The biggest new movie of the year, Barbie, sold out movie theaters all over Los Angeles. A film that’s liberating for women all across the world, Barbie illustrates how one can embrace their individuality and resist conforming to unattainable standards of beauty. 

The movie is unique in that it challenges men to rethink their masculinity for themselves, according to English teacher Ruth Greene (whose favorite Barbie doll was Francie growing up). 

“This movie was a satire,” she said. “We are seeing a movie that portrays what many women experience; with this film, we are seeing a point of view that isn’t often told” 

Ken has been motivated by Barbie to ultimately find his own dignity and worth within himself. Greene said.  

“It might upset a lot of men who understand that they are being satirized.” But, it’s a message that could be useful within our society.

             Barbie has been an iconic feminine pop culture symbol for years carried on the back of a powerful female cast and crew. We had the privilege to speak to Ryan Gosling’s personal hair stylist Marie Larkin, Larkin worked on the entirety of the Barbie movie and offered us further insight into the inner workings of the film. 

“I loved working with our director Greta Gerwig,” she said. “As you probably know, most directors are men, and working with Greta was a warm and welcoming experience, which is quite different from most male directors. Not all, but most. She was very inclusive and approachable and kind.”

Venice Beach offers so much to the community, with its outdoorsy activities, and unique common folk. Every time you step foot on Venice Beach, you will undergo a new experience. Barbie (and Ken’s bright-colored roller skating gear) stunned the Venice boardwalk when filming happened in early 2022. Nobody could believe their eyes that Barbie was out of her box and in the flesh. 

“I was in Venice Beach when we shot there,” Larkin said. “It was nutballs. So many spectators and fans! And paparazzi.”

Walking out of the theater after embarking on the emotional roller coaster that the Barbie movie was, left many with feelings of joyfulness. It allowed us to think back on growing up and how girlhood eventually transpires into womanhood. 

Senior Breanna Ramirez-Cobbs said that she found the film to be empowering.

“I think this movie serves as an inspiration but most importantly as a reminder that even though we may live in a world where patriarchy still exists, we as girls can be just as successful as any Ken,” she said. 

Barbie as a whole has provided a nostalgic and heartwarming experience. Throughout the film, we had moments of innocence, excitement, self-discovery, and empowerment. And most importantly, it showed that women can be the lead character.