The new live-action Barbie movie, directed by Greta Gerwig, is set to hit theaters in 2023, and fans are eagerly anticipating its release. The film boasts an all-star cast, with Margot Robbie in the lead role as Barbie and Ryan Gosling as Ken, and it promises to be a fun and exciting adventure for audiences of all ages.
Rumors of Robbie’s casting as Barbie had been circulating since 2015, but it wasn’t until October 2018 that it was officially confirmed. She will also produce the film alongside Gerwig, who will both write and direct the movie. Gerwig has previously directed films such as Lady Bird and Little Women, which were both critically acclaimed.
Barbie Out of Barbieland?
Robbie has spoken in the past about her desire to play strong and creative roles for women in Hollywood, and the Barbie movie certainly seems to fit the bill. “When I was trying to make my name as an actress, creative roles for women were limited,” she said in an interview with Harper’s Bazaar. “I didn’t want to pick up another script where I was the wife or the girlfriend—just a catalyst for the male story line. It was uninspiring.”
The plot of the movie has been shrouded in secrecy, but the trailer has given fans a taste of what’s to come. It seems that Barbie is kicked out of her idyllic world of Barbieland due to her imperfections, and she and Ken embark on a journey to the human world in search of true happiness. The trailer features glimpses of bright and colorful sets, and hints at some exciting dance sequences that are sure to get audiences tapping their toes.
Meet the Cast & Surprises
The cast of the film is jam-packed with talented actors and actresses, including Kate McKinnon, America Ferrera, Simu Liu, Will Ferrell, Hari Nef, Issa Rae, Michael Cera, Alexandra Shipp, Kingsley Ben-Adir, Rhea Perlman, Ncuti Gatwa, Emerald Fennell, Sharon Rooney, Scott Evans, Ana Cruz Kayne, Connor Swindells, Ritu Arya, and Jamie Demetriou. These stars will be joining Robbie and Gosling in bringing the world of Barbie to life on the big screen.
One exciting detail that has emerged from the cast announcements is that there will be multiple versions of Barbie and Ken in the movie. Liu will play another version of Ken, alongside Gosling’s Ken and a rumored third Ken played by Ncuti Gatwa. Meanwhile, Issa Rae and Hari Nef are rumored to be playing different versions of Barbie, which adds to the mystery and excitement surrounding the film.
Barbie Franchise
Of course, the Barbie franchise has a long and storied history, dating back to the doll’s debut in 1959. Since then, Barbie has become an iconic symbol of femininity and empowerment, inspiring girls and women around the world to dream big and pursue their goals. The new movie is sure to capture that same spirit of inspiration and excitement, and introduce a new generation of fans to the world of Barbie.
The release date for the movie is set for July 21, 2023, and production began in early 2022. The film will be shot at Warner Bros.’ Leavesden Studios in London, which has been the location for many blockbuster films over the years. With such a talented cast and crew on board, and a beloved character like Barbie at the center of the story, the movie is sure to be a hit when it finally arrives in theaters.
By: Ananya Thirumalai