Greta Gerwig’s upcoming movie, Barbie, has garnered significant anticipation due to its prestigious director and co-writer, along with the inclusion of various intriguing references and casting choices. While the exact plot remains undisclosed, the film is expected to delve into the interplay between highbrow and lowbrow, art and commercialism.
Initially reported as a story where Barbie is expelled from Barbieland for not conforming to perfection, the film appears to have taken a more meta direction. The teaser trailer hints at an awareness of Barbie’s real-world impact, and the confirmed casting of Will Ferrell as the CEO of Mattel suggests the potential for Barbie gaining sentience.
The recently released soundtrack list further supports the speculation of Barbie being a musical, with songs from Dua Lipa, Charli XCX, and even Ryan Gosling, known for his work in movie musicals. There are indications of dance sequences and a contrast between fantasy and a darker reality within the film.
Gerwig’s inspiration from the book Reviving Ophelia suggests that the Barbie story may serve as an allegory for the challenges faced by teenage girls as they navigate the transition from youth to adulthood. The central idea of the film seems to revolve around the contrast between Barbieland and reality, exploring themes of self-doubt and the complexities of growing up.
While the plot of Barbie remains mostly a mystery, the movie promises to be a unique blend of references, meta-commentary, and introspection, wrapped in an aesthetically pleasing pink bow. Fans eagerly await its release to witness Gerwig’s vision come to life on the big screen. But one thing that many people may have forgotten is that Amy Schumer was originally slated to be part of the iconic project (this news was announced in 2016). She recently explained why she backed out of the film.
Amy Schumer Reveals She Backed out of “Barbie” Movie Because It Wasn’t Feminist Enough
Although “scheduling conflicts” were initially cited as the official reason why Schumer decided to leave the highly anticipated Barbie movie, she recently revealed that it was primarily due to creative differences between her and Sony Pictures. Schumer’s departure from the Barbie project was rooted in contrasting opinions about the direction of the film. In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter from last year, she explained that she had envisioned a “fish-out-of-water” story, focusing on a woman who is expelled from Barbieland for not conforming to the idea of perfection. Her approach aimed to challenge conventional beauty standards and explore themes of self-acceptance and individuality.
However, the studio had a different vision in mind. Sony reportedly wanted the film to follow a more traditional narrative, deviating from Schumer’s unique perspective. One notable difference was their disagreement about Barbie’s role as an inventor. Schumer had envisioned Barbie as a smart and innovative character, while the studio’s preference was for her to have a gadget in the form of a high heel made of Jell-O. These divergent creative choices ultimately led to Schumer’s departure from the project. Schumer cited the moment she was sent a pair of a high heel made of Jell-O to celebrate her involvement in the project.
“The idea that that’s just what every woman must want, right there, I should have gone, ‘You’ve got the wrong gal,'” she said.
Despite parting ways with the Barbie film, Schumer expressed excitement about the upcoming movie and its fresh take on the iconic doll. Directed by Greta Gerwig, the Barbie film promises a feminist and empowering portrayal of the character. Margot Robbie was ultimately cast in the eponymous role, joined by a star-studded ensemble, including Ryan Gosling, Will Ferrell, Helen Mirren, and more.
Schumer’s positive outlook on the new team behind the film indicates her support for the feminist themes and creative direction they have embraced. While she had her own unique vision for the character, she appreciates the fresh perspective that Gerwig and the team are bringing to the project.
The Barbie movie is set to hit the silver screen on July 21.
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