Greta Gerwig has produced a coming-of-age feminist masterpiece.
Walking into the cinema no-one expected to be hit with such a complex storyline that would tug at the heartstrings of every generation yet still be light-hearted and humorous.
Margot Robbie plays “stereotypical Barbie”, who has to dive into the real world after she experiences a disturbance to her usually perfect daily routine.
These alien thoughts of death and sad emotions come from the girl playing with her in the real world – so the only solution is to travel there and find her.
Her stereotypical suitor Ken uninvitedly tags along for the ride – but they have opposite experiences in the real world.
As Barbie encounters catcalling, old-age and anxiety, Ken discovers the art of patriarchy – contrary to his lifestyle in Barbieland.
Experiencing the harsh realities women face in the real world along the way, Barbie finds her owner, who turns out to be a mother and Mattel employee.
She makes a powerful and emotional monologue starting with “It is literally impossible to be a woman” and proceeds to list the ways women must stay within the unrealistic lines society created.
Barbies are for young girls – but it felt like this was written for those same girls who now live outside of their Barbie fantasy.
Image: director Greta Gerwig at a UK reception for the release of the Barbie Movie. Image via British Embassy (CC BY-SA 2.0)
