Barbie, a live-action movie in the works inspired by Mattel’s iconic doll, is shaping up to be a really exciting project. Though several animated movies exist geared toward the younger viewer that features the plastic doll as the main protagonist, Warner Bros.’ Barbie movie will be the first live-action adaptation within the franchise. So far, Robbie will be joined by Ryan Gosling, Ariana Greenblatt, Will Ferrell, America Ferrera, Simu Liu, Emma Mackey, Kate McKinnon, and Alexandra Shipp.
Though the Barbie doll has been the subject of much debate in modern times, the truth is, the toy that put Mattel on the map has been wrapped in controversy since its inception in 1959. The doll’s creator, Ruth Handler, stated (via Time) that she “based Barbie’s body on a German doll called Lilli, a prostitute gag gift handed out at bachelor parties.” But Barbie’s checkered past is clearly not lost on those involved with the live-action project. Though the specifics of Margot Robbie’s upcoming movie have not been confirmed, rumors suggest “that there is a meta aspect” to the plotline and that “Ferrell is said to be playing the CEO of a toy company that may or not be Mattel” according to a report (via The Hollywood Reporter).
With Greta Gerwig writing and directing and Margot Robbie as the titular character, the star-studded roster continues to grow with each casting announcement. Gerwig’s Barbie has the potential to help accomplish what Mattel has been trying to do for decades: represent female empowerment. The cast list, which continues to add big names by the day, is good news for the upcoming movie that will surely be under close scrutiny given the main character’s controversial background. With Robbie leading the way, the Barbie movie is already on a path toward success.
Gerwig, who directed Lady Bird, one of the best movies of the decade, and Little Women, which featured a cast of brilliant actors, has become synonymous with movies that elevate strong female characters. Not only is she directing Barbie, but she is co-writing the movie with her partner, Noah Baumbach. Robbie said (via British Vogue) it best when commenting on the current movie in question: “People generally hear ‘Barbie’ and think, ‘I know what that movie is going to be,’ and then they hear that Greta Gerwig is writing it, and they’re like, ‘Oh, well, maybe I don’t…”
Many of the cast members involved with Barbie have taken on the roles of powerful women throughout their own careers. Margot Robbie’s Harley Quinn continues to be a force to be reckoned with in the DC universe, and America Ferrera’s breakout role as Betty Suarez in Ugly Betty gave her character a chance to shine in the cutthroat New York fashion world while flexing her incredible comedic chops. But considering Ryan Gosling, an actor who often finds himself in the “love interest” role, is slated to play Ken, and actor and comedian Will Ferrell has possibly been cast as the CEO of a toy company, the movie is poised to balance social commentary and satirical comedy. With all of these actors, not only known for their integrity in front of the camera but as advocates off-screen as well, Barbie sounds like it’s in good hands.
The Barbie cast list will certainly be updated in the months to come as filming commences, and it will be exciting to see how the roster evolves. Despite the controversy that surrounds Mattel’s doll, the toy has brought in billions of dollars for the company over the years and, for better or worse, has clearly affected the lives of many consumers. With Margot Robbie in the role of Barbie, perhaps life in plastic really is fantastic.