It hasn’t even been a year since “Barbie” came out, but this film about girlhood, the patriarchy and plastic dolls is already a classic. It addresses the plights of being a woman while still celebrating femininity, traditional or otherwise. 

The film’s message is summarized by Gloria, played by America Ferrara, during her iconic monologue to Barbie:

“It is literally impossible to be a woman. You are so beautiful, and so smart, and it kills me that you don’t think you’re good enough. Like, we have to always be extraordinary, but somehow we’re always doing it wrong.”

This speech has stuck with me since I first heard it, but some have criticized it for being a surface-level feminist message. While I agree that this movie does not push the envelope of feminist theory, there is power in simple messages. 

Considering this was a big blockbuster, the messaging was simple enough to make it accessible to everyone but also got people talking. The movie acknowledges the criticisms of the doll, such as how it has created unrealistic body standards and encouraged consumerism. 

The film does not shy away from these valid criticisms, however, “Barbie” also uses them to show how women feel criticized no matter what they do. 

The soundtrack emphasized the film’s message, while also making the viewer laugh, cry and dance. Notably, “What Was I Made For?” by Billie Eilish won Song of the Year at the Grammys and Best Original Song at the Oscars. 

This song served as a motif throughout the film representing both Barbie’s growing perspective on what it means to be a woman and the heart of the movie. 

With the line, “When did it end, all the enjoyment?” Eilish expresses the feeling many women experience when they realize the joys of being a woman are often not respected. For Barbie, this happens when she enters the real world, but for many women, this is a part of growing up. 

From the set to the costumes, every element of the film embraced bright, bold femininity. 

The set used so much pink paint, it contributed to a global shortage of the specific shade used to create that classic “Barbie pink.” Barbieland looked just like the playsets I had as a kid, which contrasted perfectly with the look of the “real world.” 

When you think Barbie, you think fashion. This movie does a great job of emulating Barbie’s classic outfits, while also putting an original twist on them. 

Jacqueline Durran, costume designer for “Barbie,” told Vogue, “Barbie is always about the ideal, so through the costumes, we give each character a look that reflects the ultimate Barbie look for where she is in the story at that moment.”

This is an aesthetically beautiful film, but the most beautiful thing about it is how it brought women together. I, along with many others, went to the theater clad in pink, pearls and all things girly, unashamed to celebrate our femininity the way the film encourages. 

If you haven’t seen this masterpiece yet, take a couple of hours to visit Barbieland. You won’t regret it: it’s sublime. 

Official Score: 10/10

Categories: Arts & Entertainment