From a doll to an icon, Barbie on the big screen has re-started the conversation on gender equality. It is a refreshing, smart, and satirical portrayal of feminism and women empowerment, and patriarchy. The film effectively uses the utopian pastel and pink-colored setting of Barbie Land to draw sharp comparisons with the real world, highlighting the daily challenges women face and the importance of breaking away from traditional gender norms.
The movie is quite funny, with many hysterical moments throughout. These moments come from insinuating a utopian, pink-hued 'dream land' and many uncomfortable moments for the genders. The use of pop culture references as the outside world increasingly encroaches helps create a transition into a starkly different realm. Even though the glass is always empty in this dreamland (Barbie cannot eat or drink actual things), their hearts are always full because as the film showcases it; 'all problems of feminism and equal rights have been solved'.
Earlier on, barbie was slandered because of its unrealistic beauty standards or objectification and or sexualization of women. However, the film shows the diversity in Barbies' today, alongside her characterization as a strong and independent woman. Her agency and determination act as a powerful symbol of female empowerment, inspiring young audiences to break barriers and pursue their dreams fearlessly.
The movie skilfully uses the juxtaposition of Barbie Land and the real world to satirize the absurdity of gender roles that exist in our society even today. In Barbie Land, gender stereotypes are playfully turned on their heads. Male characters are often seen in traditionally feminine roles, while female characters engage in daring adventures and wield authority with confidence. Women can be presidents, astronauts, and essential 'anything.' This creative approach cleverly exposes the absurdity of rigid gender norms, inviting viewers to question the validity of these norms in our society whilst maintaining the essence of Barbie dolls.
Moreover, the film's narrative addresses the issue of patriarchy in a thought-provoking manner. Barbie Land serves as an idyllic society, free from the shackles of male-dominated power structures. On the other hand, in the real world, we witness a version of our society, where patriarchy still reigns. By contrasting the two worlds, the movie underscores the necessity of dismantling patriarchal systems and embracing gender equality.
The use of symbolism to show greater ideas related to women empowerment or the shattering of patriarchy is scattered evenly throughout the film. The use of horses as a symbol of machoism, or barbies box to show the bounds of a woman's life all add to the depth and layers of the film. This helps create a deeper meaning and purpose for the film rather than giving it a title of a superficial pastel pink escapist film or an entertainer for 'teenage girls.'
Barbie is an intelligent and effective portrayal of feminism and women empowerment, using the magical setting of Barbie Land to reflect on real-world gender issues. The film's clever satire and sharp wit ensure that the themes of breaking free from gender norms and challenging patriarchy are delivered in an engaging and impactful way. Without resorting to conventional beauty standards, the movie successfully empowers its audience, young and old alike, to embrace their strengths, defy stereotypes, and strive for a more egalitarian world.
Movie: Barbie, 2023
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