Barbieland the Ultimate Matriarchy

Ever since photos leaked of Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling filming for the live-action movie “Barbie,” the movie has become one of the most anticipated this year.

So what can we predict for this movie?

The trailers haven’t given us much on what the actual plot of the movie is, but from some context clues and heard buzz, here is what VALLEY thinks.

Compared to the old Barbie movies like “Princess and the Pauper,” “Thumbelina,” “Rapunzel” and so many more classics, we’ve gathered this isn’t going to be like the rest. The director, Greta Gerwig, is often known for exploring complex and empowering female leads in her works. For instance, the depth of characters in both of her former films “Lady Bird” (2017) and “Little Women” (2019). Both of which earned nominations for the Academy Award for Best Picture.

Ok, so what do we know from the trailer?

In Barbieland, everything is pink, and everyone is a Barbie or Ken – besides Allan, who was introduced to the Mattel Universe in 1964 as Ken’s friend, which can be a whole other topic in itself. But from the movie’s promotional graphics, we know one thing is for sure, Barbie is everything and Ken is just Ken.

From a snapshot in the commercial, you can tell that Barbie is leaving Barbieland towards what we can only assume to be our world. Especially, when Will Ferrell is casted as the CEO of Mattel, the company that created the Barbie brand.

What has been said?

Ferrell says that the movie will be a comment on male patriarchy and women in society. Since, Barbie has been both an image of hyperfeminity, as well as an example of unrealistic and patriarchal beauty standards many females face today. In fact, in the trailer, we get a shot of the iconic Barbie heel, perfectly arched and high heel ready. Now if you have ever met a woman, you know that’s not normal, but in Barbieland, Barbie is the epitome of beauty.

No matter what the film depicts, Barbie has always promoted debate on unrealistic beauty standards. Yet, while also being a girlboss, having done every job possible and being a feminist icon while doing so.

Now what will it be like for her when she explores the real world; what difficulties will she encounter? Sexism, sexuality, toxic masculinity? Her venture from Barbieland: a matriarchy with women as the leaders, and men as accessories, to the modern day patriarchy. Whatever it may be it will challenge traditional notions of beauty and gender.

“Barbie” will be out in theaters July 21, 2023. Tweet us @VALLEYmag if you are excited to watch it, and maybe what rumors you’ve heard about the upcoming movie.

Related