The Good, The Bad and The Critic

Established on March 19th, 2012 and pioneered by film fanatic Michael J. Carlisle. The Good, The Bad and The Critic will analyze classic and contemporary films from all corners of the globe. This title references Sergei Leone's influential spaghetti western The Good, The Bad and the Ugly.

Sunday, July 23, 2023

Barbie (2023) Review

Title: Barbie
Year: 2023
Director: Greta Gerwig
Country: US
Language: English



 In any other hands Barbie (2023) would be a soulless corporate cash grab, but Greta Gerwig & screenwriter Noah Baumbach are self-aware and talented enough to create nn impressive artistic endeavour out of the material. Her previous pictures, Lady Bird (2017) & Little Women (2019), were nominated for many Oscars. Barbie (2023) will likely be nominated for Oscars too.


In this, Barbie (Margot Robbie) suffers a crisis that leads her to question her world and her existence.


Subversive, satirical and silly - Barbie's spectacular production is the stuff of dreams. Gerwig lets her creative impulses run wild with impressive set design, remarkable choreography, and jaw dropping cinematography. It's a Grade 'A'
 Hollywood treatment that is sure to stun audiences. 


Baumbach and Gerwig's script gives Barbie (and Ken) some much needed dimension. The characters' have profound conversations regarding gender roles and woman/manhood. Gerwig's treatment isn't necessarily kind to the Barbie brand, as criticism regarding the dolls' negative influence on society is laid out. 

Margot Robbie's incredible performance is nearly overshadowed by Ryan Gosling as the mimbo Ken. His charming stupidity is a highlight in this film; I particularly like his obsession with singing his emotions out. Barbie is a fun film. I hope Gerwig continues with her success. 




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