So I FINALLY got to see Barbie yesterday and it was so much more than I expected. With all the snippets and posts I had seen these past 2 weeks online about the movie, I had prepared myself for a more girl power, tween-ish feel for the movie. Instead, I was surprised by ever changing metaphors for womanhood, navigating society through the lenses of male and female, mother-daughter relationship woes, the importance setting boundaries along with insurrection and patriarchy. It felt like half a fun kids movie half eighth grade English class with all the symbolism, juxtaposition and satire.
The colors, dance numbers, fun outfits and the vast array of Barbies (and Kens) in the movie made for a fun visual experience. I ended up being one of many movie goer's who left singing 'I'm Just Ken' by Ryan Gosling (stereotypical Ken) when leaving the theater. I felt the movie was well casted and everyone played their parts very well. I would say whoever thought to make Will Ferrell play the CEO of Mattel and Kate McKinnon 'Weird Barbie', deserves their flowers because they really embodied the characters. Their performances reminded me of Jim Carrey's Eggman in the Sonic movies, like they were born for their roles. They helped keep some of the childish whim and comedy when things got a bit more serious during the film.
It was disappointing seeing so many men (and some women) bashing the film online. So many seem to either have missed the point or were upset due to their own expectations of the movie. What's funny is that so many can't clearly say what it is they expected it to be, but women's empowerment and social commentary clearly weren't it. I feel the movie's direction was right on point with the history of the doll and the message Barbie has always had for girls: one of empowerment to be as they are, achieve their goals and all while embracing their femininity.
Also for anyone who's still looking forward to the movie but may not have the funds at the moment look into discount/value Tuesdays at your local AMC and Regal theaters. My friends and I got tickets for $7 on the Regal app for a 5:45pm showing- so it doesn't even need to be a matinee to get the deal. You should also be able to get the deal on their website and you can always call and ask if they sell the value tickets in person as well. For more about the discount programs see below:
>>>>AMC Discount Tuesdays Info<<<<
>>>>Regal Crown Club Value Days<<<<
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