The Mind-Blowing Symbolism Behind Barbie's Bench Scene Revealed by Greta Gerwig (& the Genius Choice of an Oscar Winner as the Old Woman)

Summary

Gerwig's emphasis on intergenerational dialogue among women challenges the notion of constant optimization, while also celebrating the beauty found in the disruptions of aging. The significance of the bench scene in the Barbie movie is explained by Gerwig, who co-wrote and directed the film. Portraying Margot Robbie's Stereotypical Barbie, the story follows her journey of self-discovery in the real world after feeling troubled by thoughts of mortality in the utopian Barbieland. While sitting on a bench in Venice Beach, Barbie encounters an elderly woman, and their brief exchange, though not essential to the plot, effectively portrays the film's overarching themes.

During a recent appearance on the Kermode & Mayo's Take podcast, Gerwig shared the true significance of the Barbie bench scene. The director also revealed that the elderly woman sitting on the bench is her friend, the renowned costume designer Ann Roth, who has won an Oscar for her work in films such as The English Patient and Ma Rainey's Black Bottom. Below is Gerwig's complete explanation:

She gazes at a woman who happens to be a dear friend of mine, the exceptional costume designer Ann Roth. At the time of filming, she was an incredible 91 years old and looking marvelous. Ann has famously crafted costumes for iconic films such as Midnight Cowboy and Klute, solidifying her status as a legend in the industry. Recently, she became one of the oldest individuals to ever receive an Oscar. In order to convince her to be a part of this movie, I had to promise her numerous martinis.

Barbie gazes at the world, then fixes her eyes upon Ann, captivated by her youthful appearance, which Barbie has never witnessed before. Overwhelmed by Ann's beauty, Barbie compliments her, saying, "You look so beautiful." Ann, with remarkable confidence, responds, "I know." This delightful moment is significant for two reasons: firstly, Ann exudes fabulousness, and secondly, it represents a connection that transcends time – women conversing across different generations. As a filmmaker, this concept intrigues me because it unveils the first glimpse of humanity beyond the idealized perception of beauty and appearance.

Even in the era of optimization, where the aim is to enhance and improve everything, there exists a certain hysteria surrounding the idea of maximizing every aspect. However, I believe that there is a unique beauty in the process of aging and decay. Just like the breathtaking paintings created by Monet during his deteriorating eyesight, not everything has to be optimized. There is a charm in embracing imperfections and appreciating the beauty that emerges from them.

Why Barbie's Bench Scene Is So Important

Gerwig fought to keep Barbie's bench scene in the movie, considering it to be the movie's heart. Although not pivotal to the plot, the scene portrays an important aspect of Barbie - her encounter with aging for the first time. Instead of being repulsed or afraid, Barbie finds beauty in this uniquely human experience and is comforted by her confident and self-affirming response, "I know it!"

Furthermore, the bench scene subtly plants the seeds for the Barbie movie's ending and informs the main character's decision. Barbie chooses to become human, despite the discomforts of the aging and mortality, rather than remaining in the perfect environment of Barbieland. Like the scene on the bench, Barbie is able to see the beauty of the human experience and realizes that death can bring meaning to life, rather than being feared.

Source: Kermode & Mayo's Take