Bolivian Barbie
Barbie of Bolivia: The Quest for El Tesoro Perdido
Written by: Maria Esperanza Jiménez
Maria is a Bolivian-American filmmaker inspired by the eclectic culture of her roots. Known for her knack for blending culture with entertainment, Maria takes on the world of Barbie, giving the iconic doll a Bolivian twist.
Film Logline
When Bolivian Barbie stumbles upon an age-old family secret, she has to outwit a nefarious reality show host and restore her family's honor—all while navigating the chaotic streets of La Paz and the equally unpredictable world of Bolivian traditions.
Summary of the Plot
Inspired by Latin American filmmakers and directors like Alfonso Cuarón and Fernando Meirelles, Maria Esperanza Jiménez crafts a narrative that's as vibrant as Bolivia's rich tapestry of culture. Our protagonist is Barbie, a contemporary Bolivian woman living in the bustling city of La Paz. An expert in ancient Bolivian textiles and culture, she runs a boutique shop selling traditional Bolivian crafts.
Act I - The Secret
Barbie discovers a hidden compartment in an ancient weaving loom she inherited from her great-grandmother. The compartment contains a mysterious letter that hints at a long-buried family secret. Intrigued, she confides in her tech-savvy cousin, Ken. Ken is skeptical but helps Barbie decode the old letter, which is written in Spanish and an ancient Bolivian dialect. Just as they finish, Barbie receives a surprise visit from Ricardo Montoya, a famous reality show host known for his manipulative antics. He's come to feature Barbie’s boutique on his show but has ulterior motives to exploit Bolivia's culture for profit.
Act II - The Chaos
Barbie and Ken start following the clues from the decoded letter and learn that their great-grandmother was part of a secret society protecting a sacred artifact. The artifact has the power to either restore or corrupt the cultural integrity of Bolivia, depending on the user's intent. Montoya overhears their conversation through a hidden microphone and decides he must obtain the artifact to boost his show's ratings. The race is on, leading Barbie and Ken through the wild terrains of Bolivia, including the dizzying heights of the Andes and the vibrant colors of the Uyuni Salt Flats. They are chased by Montoya and his comical yet dangerous crew.
Act III - The Resolution
Through a series of comic and adventurous twists and turns, Barbie and Ken reach the artifact's location, which is hidden within a complex maze built by ancient Bolivians. Barbie applies her deep knowledge of Bolivian history and Ken uses his tech skills to navigate the maze. Montoya arrives just as Barbie retrieves the artifact. However, the artifact can only be used by someone with a true Bolivian heart. Montoya fails to use it and is eventually apprehended by the local authorities, tipped off by Ken. The artifact is placed in a Bolivian museum, and Barbie’s family honor is restored. Montoya's show gets canceled, and Barbie gets an offer to host her own show focusing on Bolivian culture.
Expert Reviews and Cultural References
The film has been praised for its rich cultural references. Bolivian experts admire Maria's in-depth knowledge and successful integration of Bolivian cultural nuances, like the traditional "Alasitas" festival and the ritualistic "Ch'alla."
What's Funny about an Ethnic Barbie's POV?
The humor comes from Barbie's modern take on traditional Bolivian beliefs and practices. Whether it’s her trying to use ancient rituals to find a parking spot or mistaking a sacred herb for a cooking ingredient, the comedic mishaps are endless.
This film treatment promises an adventurous ride, making it a distinctive piece in the world of Barbie stories. It presents a profound message of cultural respect and integrity while wrapping it in a colorful, entertaining package.