The “Barbie” Movie: A Trend, or a Movement of Empowerment?
“We always have to be extraordinary,” said America Ferrera in her role in the new “Barbie” movie, directed by Greta Gerwig. The movie's massive success made it the biggest opening weekend ever for a female director, raking in a whopping $155 million. Prior hits like "Captain Marvel," co-directed by Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck, and "Wonder Woman," directed by Patty Jenkins, also triumphed at the box office. However, "Barbie" secured multiple other records, including the year's largest opening weekend, sending a powerful message of visibility and recognition to countless women worldwide.
Set in the vibrant world of Barbieland, the movie reimagines conventional patriarchy, putting a unique spin on gender roles. In this realm, women excel in traditionally male-dominated fields, filling positions like Supreme Court justices, lawyers, and doctors. Remarkably, the film balances this shift without belittling the male characters. The Kens in the story aren't diminished or oppressed; they're uplifted and treated as equals by the Barbies. The film beautifully portrays a world where positivity and independence thrive.
Despite the overwhelmingly positive reception, there's been criticism from conservative quarters. Figures like Ben Shapiro and Florida Congressman Matt Gaetz have raised concerns, labeling the movie as "man-hating woke propaganda." In response, social media accounts like Impact on Instagram have highlighted the positive impact "Barbie" has on reshaping perceptions of masculinity. The movie sheds light on how modern-day patriarchy can harm men's mental well-being and hinder their emotional connection.
*Spoiler alert*
The movie cleverly contrasted with our actual reality, a point made clear when Barbie stepped into the real world. As she strolled along Venice Beach with Ken, she quickly grew self-conscious and uneasy due to the stares she attracted from men. While Ken interpreted these glances as admiration, Barbie felt distinctly uncomfortable. This scene felt like a direct commentary on the world we inhabit today. Barbie's loss of innocence in this new reality was stark, serving as a wake-up call for viewers. This situation resonates with many women. We start off shielded within our homes, but as we grow older and comprehend the world around us, we realize that the system we live in was never designed to fully include us. This dynamic shows that men often hold an advantage over us, a theme subtly woven throughout the movie.
Another harsh quote from the movie is: "Men hate women and women hate women." This sentiment is powerfully illustrated when Ken returns to Barbieland from our world, determined to establish male dominance while subjugating women to fulfill their every need. The women in Barbieland are tragically indoctrinated to believe they are inadequate and incapable of achieving successful careers solely due to their gender. This scene aligns with America Ferrera's discourse, underscoring a pervasive notion that many women encounter from a young age: a constant sense of inadequacy. Society often imposes the expectation that women must be exceptional to be acknowledged.
Ferrera's speech delves into the intricate pressures faced by women today. The expectation to excel professionally while caring for others, maintaining attractiveness for men without appearing too threatening to women, and upholding a sense of sisterhood – all create a complex balancing act. Her words emphasize how women's lives are intricately choreographed to garner respect and avoid backlash within our society: “You have to be a career woman, but also always be looking out for other people, you’re supposed to stay pretty for men, but not so pretty that you tempt them too much or that you threaten women because you are supposed to be part of sisterhood.” This speech was able to showcase how the life of women have to be perfectly calculated in order to be respected and not bashed by various individuals living in our society.
In many cultures, young girls are often taught to conform to traditional roles, emphasizing homemaking, caregiving, and passive submission rather than fostering their own aspirations and voices. This harmful stereotype redirects their dreams away from personal achievement and towards a yearning for escape. This is where feminist movies step in as potent forces for change, carrying a weighty significance that warrants serious contemplation. Consider the world of "Barbie" and its characters as an example. These cinematic narratives hold a mirror to the societal shadows we cast, pushing us to reflect on and address the imbalances that persist. They serve as more than mere entertainment, sparking conversations and urging us to confront the need for progress.
Within this context, characters like Allan, Ken's supportive friend, shine as prime examples of feminism in action. Allan's consistent dedication to helping the Barbies regain their hard-earned accomplishments embodies the essence of gender equality. His willingness to show empathy and speak out against injustice, even when directed towards Ken, exemplifies the courage required to challenge norms. In essence, these movies serve as catalysts, fostering a dialogue that paves the way for change. By acknowledging the impact of such cinematic narratives, we move closer to a future where young girls' dreams are liberated from the shackles of escape, and instead, radiate with the potential for limitless achievement and empowerment.
References:
Button, Danni. “Conservatives Turn Bud Light Rage on ‘Barbie’, Call for Boycotts.” TheStreet, 25 July 2023, www.thestreet.com/media/conservatives-turn-bud-light-rage-on-barbie-call-for-boycotts.
Rubin, Rebecca. “Variety.” Variety, 24 July 2023, variety.com/2023/film/box-office/greta-gerwig-barbie-box-office-history-opening-weekend-female-director-1235677602.
Today, USA. “America Ferrera’s ‘Barbie’ Speech Said What All Women Are Thinking and Quickly Went Viral.” USA TODAY, 27 July 2023, www.usatoday.com/story/entertainment/movies/2023/07/27/america-ferrera-barbie-speech/70478150007.
About the author:
Alya May Elhassani Elalaoui is currently a second-year student at American University in Washington D.C. She has a great interest in the political world and the judicial system. She is an advocate for gender equality and justice within our society. She currently joined the Politics4her team and is working with the Communications Committee.
