A Cultural Phenomenon with a Feminist Twist
Greta Gerwig’s Barbie made a lasting cultural impact in 2023, captivating audiences with its stunning visuals, compelling story, and bold feminist undertones. While the film was widely celebrated, it also faced some backlash, particularly concerning its portrayal of feminism. Critics took issue with the film’s handling of feminist themes, especially the powerful monologue delivered by America Ferrera’s character, which some felt oversimplified feminism.
Ferrera Speaks Out: Feminism 101
America Ferrera, who plays Gloria, a Mattel employee and mother in the film, firmly disagrees with the criticism. In an interview with The New York Times published on January 1, 2024, the 39-year-old actress, known for her advocacy for gender equality, defended the movie’s feminist message. Ferrera explained that while the monologue might seem basic to those familiar with feminist theory, it serves an important role in educating a broader audience, particularly those unfamiliar with feminist concepts.
“We can know things and still need to hear them out loud. It can still be cathartic,” Ferrera said, emphasizing that the film’s simple, direct approach helps audiences, especially younger generations, grasp the core ideas of feminism. For many viewers—young women and men alike—the film offers an introduction to vital feminist ideas that are often overlooked or misunderstood.
The Power of Gloria’s Speech
The iconic monologue delivered by Ferrera’s character has resonated deeply with many women. In the scene, Gloria passionately articulates the contradictions and unrealistic expectations placed on women: “It’s literally impossible to be a woman. You are so beautiful and so smart, and it kills me that you don’t think you’re good enough. Like, we have to always be extraordinary, but somehow we’re always doing it wrong.” She continues by highlighting the pressure women face to be perfect, yet receive little recognition for their efforts.
Ferrera’s powerful performance in this scene has already sparked Oscar buzz for the upcoming 2024 awards season. Despite the accolades, she acknowledges that some may view the speech as a basic form of feminism. However, Ferrera argues that this foundational message is still critical in a world where discussions of feminism remain taboo in many places. “To say that something that is maybe foundational, or, in some people’s view, basic feminism isn’t needed is an oversimplification,” she remarked, pointing out that the film was banned in countries like Vietnam and Kuwait due to its feminist themes.
A Collaborative Creation: Ferrera and Gerwig’s Partnership
Ferrera also revealed that the monologue was a collaborative effort between herself and director Greta Gerwig. Gerwig encouraged Ferrera to add her personal touch to the speech and put it in her own words, making the moment feel even more authentic and emotional. Ferrera described the process as one of trust, where the two worked through multiple versions of the speech until it became the powerful moment that would resonate with audiences.
A Lasting Impact on Audiences
As Barbie continues to generate conversation, Ferrera’s defense of its feminist message underscores the importance of using popular culture to address significant social issues. The film’s empowering message continues to resonate with viewers, and with its availability for streaming on Max, even more people can experience the impactful themes at the heart of its story. Whether viewed as a simple introduction to feminism or a powerful call for change, Barbie‘s message is undeniable—and Ferrera’s performance remains central to its lasting influence.
