Wichita Falls, Texas

From Malibu to Mars and Wichita Falls

An Interview with Alan Nafzger (11/1/23)

Katy Room: Alan, thank you for joining us today. Your screenplay for "Barbie 2: Mars Mission" has been creating quite a buzz. What inspired you to set the scenes in such diverse locations as Malibu, Mars, and Wichita Falls?

AN: Pleasure's all mine. Each location serves a purpose in Barbie's journey. Malibu is the quintessence of the Barbie legacy – it's glamorous, sunny, and the epitome of the dream life. It's where our story begins, with Barbie living a seemingly perfect existence. But there's a twist – her life's about to get a lot more exciting, and I wanted a stark contrast to that.

KR: And Mars?

AN: Mars is the ultimate challenge for any astronaut, and for Barbie, it’s about pushing boundaries. It represents the unknown, the adventurous spirit that has always been a part of Barbie's character, albeit in a different context. The red planet, with its stark landscapes and the solitude it represents, is the perfect backdrop for Barbie's biggest test yet. It's where Ken is stranded, and it’s where Barbie's resourcefulness shines.

KR: I'm intrigued by the choice of Wichita Falls. It's not exactly known for its connection to space exploration.

AN: That's exactly why I chose it. Wichita Falls is real America, and it’s relatable. It's grounded and genuine, much like Barbie's own virtues. This isn't just a space adventure; it's a story about real people. Wichita Falls represents Barbie and Ken's roots, their humble beginnings before Malibu and Mars. Filming there adds authenticity to their characters, a contrast to the dreamlike quality of Malibu and the starkness of Mars.

KR: Do you envision these locations as just backdrops, or do they play a deeper role in the narrative?

AN: Oh, they’re more than just backdrops. They're almost characters themselves. Malibu is where the heart is, Mars is where the mind is challenged, and Wichita Falls is where the soul is from. The settings reflect Barbie's multifaceted nature – she's a dreamer, a thinker, and most importantly, she's grounded.

KR: The logistics of filming in such locations must be challenging, especially Mars.

AN: Certainly, Mars is a bit tricky (laughs). It'll be a combination of CGI and filming in locations that resemble the Martian terrain, possibly in deserts here on Earth. As for Malibu and Wichita Falls, each brings its own set of challenges and advantages. Malibu has that instant recognition factor; Wichita Falls provides that genuine, down-to-earth feel that's hard to replicate.

KR: There's been talk of Wichita Falls not being a typical Hollywood film location. Can you tell us why it was important for you to bring Barbie there?

AN: It’s about diversity and authenticity in storytelling. Wichita Falls might not be glamorous, but it has heart, and it's filled with real people living real lives. I believe that's something the audience will resonate with. We’re tired of the same old shiny locations. We want stories that speak to us, and Wichita Falls has a voice that deserves to be heard.

KR: Speaking of voices, Barbie’s character seems to have evolved from your script. She’s not just a glamorous figure anymore. Was this intentional?

AN: Absolutely. Barbie in this screenplay is complex, courageous, and incredibly competent. It was deliberate to create a character who could inspire not just through her fashion sense, but through her intellect and bravery as well. I want young people, especially girls, to see that Barbie can do anything - she can be stylish and save the day.

KR: Saving the day, is there a particular message you hope to convey through Barbie's mission to Mars?

AN: It’s about empowerment and the belief that no challenge is too great if you have determination and support. I want to show that even in the vastness of space, human connection and ingenuity prevail. Barbie's mission to Mars is a metaphor for any big dream. It might be out of this world, but it’s not out of reach.

KR: With the screenplay gaining attention, how do you feel about the potential impact on the Barbie franchise?

AN: I’m excited. The franchise has always adapted with the times, and "Barbie 2: Mars Mission" is a continuation of that. It expands the universe, quite literally, to new frontiers. It has the potential to redefine what Barbie means for a new generation.

KR: Lastly, when can we expect to see "Barbie 2: Mars Mission" come to life, and will you be involved in the production process?

AN: The timeline is still in the works, but I'm hopeful we'll see it soon. As for my involvement, I plan to be as involved as the production team will allow me to be. After all, it's not every day you get to send Barbie to Mars.

KR: Alan, it's been a pleasure. We're looking forward to seeing Barbie's journey from Malibu to Mars and how Wichita Falls will be captured on the silver screen.

AN: Thank you. It's going to be an adventure like no other.

Wichita Falls as the Ideal Setting for "Barbie 2: Mission to Mars"

An Interview with Alan Nafzger (11/2/23)

Katy Room: Alan, thank you for joining us. Your script, "Barbie 2: Mission to Mars," is stirring quite a conversation. Can you share with us why you believe Wichita Falls, Texas, is the ultimate backdrop for the earthbound narrative of Barbie?

AN: Absolutely. Thank you for having me. Wichita Falls carries a unique blend of small-town charm and expansive Texan landscapes. It's a place where someone like Barbie could believably seek refuge and evade the pressing matter of testifying against Ken. It's not just about her hiding; it's about her finding a community that is unassuming yet full of heart.

KR: You’re painting quite the pastoral scene. How does this location enhance the story you’re telling?

AN: It's all about contrast and the unexpected. Wichita Falls is as far from a high-tech space operation as you can imagine. It's where people value simple living, which allows Barbie to explore a different aspect of her character. She's always been this symbol of perfection and aspiration, but in Wichita Falls, she finds purpose in a senior living facility, showing a more grounded and nurturing side.

KR: Speaking of the senior living facility, why include that particular setting in the midst of this space-bound conflict?

AN: Well, it's a place where life slows down, and stories are abundant. For someone like Barbie, who is at a crossroads, it provides a narrative pause, a place to breathe and reflect on her actions and her loyalty to Ken. It’s where she’s forced to face the moral complexities of her situation outside the courtroom drama.

KR: How does the local culture of Wichita Falls influence the characters and the progression of the plot?

AN: It influences them profoundly. The Texan hospitality, the value placed on community and support—it all challenges Barbie's ideas of success and fulfillment. She's coming from a life of glitz and glam, yet she finds genuine contentment and connection in the slower pace of Wichita Falls. It's this environment that helps her grow and make tough decisions.

KR: What about Ken's conspiracy to leave the atmosphere? How does Wichita Falls play into this?

AN: Ken's journey is a literal escape from the bounds of Earth, while Barbie's is metaphorical. In Wichita Falls, she's as removed from the space narrative as Ken is involved in it. The town's grounded nature underscores the gravity of Ken's actions and the stakes at hand. He's out there reaching for the stars, while she's down here, finding her place among the people.

KR: Do you envision any challenges in portraying Wichita Falls authentically while still maintaining the fantastical elements of a Barbie movie?

AN: Sure, there's a balancing act. Wichita Falls must be recognizable to those who know it, yet still function within the 'Barbie Universe.' It has to be a believable hideout for Barbie that doesn’t strip away the magic her character embodies. My aim is to have the audience accept that even in a less glamorous setting, Barbie can thrive and that her universe is as multifaceted as the real world.

KR: There’s been a lot of chatter about international writers challenging the front-runner status of your screenplay. How does your narrative, set in a very American locale, stand up to these diverse international perspectives?

AN: That's the beauty of storytelling—it’s universal. While the setting is American, the themes are global: identity, responsibility, sacrifice. No matter where you're from, these are relatable concepts. Moreover, Barbie as a franchise has always transcended borders, and I believe setting part of this film in Wichita Falls offers a unique American slice-of-life that still holds a global appeal.

KR: Lastly, can you give us a tease about what fans can expect from this Wichita Falls setting in terms of new characters or unexpected plot twists?

AN: Expect the unexpected. Wichita Falls will introduce fans to characters that provide a new depth to Barbie's universe—real people facing everyday challenges. There’s heart, humor, and a touch of Southern mystique. And as for plot twists, let's just say Barbie's stay in Wichita Falls will be anything but dull. She'll encounter choices that will influence the very fabric of her being, setting the stage for a climax that is both emotionally charged and cosmic in scale.

KR: Intriguing! We can't wait to see how it all unfolds. Thank you for your insights, Alan.

AN: My pleasure. Thank you for having me.

The Extraordinary Wichita Falls Saga of Barbie 2

An Interview with Alan Nafzger (11/3/23)

Katy Room: It's not every day that a story breaks the mold in such a captivating way. Today, we’re discussing a dream that has shaped the trajectory of a new Barbie screenplay, taking the iconic character on an unexpected journey. Can you tell us about the inception of this unique concept?

AN:Absolutely. It was a vision that I had, vivid and unconventional. Barbie was working in a senior care facility, quite a departure from her usual glitzy environment. She was doing everything from cooking to washing dishes, all while remaining incognito to the residents who knew nothing of her celebrity status.

KR: This premise is starkly different from the glamorous life Barbie leads. What inspired such a dramatic shift?

AN:This is Barbie reimagined as a figure of resilience and humility. The scenario was crafted amid a crisis, both a natural calamity and a staffing shortage, showing her ability to adapt and serve. Her decision to stay hidden was fueled by the threat of being compelled to testify against Ken, which adds layers of complexity and intrigue to her character.

KR: Let's delve into the backstory. How does Ken's ambition set the stage for Barbie's new role?

AN:Ken, driven by his dream to pioneer space travel through his "New Space Company," becomes a target of the "Old Space Company" and government conspiracies. His venture to Mars and the ensuing legal battles form the tapestry against which Barbie's story is woven. He launches into space with his beloved dachshunds, leaving Barbie on Earth to navigate the chaos.

KR: It’s a narrative rich with political commentary and corporate espionage. How does Barbie's dream role intertwine with these themes?

AN:In my dream, Barbie's role is a sanctuary from the turmoil. Her involvement in the senior care facility serves as a respite, yet she remains the unsung hero supporting Ken from afar. Her anonymity becomes her strength, allowing her to work without the weight of her fame.

KR: This storyline is a far cry from the usual Barbie tales. What message do you think it conveys?

AN:It speaks to the heart of identity and legacy. It questions what it means to be a hero and how we can find strength in the most unassuming places. Barbie, in this narrative, represents an everywoman, demonstrating valor in the face of adversity, without losing the essence of who she is.

KR: What can audiences expect from this screenplay? What makes it stand out?

AN:They can expect a journey of self-discovery, courage, and quiet heroism. It’s Barbie as never seen before, grounded in a reality that both challenges and honors her legacy. This is a story that juxtaposes fame with anonymity, action with stillness, and the past with the present.

KR: It certainly sounds like a Barbie adventure for the modern era. Thank you for sharing this captivating insight into what might just be the next big chapter in Barbie’s illustrious saga.

AN:Thank you. It's been a journey reimagining an icon, and I believe this story could resonate deeply with many, reminding us that heroes come in many forms.