DVD REVIEW: You'll Still Fall For 'Barbie' After A Strong Summer

In the new Barbie movie, writer-director Greta Gerwig imagines a world where anything is possible, where girls can follow their dreams, dream big, and make choices unlike the activities that have existed around toys for decades. .

When Barbie (perfectly played by Margot Robbie) begins to have dark thoughts, the other Barbies encourage her to leave Barbieland and enter the real world. There, with Ken, she discovers a completely different life. Everything is impossible. Barbie doesn't rule. Men can be very bad.

Gerwig's portrayal of Barbie gives her enormous dimension. Robbie plays with time. In the real world (where Mattel is run by men) there is definitely a glass ceiling. Never mind that Mattel's millions came from a woman's idea.

Set in what looks like a pink amusement park (think of all the playgrounds Barbie has ever had), the movie is dreamy and plays out like an action-adventure movie. But when it comes to the darker side of life, "Barbie" really comes to life. Gerwig knows how to mix political topics, discuss racial issues, and defend poor Ken.

Starring Ryan Gosling, this is the best complement. He has no personality of his own, he is always "and Ken". Upon entering the real world, you also receive a wake-up call. There men rule and women are ignored. Feeling crazy, Ken thought he could take these thoughts to Barbieland, which quickly became "Kendom." He began to pick up on his brother's style and soon this wonderland that once seemed invincible was left in ruins.

While Helen Mirren's narration is not necessary, the combination of Barbie and Ken (of which there are many) helps us understand how the franchise has changed over the years. This allows Gosling to have some boy band moments and he wears a big fur coat which makes him look tough. (Actually, all Ken wanted was a horse.)

Together, Gosling and Robbie navigate a variety of situations, all inspired by the Ken and Barbie lookalikes that have graced store shelves for decades. Plus, Allan (played by the hilarious Michael Cera) offers a different perspective on masculinity, and Skipper, Midge, and their various cousins ​​make us realize that some people don't really see themselves in life.

Gerwig continued her streak by putting Mattel's minions (led by Will Ferrell) behind Barbie. Kate McKinnon also appears as "weird" Barbie, whose hair is supposedly cut by her ambitious owner.

Put it all together and you have the perfect toy film adaptation. Gosling and Robbie may be nominated for Oscars (weird, right?), but Gerwig's creativity is extraordinary.

If more directors were brave, we wouldn't worry about new ideas.