The Shocking Truth Behind Barbie's Dramatic Conclusion
Unveiling the Profound Essence: A Closer Look at Barbie's Finale
Barbie (2023) contains spoilers. The highly anticipated Barbie movie has hit theaters, sparking plenty of conversation. Directed by Greta Gerwig, known for her exploration of human relationships, identity, and the search for authenticity in films like Lady Bird (2017) and Little Women (2019), this movie centers around complex female characters and the challenges they face in a society that often imposes unrealistic expectations. Gerwig maintains brand loyalty while infusing her own style, resulting in a lighthearted satirical comedy with a powerful message.
In a world where Barbie can be anything, Margot Robbie takes on the role of the 'Stereotypical Barbie,' the original embodiment of the character that comes to mind for many. This star-studded film follows her journey of self-discovery following an existential crisis.
What is the Barbie movie about?
The Barbie movie explores various themes like feminism, identity, and motherhood. The storyline is straightforward, set in Barbieland where all Barbie dolls lead perfect lives with their companions, the Kens and other discontinued Mattel dolls. However, Stereotypical Barbie's life takes a drastic turn as she experiences mortality, walking on the ground, and cellulite, which are unheard of in Barbieland.
To restore their perfect world, Barbie must reconnect with her human owner. With Ken by her side, they venture into the real world and have contrasting experiences. Barbie encounters unwanted attention, rejection, and criticism for perpetuating unrealistic standards for women. She spirals into an existential crisis and begins to question her own existence. On the other hand, Ken finds himself in a world where men hold power and respect, unlike in Barbieland. He brings the idea of patriarchy back home, attempting to mimic it despite his lack of true understanding.
How Does Barbie End?
At its core, Barbie delves into the theme of identity, unearthing various layers and intricacies beneath its seemingly simple plot. As the narrative progresses, a deeper message emerges, gaining complexity. Upon her return to Barbieland, now transformed into Kendom and under the control of Kens who plan to alter the constitution, Barbie's adult owner, Gloria (portrayed by America Ferrera), delivers a powerful speech on womanhood and her vision for the world. This speech empowers all the Barbies, who then unite to divert the Kens' attention and restore Barbieland, encapsulating one of the film's most profound lessons.
While the Kens are too preoccupied with their own conflicts and putting on a dazzling Broadway-style performance, the Barbies unite to vote against constitutional changes and reclaim Barbieland. However, this time they showcase an understanding towards the Kens, granting them a fair share of power (equivalent to that of women in the real world). The harmony is restored, yet the two main characters continue to grapple with their existential dilemmas. Barbie (Robbie) offers her support to Ken (Gosling) as he embarks on a journey of self-discovery, assuring him that being simply Ken is more than sufficient. This approach also cleverly subverts the dismissive use of "just Ken" in the Barbie marketing campaign. Meanwhile, Barbie, having witnessed the impact she has made and come face-to-face with the complexities of human relationships and the realities of the world, questions whether she can return to her perfect, stereotypical Barbie existence. Her story's conclusion now seems uncertain.
Barbie's encounter with Ruth Handler, the creator of the Barbie doll, deeply influenced her perception of the real world. After a heartfelt conversation, Barbie decides to leave her life in Barbieland behind and embrace her humanity. Despite the knowledge that this choice will subject her to aging and mortality, Barbie embraces the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the world rather than exist solely as an abstract concept. She believes that by immersing herself in the real world, she can contribute more positively and understand the complex emotions and imperfections inherent in the human experience. This pivotal moment signifies the end of her life as Barbie but not the end of her essence.
In the final scene, Barbie embarks on her new life as a human, filled with an air of excitement as she enters an office, presumably for a job interview. Introducing herself as Barbara Handler, a tribute to Ruth Handler's daughter and the doll's namesake, Barbie adds a surprising twist by announcing her visit to a gynecologist. This cleverly encapsulates the film's style and humor while acknowledging the humble realities of the human existence.
