Despite facing criticism and negative reviews for its alleged liberal agenda, the film “Barbie” has found support from conservative individuals. While many conservative commentators expressed their disapproval of the popular Mattel doll-based movie, some conservative women defend it as a “delightfully fresh critique of modern feminism and masculinity” that recognizes the true essence of womanhood.
One prominent conservative movie review site, Movieguide, cautioned its readers against taking their daughters to see “Barbie” due to its inclusion of transgender character stories and a transgender actor. However, Katrina Trinko, Editor-in-Chief of the Heritage Foundation’s Daily Signal, considered this aspect disappointing but ultimately praised the film for challenging the conventional understanding of women promoted by the sexual revolution and modern feminism. Trinko believes conservatives should embrace the movie’s overall message.
The plot of “Barbie” revolves around Barbie, portrayed by Margot Robbie, as she embarks on a journey to decide whether she wants to continue living in Barbie Land, where Barbies are in control and Kens merely serve as accessories. Throughout her journey in the real world, Barbie encounters the complexities, challenges, and beauty of being a human, particularly a woman, according to some viewers.
Trinko argues that the ultimate message of “Barbie” is that Barbie’s life is not enough. While Barbie’s world may appear glamorous and flawless, devoid of aging, cellulite, crying babies, or stress, it is also devoid of meaning, substance, and love. Trinko associates Barbie with the flawed thinking of the sexual revolution and modern feminism, which implied that women could engage in casual sex without emotional repercussions solely because they could prevent pregnancy. She also criticizes the idea that a successful career outside the home is necessary for women to fully realize themselves. Trinko emphasizes that female desire, including Barbie’s own desires, is far more nuanced and complex than these simplistic notions.
Nina Power, a senior editor and columnist at Compact, praises director Greta Gerwig’s “Barbie” as a good-hearted film that forges a feminist fourth wave by breaking the fourth wall. Power argues that each wave of feminism sought different goals, and the fourth wave seeks a return to sexual difference and a harmonious heterosocial world. She points to a particular scene in which the creators highlight the conservative belief that women exist and sexual difference is real. Power finds Gerwig’s subtle nod to what defines a woman as quietly subversive.
While some conservative voices like Ginger Gaetz criticized “Barbie” for omitting faith and family values and for presenting Ken as lacking masculinity, Lois McLatchie, a commentator on free speech and faith issues in the U.K., disagreed. McLatchie believes that although “Barbie” was not explicitly championing traditional marriage, it ultimately does. She argues that Barbie Land portrays an extreme form of hardcore feminism that rejects the need for men altogether. McLatchie cautions against the detrimental effects of girl power on the role of men as fathers, husbands, and leaders.
McLatchie also highlights the character arc of Ken, played by Ryan Gosling, in “Barbie,” describing it as a hyper-reactionary response to the damage feminism has caused men in the 21st century. She asserts that the film critiques both extreme feminism and modern-day patriarchy while emphasizing that pitting the sexes against each other will lead to disaster for both sides.
Greta Gerwig, the director of “Barbie,” initially feared that making the film would ruin her career but is now the highest-grossing female director in Hollywood history. Despite the controversies surrounding the film, Gerwig’s work has received critical acclaim and commercial success.
Overall, “Barbie” has sparked debate among conservatives, with some praising its critique of modern feminism and others critiquing its portrayal of gender roles. Despite differing opinions, the film has generated significant attention and has proven to be a thought-provoking piece for audiences.
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