Pub.lished Movie Reviews
Barbie (2023)
I get the feeling the makers of Barbie really loved the Barbie doll but have a lot of pent-up anger towards Mattel."Barbie" (2023) sends our beloved doll into an existential crisis, making her question her world and her very being. The film intriguingly navigates through esoteric Barbie folklore and memorabilia, infusing elements of slapstick cartoonish comedy, while also casting a critical lens on a patriarchal society. It ambitiously attempts to be all these things, and yet, it falls short in its execution.
The social commentary, though sharp and relevant, is left hanging without a compelling conclusion. The comedy, a fusion of cartoonish slapstick and real-world humor, often fails to hit the mark. However, the movie does shine in its relentless critique of Mattel, Barbie's parent company. One can only imagine the reactions at Mattel, Lucky Chap, and Warner Bros. when they finally read the completed script. After all, Gerwig and Baumbach were granted complete creative freedom before they even began crafting the script.
The film often takes aim at some of Mattel's more controversial creations - from dolls that were quickly relegated to the dustbin of history, to the infamous Sugar Daddy Ken and the Barbie whose breasts grew larger when you lifted her arms. This critique might have left Mattel squirming, yet it could also have sparked a thought - should these forgotten dolls be resurrected?
The movie's tagline claims that whether you love or hate "Barbie," this movie will appeal to you. While it's likely to resonate with Barbie enthusiasts, its appeal to Barbie's critics remains questionable. "Barbie" (2023) presents a unique and intriguing perspective on this iconic doll, making for a cinematic experience that's as novel as it is interesting.
- You are not a fan of animated movies
- You prefer more serious, dramatic content over light-hearted adventure
- You do not enjoy musical elements in movies
- You are not interested in stories about empowerment and friendship
- You are over the recommended age range of 5 to 12 years old
Warning: The following may contain spoilers:
What's the deal with the "Barbie" movie? It completely skewers Mattel! Did anyone from the Mattel C-suite actually sign off on this? Were they sitting around a big, fancy boardroom table thinking, "Oh, a movie about Barbie, how bad could it possibly make us look?"
Tangled (2010):
If you enjoyed Barbie, you might love Tangled. This Disney production brings to life the classic story of Rapunzel, who has been locked away in a tower since she was a child. She's longing for adventure, and when a bandit named Flynn happens to stumble upon her hideaway, she gets her chance. The film is filled with humor, heartwarming moments, and memorable music, much like Barbie.
Moana (2016):Moana is another excellent choice. This story is about a young girl who sets out on a voyage to save her people, meeting the demigod Maui and navigating a dangerous oceanic journey along the way. It's a wonderful film that celebrates bravery, exploration, and identity, and it shares these themes with many Barbie movies.
Frozen (2013):Frozen is a hugely popular Disney film that shares Barbie's spirit of female empowerment. It follows the story of two royal sisters, Elsa and Anna, as they navigate their relationships with each other and their kingdom. It's a feast for the eyes and the heart, with great musical numbers and a touching story about the power of love between siblings.
The Little Mermaid (1989):If you’re a fan of Barbie, The Little Mermaid could quickly become a new favorite. This timeless Disney classic tells the story of Ariel, a young mermaid who longs to be human after falling in love with a prince. It's a beautiful and enchanting film with memorable songs and striking animation that are sure to capture your imagination.
The Princess and the Frog (2009):Last but not least, consider The Princess and Frog. This film offers a twist on the traditional princess tale by setting the story in New Orleans and infusing it with a rich blend of music, humor, and heart. The story follows Tiana, a young woman who dreams of opening her own restaurant, and her unexpected adventure after she kisses a prince who has been turned into a frog. It's sure to charm you just as much as Barbie does.
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