A colourful fever dream filled with heart-warming nostalgia, dance sequences, and beautiful people, that will leave you ultimately considering your purpose in life.
Warner Bros. Pictures
Following the international phenomenon of two massive blockbuster films being released simultaneously, aptly named 'Barbenheimer', it seemed only right to prioritise seeing both films as soon as I got a spare moment. Contrary to the majority of viewers, I opted to watch Barbie before Oppenheimer, treating myself first to some dazzling animation, captivating characters, and an empowering final message.
Firstly, it is only right to comment on the film's enchanting animation. Unlike anything I have ever witnessed before, Greta Gerwig presents fans with the fictional world of Barbieland which is simply breathtaking, creating a colourful and captivating world that truly brings Barbie and her friends to life. Anyone who was obsessed with Barbie like me when they were younger will definitely be able to appreciate the clever and witty attention to detail presented in the character, set, and costume design. For example, the lack of water to drink (or to surf in, as Ken finds out the hard way), the perfectly done-up characters, and the way the Barbies never use the stairs, they just float down elegantly from their houses into their cars. Every small nuance in this film was thought out to the final detail making it both a wonder and joy to watch.
Secondly, the film showcases a diverse group of strong female characters, each with their own unique personalities and strengths. In contrast to the baby dolls that children played with before the invention of Barbie, the dolls are depicted as confident and capable protagonists, showing that girls can be absolutely anything they want to be, not just the maternal figure that they were restricted to becoming beforehand. This is such an important message to portray to young children of this generation, as Barbie provides a positive and inspiring role model that embodies qualities such as determination, kindness, and empowerment. Gerwig's use of the reversal of the patriarchal society so that women ruled the Supreme Court, each female character seen as career driven and determined, was an important matriarchal reflection on the power of misogyny that still seems to still exist in our society.
The catchy soundtrack, brightly coloured visuals, musical numbers, and comic relief added depth to the storytelling and complemented the magical atmosphere of the film providing a light-hearted atmosphere to an otherwise quite serious existentially driven plot. These elements make it suitable for children of all ages, being comedic with valuable life lessons woven in. I have not been able to stop listening to the soundtrack, often using it to make my morning routine a little bit more positive and motivational!
It is undeniable that this film carries a powerful and positive message that you will leave the cinema and drive home listening to Billie Eilish's What Was I Made For having a small existential crisis but also appreciating all of the ups and downs of what it means to be a woman. It emphasizes the importance of self-belief, friendship, and courage, inspiring young viewers to embrace what makes them unique and follow their dreams. I am confident that this film will be a firm favourite for many generations to come. It has a timeless charm that will resonate with both long-time Barbie fans and newcomers to her adventures. Whether you are in your twenties like me and ex-Barbie-obsessed, a parent or grand-parent that can only have fond memories of when they bought their child their first Barbie or a younger person that just loves the magic and wonder of Barbie, it is sure to be a hit with audiences of all ages.