Barbie

Rating: 4.75/5

I honestly felt like I was on the Barbie bandwagon before seeing this movie, but now having watched it, I’m on board more than I even thought I’d be. 

Barbie was easily my most anticipated film of the summer. Due to a busy schedule, I wasn’t able to see it on its opening weekend, but once I finally was able to head to my theater and watch it, I was giddy with anticipation. From the moment it starts, you know you’re about to witness two hours of sheer brilliance. From the script, set design, and most of all, the performances, Barbie is a pure delight. 

With a movie like Barbie that is so heavily stylized, it is imperative that the performances be 100% committed to every ounce of the movie’s over the top concepts. Without that, the fantasy just doesn’t create the necessary buy in. For Barbie, every single person understood the assignment. From the titular Barbie to the barely mentioned Midge the Pregnant Barbie, each actor allowed Barbieland to come to vibrant pink life. Margot Robbie is phenomenal and leads this film with impeccable humor and heart. Ryan Gosling is her perfect on screen match, bringing a flawless comedic timing to every single scene he’s in. 

When I first saw the trailers for Barbie, I’d hoped that it could at least get nominated at the Oscars for set and costume design, but now having seen the movie, I want it nominated for every award it can receive; and I honestly think it has a chance. The screenplay is genius. I knew Barbie would have a commentary that was far beyond the importance of dolls and pink, and it absolutely does, but it hits the nail on the head in a way that’s both poignant and incredibly humorous. For acting, if there were ever a nomination for a comedy performance that deserved recognition, it’s definitely Ryan Gosling. Heck, I’d even though Michael Cera’s performance into the ring, as few scenes as he had, he was hysterical. I’d heard that with the smashing success of Barbie, that Mattel is now planning on releasing a series of movies based on their most popular toys. I find it hard to believe that a Hot Wheels movie will be as important and clever as Greta Gerwig’s Barbie, but hey, I’ll be the first to admit it if I’m wrong. 

I cannot wait to see Barbie again. I know there were countless things I missed in the background, and this is definitely a movie that demands multiple viewings. It’s a joy through and through and deserves every ounce of praise it has been receiving.