The Untold Secrets Behind Simu Liu's Show-Stopping Performance as Barbie's Ken

The Barbie movie has been marketed to appeal to both Barbie enthusiasts and Barbie critics. The scenes set in Barbie Land successfully capture the essence of Barbie's playful nature and the joy of playing with the iconic doll. However, there are hints of trouble in paradise, as revealed in the trailers and by a Barbie star who disclosed details about Ken's "very rude" behavior.

To add to the excitement, there will be a rivalry between the Kens in Barbie Land, particularly between Simu Liu and Ryan Gosling's characters. Simu Liu's portrayal of Ken in the early trailers stands out and promises to be a memorable performance, regardless of the extent of his role in the film. Liu discussed the moment that made his Ken a top rival to Gosling's character in a recent interview with Screen Rant. Check it out:

Simu Liu: My intention was never to outshine the other Kens in the film, but I must admit that a few things stood out in terms of backflips. During a dance rehearsal, our choreographers, Lisa and Jen, were searching for a visually impactful and acrobatic move. Without realizing it, I showcased a backflip and they were immediately impressed. It sparked excitement among the team, with Ryan reacting with a deep sigh and Greta declaring that it had to be included in the movie.

How Simu Liu's Ken Elevates The Story Of The Barbie Movie

Liu’s Ken and Gosling’s Ken already had a rivalry, as shown in the trailers. However, Liu took it to another level by showcasing his backflipping skills, making it an even more significant aspect of their rivalry. The Ken rivalry serves as a playful and exaggerated way to challenge the perception of Barbie as an iconic figure worth envying and competing against. Liu also discussed the theme of jealousy:

Simu Liu: My Ken's ability to backflip becomes a crucial element of the movie. It drives Ryan's character to madness with envy and sets the stage for our fiercely competitive and antagonistic relationship.

It will be intriguing to observe the role of the Ken feud in influencing Gosling's character's experience in the real world. Gosling's portrayal of Ken showcases a deep sense of insecurity and a desperate longing for Barbie's affection, which potentially hinders his chances of prospering in this unfamiliar and intimidating environment. Comparatively, Liu's portrayal of Ken exudes confidence and boldness, making him possibly better suited for the challenges that lie ahead. The question of whether Gosling's character can overcome his insecurities in time for a potential sequel involving Barbie remains unanswered, as his survival in Barbie's world takes priority.