TheQuartering [6/29/2023]
Barbie star Margot Robbie responds to Mattel executives that have denied the film is a “feminist movie,” saying it’s more complicated than that.
Barbie star Margot Robbie has responded to a Mattel executive’s comments denying the film is a “feminist movie.” Robbie stars as the main titular character in Barbie, who leaves Barbieland alongside Ryan Gosling’s Ken to discover herself in the real world. Promotional material for the movie indicates it will be both an homage to the Barbie toy line and a tongue-in-cheek adaptation of the franchise.
Speaking with Time, Robbie addressed comments about the Barbie movie from a Mattel executive who claimed the film is not feminist. Robbie explained the main point is to be a fun movie with plenty of ideas throughout. Check out Robbie’s full statement below:
“Who said that? It’s not that it is or it isn’t. It’s a movie. It’s a movie that’s got so much in it. We’re in on the joke. This isn’t a Barbie puff piece.”
Despite Barbie seemingly not prioritizing a feminist message, that doesn’t mean the movie will be void of feminist themes. The movie will feature plenty of Barbies played by actors like Kate McKinnon, Issa Rae, and Sharon Rooney, all of whom will embody the idea of Barbie in different ways. This means Barbie could have a multifaceted view of femininity thanks to the many different Barbies set to appear.
Barbie’s journey in the movie could also be viewed through a feminist angle since she’s going on a trip of self-discovery away from Barbieland. By entering the real world, Barbie may discover more about herself which leads to her embracing her own unique path. This would make Barbie a feminist film, as Barbie would be empowered to shape her own destiny beyond the boundaries of Barbieland.