A Deep Dive into the Vast Cultural References in Barbie: A Comprehensive Guide

Ken and Barbie go boating: A Comprehensive Guide to the Cultural References in Barbie

Introduction

In the recently released film Barbie, Margot Robbie’s production company, LuckyChap, hosted a film festival for the cast and crew as inspiration for the movie. The film’s director, Greta Gerwig, and her co-writer, Noah Baumbach, packed the film with numerous gags and nods to various pieces of art, creating an extensive list of cultural references. From iconic movies to Greek mythology, the film draws inspiration from a wide range of sources. To decipher the secrets hidden within the film, multiple viewings are necessary. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide to the cultural references in Barbie and explore the deeper meaning behind them.

Easter Eggs and Cultural References

2001: A Space Odyssey

One of the most talked-about cultural references in Barbie is the spoof of the famous opening scene from 2001: A Space Odyssey. In the trailer, little girls replace apes, smashing their baby dolls upon discovering the first doll to resemble a grown woman: Barbie. This reference emphasizes the groundbreaking nature of Barbie‘s introduction in the movie and sets the stage for her journey.

Pygmalion

The film draws inspiration from the Greek myth of Pygmalion, as written by Ovid, wherein a sculptor creates a statue representing the perfect woman and falls in love with his creation. Gerwig and Baumbach explore the theme of perfection by showcasing Barbie as a symbol of the perfect woman. They challenge the notion that a single doll can represent an entire gender by introducing multiple Barbies played by different actors. The story delves into the complexity of Barbie‘s existence and her transformation into a flawed yet fulfilled character, similar to Galatea in Pygmalion.

The Philadelphia Story

Gerwig asked Margot Robbie to watch Katharine Hepburn’s performance in The Philadelphia Story as inspiration for Barbie. In the movie, Hepburn plays a woman worshipped by men due to her cold and distant nature. As Barbie‘s perfect world begins to crumble, she discovers a new sense of herself. This parallel highlights the shift in Barbie‘s character from a seemingly perfect doll to a vulnerable and emotional being.

The Wizard of Oz

In a reversal of The Wizard of Oz, Barbie travels from the magical land of Barbieland to the real world. The film cleverly replaces the yellow brick road with a pink brick road and includes a marquee displaying The Wizard of Oz in Barbieland. This reference solidifies the connection between Barbie‘s journey and Dorothy’s adventure, emphasizing the transformative nature of her experience.

Clueless

Barbie‘s getting-ready routine pays homage to Alicia Silverstone’s Cher in Clueless. The film showcases Barbie brushing her hair and browsing her high-tech closet, replicating the fashion-forward blonde’s iconic routine. Gerwig acknowledges the influence of Clueless in shaping the portrayal of Barbie‘s character, as she goes on to discover a deeper meaning to life beyond material possessions.

An American in Paris

Barbie references several Gene Kelly movies, including An American in Paris. Barbie‘s morning routine mirrors Kelly’s character, offering a nod to the iconic actor and dancer. Gerwig incorporates elements of Gene Kelly’s films to celebrate the golden age of Hollywood and enhance the film’s aesthetic appeal.

The Truman Show

Gerwig engaged in discussions with The Truman Show director Peter Weir to capture the artificiality of Barbieland. The concept of a reality TV set inspired the creation of Barbieland, mirroring the artificial world portrayed in The Truman Show. The lighting techniques used in both films contribute to the surreal atmosphere and enhance the thematic depth of Barbie‘s journey.

The Films of Jacques Demy

Gerwig credits French filmmaker Jacques Demy with inspiring the use of vibrant colors in Barbie. The film incorporates different shades of pink, drawing from Demy’s works such as The Umbrellas of Cherbourg, The Young Girls of Rochefort, and Model Shop. This artistic influence contributes to the visually stunning and dreamlike quality of the film.

Saturday Night Fever

The disco number at the beginning of Barbie pays homage to John Travolta’s dances in Saturday Night Fever. The scene, interrupted by Barbie contemplating thoughts of death, captures the essence of the disco era. The reference adds a touch of nostalgia and humor to the film, showcasing Barbie‘s introspective journey.

The Red Shoes

Barbie visits Weird Barbie, portrayed by Kate McKinnon, who has a wonky haircut and marker scribbles on her face. The scene draws inspiration from The Red Shoes, a romantic drama from 1948 that heavily influenced the visual aesthetic of Barbieland. This reference enhances the surreal and artistic nature of the film.

The Matrix

Weird Barbie takes on the role of a mystical guide, presenting two options to Barbie: a stiletto heel representing staying in Barbieland or a Birkenstock representing venturing into the real world. This choice references the “Red Pill-Blue Pill” scene from The Matrix. Gerwig cleverly incorporates this reference to explore Barbie‘s decision-making process and her journey towards self-discovery.

Proust

In a humorous moment, Barbie‘s sense of smell triggers a Proustian memory of her birth. This reference connects to Marcel Proust’s novel Remembrance of Things Past, where a bite of a madeleine triggers a similar sensory experience. The joke highlights the depth of Barbie‘s character and adds a layer of complexity to the film.

The Shining

When Barbie explores the real world, she discovers Gloria (portrayed by America Ferrera), who has been playing with her and has imprinted her own emotions onto Barbie. The reference to The Shining appears when Gloria’s daughter asks if they are “shining,” referencing the telepathic connection from the Stephen King horror story. This reference adds a touch of mystery and intrigue to the film.

Top Gun

Barbie‘s return to Barbieland reveals a shift in power dynamics, with Ken taking center stage and dominating the beach volleyball scene. This moment references the iconic shirtless beach volleyball scene from Top Gun and symbolizes the reversal of traditional gender roles in Barbieland.

Sylvester Stallone’s penchant for mink coats

Ken’s adoption of Sylvester Stallone’s iconic look with mink coats and fuzzy vests pays homage to Stallone’s fashion choices in the ’70s. This reference adds a humorous element and satirizes Ken’s transition into the world of patriarchy.

The Snydercut

The film not only pokes fun at Mattel but also takes a jab at studio Warner Bros. The Barbies in Barbieland are hypnotized into becoming housewives, and their awakening serves as an opportunity to challenge the patriarchy in Barbieland. Alexandra Shipp’s character wakes up and humorously references the fervor surrounding the release of the “Zack Snyder cut” of Justice League. This clever allusion adds a contemporary touch to the film and provides a satirical commentary on online campaigns.

The Godfather

Issa Rae’s President Barbie feigns interest in Ken’s explanations of Francis Ford Coppola’s cinematic masterpiece The Godfather. This scene satirizes mansplaining and plays on the comedic dynamic between Barbie and Ken, showcasing Rae’s impeccable comedic timing.

Grease

During the “Battle of the Kens,” the rivalry between the Kens culminates in a dance-off reminiscent of the iconic dance number in Grease. The energy and choreography pay tribute to the classic musical and add a vibrant and entertaining element to the film.

West Side Story

The rival gang theme of West Side Story is evoked during the “Battle of the Kens,” with the fusion of dance and fight choreography. This reference highlights the tension and drama between the Kens and adds depth to the conflict within Barbieland.

Monty Python and the Holy Grail

When the Kens realize they have been tricked, they ride imaginary horses across Kendom. This sight gag references a recurring joke in Monty Python and the Holy Grail, where knights ride fake horses while their squires mimic the sound of galloping. This humorous moment adds a touch of whimsy to the film.

Singin’ in the Rain

The aesthetic of Barbieland is heavily inspired by the Golden Age of Hollywood. The hand-painted backdrops and visually stunning sets pay homage to soundstage musicals from the ’30s, ’40s, and ’50s. During the beach fight, the backdrop changes to pastel colors, and the Kens perform a balletic number reminiscent of Gene Kelly and Cyd Charisse’s dream sequence in Singin’ in the Rain. This reference immerses viewers in a nostalgic and enchanting world.

The Sistine Chapel

In two shots in the movie, Barbie‘s hand touches that of Ruth Handler, Barbie‘s creator. This composition mirrors the specific positioning of God’s and Adam’s hands in Michelangelo’s Creation of Man mural in the Sistine Chapel. The reference elevates Barbie‘s significance, symbolizing Ruth Handler as the deity behind her creation and emphasizing Barbie‘s representation of women.

The Deeper Meanings and Themes

The numerous cultural references in Barbie serve a deeper purpose, enriching the narrative and exploring important themes. Beyond the surface-level tribute to iconic films and artistic styles, the film delves into the complexities of identity, gender representation, and societal expectations.

Greta Gerwig and Noah Baumbach utilize the extensive range of cultural references to question the notion of a singular ideal of femininity represented by Barbie. The multiplicity of Barbies played by different actors challenges the concept of a single doll embodying an entire gender. The exploration of Barbie‘s journey from a perfect doll to a flawed yet fulfilled character symbolizes the quest for self-discovery and the beauty found in imperfection.

The film also addresses the influence of media and societal expectations on individuals, highlighting the artificiality of Barbieland and drawing parallels to reality TV and the pressure to conform. Barbie‘s venture into the real world represents a quest for authenticity and a rejection of superficiality.

Furthermore, Barbie incorporates humor and satire to critique gender dynamics, toxic masculinity, and mansplaining. By reversing traditional gender roles within Barbieland and satirizing elements of patriarchal society, the film challenges societal norms and encourages viewers to question and transcend stereotypes.

The Importance of Cultural References in Film

Cultural references in films serve as a bridge between different works of art and contribute to the richness and depth of storytelling. They provide a shared language for filmmakers and audiences, creating a sense of connection and understanding. By incorporating cultural references, filmmakers can engage with the collective imagination and evoke emotional responses from viewers.

In the case of Barbie, the extensive use of cultural references enhances the experience for audiences who are familiar with the referenced works. It also encourages viewers to explore and appreciate the diverse range of art forms that have influenced the film. These references not only entertain but also provide layers of meaning and depth to the narrative, inviting viewers to engage in philosophical and introspective discussions.

Editorial: The Art of References and Intertextuality

The extensive use of cultural references in Barbie is a testament to the art of intertextuality. This artistic approach allows filmmakers to pay homage to influential works and engage in a creative dialogue with the past. Through intertextuality, films can transcend traditional boundaries, genres, and mediums, creating new interpretations and perspectives.

Greta Gerwig and her team successfully weave these cultural references into the fabric of Barbie, creating a rich tapestry of interconnected narratives and meanings. Each reference serves a purpose, contributing to the overall thematic exploration of identity, gender, and societal expectations.

Barbie demonstrates the power of cinema to evoke emotions, challenge norms, and inspire thought-provoking discussions. By drawing on the shared cultural knowledge of the audience, the film creates a profound connection between the characters, the narrative, and the viewers.

Advice for Future Filmmakers

For aspiring filmmakers, the use of cultural references offers a treasure trove of storytelling possibilities. By embracing intertextuality, filmmakers can infuse their work with layers of meaning and create a unique and memorable viewing experience.

However, it is essential to strike a balance between references and originality. Cultural references should enhance the narrative and contribute to the overall themes and ideas of the film, rather than serving as mere gimmicks. Filmmakers should approach references with intentionality, ensuring they align with the story they want to tell.

Moreover, filmmakers should consider their audience and their familiarity with the cultural references being employed. While some references may resonate universally, others may require a deeper understanding of specific works or genres. Filmmakers should aim to create a balance, allowing both casual viewers and enthusiasts to appreciate the references and engage with the film on different levels.

In conclusion, the extensive use of cultural references in Barbie showcases the depth, complexity, and power of intertextuality in filmmaking. Greta Gerwig and her team have crafted a visually stunning and intellectually stimulating film that encourages philosophical discussion and introspection. Beyond its entertainment value, Barbie serves as a reminder of the enduring influence of art and the transformative power of storytelling.