Barbie, the beloved doll adored by children worldwide, is making her way to the big screen in a live-action movie starring Margot Robbie. In this article, we delve into the fascinating journey of bringing Barbie to life in a film. We explore the challenges of portraying a doll with controversial beauty standards and the collaboration between director Greta Gerwig and Mattel, revealing the complexity of this highly anticipated project.
Complications of Playing Barbie
Barbie has always been a divisive figure, with critics arguing that her unrealistic proportions set an impossible beauty standard. Margot Robbie, the movie’s star, faced the challenge of embodying this complex character.
In a viral trailer shot, Robbie steps out of Barbie’s marabou stilettos, sparking discussions about the physically impossible pose. Robbie’s dedication to authenticity is evident as she insists on doing her own hands and feet shots, aiming to portray Barbie genuinely.
Gerwig’s Unexpected Journey
When director Greta Gerwig was announced as the helmer of the Barbie movie, fans were surprised yet intrigued. Gerwig’s personal connection to dolls, nurtured since childhood, played a significant role in her decision. She sees dolls as a storytelling medium and credits them as part of her training.
Gerwig and her partner, Noah Baumbach, wrote the script after participating in a Barbie boot camp organized by Mattel. The COVID-19 pandemic provided uninterrupted creative space to shape the movie’s narrative, resulting in an impressive script with daring themes.
Enigmatic Barbie Plot and Multifaceted Themes
Warner Bros. has kept the movie’s plot under wraps, generating anticipation among audiences. Set in Barbie Land, a utopia where feminism and equal rights are portrayed as solved issues, the film combines elements of Clueless and Legally Blonde.
Margot Robbie‘s Barbie embarks on a journey of self-discovery, questioning mortality and the superficiality of her dream life. Alongside Ryan Gosling’s Ken, they face societal critique and embark on quests to find themselves.
Collaboration and Controversy
The Barbie movie attracted a talented ensemble cast, drawn to Gerwig’s sharp script and the opportunity for thought-provoking storytelling. Actress Hari Nef, who portrays a doctor Barbie, acknowledges the contemporary questions of feminism and body positivity raised by Barbie.
Balancing the brand’s legacy with pushing boundaries posed challenges for the project. Gerwig and Robbie played a crucial role in convincingly presenting their vision, gaining the trust of Mattel.
Led by Margot Robbie’s dedicated portrayal and Greta Gerwig’s unique direction, the Barbie movie promises to be a captivating exploration of the iconic doll. It challenges societal norms, raises questions about identity and self-discovery, and invites audiences to reflect on the limitations of perfection.
The collaboration faced challenges in balancing Barbie’s legacy and addressing controversies. As fans and movie enthusiasts await the transformation of Barbie into a relatable character on the big screen, anticipation grows. Ultimately, the film serves as a reminder to embrace complexity, pursue dreams authentically, and challenge societal norms through the power of storytelling.