A subject of discourse between both viewers and critics pertains to whether the Barbie movie (2023) can be categorized as a feminist work. Despite affirmations by the director, Greta Gerwig, regarding its feminist point of view, critical analyses suggest elements within the film that are not (La Porte & Cavusoglu, 2023). Even though Barbie is the main character in the narrative, and therefore placing her in a lead position and not characterized by her gendered attributes, she is consistently objectified throughout the film. Notably, it is shown by Ken’s absolute infatuation with Barbie despite not knowing anything about her true self as well as the harassment she gets by men when she enters the real world (La Porte & Cavusoglu, 2023). These misogynistic scenes are however portrayed in a comedic light when Ken answers Barbie that he does not feel this sense of violence that she said she perceived. This example, as well as others found during the film, makes us wonder whether the movie perpetuates stereotypes instead of raising discussion about feminist issues (La Porte & Cavusoglu, 2023).
An illustration of this is when Ken, having returned from the real world, has discovered the concept of patriarchy and tells all about it to the other Kens. This leads them to overpower Barbieland and claim authority over all the Barbies. As much as patriarchy was reversed at the beginning of the movie, where all the Barbies had the power, it is perpetuated throughout the movie (Myisha et al., 2023). Despite evident progress being made regarding gender equality, the movie portrays the persistence of patriarchal systems and gender stereotypes (Myisha et al., 2023). Consequently, while the Barbie movie (2023) tries to be feminist in its themes, it sometimes fails in spite of itself.
On the other hand, some feminist attempts within the film are extremely efficient, such as this scene where Gloria delivers a speech on womanhood.