The recent release of the "Barbie" film has not only delighted audiences and broken box-office records but has also triggered a wave of conservative backlash. Despite earning an impressive $155 million during its opening weekend and receiving praise for its spontaneity and fun, the movie has become a target for Republican critics who claim it promotes woke culture and supports Chinese propaganda. Let's delve into the controversies surrounding the film and explore why "Barbie" has emerged victorious in the face of these challenges.
Conservatives Take Aim at "Barbie": Conservative commentators, led by Ben Shapiro, have been vocal in their disdain for the film. Shapiro posted a lengthy YouTube video berating "Barbie," alleging that it divides men and women while labeling it as "flaming garbage" and "woke." In an attention-grabbing protest, he even went so far as to set Barbie and Ken dolls on fire.
Ginger Gaetz, the wife of Congressman Matt Gaetz, expressed her disappointment with the movie on Instagram. She criticized the portrayal of Ken, claiming he had a "disappointingly low T" (testosterone), and lamented the film's supposed neglect of faith, family, and positive collaboration between genders.
Ted Cruz also joined the fray, alleging that a world map featured in the film was being used as a mouthpiece for the Chinese communists. Vietnam went as far as banning "Barbie" due to the map's inclusion of the controversial "nine-dash line," used by China to assert territorial claims in the South China Sea. Warner Bros. clarified that the map was merely a childlike drawing and not intended to convey any political statement.
Conservative radio talk show host Charlie Kirk criticized the casting of Hari Nef, a transgender actor, in the movie. He accused "Barbie" of being "trans propaganda" and accused the film of being taken over by the so-called "trans mafia." He even labeled the movie's trailer as "the most disgusting thing" he had ever seen.
"Barbie" Shines Despite Opposition: Despite the vocal opposition from conservative voices, "Barbie" remains triumphant. The movie's opening weekend success was attributed to a primarily female audience, who embraced the film's empowering message and positive representation of diversity and inclusivity.
The film's director, Greta Gerwig, celebrated Barbie as an iconic representation of limitless possibilities, emphasizing diverse careers and feminine empowerment. Gerwig's vision attracted a devoted fan base, especially among young girls who found inspiration in Barbie's character.
Warner Bros., the studio behind "Barbie," stood firm in denying any political agenda in the movie, asserting that the film merely depicted Barbie's imaginative journey, without intending to make any specific statement.
Conclusion: The "Barbie" film has proven to be a commercial and cultural success, with its opening weekend box office numbers soaring to new heights. Despite facing staunch opposition from conservative critics who labeled it as "woke" and accused it of promoting Chinese propaganda, "Barbie" prevailed, resonating with audiences who embraced its empowering message of inclusivity and diverse representation. As the film continues to captivate audiences around the world, it sends a strong signal that inclusivity and progress are values celebrated by many, even in the face of opposition.
