Barbie is a thought-provoking, whimsical, and creative film that breaks the mold of traditional Hollywood fare. Director Greta Gerwig (Lady Bird, Little Women) has crafted a film that is both funny and contemplative, and the performances by Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling are pitch-perfect.
Robbie is perfectly cast as Barbie, bringing a warmth, intelligence, humor, and beauty to a role that, as strange as it may sound, is actually incredibly demanding. Can you imagine having to be all of those things while filming on a daily basis for months and months? (In fact, that very statement connects to the heart of the film). Gosling is also excellent as Ken, providing the perfect foil for Robbie’s Barbie. As usual, Gosling brings his “A” game and gives Ken a level of complexity that shouldn’t exist considering the level of idiocy Ken often employs. There were many, many other standout performances as well but I don’t want to spoil appearances.
Written and directed by Greta Gerwig, the film is both well written and expertly directed. The script is witty, provoking, clever, and subtly insightful. The direction is confident, fun, and bold. In fact, I would argue that the film is visually stunning, with a candy-colored palette and faux reality that perfectly captures the world of Barbie.
The film also breaks convention with its ending, which is both unexpected and satisfying. I won’t spoil it, but even I, who consider myself fairly sensitive to gender roles, initially missed the point. I found myself mansplaining things away and then slapped my own forehead.
Overall, Barbie is a film that is sure to please fans of all tastes.
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