Margot Robbie was taken aback when she learned that Robbie Brenner, Head and Executive Producer of Mattel Films, claimed that the upcoming film Barbie, directed by Greta Gerwig and starring Robbie, is “not a feminist film”. Robbie plays the lead role in one of the most highly anticipated films of the summer, set to be released on July 21.
During an interview with Eliana Dockterman for Time Magazine, Brenner stated that she didn’t consider Gerwig’s film to be feminist, and this opinion was shared by other Mattel executives Dockterman interviewed. This viewpoint sharply contrasts with the writer’s own interpretation of the film and the actors’ spontaneous descriptions of the script as feminist.
When Robbie was informed of Mattel’s statement, she raised an eyebrow and asked, “Who said that?” After a sigh, she responded, “It’s not a matter of whether it is or isn’t. It’s a movie that encompasses so much.” Robbie emphasized to the author that the crucial aspect is that “we’re in on the joke.” She clarified that the film is not simply a shallow portrayal of Barbie, but has depth and substance.
Mattel’s perplexing statement that Gerwig’s film would not address femininity is out of touch, especially considering Gerwig’s previous works like Frances Ha, Lady Bird, and Little Women which heavily explore femininity. Barbie delves not only into the concept of femininity, but also touches on the mortality of women.
What’s Barbie About?
The film is set in Barbie Land, a utopian society where each Barbie holds an impressive occupation. Narrated by Helen Mirren, the film reveals that all feminist and equal rights issues have been resolved. The Barbies come together for sleepovers, celebrating their beauty and confidence. The Kens, portrayed by Ryan Gosling, Simu Liu, and others, serve as convenient dance partners. However, Robbie’s Barbie starts to contemplate mortality as she notices changes in her physical appearance. She realizes that her once-arched feet are now flat and cellulite has appeared on her thigh.
In order to confront these transformations, Barbie embarks on a journey into the real world with Ken, who feels like a mere accessory in Barbie’s perfect existence. The real world proves to be a harsh reality. Men in suits at Mattel, led by CEO Will Ferrell, deliver empty speeches about female empowerment, while young girls criticize Barbie for negatively affecting their self-esteem. Both Barbie and Ken embark on journeys of self-discovery in this new reality.
We will all enter the Barbie world on July 21, 2023. Check out the trailer below:
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Khushi Patel is a science fiction author who lives in Austin, Texas. She has published three novels, and her work has been praised for its originality and imagination. Khushi is a graduate of Rice University, and she has worked as a software engineer. She is a member of the Science Fiction Writers of America, and her books have been nominated for several awards.
