The titular character of Barbie in “Barbie” (directed by Greta Gerwig, 2023), exemplifies strength and determination, encouraging women to break free from the expectation of the traditional princess mold they are often ushered into. 

Barbie lives in Barbieland where every role, even the president, is filled by a different Barbie. As Barbie questions her morality, she faces challenges like cellulite, burnt breakfast, and tears. Barbie goes through an existential crisis and goes to the human world where she goes through many obstacles and ends up finding herself. In the real world Barbie sees every man and woman are the opposite from what she sees in Barbieland.

While many people were raised to believe a “man’s job” can’t be done by a woman, this movie addresses how a ”man’s job” is anyone’s job. The movie shows how women aren’t just mothers, they are the president, they are doctors, teachers, CEOs, the list goes on. The Barbie movie will really allow little girls to dream and make sure they know they can be anything they dream of.

By showcasing Barbie in roles traditionally associated with male characters, such as a scientist or an engineer, the film demonstrates that girls can excel in any field they choose. It shatters the notion that certain professions are reserved for one gender, empowering young girls to pursue their passions fearlessly, irrespective of societal expectations.

The movie includes an all-star cast with Margot Robbie who plays Barbie and Ryan Gosling as Ken. Some other stand-outs include: America Ferrera as Gloria, Kate McKinnon as Weird Barbie, and a lot of people’s favorite, Ariana Greenblatt who plays Sasha. 

The soundtrack was utter perfection with many artists writing songs specifically for the movie including: “What was I made for” by Billie Eilish; “Pink” by Lizzo; and “Barbie world” by Nicki Minaj & Ice Spice.

The movie also created a lot of backlash from men and how they felt personally attacked by the film. “Some men, including broadcaster Piers Morgan, have argued that the movie carries a ‘misandrist message.’” according to insider.com. But many disagree, including one X user who ardently argues, “There’s an entire plot line about how boys are not taught how to deal with their emotions so instead they cling to the patriarchy and actually get denied an identity separate from masculinity by that very same patriarchy.” 

The movie doesn’t just help to address women’s issues, but also addresses men’s issues that can  be seen throughout the movie. The movie has the potential to challenge and break down gender stereotypes that have long plagued our society. 

One of the crowning powerful quotes was given by Barbie’s mother-figure Ruth Handler, who said, “We mothers stand still so our daughters can look back to see how far they have come.”

“Barbie” is a bright pink vision of self-realization empowerment, taught to us by one of America’s favorite toys and those who accompany her.