It’s been more than 60 years and we’re still obsessed with Barbie. Barbara Millicent “Barbie” Roberts came into this world on March 9, 1959 and now, 64 years later, comes writer/director Greta Gerwig’s highly-anticipated fantasy comedy film called, of course, “Barbie”. The marketing department behind this movie has obviously been sleeping in shifts and audiences have responded more than positively. Actually… everyone has gone “Barbie” crazy.
I, myself, have a girls’ night planned to see it in the theater while sporting my Barbie-themed outfit I’ve bought for the occasion. My young sons will be home that night, considering it’s rated PG-13 and, also, going to the movies with my three-year-old is an experiment in regret. The limit does not exist.
If you opt to bring your littles, keep in mind it’s different than what you may have grown up with and that it’s rated PG-13 for “suggestive references and brief language.”
If you’re like me, and you can’t wait to see Barb on the big screen, here are 4 reasons why we are still obsessed with Barbie.
Why We Are Still Obsessed With Barbie
1. She’s a groundbreaker, a feminist icon.
Before the introduction of the Barbie Doll, dolls were babies. Young girls and boys played at adulthood by actually playing at being a parent. On the other hand, Barbie is an adult… an adult without kids. ‘You can be more than a wife and a mom if you want’ being the message. Over the years, we’ve seen Barbie as an astronaut, a surgeon, a judge, a pilot, an Olympian.. and President! Still waiting for that to happen for real! And way back in 1974, the Barbie Townhouse was released. Barbie didn’t need a husband to make herself a home.
2. She’s learned from her mistakes.
Does Barbie always get it right? No, but none of us do. Her unrealistic proportions have always been a source of controversy, although, in 2015, Mattel introduced new body shapes. Mattel also launched the Barbie Fashionistas available in seven new skin tones, 24 new hairstyles in 30 colors and 14 face shapes. Additionally, the first deaf Barbie (with an over-the-ear hearing aid) was released in 2022 and a Barbie with Down’s syndrome was released earlier this year.
3. The nostalgia!
I love seeing my old Barbies. My mom brought boxes of them over to my sister’s house not too long ago and they always bring a smile to my face. My favorites: Peaches ‘n Cream Barbie, Crystal Barbie, Barbie and the Rockers, and pushing the button to make the bubbles really go on the Barbie Bubbling Spa. And in case you can’t tell, I played with Barbies during the 80s.
4. Barbie taught us: sometimes you just gotta buy the shoes!
These days, we’re all on a budget, but sometimes, you have to treat yourself! So, get that purse or pair of heels if you want them… Barbie would… and she wouldn’t look back!
All in all, Barbie’s the one woman our society hasn’t allowed to age out. Well, Meryl Steep and Barbie… that’s about it. While we continue to work for that to change, I’m excited to see the direction Greta Gerwig is taking Barbie. It’ll be nice to see my childhood friend once again.
