‘Barbie’ Review: Greta Gerwig Nails the Perfect Blend of Comedy, Commentary, and Camp

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‘Barbie’ Review: Greta Gerwig Nails the Perfect Blend of Comedy, Commentary, and Camp

Barbie is not your typical film. It delves into deep philosophical and existential themes, surprising audiences who may have expected a shallow story about fashion dolls. But this movie goes beyond that. It taps into the cultural significance of Barbie as a symbol of independence for young girls in the 1950s. Written by Greta Gerwig and Noah Baumbach, the film takes us on a journey through Barbie Land, a perfect pink town where everything is predestined to function flawlessly. Women rule this world, serving in every possible working position. The male counterparts, including Stereotypical Ken, exist solely to serve their Barbie counterparts.

But Barbie’s perfect world is disrupted when she starts questioning the meaning of life and death. She embarks on a mission to find the girl who owns her version of the doll, leading her to the real world. Here, she discovers that change is necessary and perfection is unrealistic. The film tackles serious topics like feminism and patriarchy with a perfect balance of levity and camp, ensuring that the message of finding oneself and finding balance shines through.

The performances in Barbie are outstanding. Robbie, in the titular role, brings depth and complexity to her character, elevating Barbie beyond the plastic persona. The supporting cast, including Ryan Gosling, Kate McKinnon, and America Ferrera, deliver compelling performances that add to the film’s brilliance. The meticulous production design, vibrant costuming, and artistry of the makeup department create a visually stunning world that captures the essence of Barbie.

However, the film does stumble in its handling of characters of color, using them as devices to push the main narratives forward. While this may reflect the state of the world, it sidelines the idea of equality. Additionally, there are moments in the film that feel unnecessary, like filler dance scenes and musical numbers. But despite these shortcomings, the film’s concluding segments offer a nuanced approach, showcasing collective action and a hope for a better world.

In essence, Barbie challenges societal norms and expectations. It reminds us that even within the most superficial elements of our culture, there can be unexpected depth and room for discourse. Gerwig’s directing explores identity, societal structures, and the courage to embrace change, proving that stories can come from the most unusual places. So get ready to be captivated by Barbie and its thought-provoking journey.

Lily Winters

Lily, a film studies major at NYU, developed a fascination for avant-garde and experimental cinema during her time living in the vibrant art scene of Brooklyn. Her articles explore the intersection of art and film, celebrating boundary-pushing filmmakers and emerging visual styles.

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