Barbie

Directed by Greta Gerwig

★★★★

Caption (from left) Barbie (Margot Robbie), Ken (Ryan Gosling) in Barbie, directed by Greta Gerwig.

Greta Gerwig’s Barbie is a bold, vibrant reimagining of the iconic doll, infused with sharp humor, insightful commentary, and a dazzling aesthetic that makes it as much a visual feast as it is a cultural critique. Starring Margot Robbie as the titular Barbie and Ryan Gosling as her ever-loyal Ken, the film delves into the complexities of identity, gender roles, and the influence of capitalism, all while keeping its tongue firmly in its cheek.

From the moment the film begins, it’s clear that Gerwig is not content with simply bringing a beloved childhood toy to life. Instead, she uses Barbie as a vehicle to explore and challenge the cultural forces that have shaped—and continue to shape—our perceptions of gender and power. The film cleverly satirizes the male gaze and the testosterone-fueled world of corporate oversight, offering up a modern lens through which to view the often-controversial figure of Barbie.

Margot Robbie is nothing short of perfect in the role of Barbie. She effortlessly embodies the character’s iconic looks and charm while bringing a depth and nuance that makes this Barbie more than just a plastic figure. Robbie’s Barbie is self-aware, questioning the world around her and the expectations placed upon her. She’s a character that is at once familiar and refreshingly new, thanks to Robbie’s layered performance.

Ryan Gosling, as Ken, is equally well-cast. He plays Ken with a mix of sincerity and goofiness that makes him instantly endearing, even as the film explores the limitations of his character’s existence. Gosling’s Ken is more than just Barbie’s accessory—he’s a reflection of how men, too, can be trapped by societal expectations. His performance is both funny and poignant, adding depth to a role that could have easily been one-dimensional.

One of the film’s standout moments comes courtesy of America Ferrera, who delivers a powerful feminist monologue that serves as the emotional core of the story. Ferrera’s speech cuts through the film’s satire with a raw honesty that resonates deeply, speaking to the pressures and contradictions that women face in a world that often demands perfection. It’s a moment that grounds the film in reality, reminding the audience of the very real issues at the heart of Barbie’s seemingly perfect world.

Visually, Barbie is a triumph. The production design and cinematography are a kaleidoscope of color, perfectly capturing the bright, plastic world of Barbie while also infusing it with a sense of surrealism. Every frame is meticulously crafted, creating a world that is as beautiful as it is artificial, a fitting backdrop for the film’s exploration of identity and image.

However, Barbie is not without its flaws. The film’s script, while clever and often biting, sometimes pulls its punches. There are moments where the commentary feels less sharp than it could be, opting for more obvious targets rather than digging deeper into the complexities of its themes. This occasionally gives the film a sense of playing it safe, especially when it could have gone further in its critique of the societal structures it seeks to dismantle.

Despite these shortcomings, Barbie is a film that succeeds on many levels. It’s a movie that’s as fun as it is thought-provoking, offering audiences a chance to reconsider the legacy of one of the world’s most famous dolls through a fresh and feminist lens. Greta Gerwig’s direction, combined with standout performances from Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling, and America Ferrera, ensures that "Barbie" is not just a nostalgic trip down memory lane, but a relevant and timely commentary on the world we live in today.

Barbie is a visually stunning, smartly crafted film that manages to entertain while also making pointed observations about gender, identity, and power. While it may not always hit as hard as it could, it’s a refreshing and necessary take on a cultural icon that continues to shape the way we see ourselves and each other. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Barbie or a skeptic, this film is sure to leave you with something to think about long after you’ve left the theater.