It's a Barbie world ... and a
​near-perfect summer movie

​FILM REVIEW
Barbie
​​​​​​Rudy S.
Headliner Chicago

Barbie mania has taken over the world.  The star-studded cast of Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling, Simu Liu, Michael Cera, Issa Rae & Will Ferrell sparkle on screen in every way possible. While many of the audience members may be over the doll-playing age, this film is a reminder on why these dolls have held a special part in their memories and childhoods and resolidifies their faith in Barbie.  

The iconic toy brand is almost 65 years old and has connected generations of kids and families to dream big. Barbie has also been a focal point in conversations of body image issues and wealth when it comes to purchasing accessories and playsets. So how do you take a doll that means so many different things to so many people and create a two hour magical experience that leaves no topic off the table? That's easy! Bring in Lady Bird and Little Women director Greta Gerwig to create this colorful imaginative world alongside real world issues, plus a killer soundtrack to make it happen!   

In the movie, Barbie (Margot Robbie) suffers a crisis and then takes off on a journey to find out the answers she's looking to find. Ken (Ryan Gosling) tags along on this adventure and makes a few discoveries of his own, both good and bad. The film also provides many easter eggs for die-hard fans from certain accessories, outfits, and dolls like Midge (the pregnant doll), Allan and Sugar Daddy Ken Doll.

What Barbie does so beautifully is do what movies are supposed to do and that is to bring people together and create conversation. Plus, watching audience members dressed up in all their versions of pink going to the movie is truly inspirational and adds a layer to the experience. Seriously, don't forget to wear something pink, everyone is getting into the Barbie spirit and bringing their Ken-ergy to movie theaters around the world. 

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4 out of 4 stars

Barbie
in theaters nationwide July 21