The number one box office hit of its opening weekend, BARBIE, slashed the screens everywhere with its pink haze and audiences dressing up as the iconic legend. Pink gowns, glitter, and big hair were seen across the country. I even witnessed many burly men donning the classic BARBIE look from her massive closet. It’s about time movie-goers had a blast at the movies.
Margot Robbie just personifies BARBIE with her dazzling smile, perfect form, stunning, gorgeous eyes, and feet made for stilettos. She can draw us into her dream house and mesmerize viewers with her “stereotypical” BARBIE breakdown. She is having a “mid-life” crisis or whatever dolls go through on their way to understanding their “existence” in this modern society between the real world and BARBIE Land. What a conundrum for every. And especially for six-pack Beach Ken played by Ryan Gosling. Is “JUST KEN” enough simply because he is a “ten.” The world of Mattel will never be the same after this crossover jaunt between the worlds.
Greta Gerwig got everything right as the writer (along with her partner, Noah Baumbach), producer, and director. Who would have thought BARBIE would come with such pathos, deep soul-searching moments, and provoking thoughts for both genders to ponder over, all while laughing hysterically at the dialogue and huge musical production numbers. Spectacular and brilliant. Greta’s writing takes us on a journey of mother/daughter relationships that has been necessary to say for decades. All I can add is cue the Kleenex. It will zap your heartstrings with love and powerful pink honesty. Greta gets it, and Margo supplies the stunning visuals to give audiences that full-circle effect. Absolutely brilliant.
I must also mention the exciting musical score. Beat for beat; the songs stand on their own with humor, truth, and bravado. I would not be surprised if one of these fabulous songs gets nominated for an Oscar.
The talented ensemble adds pizzazz and style to the solid script. Kudos to Issa Rae, Kate McKinnon, Simu Liu, John Cena, Michael Cera, America Ferreta, Rhea Perlman, Will Ferrell, and Helen Mirren. I can’t stop remembering and laughing at “weird” BARBIE and “I’m gonna “beach” you. I know it doesn’t make sense. You just have to be there!
I have such fond memories of playing with my daughter’s BARBIE dolls. Hours and hours would pass as we constantly changed their clothes and made up crazy scenarios to act out. Now I don’t think I can ever look at a BARBIE the same way again—so much silliness and angst. The closing, final line of the movie is THE best. You will leave the theater smiling and roaring with laughter. This movie must be seen, especially with a bunch of women. And don’t forget to wear pink!
BARBIE is playing at theaters everywhere.
