Barbie Review: Fun, Nostalgia and Bold Statements Served in High Heels

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Few movies have the audacious charm to sway the sceptical, tickle the nostalgic, and woo the new generation – all at once. But lo and behold, The Barbie Movie does just that, and with a dash of fabulous pink to boot!

Directed by the brilliantly wholesome Greta Gerwig, The Barbie Movie is nothing short of a joyride. Gerwig, who has blessed us with “Lady Bird,” and “Little Women,” her captivating coming-of-age tale, once again sprinkles her directorial magic on this tale of plastic and perfection. What could have been a predictable, frothy pink affair, transforms into a hilariously entertaining, tongue-in-cheek cinematic experience that effortlessly jabs at the sexual politics of today.

At the heart of this technicolour extravaganza are Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling, who reprise the iconic roles of Barbie and Ken respectively. Robbie is a revelation, delivering a performance so perfect, it’s as though the Barbie doll was moulded around her persona. Her ability to express the depth of Barbie’s character, while maintaining the tongue-in-cheek charm of the film, is nothing short of sublime.

Gosling, on the other hand, offers a hilarious portrayal of Ken that will leave you gasping for breath between chuckles. His comedic timing is impeccable, and the blend of his one-liners with perfectly executed facial expressions adds a delightful layer of humour to the film.

But the ensemble doesn’t stop there. Issa Rae, America Ferrera, Dame Helen Mirren, and an astonishing array of A-listers join the cast, contributing to the film’s remarkable vibrancy. The performances by Ncuti Gatwa, Kate McKinnon, and Michael Cera are particularly memorable, adding diverse flavours to this theatrical feast.

Of course, the allure of The Barbie Movie is not solely in its star-studded cast. The film expertly marries a nostalgic trip down memory lane with a refreshing exploration of contemporary themes. From the opening spoof narrated by Dame Helen Mirren to the captivating Billy Eilish theme tune, the film is a rollercoaster of high-concept ideas and playful nostalgia.

Moreover, The Barbie Movie is unapologetically Barbie, from its glistening aesthetics to its bold exploration of the sexual politics associated with the iconic doll. Robbie’s Barbie navigates through a world that’s simultaneously plastic-perfect and packed with relatable struggles. The character’s journey from the dollhouse to real-world issues reflects our own journeys of self-discovery, adding an unexpected level of depth to the film.

To top it all off, the film’s outstanding dance choreography and musical numbers add the final cherry to this deliciously pink sundae. This delightful blend of humour, nostalgia, and bold thematic explorations makes The Barbie Movie an engaging, fun, and thought-provoking watch, irrespective of your relationship with the iconic doll. The Barbie Movie is a spectacle to behold and a blockbuster truly worth the hype. Whether you were part of the Barbie-crazed era or not, this film is a must-watch for its heart, hilarity, and the pure fun it offers. I implore you to give “Barbie” a chance; she just might surprise you.

So, don’t wait another moment. Don your favourite pair of pink sunglasses, step out, and immerse yourself in this wonderfully crafted tale of nostalgia, humour, and daring societal commentary. It comes with the highest recommendation, poised to redefine your perception of Barbie, all while offering you a truly entertaining and meaningful cinema experience. See you at the movies!