbie fans, who will delight in the nostalgic fashion, accessories, and hidden references. Simultaneously, the film pokes fun at itself through irreverent jokes, engaging even those who might have been skeptics of the franchise. The juxtaposition of reverence and mockery sets the tone for an exploration of the profound cultural impact of Barbie.
Greta Gerwig, known for her exploration of female emotional journeys, brings her signature style to the movie. Through Margot Robbie's portrayal of Barbie, the film delves into a realm of emotions, self-discovery, and societal expectations. The nuanced performance by Robbie captures the essence of Barbie's stereotypical beauty, while also unearthing her internal struggles, insecurities, and desires. Gerwig's directorial choices emphasize emotions, humanizing the plastic doll and underscoring the challenges that even seemingly perfect figures face.
The movie takes a daring leap as it enters the "real world", leaving the Barbie utopia behind. The contrast between Barbie's idyllic existence and the harsh reality she confronts serves as a powerful commentary on gender dynamics. Misogynistic comments and a lack of agency reflect the struggles faced by women on a daily basis, even as Barbie and her counterparts occupy positions of power in Barbie Land. This subversion of traditional roles challenges the audience to contemplate the implications of gender norms and societal expectations.
Interestingly, the film introduces a subplot involving Ken, Barbie's counterpart, who struggles with his identity. The dynamic musical numbers toward the movie's climax emphasize his internal conflict. The subtext suggests a contemplation of male identity crisis, offering an additional layer to the narrative. While this aspect is thought-provoking, it sometimes distracts from the primary focus of the film: Barbie's journey of self-discovery and societal critique.
Gerwig's feminist perspective is evident in the movie's exploration of patriarchal norms and the empowerment of Barbie and her companions. However, despite its strong messaging, the film occasionally falls short of delivering solutions to the complex issues it addresses. The pivot from a grand-scale societal problem to a more simplistic Barbie Land issue feels like a missed opportunity. The narrative dilution leaves audiences yearning for a more substantial resolution, echoing the sentiment that the film might have been more impactful in its original, unedited form.
The live-action Barbie movie directed by Greta Gerwig ventures into uncharted territory, offering a multifaceted examination of Barbie's legacy, gender dynamics, and societal expectations. Through Margot Robbie's portrayal and Gerwig's directorial prowess, the film navigates a labyrinth of emotions, satire, and thought-provoking commentary. The exploration of Barbie's journey, both within herself and in the context of society, challenges viewers to confront preconceived notions and reflect on the complexities of gender roles.
While the movie's ambition to dismantle patriarchal structures is commendable, its occasional shift from the central narrative and lack of concrete solutions hinder its potential impact. The film's strength lies in its ability to convey poignant messages without resorting to didacticism, invoking empathy and compassion. In the end, the live-action Barbie movie serves as a noteworthy entry into the realm of modern cinema, a testament to both the enduring legacy of the iconic doll and the power of film to provoke reflection and inspire change.
Barbie is in NZ cinemas from July 20, 2023