<p>The craze around<em> Barbie </em>is&nbsp;still not over. Margot Robbie's film has shattered several box office records since its release, and now the film is set to become Warner Bros.' highest-grossing movie, surpassing <em>Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows part 2</em> lifetime collection.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
As per Variety, the film earned $18.2 million from 12,852 screens in 75 international territories over the weekends, taking the worldwide gross to a smashing $1.34 billion.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The film is now only $1 million behind <em>Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2's</em> box office collection, i.e., $1.341 billion. Last week, <em>Barbie</em> became the highest-grossing movie at the domestic box office, surpassing Chris Pratt's animated film <em>Super Mario Bros.</em></p>

<p><em>Barbie </em>had amassed $575.4 million at the domestic box office, crossing Mario’s collection of $574.2 million. Since its release, Ryan Gosling's film has broken several records. The film grossed $377 million worldwide in its opening weekend, making it the biggest debut ever for a film directed by a woman. Then it became the first $1 billion film by a female director.</p>

<p>The film has also become Warner Bros. Discovery’s highest-grossing domestic release, dethroning the 2008 film <em>The Dark Knight.</em><br />
<br />
The <em>Barbie</em> movie stars Margot Robbie as the famous doll and Ryan Gosling as her boyfriend Ken. It was released in theatres on July 21.</p>

<p><strong>More about Barbie:</strong></p>

<p>Directed by Greta, the movie follows the story of Barbie and Ken, who are expelled from Barbie Land due to their imperfections, and together they explore the real world. The movie is co-written by Gerwig and Noah Baumbach.</p>

<p>WION's review on Barbie: Film critic Shomini Sen writes, ''I would still say that the film very smartly shows how society is and humanises the iconic doll. For decades Barbie has been one of the most popular toys for young girls, setting unrealistic standards of beauty. Sure, Mattel has reinvented the doll and made every girl believe that they can be whatever they want to be - just like their favourite doll, but the narrative of everything being overtly perfect has also done damage to several. Greta, in that sense, spins the narrative and adds a layer of cynicism to Barbie land to show how things are in real. Flawed, depressed, and definitely not perfect- even though the plastic remains constant.''&nbsp;</p>

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The craze around Barbie is still not over. Margot Robbie's film has shattered several box office records since its release, and now the film is set to become Warner Bros.

The craze around Barbie is still not over. Margot Robbie's film has shattered several box office records since its release, and now the film is set to become Warner Bros.' highest-grossing movie, surpassing Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows part 2 lifetime collection. As per Variety, the film earned $18.2 million from 12,852 screens in 75 international territories over the weekends, taking the worldwide gross to a smashing $1.34 billion. The film is now only $1 million behind Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2's box office collection, i.e., $1.341 billion. Last week, Barbie became the highest-grossing movie at the domestic box office, surpassing Chris Pratt's animated film Super Mario Bros. Barbie had amassed $575.4 million at the domestic box office, crossing Mario’s collection of $574.2 million. Since its release, Ryan Gosling's film has broken several records. The film grossed $377 million worldwide in its opening weekend, making it the biggest debut ever for a film directed by a woman. Then it became the first $1 billion film by a female director. The film has also become Warner Bros. Discovery’s highest-grossing domestic release, dethroning the 2008 film The Dark Knight. The Barbie movie stars Margot Robbie as the famous doll and Ryan Gosling as her boyfriend Ken. It was released in theatres on July 21. More about Barbie: Directed by Greta, the movie follows the story of Barbie and Ken, who are expelled from Barbie Land due to their imperfections, and together they explore the real world. The movie is co-written by Gerwig and Noah Baumbach. WION's review on Barbie: Film critic Shomini Sen writes, ''I would still say that the film very smartly shows how society is and humanises the iconic doll. For decades Barbie has been one of the most popular toys for young girls, setting unrealistic standards of beauty. Sure, Mattel has reinvented the doll and made every girl believe that they can be whatever they want to be - just like their favourite doll, but the narrative of everything being overtly perfect has also done damage to several. Greta, in that sense, spins the narrative and adds a layer of cynicism to Barbie land to show how things are in real. Flawed, depressed, and definitely not perfect- even though the plastic remains constant.'' WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Barbie craze! Margot Robbie's film to become Warner Bros' highest-grossing film

<p>Sony's sports action film <em>Gran Turismo&nbsp;</em>didn't exactly roar to the front of the North American box office, but did make it there on a slow late-August weekend, beating a still-turbo-powered <em>Barbie.</em></p>

<p>Based on a popular video game, <em>Gran Turismo</em>&nbsp;took in an estimated $17.3 million for the Friday-through-Sunday period, industry watcher Exhibitor Relations reported Sunday.</p>

<p>"This is a lukewarm opening for an action film based on a video game," particularly compared to previous game-based films like <em>Warcraft</em>&nbsp;($439 million in worldwide ticket sales) and <em>Rampage</em>&nbsp;($428 million), analyst David A. Gross said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-the-spiderwick-chronicles-series-adaptation-to-no-longer-stream-on-disney-629847">The Spiderwick Chronicles series adaptation to no longer stream on Disney+</a></p>

<p>The movie stars David Harbour and Orlando Bloom in a story about a racing academy that recruits skilled video gamers to train them as real race-car drivers.</p>

<p>Warner Bros.' <em>Barbie,</em>&nbsp;meantime, has remained a steady seat-filler, with its $17.1 million take in its sixth week out propelling it to a $594 million domestic total.</p>

<p>The Greta Gerwig film recently overtook <em>The Super Mario Bros. Movie&nbsp;</em>($574 million) as the year's domestic box office champ. Add to that the $745 million <em>Barbie</em>&nbsp;has earned overseas.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-shoojit-sircar-feels-vicky-kaushal-deserved-to-win-best-actor-national-award-for-sadar-udham-629838">Shoojit Sircar feels Vicky Kaushal deserved to win Best Actor National Award for Sadar Udham</a></p>

<p>Analysts said Sony's accounting of ticket sales for <em>Gran Turismo&nbsp;</em>was a bit wonky (including millions in pre-sales) and predicted <em>Barbie</em>&nbsp;might, in the final tally, be the weekend's Number One -- as she is Ken's.</p>

<p>Last weekend's leader, the superhero flick <em>Blue Beetle</em>&nbsp;from DC Studios and Warner Bros., dipped to third, at $12.8 million, a nearly 50 per cent drop from the previous weekend. Xolo Mariduena, as the <em>Beetle,</em> became the first live-action Latino protagonist.</p>

<p>In fourth was Universal's<em> Oppenheimer,&nbsp;</em>earning an estimated $9 million. The atom bomb origin story has now surpassed $300 million in domestic earnings, with an additional $477 million overseas.</p>

<p>And in fifth place was Paramount's animated <em>Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem,&nbsp;</em>the latest chapter in the heroes-in-a-half-shell saga, at $6.1 million.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rounding out the top 10 were:</p>

<p><em>Meg 2: The Trench</em>&nbsp;($5.1 million)</p>

<p><em>Strays</em>&nbsp;($4.7 million)</p>

<p><em>Retribution </em>($3.5 million)</p>

<p><em>The Hill&nbsp;</em>($2.5 million)</p>

<p><em>Haunted Mansion</em>&nbsp;($2.1 million)</p>

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Sony's sports action film Gran Turismo didn't exactly roar to the front of the North American box office, but did make it there on a slow late-August weekend, beating a still-turbo-powered Barbie.

Sony's sports action film Gran Turismo didn't exactly roar to the front of the North American box office, but did make it there on a slow late-August weekend, beating a still-turbo-powered Barbie. Based on a popular video game, Gran Turismo took in an estimated $17.3 million for the Friday-through-Sunday period, industry watcher Exhibitor Relations reported Sunday. "This is a lukewarm opening for an action film based on a video game," particularly compared to previous game-based films like Warcraft ($439 million in worldwide ticket sales) and Rampage ($428 million), analyst David A. Gross said. Also read: The Spiderwick Chronicles series adaptation to no longer stream on Disney+ The movie stars David Harbour and Orlando Bloom in a story about a racing academy that recruits skilled video gamers to train them as real race-car drivers. Warner Bros.' Barbie, meantime, has remained a steady seat-filler, with its $17.1 million take in its sixth week out propelling it to a $594 million domestic total. The Greta Gerwig film recently overtook The Super Mario Bros. Movie ($574 million) as the year's domestic box office champ. Add to that the $745 million Barbie has earned overseas. Also read: Shoojit Sircar feels Vicky Kaushal deserved to win Best Actor National Award for Sadar Udham Analysts said Sony's accounting of ticket sales for Gran Turismo was a bit wonky (including millions in pre-sales) and predicted Barbie might, in the final tally, be the weekend's Number One -- as she is Ken's. Last weekend's leader, the superhero flick Blue Beetle from DC Studios and Warner Bros., dipped to third, at $12.8 million, a nearly 50 per cent drop from the previous weekend. Xolo Mariduena, as the Beetle, became the first live-action Latino protagonist. In fourth was Universal's Oppenheimer, earning an estimated $9 million. The atom bomb origin story has now surpassed $300 million in domestic earnings, with an additional $477 million overseas. And in fifth place was Paramount's animated Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem, the latest chapter in the heroes-in-a-half-shell saga, at $6.1 million. Rounding out the top 10 were: Meg 2: The Trench ($5.1 million) Strays ($4.7 million) Retribution ($3.5 million) The Hill ($2.5 million) Haunted Mansion ($2.1 million) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Gran Turismo barely outraces Barbie in North America theatres

<p>Margot Robbie, the Australian actress who has taken Hollywood by storm with her talent and charisma in recent years with roles like Harley Quinn in DC movies and more recently Barbie in the movie of the same name, was almost a part of a different iconic project before she rose to fame. In a recent revelation, casting director Eric Dawson unveiled on Backstage’s podcast In the Envelope podcast how Robbie came close to landing a role in the second season of the hit anthology series<em>, American Horror Story: Asylum</em>. Although the role eventually eluded her, the encounter highlighted her star potential and set the stage for her meteoric rise in the entertainment industry.</p>

<p>Dawson shared his memory of Robbie's audition for<em> American Horror Story: Asylum.</em> He described the young actress's presence as magnetic, recounting, "Margot is probably one of my favourite auditions of all time, and it was right before she broke out. She was just such a star. It was just crazy, her star appeal and when she walked in the room and her voice. Everything about it."</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/critically-speaking-margot-robbies-barbie-is-funny-and-clever-618237/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Despite narrowly missing out on the role within the acclaimed horror series, Dawson was certain that Robbie was destined for greatness. He reflected, "That was one of those things as a casting director you go, ‘This is a star. What do we do with her?' Then, immediately she started, just boom, boom, boom, and she was out of our sort of realm of possibility of hiring, but that’s really the fun part of casting, is seeing the people whose careers are just rising."</p>

<h2><strong><em>Barbie </em>review</strong></h2>

<p>Also Read: <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-barbie-review-margot-robbie-ryan-goslings-film-smart-funny-and-very-woke-618109">Barbie review: Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling's film smart, funny and very woke</a></strong></p>

<p>WION's Shomini Sen wrote in her review of <em>Barbie</em>, "I would still say that the film very smartly shows how society is and humanises the iconic doll. For decades Barbie has been one of the most popular toys for young girls, setting unrealistic standards of beauty. Sure, Mattel has reinvented the doll and made every girl believe that they can be whatever they want to be - just like their favourite doll, but the narrative of everything being overtly perfect has also done damage to several. Greta, in that sense, spins the narrative and adds a layer of cynicism to Barbieland to show how things are in real. Flawed, depressed, and definitely not perfect- even though the plastic remains constant."</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Margot Robbie, the Australian actress who has taken Hollywood by storm with her talent and charisma in recent years with roles like Harley Quinn in DC movies and more recently Barbie in the movie of the same name, was almost a part of a different iconic project before she rose to fame.

Margot Robbie, the Australian actress who has taken Hollywood by storm with her talent and charisma in recent years with roles like Harley Quinn in DC movies and more recently Barbie in the movie of the same name, was almost a part of a different iconic project before she rose to fame. In a recent revelation, casting director Eric Dawson unveiled on Backstage’s podcast In the Envelope podcast how Robbie came close to landing a role in the second season of the hit anthology series, American Horror Story: Asylum. Although the role eventually eluded her, the encounter highlighted her star potential and set the stage for her meteoric rise in the entertainment industry. Dawson shared his memory of Robbie's audition for American Horror Story: Asylum. He described the young actress's presence as magnetic, recounting, "Margot is probably one of my favourite auditions of all time, and it was right before she broke out. She was just such a star. It was just crazy, her star appeal and when she walked in the room and her voice. Everything about it." Despite narrowly missing out on the role within the acclaimed horror series, Dawson was certain that Robbie was destined for greatness. He reflected, "That was one of those things as a casting director you go, ‘This is a star. What do we do with her?' Then, immediately she started, just boom, boom, boom, and she was out of our sort of realm of possibility of hiring, but that’s really the fun part of casting, is seeing the people whose careers are just rising." Barbie review Also Read: Barbie review: Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling's film smart, funny and very woke WION's Shomini Sen wrote in her review of Barbie, "I would still say that the film very smartly shows how society is and humanises the iconic doll. For decades Barbie has been one of the most popular toys for young girls, setting unrealistic standards of beauty. Sure, Mattel has reinvented the doll and made every girl believe that they can be whatever they want to be - just like their favourite doll, but the narrative of everything being overtly perfect has also done damage to several. Greta, in that sense, spins the narrative and adds a layer of cynicism to Barbieland to show how things are in real. Flawed, depressed, and definitely not perfect- even though the plastic remains constant." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

When Margot Robbie auditioned for American Horror Story Asylum

<p>Margot Robbie-starrer fantasy comedy <em>Barbie</em>, which has proven to be the biggest film of the year at the box office, will now get a limited IMAX release that will also feature brand new footage in the post-credits. As per Variety, the one-week release will kick off in North America and a few international markets on September 22. The film has proven to be a gigantic hit for Warner Bros, nearing $1.3 billion worldwide at the time of writing. Ever since its release on July 21, it has shattered several major box office records, including the highest-grossing movie directed by a solo woman, and also the first female-directed movie to cross the $1 billion mark globally.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/critically-speaking-margot-robbies-barbie-is-funny-and-clever-618237/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Directed by Greta Gerwig and written by Gerwig and her partner Noah Baumbach, <em>Barbie </em>features Robbie in the role of the titular doll. In the world of the movie, she lives in a parallel reality where almost everything is pink and there are all kinds of Barbies, with Robbie being the so-called Stereotypical Barbie. Ryan Gosling plays the role of Ken, Barbie's love interest. America Ferrera, Kate McKinnon, Helen Mirren, Issa Rae, Simu Liu, Michael Cera, Rhea Perlman, and Will Ferrell also star.</p>

<h2><strong><em>Barbie </em>review</strong></h2>

<p>Also Read:&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-barbie-review-margot-robbie-ryan-goslings-film-smart-funny-and-very-woke-618109">Barbie review: Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling's film smart, funny and very woke</a></strong></p>

<p>WION's Shomini Sen wrote in her review of <em>Barbie</em>, "I would still say that the film very smartly shows how society is and humanises the iconic doll. For decades Barbie has been one of the most popular toys for young girls, setting unrealistic standards of beauty. Sure, Mattel has reinvented the doll and made every girl believe that they can be whatever they want to be - just like their favourite doll, but the narrative of everything being overtly perfect has also done damage to several. Greta, in that sense, spins the narrative and adds a layer of cynicism to Barbieland to show how things are in real. Flawed, depressed, and definitely not perfect- even though the plastic remains constant."</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Margot Robbie-starrer fantasy comedy Barbie, which has proven to be the biggest film of the year at the box office, will now get a limited IMAX release that will also feature brand new footage in the post-credits.

Margot Robbie-starrer fantasy comedy Barbie, which has proven to be the biggest film of the year at the box office, will now get a limited IMAX release that will also feature brand new footage in the post-credits. As per Variety, the one-week release will kick off in North America and a few international markets on September 22. The film has proven to be a gigantic hit for Warner Bros, nearing $1.3 billion worldwide at the time of writing. Ever since its release on July 21, it has shattered several major box office records, including the highest-grossing movie directed by a solo woman, and also the first female-directed movie to cross the $1 billion mark globally. Directed by Greta Gerwig and written by Gerwig and her partner Noah Baumbach, Barbie features Robbie in the role of the titular doll. In the world of the movie, she lives in a parallel reality where almost everything is pink and there are all kinds of Barbies, with Robbie being the so-called Stereotypical Barbie. Ryan Gosling plays the role of Ken, Barbie's love interest. America Ferrera, Kate McKinnon, Helen Mirren, Issa Rae, Simu Liu, Michael Cera, Rhea Perlman, and Will Ferrell also star. Barbie review Also Read: Barbie review: Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling's film smart, funny and very woke WION's Shomini Sen wrote in her review of Barbie, "I would still say that the film very smartly shows how society is and humanises the iconic doll. For decades Barbie has been one of the most popular toys for young girls, setting unrealistic standards of beauty. Sure, Mattel has reinvented the doll and made every girl believe that they can be whatever they want to be - just like their favourite doll, but the narrative of everything being overtly perfect has also done damage to several. Greta, in that sense, spins the narrative and adds a layer of cynicism to Barbieland to show how things are in real. Flawed, depressed, and definitely not perfect- even though the plastic remains constant." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Barbie gets limited IMAX release, to feature all new footage in post-credits

Despite massive box-office success, Greta Gerwig's 'Barbie' has hit a roadblock in many parts of the world. From opening to poor box-office numbers in South Korea to being banned in Kuwait, it turns out that being a billionaire is not enough for 'Barbie'.

Barbie to get new post-credits scene

<p>Margot Robbie-starrer <em>Barbie </em>is set to achieve a remarkable milestone this Wednesday, becoming the highest-grossing film of 2023 at the domestic box office, surpassing the earnings of <em>The Super Mario Bros Movie</em>, which concluded its run in the United States at an impressive $574.2 million. This achievement marks a significant moment for Warner Bros, as the last time the studio claimed the top-grossing film of the year was in 2011 with<em> Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part II</em> which amassed $381 million. The journey to this milestone has been swift for Barbie, taking a mere 34 days to reach the impressive $574.2 million mark. In comparison, <em>The Super Mario Bros Movie </em>achieved this feat in 138 days, while last year's top domestic performer Top Gun: Maverick took 40 days.</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/critically-speaking-margot-robbies-barbie-is-funny-and-clever-618237/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<h2><strong><em>Barbie</em>, destroyer of many box office records</strong></h2>

<p>Ever since its release, <em>Barbie </em>has broken one box office record after another. First, it grossed $377 million worldwide in its opening weekend, making it the biggest debut ever for a film directed by a woman.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Then, it became the biggest film solely directed by a woman. Then, it became the highest-grossing movie of Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling's careers. After that, it was also the first movie to surpass $1 billion at worldwide box office. It is likely that by the time the movie exits theatres, it will have broken several more records.</p>

<h2><strong><em>Barbie </em>review</strong></h2>

<p>Also Read: <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-barbie-review-margot-robbie-ryan-goslings-film-smart-funny-and-very-woke-618109">Barbie review: Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling's film smart, funny and very woke</a></strong></p>

<p>WION's Shomini Sen wrote in her review of Barbie, "I would still say that the film very smartly shows how society is and humanises the iconic doll. For decades Barbie has been one of the most popular toys for young girls, setting unrealistic standards of beauty. Sure, Mattel has reinvented the doll and made every girl believe that they can be whatever they want to be - just like their favourite doll, but the narrative of everything being overtly perfect has also done damage to several. Greta, in that sense, spins the narrative and adds a layer of cynicism to Barbieland to show how things are in real. Flawed, depressed, and definitely not perfect- even though the plastic remains constant."</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Margot Robbie-starrer Barbie is set to achieve a remarkable milestone this Wednesday, becoming the highest-grossing film of 2023 at the domestic box office, surpassing the earnings of The Super Mario Bros Movie, which concluded its run in the United States at an impressive $574.

Margot Robbie-starrer Barbie is set to achieve a remarkable milestone this Wednesday, becoming the highest-grossing film of 2023 at the domestic box office, surpassing the earnings of The Super Mario Bros Movie, which concluded its run in the United States at an impressive $574.2 million. This achievement marks a significant moment for Warner Bros, as the last time the studio claimed the top-grossing film of the year was in 2011 with Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part II which amassed $381 million. The journey to this milestone has been swift for Barbie, taking a mere 34 days to reach the impressive $574.2 million mark. In comparison, The Super Mario Bros Movie achieved this feat in 138 days, while last year's top domestic performer Top Gun: Maverick took 40 days. Barbie, destroyer of many box office records Ever since its release, Barbie has broken one box office record after another. First, it grossed $377 million worldwide in its opening weekend, making it the biggest debut ever for a film directed by a woman. Then, it became the biggest film solely directed by a woman. Then, it became the highest-grossing movie of Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling's careers. After that, it was also the first movie to surpass $1 billion at worldwide box office. It is likely that by the time the movie exits theatres, it will have broken several more records. Barbie review Also Read: Barbie review: Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling's film smart, funny and very woke WION's Shomini Sen wrote in her review of Barbie, "I would still say that the film very smartly shows how society is and humanises the iconic doll. For decades Barbie has been one of the most popular toys for young girls, setting unrealistic standards of beauty. Sure, Mattel has reinvented the doll and made every girl believe that they can be whatever they want to be - just like their favourite doll, but the narrative of everything being overtly perfect has also done damage to several. Greta, in that sense, spins the narrative and adds a layer of cynicism to Barbieland to show how things are in real. Flawed, depressed, and definitely not perfect- even though the plastic remains constant." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Barbie to surpass The Super Mario Bros Movie to become biggest film of 2023

<p>This Sunday, movie enthusiasts across the United States are in for a treat as theatres gear up for the second annual National Cinema Day. In an exciting announcement made on Monday, theatre owners revealed that on August 27, audiences will be able to catch their favourite films, including the blockbuster hits <em>Barbie, </em>directed by Greta Gerwig,<em>&nbsp;</em>and <em>Oppenheimer</em>, directed by Christopher Nolan, both of which relased on July 21, for a mere $4 per ticket at participating cinemas throughout the country, reported news agency Associated Press. Last year's inaugural National Cinema Day, orchestrated by the Cinema Foundation, an affiliate of the National Association of Theater Owners (NATO), saw a resounding success as per AP. The event brought in an impressive 8.1 million moviegoers who indulged in the thrill of the silver screen for just $3 a ticket. For context, the average movie ticket in 2022 stood at $10.53.</p>

<p>Also Read | <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-oppenheimer-review-nolans-visually-stunning-epic-fuses-genius-and-guilt-618110">Oppenheimer review: Nolan's visually stunning epic fuses genius and guilt</a></strong></p>

<p>The success of this year's August box office can be attributed to the enduring popularity of <em>Barbie</em>, starring Margot Robbie, and <em>Oppenheimer</em>, starring Cillian Murphy, which have caused the industry to experience a resurgence.</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/critically-speaking-margot-robbies-barbie-is-funny-and-clever-618237/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>A double feature of both movies, dubbed Barbenheimer, was promoted initially by fans who were amused by the vast differences between the tone of the two films. While <em>Barbie </em>was a fantasy comedy and all about pink, <em>Oppenheimer </em>was a serious biopic about the invention of the atomic bomb and was painted in muted colours.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-barbie-review-margot-robbie-ryan-goslings-film-smart-funny-and-very-woke-618109">Barbie review: Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling's film is smart, funny and very woke</a></strong></p>

<p>Data firm Comscore reports that the summer box office has surged to an impressive $3.8 billion in ticket sales, marking a significant 16.6 per cent increase compared to the same period in 2022.</p>

<p>So mark your calendars for August 27, and prepare for a day of cinematic delight without breaking the bank. With more than 3,000 theatres participating, including major chains like AMC and Regal, National Cinema Day is an opportunity to catch up on the latest films at an unbeatable price.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

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This Sunday, movie enthusiasts across the United States are in for a treat as theatres gear up for the second annual National Cinema Day. In an exciting announcement made on Monday, theatre owners revealed that on August 27, audiences will be able to catch their favourite films, including the blockbuster hits Barbie, directed by Greta Gerwig, and Oppenheimer, directed by Christopher Nolan, both of which relased on July 21, for a mere $4 per ticket at participating cinemas throughout the country, reported news agency Associated Press.

This Sunday, movie enthusiasts across the United States are in for a treat as theatres gear up for the second annual National Cinema Day. In an exciting announcement made on Monday, theatre owners revealed that on August 27, audiences will be able to catch their favourite films, including the blockbuster hits Barbie, directed by Greta Gerwig, and Oppenheimer, directed by Christopher Nolan, both of which relased on July 21, for a mere $4 per ticket at participating cinemas throughout the country, reported news agency Associated Press. Last year's inaugural National Cinema Day, orchestrated by the Cinema Foundation, an affiliate of the National Association of Theater Owners (NATO), saw a resounding success as per AP. The event brought in an impressive 8.1 million moviegoers who indulged in the thrill of the silver screen for just $3 a ticket. For context, the average movie ticket in 2022 stood at $10.53. Also Read | Oppenheimer review: Nolan's visually stunning epic fuses genius and guilt The success of this year's August box office can be attributed to the enduring popularity of Barbie, starring Margot Robbie, and Oppenheimer, starring Cillian Murphy, which have caused the industry to experience a resurgence. A double feature of both movies, dubbed Barbenheimer, was promoted initially by fans who were amused by the vast differences between the tone of the two films. While Barbie was a fantasy comedy and all about pink, Oppenheimer was a serious biopic about the invention of the atomic bomb and was painted in muted colours. Also Read | Barbie review: Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling's film is smart, funny and very woke Data firm Comscore reports that the summer box office has surged to an impressive $3.8 billion in ticket sales, marking a significant 16.6 per cent increase compared to the same period in 2022. So mark your calendars for August 27, and prepare for a day of cinematic delight without breaking the bank. With more than 3,000 theatres participating, including major chains like AMC and Regal, National Cinema Day is an opportunity to catch up on the latest films at an unbeatable price. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

National Cinema Day: Watch Barbie, Oppenheimer for just $4 in the US

<p>The DC superhero film <em>Blue Beetle</em>&nbsp;led weekend ticket sales with a modest $25.4 million opening, according to studio estimates Sunday, dethroning <em>Barbie</em>&nbsp;from the top spot after a record-setting run that left movie theatres coloured pink for a month.</p>

<p>The <em>Barbie</em>&nbsp;phenomenon is far from over. Greta Gerwig’s film, which earlier this week became the highest-grossing Warner Bros. release ever domestically, nearly managed to stay No. 1 again with $21.5 million in its fifth weekend. It’s up to $567.3 million in North America and an eye-popping $1.28 billion globally.</p>

<p>The other half of “Barbenheimer” also continues to perform remarkably well for a movie so far into its run.</p>

<p>Christopher Nolan’s <em>Oppenheimer</em>&nbsp;took in $10.6 million in its fifth week. With a $285.2 million domestic total, <em>Oppenheimer</em>&nbsp;now owns the distinction of being the biggest box-office hit never to land No. 1 at the weekend box office. The previous record-holder for that unlikely stat is 2016’s <em>Sing,</em>&nbsp;which grossed $270.3 million in the shadow of <em>Rogue One: A Star Wars Story</em>&nbsp;and <em>Hidden Figures</em>.</p>

<p>Universal Pictures’ <em>Oppenheimer</em>&nbsp;has done even better overseas. Its global gross stands at an estimated $717.8 million through Sunday.</p>

<p><em>Blue Beetle</em>, starring Xolo Maridueña, came in on the lower side of expectations and notched one of the lower debuts for a DC Comics movie. Though earlier planned as a streaming-only release, Warner Bros. elected to put <em>Blue Beetle</em>, the first DC movie to star a Latino superhero, into theatres in the late summer, a typically quiet period at the box office.</p>

<p>The production price tag of about $105 million was lower for <em>Blue Beetle</em>&nbsp;than the average superhero film. It’s one of the last releases produced under an earlier regime at DC Studios, which James Gunn and Peter Safran took the reins last year.</p>

<p>The film, directed by Ángel Manuel Soto and written by Gareth Dunnet-Alcocer, drew solid reviews – certainly better than the three previous DC releases this year (<em>The Flash</em>, <em>Black Adam</em>&nbsp;and <em>Shazam! Fury of the Gods</em>). <em>Blue Beetle</em>&nbsp;(76 per cent fresh on Rotten Tomatoes) is the rare comic-book film to put a Hispanic cast front and centre.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-tom-cruise-stepping-away-from-controversial-religion-of-scientology-heres-what-we-know-627451">Tom Cruise stepping away from controversial religion of Scientology? Here's what we know</a></strong></p>

<p>But it also faced some tough luck, and not just in the unexpected staying power of <em>Barbie</em>&nbsp;and <em>Oppenheimer</em>. Southern California was bracing Sunday for Hurricane Hilary — potentially dampening ticket sales in the region. (Los Angeles was still its top market.) And like recent releases, <em>Blue Beetle</em>, which added $18 million internationally, didn’t have its cast available to promote the movie due to the ongoing actors' strike.</p>

<p>Universal’s raunchy R-rated canine comedy <em>Strays</em>&nbsp;showed even less bite. The film, with a voice cast including Will Ferrell and Jamie Foxx, landed in fifth place with $8.4 million. Comedies have generally struggled in theatres in recent years, but <em>Strays</em>&nbsp;had it particularly rough given that its starry cast was unavailable.</p>

<p><em>Strays</em>&nbsp;was very narrowly bested by <em>Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem</em>. The Paramount Pictures animated release earned $8.4 million in its third weekend, bringing its domestic total to $88.1 million.</p>

<p>Estimated ticket sales for Friday through Sunday at US and Canadian theatres, according to Comscore. Final domestic figures will be released Monday.</p>

<p>1. <em>Blue Beetle</em>, $25.4 million.</p>

<p>2. <em>Barbie</em>, $21.5 million.</p>

<p>3. <em>Oppenheimer</em>, $10.6 million.</p>

<p>4. <em>Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem</em>, $8.4 million.</p>

<p>5. <em>Strays</em>, $8.3 million.</p>

<p>6. <em>Meg 2: The Trench</em>, $6.7 million.</p>

<p>7. <em>Talk to Me</em>, $3.2 million.</p>

<p>8. <em>Haunted Mansion</em>, $3 million.</p>

<p>9. <em>Mission: Impossible — Dead Reckoning Part One</em>, $2.7 million.</p>

<p>10. <em>The Last Voyage of the Demeter</em>, $2.5 million.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


The DC superhero film Blue Beetle led weekend ticket sales with a modest $25.4 million opening, according to studio estimates Sunday, dethroning Barbie from the top spot after a record-setting run that left movie theatres coloured pink for a month.

The DC superhero film Blue Beetle led weekend ticket sales with a modest $25.4 million opening, according to studio estimates Sunday, dethroning Barbie from the top spot after a record-setting run that left movie theatres coloured pink for a month. The Barbie phenomenon is far from over. Greta Gerwig’s film, which earlier this week became the highest-grossing Warner Bros. release ever domestically, nearly managed to stay No. 1 again with $21.5 million in its fifth weekend. It’s up to $567.3 million in North America and an eye-popping $1.28 billion globally. The other half of “Barbenheimer” also continues to perform remarkably well for a movie so far into its run. Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer took in $10.6 million in its fifth week. With a $285.2 million domestic total, Oppenheimer now owns the distinction of being the biggest box-office hit never to land No. 1 at the weekend box office. The previous record-holder for that unlikely stat is 2016’s Sing, which grossed $270.3 million in the shadow of Rogue One: A Star Wars Story and Hidden Figures. Universal Pictures’ Oppenheimer has done even better overseas. Its global gross stands at an estimated $717.8 million through Sunday. Blue Beetle, starring Xolo Maridueña, came in on the lower side of expectations and notched one of the lower debuts for a DC Comics movie. Though earlier planned as a streaming-only release, Warner Bros. elected to put Blue Beetle, the first DC movie to star a Latino superhero, into theatres in the late summer, a typically quiet period at the box office. The production price tag of about $105 million was lower for Blue Beetle than the average superhero film. It’s one of the last releases produced under an earlier regime at DC Studios, which James Gunn and Peter Safran took the reins last year. The film, directed by Ángel Manuel Soto and written by Gareth Dunnet-Alcocer, drew solid reviews – certainly better than the three previous DC releases this year (The Flash, Black Adam and Shazam! Fury of the Gods). Blue Beetle (76 per cent fresh on Rotten Tomatoes) is the rare comic-book film to put a Hispanic cast front and centre. Also read: Tom Cruise stepping away from controversial religion of Scientology? Here's what we know But it also faced some tough luck, and not just in the unexpected staying power of Barbie and Oppenheimer. Southern California was bracing Sunday for Hurricane Hilary — potentially dampening ticket sales in the region. (Los Angeles was still its top market.) And like recent releases, Blue Beetle, which added $18 million internationally, didn’t have its cast available to promote the movie due to the ongoing actors' strike. Universal’s raunchy R-rated canine comedy Strays showed even less bite. The film, with a voice cast including Will Ferrell and Jamie Foxx, landed in fifth place with $8.4 million. Comedies have generally struggled in theatres in recent years, but Strays had it particularly rough given that its starry cast was unavailable. Strays was very narrowly bested by Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem. The Paramount Pictures animated release earned $8.4 million in its third weekend, bringing its domestic total to $88.1 million. Estimated ticket sales for Friday through Sunday at US and Canadian theatres, according to Comscore. Final domestic figures will be released Monday. 1. Blue Beetle, $25.4 million. 2. Barbie, $21.5 million. 3. Oppenheimer, $10.6 million. 4. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem, $8.4 million. 5. Strays, $8.3 million. 6. Meg 2: The Trench, $6.7 million. 7. Talk to Me, $3.2 million. 8. Haunted Mansion, $3 million. 9. Mission: Impossible — Dead Reckoning Part One, $2.7 million. 10. The Last Voyage of the Demeter, $2.5 million. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Blue Beetle unseats Barbie atop box office, ending four-week reign

<p>The world of cinema, much like any other realm of artistic expression, is constantly evolving. For a decade and a half, superheroes reigned supreme at the box office, drawing in massive crowds and reaping substantial profits for studios. However, in recent times, a new phenomenon has emerged that challenges the long-standing dominance of the superhero genre. With the release of <em>Barbie </em>and <em>Oppenheimer </em>in what has been dubbed the Barbenheimer double feature and the subsequent success of both movies, it has become increasingly apparent that the allure of superheroes is no longer as potent as it once was. Both DC and Marvel are at a critical juncture. While Marve Studios' foray into television has been disastrous, DC is developing a whole new universe called DCU that spans film, TV, animation, and gaming.</p>

<h2><strong>The Barbenheimer phenomenon: A glimpse of changing tides</strong></h2>

<p>In a curious turn of events last month, millions of moviegoers opted for a unique cinematic experience by embracing the Barbenheimer trend, wherein they indulged in a double feature of the films <em>Barbie </em>and <em>Oppenheimer</em>. This began as a joke, I am certain, but soon evolved into something huge. Both films were directed by auteurs who have distinctive voices, and it appears audiences had been waiting for films like that. A recent survey conducted by film tracking service The Quorum highlighted the significant impact of Barbie on revitalising theatre attendance. 11 per cent of the surveyed audience admitted to having difficulty recalling their last theatre experience prior to <em>Barbie</em>. Equally intriguing, another 11 per cent revealed that <em>Barbie </em>marked their maiden return to a theatre since the onset of the pandemic in 2020.&nbsp;</p>

<p>All this signifies a shift in audience preferences, suggesting a growing appetite for variety and depth in storytelling. No longer content with the conventional superhero formula, audiences are seeking films that resonate on a personal and emotional level, something most recent superhero films have not been able to do.</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/critically-speaking-margot-robbies-barbie-is-funny-and-clever-618237/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<h2><strong>Decoding the success of Barbie</strong></h2>

<p>Also Read:&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-barbie-review-margot-robbie-ryan-goslings-film-smart-funny-and-very-woke-618109">Barbie review: Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling's film is smart, funny and very woke</a></strong></p>

<p>Directed by the talented Greta Gerwig, Barbie offers a fresh take on a beloved toy franchise, propelling the titular character, played by Margot Robbie, on a journey of self-discovery. The character's realisation of imperfections in her previously idealised appearance triggers a transformation that resonates with viewers of all ages. With themes of empowerment, societal standards, and self-acceptance, Barbie&nbsp;strikes a chord in today's world, where discussions about body positivity and individuality are at the forefront of cultural conversations.</p>

<p>What truly sets Barbie apart is its ability to transcend the confines of a single genre. By blending elements of adventure, drama, and self-discovery, the film caters to a diverse audience, encompassing individuals who seek narratives that challenge conventions and reflect the complexities of real-life experiences. The star-studded cast, including Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling, and an ensemble of renowned actors, further adds to the film's allure, proving that the era of relying solely on superheroes for box office success is giving way to a more nuanced cinematic landscape.</p>

<p>Also Read:&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-oppenheimer-review-nolans-visually-stunning-epic-fuses-genius-and-guilt-618110">Oppenheimer review: Nolan's visually stunning epic fuses genius and guilt</a></strong></p>

<h2>The enigma of <em>Oppenheimer</em></h2>

<p>In contrast to the high-octane action and dazzling visuals commonly associated with blockbuster films, Nolan's <em>Oppenheimer </em>offers a dialogue-driven exploration of the life of J Robert Oppenheimer, played by Cillian Murphy. The film's source material, <em>American Prometheus: The Triumph and Tragedy of J. Robert Oppenheimer</em>, by Kai Bird and Martin J Sherwin, provides a rich backdrop for this historical biopic.</p>

<p>Also Read:&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-oppenheimer-india-box-office-christopher-nolan-film-achieves-a-significant-milestone-626681">Oppenheimer India box office: Christopher Nolan film achieves a significant milestone</a></strong></p>

<p>Nolan's reputation as a director who turns his movie releases into big events played a pivotal role in the film's success. He also has the ability to craft immersive visual and aural experiences on the silver screen and has garnered a loyal fan base that eagerly anticipates his every project. no matter what it is about. The fact that audiences embraced a 3-hour, dialogue-centric film attests to their growing appetite for fairly inaccessible films if they are made well and offer a grand experience. The star-studded ensemble, featuring Emily Blunt, Matt Damon, Robert Downey Jr, and more, further bolstered the film's appeal, underlining the demand for stories that transcend the traditional superhero mould.</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-mind-of-oppenheimer-father-of-atomic-bomb-who-turned-pacifist-614786/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<h2>Superhero fatigue</h2>

<p>The decline in the box office performance of recent superhero films, exemplified by the massive box office bomb that was <em>The Flash</em> (Disclaimer: I liked it), underscores a growing sentiment of superhero fatigue. Once the undisputed kings of the box office, superheroes now find themselves facing a critical juncture. The oversaturation of the genre across various media platforms, coupled with formulaic stories, has diminished the novelty and excitement that were once synonymous with superhero films. I noted the other day in my review of DC's latest <em>Blue Beetle </em>that the problem with the superhero genre is not of quantity as much it is of quality. "Too many superhero movies were made earlier too (say, around 2014), but back then, these concepts were fresh and not done to death. Now, nearly every movie is about saving the world or the universe (or even the multiverse these days)," I wrote.</p>

<p>(Incidentally, I loved Blue Beetle, but as optimistic as I am, I am well aware that barring a miracle the movie is doomed at the box office. The reason is not just superhero fatigue, but also because it was not promoted as well since actors' union in Hollywood, SAG-AFTRA, is on strike and the stars of the movie could not attend events like premieres.)&nbsp;</p>

<p>Anyway, the audiences, now more discerning than ever, are seeking something other than spandex-clad superheroes shooting waves of crackling light or some such bad guys. The success of <em>Barbie </em>and <em>Oppenheimer </em>highlights a collective desire for stories that challenge conventions. The superhero genre, while still relevant and beloved, must evolve to meet these changing demands.</p>

<h2>A paradigm shift in cinema</h2>

<p>As <em>Barbie </em>and <em>Oppenheimer </em>rake in impressive box office earnings, the cinematic landscape is undergoing a profound, and frankly much-needed, transformation. I grew up on a steady diet of DC and Marvel and I love superhero movies. For me, a well-made flick on Batman or Spider-Man is like reliving the best of my childhood. But the era of superhero dominance may be waning, replaced by a thirst for films that are fresher, more thought-provoking, more emotionally resonant, and more artistically daring. The Barbenheimer phenomenon is not merely a double feature; it's a manifestation of evolving audience preferences.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


The world of cinema, much like any other realm of artistic expression, is constantly evolving. For a decade and a half, superheroes reigned supreme at the box office, drawing in massive crowds and reaping substantial profits for studios.

The world of cinema, much like any other realm of artistic expression, is constantly evolving. For a decade and a half, superheroes reigned supreme at the box office, drawing in massive crowds and reaping substantial profits for studios. However, in recent times, a new phenomenon has emerged that challenges the long-standing dominance of the superhero genre. With the release of Barbie and Oppenheimer in what has been dubbed the Barbenheimer double feature and the subsequent success of both movies, it has become increasingly apparent that the allure of superheroes is no longer as potent as it once was. Both DC and Marvel are at a critical juncture. While Marve Studios' foray into television has been disastrous, DC is developing a whole new universe called DCU that spans film, TV, animation, and gaming. The Barbenheimer phenomenon: A glimpse of changing tides In a curious turn of events last month, millions of moviegoers opted for a unique cinematic experience by embracing the Barbenheimer trend, wherein they indulged in a double feature of the films Barbie and Oppenheimer. This began as a joke, I am certain, but soon evolved into something huge. Both films were directed by auteurs who have distinctive voices, and it appears audiences had been waiting for films like that. A recent survey conducted by film tracking service The Quorum highlighted the significant impact of Barbie on revitalising theatre attendance. 11 per cent of the surveyed audience admitted to having difficulty recalling their last theatre experience prior to Barbie. Equally intriguing, another 11 per cent revealed that Barbie marked their maiden return to a theatre since the onset of the pandemic in 2020. All this signifies a shift in audience preferences, suggesting a growing appetite for variety and depth in storytelling. No longer content with the conventional superhero formula, audiences are seeking films that resonate on a personal and emotional level, something most recent superhero films have not been able to do. Decoding the success of Barbie Also Read: Barbie review: Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling's film is smart, funny and very woke Directed by the talented Greta Gerwig, Barbie offers a fresh take on a beloved toy franchise, propelling the titular character, played by Margot Robbie, on a journey of self-discovery. The character's realisation of imperfections in her previously idealised appearance triggers a transformation that resonates with viewers of all ages. With themes of empowerment, societal standards, and self-acceptance, Barbie strikes a chord in today's world, where discussions about body positivity and individuality are at the forefront of cultural conversations. What truly sets Barbie apart is its ability to transcend the confines of a single genre. By blending elements of adventure, drama, and self-discovery, the film caters to a diverse audience, encompassing individuals who seek narratives that challenge conventions and reflect the complexities of real-life experiences. The star-studded cast, including Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling, and an ensemble of renowned actors, further adds to the film's allure, proving that the era of relying solely on superheroes for box office success is giving way to a more nuanced cinematic landscape. Also Read: Oppenheimer review: Nolan's visually stunning epic fuses genius and guilt The enigma of Oppenheimer In contrast to the high-octane action and dazzling visuals commonly associated with blockbuster films, Nolan's Oppenheimer offers a dialogue-driven exploration of the life of J Robert Oppenheimer, played by Cillian Murphy. The film's source material, American Prometheus: The Triumph and Tragedy of J. Robert Oppenheimer, by Kai Bird and Martin J Sherwin, provides a rich backdrop for this historical biopic. Also Read: Oppenheimer India box office: Christopher Nolan film achieves a significant milestone Nolan's reputation as a director who turns his movie releases into big events played a pivotal role in the film's success. He also has the ability to craft immersive visual and aural experiences on the silver screen and has garnered a loyal fan base that eagerly anticipates his every project. no matter what it is about. The fact that audiences embraced a 3-hour, dialogue-centric film attests to their growing appetite for fairly inaccessible films if they are made well and offer a grand experience. The star-studded ensemble, featuring Emily Blunt, Matt Damon, Robert Downey Jr, and more, further bolstered the film's appeal, underlining the demand for stories that transcend the traditional superhero mould. Superhero fatigue The decline in the box office performance of recent superhero films, exemplified by the massive box office bomb that was The Flash (Disclaimer: I liked it), underscores a growing sentiment of superhero fatigue. Once the undisputed kings of the box office, superheroes now find themselves facing a critical juncture. The oversaturation of the genre across various media platforms, coupled with formulaic stories, has diminished the novelty and excitement that were once synonymous with superhero films. I noted the other day in my review of DC's latest Blue Beetle that the problem with the superhero genre is not of quantity as much it is of quality. "Too many superhero movies were made earlier too (say, around 2014), but back then, these concepts were fresh and not done to death. Now, nearly every movie is about saving the world or the universe (or even the multiverse these days)," I wrote. (Incidentally, I loved Blue Beetle, but as optimistic as I am, I am well aware that barring a miracle the movie is doomed at the box office. The reason is not just superhero fatigue, but also because it was not promoted as well since actors' union in Hollywood, SAG-AFTRA, is on strike and the stars of the movie could not attend events like premieres.) Anyway, the audiences, now more discerning than ever, are seeking something other than spandex-clad superheroes shooting waves of crackling light or some such bad guys. The success of Barbie and Oppenheimer highlights a collective desire for stories that challenge conventions. The superhero genre, while still relevant and beloved, must evolve to meet these changing demands. A paradigm shift in cinema As Barbie and Oppenheimer rake in impressive box office earnings, the cinematic landscape is undergoing a profound, and frankly much-needed, transformation. I grew up on a steady diet of DC and Marvel and I love superhero movies. For me, a well-made flick on Batman or Spider-Man is like reliving the best of my childhood. But the era of superhero dominance may be waning, replaced by a thirst for films that are fresher, more thought-provoking, more emotionally resonant, and more artistically daring. The Barbenheimer phenomenon is not merely a double feature; it's a manifestation of evolving audience preferences. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained | Does Barbenheimer's success signal the decline of superhero cinema?

There's a new disturbing beauty trend that has gone viral on TikTok. It's called 'Barbie Botox.' The procedure involves injecting Botox into neck and shoulders to give it a Barbie doll-like appearance. Molly Gambhir brings you a report.

Gravitas: 'Barbie Botox' is TikTok’s latest trend | Shocking 'paracetamol challenge' in UK

<p>A recent survey conducted by film tracking service The Quorum has highlighted the significant impact of the Margot Robbie-starrer movie <em>Barbie </em>on revitalising theatre attendance, as per Variety. The survey, which encompassed 1,800 ticket buyers of <em>Barbie </em>across the United States over the past three weeks, revealed intriguing insights into the post-pandemic cinema landscape. Remarkably, 11 per cent of the surveyed audience admitted to having difficulty recalling their last theatre experience prior to "Barbie." Equally intriguing, another 11 per cent revealed that Barbie marked their maiden return to a theatre since the onset of the pandemic in 2020. Consequently, these findings indicate that nearly a quarter of the respondents — 22 per cent to be precise — likely bypassed notable post-pandemic blockbuster releases like <em>Avatar: The Way of Water </em>and<em> Top Gun: Maverick</em>. Instead, they were swayed by the remarkable buzz and pervasive marketing campaign surrounding the <em>Barbie&nbsp;</em>phenomenon.</p>

<p>The Quorum, an organisation renowned for gauging the anticipation of upcoming films among potential moviegoers, extrapolated that this 22 per cent translated to approximately 9 million individuals who graced multiplexes solely for the experience of <em>Barbie</em>.</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/critically-speaking-margot-robbies-barbie-is-funny-and-clever-618237/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>In a similar vein, a robust 46 per cent of the participants expressed a habit of frequenting theatres "all the time," while 32 per cent adopted a more intermittent approach, going "every now and again."</p>

<p>Also Read:&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-explained--how-margot-robbies-barbie-rewrote-the-box-office-rulebook-623450">Explained | Barbie crossed $1bn. Why it's not just another box office number</a></strong></p>

<p>The survey also underscored that the <em>Barbie </em>experience rekindled viewers' fondness for the cinematic outing. Among those surveyed, a notable 40 per cent admitted that the encounter rekindled their passion for the cinematic experience, driving them to consider more regular visits to theatres. However, a substantial 45 per cent indicated that they desired to visit theatres more often but were hindered by financial constraints. This particular cohort contended that only a movie as captivating as Barbie would motivate them to return to cinemas.</p>

<p>Also Read:&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-opinion--is-barbie-really-an-anti-male-movie-622580">Opinion | Is Barbie really an anti-male movie?</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>What is Barbie all about?</strong></h2>

<p><em>Barbie </em>follows the main character, Barbie, as she, along with her companion Ken and owner Sasha, embarks on a journey of self-discovery in the real world. Barbie's decision is triggered by recognising imperfections in her previously flawless appearance. As they navigate through real-world challenges, including societal beauty standards, their experiences lead to a transformative impact on Barbieland's social structure.</p>

<h2><strong><em>Barbie&nbsp;</em>review</strong></h2>

<p>Also Read:&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-barbie-review-margot-robbie-ryan-goslings-film-smart-funny-and-very-woke-618109">Barbie review: Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling's film smart, funny and very woke</a></strong></p>

<p>WION's Shomini Sen wrote in her review of&nbsp;<em>Barbie</em>, "I would still say that the film very smartly shows how society is and humanises the iconic doll. For decades Barbie<em>&nbsp;</em>has been one of the most popular toys for young girls, setting unrealistic standards of beauty. Sure, Mattel has reinvented the doll and made every girl believe that they can be whatever they want to be - just like their favourite doll, but the narrative of everything being overtly perfect has also done damage to several. Greta, in that sense, spins the narrative and adds a layer of cynicism to Barbieland to show how things are in real. Flawed, depressed, and definitely not perfect- even though the plastic remains constant."</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


A recent survey conducted by film tracking service The Quorum has highlighted the significant impact of the Margot Robbie-starrer movie Barbie on revitalising theatre attendance, as per Variety.

A recent survey conducted by film tracking service The Quorum has highlighted the significant impact of the Margot Robbie-starrer movie Barbie on revitalising theatre attendance, as per Variety. The survey, which encompassed 1,800 ticket buyers of Barbie across the United States over the past three weeks, revealed intriguing insights into the post-pandemic cinema landscape. Remarkably, 11 per cent of the surveyed audience admitted to having difficulty recalling their last theatre experience prior to "Barbie." Equally intriguing, another 11 per cent revealed that Barbie marked their maiden return to a theatre since the onset of the pandemic in 2020. Consequently, these findings indicate that nearly a quarter of the respondents — 22 per cent to be precise — likely bypassed notable post-pandemic blockbuster releases like Avatar: The Way of Water and Top Gun: Maverick. Instead, they were swayed by the remarkable buzz and pervasive marketing campaign surrounding the Barbie phenomenon. The Quorum, an organisation renowned for gauging the anticipation of upcoming films among potential moviegoers, extrapolated that this 22 per cent translated to approximately 9 million individuals who graced multiplexes solely for the experience of Barbie. In a similar vein, a robust 46 per cent of the participants expressed a habit of frequenting theatres "all the time," while 32 per cent adopted a more intermittent approach, going "every now and again." Also Read: Explained | Barbie crossed $1bn. Why it's not just another box office number The survey also underscored that the Barbie experience rekindled viewers' fondness for the cinematic outing. Among those surveyed, a notable 40 per cent admitted that the encounter rekindled their passion for the cinematic experience, driving them to consider more regular visits to theatres. However, a substantial 45 per cent indicated that they desired to visit theatres more often but were hindered by financial constraints. This particular cohort contended that only a movie as captivating as Barbie would motivate them to return to cinemas. Also Read: Opinion | Is Barbie really an anti-male movie? What is Barbie all about? Barbie follows the main character, Barbie, as she, along with her companion Ken and owner Sasha, embarks on a journey of self-discovery in the real world. Barbie's decision is triggered by recognising imperfections in her previously flawless appearance. As they navigate through real-world challenges, including societal beauty standards, their experiences lead to a transformative impact on Barbieland's social structure. Barbie review Also Read: Barbie review: Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling's film smart, funny and very woke WION's Shomini Sen wrote in her review of Barbie, "I would still say that the film very smartly shows how society is and humanises the iconic doll. For decades Barbie has been one of the most popular toys for young girls, setting unrealistic standards of beauty. Sure, Mattel has reinvented the doll and made every girl believe that they can be whatever they want to be - just like their favourite doll, but the narrative of everything being overtly perfect has also done damage to several. Greta, in that sense, spins the narrative and adds a layer of cynicism to Barbieland to show how things are in real. Flawed, depressed, and definitely not perfect- even though the plastic remains constant." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Barbie brought back millions of first-time post-pandemic theatregoers: Survey

From an exclusive interaction with Indian actor Yami Gautam to Greta Gerwig's 'Barbie' facing roadblocks in many parts of the world. This week's episode of E-Club has all the entertainment news for you. Catch our latest show.

The growing list of countries banning the "Barbie" movie

Greta Gerwig's Barbie has not just shattered many records but has given rise to a dizzying number of beauty and health trends.

Barbie Botox: Latest cosmetic trend in town

<p>Ever since it released, Greta Gerwig's fantasy comedy, <em>Barbie</em>, has surged past industry milestones. First, this Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling starrer&nbsp;became the highest-grossing movie of all time directed by a solo female director. Then it became the first $1 billion dollar film by a female director. Now, it has become Warner Bros' biggest film in the domestic market (United States), beating out Christopher Nolan's 2008 superhero film The Dark Knight. The Barbenheimer rivalry, it appears, continues. At the time of writing, <em>Barbie'</em>s domestic box office haul is $537.5 million, surpassing The Dark Knight's $536 million. As the film approaches its fourth weekend, the ascent of Barbie at the box office is showing no signs of slowing down.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read:&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-explained--how-margot-robbies-barbie-rewrote-the-box-office-rulebook-623450">Explained | Barbie crossed $1bn. Why it's not just another box office number</a></strong></p>

<p>Projections indicate that in the imminent days ahead, the film is set to surpass the animated marvel <em>The Super Mario Bros. Movie</em>&nbsp;by Universal, which has amassed $574 million, as the leading domestic release of 2023.&nbsp;And with a global box office haul recently crossing the $1.2 billion mark, <em>Barbie </em>now has its sights set on dethroning <em>The Super Mario Bros. Movie</em>&nbsp;($1.35 billion) as the year's highest-grossing worldwide release.</p>

<p>Also Read:&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-_5-years-of-the-dark-knight-a-cinematic-masterpiece-that-redefined-superhero-genre-615457">15 years of The Dark Knight: A cinematic masterpiece that redefined superhero genre</a></strong></p>

<p>The film also stars Ryan Gosling, America Ferrera, Kate McKinnon, Helen Mirren, Issa Rae, Simu Liu, Michael Cera, Rhea Perlman, and Will Ferrell.</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/critically-speaking-margot-robbies-barbie-is-funny-and-clever-618237/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<h2><strong>What is <em>Barbie </em>all about?</strong></h2>

<p><em>Barbie </em>explores the journey of its central character, <em>Barbie</em>, who, accompanied by her partner Ken and owner Sasha, embarks on a voyage of self-discovery in the tangible world. Barbie's pivotal choice is catalysed by her realisation of imperfections within her once immaculate appearance. As they navigate the complexities of the real world, including societal ideals of beauty, their encounters culminate in a transformative impact on the societal structure within Barbieland.</p>

<p>Also Read: <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-barbie-review-margot-robbie-ryan-goslings-film-smart-funny-and-very-woke-618109">Barbie review: Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling's film smart, funny and very woke</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>B<em>a</em>rbie review</strong></h2>

<p>WION's Shomini Sen wrote in her review of <em>Barbie</em>, "I would still say that the film very smartly shows how society is and humanises the iconic doll. For decades Barbie has been one of the most popular toys for young girls, setting unrealistic standards of beauty. Sure, Mattel has reinvented the doll and made every girl believe that they can be whatever they want to be - just like their favourite doll, but the narrative of everything being overtly perfect has also done damage to several. Greta, in that sense, spins the narrative and adds a layer of cynicism to Barbieland to show how things are in real. Flawed, depressed, and definitely not perfect- even though the plastic remains constant."</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Ever since it released, Greta Gerwig's fantasy comedy, Barbie, has surged past industry milestones. First, this Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling starrer became the highest-grossing movie of all time directed by a solo female director.

Ever since it released, Greta Gerwig's fantasy comedy, Barbie, has surged past industry milestones. First, this Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling starrer became the highest-grossing movie of all time directed by a solo female director. Then it became the first $1 billion dollar film by a female director. Now, it has become Warner Bros' biggest film in the domestic market (United States), beating out Christopher Nolan's 2008 superhero film The Dark Knight. The Barbenheimer rivalry, it appears, continues. At the time of writing, Barbie's domestic box office haul is $537.5 million, surpassing The Dark Knight's $536 million. As the film approaches its fourth weekend, the ascent of Barbie at the box office is showing no signs of slowing down. Also Read: Explained | Barbie crossed $1bn. Why it's not just another box office number Projections indicate that in the imminent days ahead, the film is set to surpass the animated marvel The Super Mario Bros. Movie by Universal, which has amassed $574 million, as the leading domestic release of 2023. And with a global box office haul recently crossing the $1.2 billion mark, Barbie now has its sights set on dethroning The Super Mario Bros. Movie ($1.35 billion) as the year's highest-grossing worldwide release. Also Read: 15 years of The Dark Knight: A cinematic masterpiece that redefined superhero genre The film also stars Ryan Gosling, America Ferrera, Kate McKinnon, Helen Mirren, Issa Rae, Simu Liu, Michael Cera, Rhea Perlman, and Will Ferrell. What is Barbie all about? Barbie explores the journey of its central character, Barbie, who, accompanied by her partner Ken and owner Sasha, embarks on a voyage of self-discovery in the tangible world. Barbie's pivotal choice is catalysed by her realisation of imperfections within her once immaculate appearance. As they navigate the complexities of the real world, including societal ideals of beauty, their encounters culminate in a transformative impact on the societal structure within Barbieland. Also Read: Barbie review: Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling's film smart, funny and very woke Barbie review WION's Shomini Sen wrote in her review of Barbie, "I would still say that the film very smartly shows how society is and humanises the iconic doll. For decades Barbie has been one of the most popular toys for young girls, setting unrealistic standards of beauty. Sure, Mattel has reinvented the doll and made every girl believe that they can be whatever they want to be - just like their favourite doll, but the narrative of everything being overtly perfect has also done damage to several. Greta, in that sense, spins the narrative and adds a layer of cynicism to Barbieland to show how things are in real. Flawed, depressed, and definitely not perfect- even though the plastic remains constant." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Barbie beats The Dark Knight to become Warner Bros' top domestic hit

<p>Algeria has become the latest film to withdraw Warner Bros' worldwide blockbuster film <em>Barbie </em>from its cinemas. Earlier, many other Arab countries had taken similar actions. The Algerian government cites the violation of morals as the reason for the withdrawal. The decision has sparked debates over artistic freedom, societal norms, and the portrayal of sensitive subjects in cinematic narratives. Directed by Greta Gerwig and starring Margot Robbie, <em>Barbie </em>has raked in over $1.2 billion in global revenues. It was release in Algeria on July 19 to much anticipation. However, the film was abruptly removed from cinema schedules on Sunday, leaving audiences and industry insiders puzzled about the reasons behind the decision.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read:&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-explained--how-margot-robbies-barbie-rewrote-the-box-office-rulebook-623450">Explained | Barbie crossed $1bn. Why it's not just another box office number</a></strong></p>

<p>The film also stars Ryan Gosling, America Ferrera, Kate McKinnon, Helen Mirren, Issa Rae, Simu Liu, Michael Cera, Rhea Perlman, and Will Ferrell.</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/critically-speaking-margot-robbies-barbie-is-funny-and-clever-618237/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<h2><strong>Algeria's decision and wider Arab response</strong></h2>

<p>This development follows similar actions taken by neighboring countries. Kuwait recently banned the film over concerns about "public ethics," while Lebanon's culture minister expressed his intention to seek a ban on the film as well.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read:&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-opinion--is-barbie-really-an-anti-male-movie-622580">Opinion | Is Barbie really an anti-male movie?</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>What is <em>Barbie </em>all about?</strong></h2>

<p><em>Barbie </em>follows the main character, Barbie, as she, along with her companion Ken and owner Sasha, embarks on a journey of self-discovery in the real world. Barbie's decision is triggered by recognising imperfections in her previously flawless appearance. As they navigate through real-world challenges, including societal beauty standards, their experiences lead to a transformative impact on Barbieland's social structure.</p>

<h2><strong><em>Barbie </em>review</strong></h2>

<p>Also Read: <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-barbie-review-margot-robbie-ryan-goslings-film-smart-funny-and-very-woke-618109">Barbie review: Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling's film smart, funny and very woke</a></strong></p>

<p>WION's Shomini Sen wrote in her review of <em>Barbie</em>, "I would still say that the film very smartly shows how society is and humanises the iconic doll. For decades Barbie has been one of the most popular toys for young girls, setting unrealistic standards of beauty. Sure, Mattel has reinvented the doll and made every girl believe that they can be whatever they want to be - just like their favourite doll, but the narrative of everything being overtly perfect has also done damage to several. Greta, in that sense, spins the narrative and adds a layer of cynicism to Barbieland to show how things are in real. Flawed, depressed, and definitely not perfect- even though the plastic remains constant."</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Algeria has become the latest film to withdraw Warner Bros' worldwide blockbuster film Barbie from its cinemas. Earlier, many other Arab countries had taken similar actions.

Algeria has become the latest film to withdraw Warner Bros' worldwide blockbuster film Barbie from its cinemas. Earlier, many other Arab countries had taken similar actions. The Algerian government cites the violation of morals as the reason for the withdrawal. The decision has sparked debates over artistic freedom, societal norms, and the portrayal of sensitive subjects in cinematic narratives. Directed by Greta Gerwig and starring Margot Robbie, Barbie has raked in over $1.2 billion in global revenues. It was release in Algeria on July 19 to much anticipation. However, the film was abruptly removed from cinema schedules on Sunday, leaving audiences and industry insiders puzzled about the reasons behind the decision. Also Read: Explained | Barbie crossed $1bn. Why it's not just another box office number The film also stars Ryan Gosling, America Ferrera, Kate McKinnon, Helen Mirren, Issa Rae, Simu Liu, Michael Cera, Rhea Perlman, and Will Ferrell. Algeria's decision and wider Arab response This development follows similar actions taken by neighboring countries. Kuwait recently banned the film over concerns about "public ethics," while Lebanon's culture minister expressed his intention to seek a ban on the film as well. Also Read: Opinion | Is Barbie really an anti-male movie? What is Barbie all about? Barbie follows the main character, Barbie, as she, along with her companion Ken and owner Sasha, embarks on a journey of self-discovery in the real world. Barbie's decision is triggered by recognising imperfections in her previously flawless appearance. As they navigate through real-world challenges, including societal beauty standards, their experiences lead to a transformative impact on Barbieland's social structure. Barbie review Also Read: Barbie review: Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling's film smart, funny and very woke WION's Shomini Sen wrote in her review of Barbie, "I would still say that the film very smartly shows how society is and humanises the iconic doll. For decades Barbie has been one of the most popular toys for young girls, setting unrealistic standards of beauty. Sure, Mattel has reinvented the doll and made every girl believe that they can be whatever they want to be - just like their favourite doll, but the narrative of everything being overtly perfect has also done damage to several. Greta, in that sense, spins the narrative and adds a layer of cynicism to Barbieland to show how things are in real. Flawed, depressed, and definitely not perfect- even though the plastic remains constant." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Algeria joins Arab countries in pulling Barbie from cinemas over 'violating morals'

<p>Margot Robbie's involvement Greta Gerwig's <em>Barbie </em>has yielded very substantial monetary rewards for her. As per Variety, as both the star and producer of the film, she stands to earn approximately $50 million, including salary and box office bonuses.</p>

<p>Directed and co-written by Gerwig, the movie has achieved unprecedented success, generating a staggering $1.18 billion in global box office earnings within a month of its release. The film's earnings comprise a domestic box office collection of $526.3 million and an international take of $657.6 million.</p>

<p>This places <em>Barbie </em>as Warner Bros' second highest-grossing release of all time, trailing only <em>Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2</em>.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read:&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-explained--how-margot-robbies-barbie-rewrote-the-box-office-rulebook-623450">Explained | Barbie crossed $1bn. Why it's not just another box office number</a></strong></p>

<p>The film is already the highest-grossing production ever directed by a woman, surpassing the record previously held by <em>Frozen II</em>, co-directed by Jennifer Lee, and also the first movie by a solo female director to cross $1 billion.</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/critically-speaking-margot-robbies-barbie-is-funny-and-clever-618237/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Margot Robbie, known for her performances in films like <em>The Wolf of Wall Street, Suicide Squad,</em> and<em> Once Upon a Time in Hollywood</em>, co-produced <em>Barbie&nbsp;</em>through her production company, LuckyChap Entertainment. The company, founded in 2014 alongside her husband Tom Ackerley and colleagues Josey McNamara and Sophia Kerr, aims to spotlight women's narratives on screen and provide support to female creators behind the scenes.</p>

<p>Also Read:&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-opinion--is-barbie-really-an-anti-male-movie-622580">Opinion | Is Barbie really an anti-male movie?</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>What is <em>Barbie </em>all about?</strong></h2>

<p><em>Barbie </em>follows the main character, Barbie, as she, along with her companion Ken and owner Sasha, embarks on a journey of self-discovery in the real world. Barbie's decision is triggered by recognising imperfections in her previously flawless appearance. As they navigate through real-world challenges, including societal beauty standards, their experiences lead to a transformative impact on Barbieland's social structure.</p>

<h2><strong><em>Barbie </em>review</strong></h2>

<p>Also Read:&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-barbie-review-margot-robbie-ryan-goslings-film-smart-funny-and-very-woke-618109">Barbie review: Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling's film smart, funny and very woke</a></strong></p>

<p>WION's Shomini Sen wrote in her review of <em>Barbie</em>, "I would still say that the film very smartly shows how society is and humanises the iconic doll. For decades Barbie has been one of the most popular toys for young girls, setting unrealistic standards of beauty. Sure, Mattel has reinvented the doll and made every girl believe that they can be whatever they want to be - just like their favourite doll, but the narrative of everything being overtly perfect has also done damage to several. Greta, in that sense, spins the narrative and adds a layer of cynicism to Barbieland to show how things are in real. Flawed, depressed, and definitely not perfect- even though the plastic remains constant."</p>


Margot Robbie's involvement Greta Gerwig's Barbie has yielded very substantial monetary rewards for her. As per Variety, as both the star and producer of the film, she stands to earn approximately $50 million, including salary and box office bonuses.

Margot Robbie's involvement Greta Gerwig's Barbie has yielded very substantial monetary rewards for her. As per Variety, as both the star and producer of the film, she stands to earn approximately $50 million, including salary and box office bonuses. Directed and co-written by Gerwig, the movie has achieved unprecedented success, generating a staggering $1.18 billion in global box office earnings within a month of its release. The film's earnings comprise a domestic box office collection of $526.3 million and an international take of $657.6 million. This places Barbie as Warner Bros' second highest-grossing release of all time, trailing only Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2. Also Read: Explained | Barbie crossed $1bn. Why it's not just another box office number The film is already the highest-grossing production ever directed by a woman, surpassing the record previously held by Frozen II, co-directed by Jennifer Lee, and also the first movie by a solo female director to cross $1 billion. Margot Robbie, known for her performances in films like The Wolf of Wall Street, Suicide Squad, and Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, co-produced Barbie through her production company, LuckyChap Entertainment. The company, founded in 2014 alongside her husband Tom Ackerley and colleagues Josey McNamara and Sophia Kerr, aims to spotlight women's narratives on screen and provide support to female creators behind the scenes. Also Read: Opinion | Is Barbie really an anti-male movie? What is Barbie all about? Barbie follows the main character, Barbie, as she, along with her companion Ken and owner Sasha, embarks on a journey of self-discovery in the real world. Barbie's decision is triggered by recognising imperfections in her previously flawless appearance. As they navigate through real-world challenges, including societal beauty standards, their experiences lead to a transformative impact on Barbieland's social structure. Barbie review Also Read: Barbie review: Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling's film smart, funny and very woke WION's Shomini Sen wrote in her review of Barbie, "I would still say that the film very smartly shows how society is and humanises the iconic doll. For decades Barbie has been one of the most popular toys for young girls, setting unrealistic standards of beauty. Sure, Mattel has reinvented the doll and made every girl believe that they can be whatever they want to be - just like their favourite doll, but the narrative of everything being overtly perfect has also done damage to several. Greta, in that sense, spins the narrative and adds a layer of cynicism to Barbieland to show how things are in real. Flawed, depressed, and definitely not perfect- even though the plastic remains constant."

Margot Robbie's bank account gets massive $50mn makeover thanks to Barbie's success

<p>Warner Bros.' hit Barbie&nbsp;dominated North American box offices for a fourth consecutive week, industry estimates showed Sunday, as director Greta Gerwig continues to bust industry records.</p>

<p>Gerwig, who with<em> Barbie&nbsp;</em>had already become the first solo woman director to rake in more than $1 billion at the global box office, this week became the highest-grossing woman director of all time in the domestic market, according to The Hollywood Reporter.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-outlander-showrunner-responds-to-criticism-over-jamie-and-claire-having-less-screen-time-in-new-season-625258">Outlander showrunner responds to criticism over Jamie and Claire having less screen time in new season</a></p>

<p>Industry watcher Exhibitor Relations estimated this weekend's haul for<em> Barbie</em>&nbsp;at $33.7 million, bringing its domestic total to $526 million.</p>

<p>Gerwig is currently vying against Jennifer Lee, who co-directed the animated sequel to Disney's<em> Frozen&nbsp;</em>with Chris Buck, to be the highest-grossing woman director of all time at the global box office.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-barbie-review-margot-robbie-ryan-goslings-film-smart-funny-and-very-woke-618109">Barbie review: Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling's film is smart, funny and very woke</a></p>

<p>Starring Margot Robbie as the iconic doll and Ryan Gosling as boyfriend Ken, "Barbie" has earned a whopping $1.2 billion worldwide.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lionel-richie-slammed-for-cancelling-concert-one-hour-after-its-scheduled-time-625214">Lionel Richie slammed for cancelling concert one hour after its scheduled time</a></p>

<p>Universal's <em>Oppenheimer,</em>&nbsp;a historical drama about the development of the atomic bomb, regained its second-place position, with the other half of the <em>Barbenheimer&nbsp;</em>phenomenon taking in an estimated $18.8 million over the weekend.</p>

<p>Last week <em>Oppenheimer</em>&nbsp;had been beaten by the Warner Bros. monster flick <em>Meg 2: The Trench</em>,&nbsp;which fell to fourth this week with an estimated $12.7 million.</p>

<p>The success of <em>Barbie&nbsp;</em>and <em>Oppenheimer&nbsp;</em>has come amid a backdrop of turmoil in Hollywood, as a historic double strike by writers and actors has brought productions to a halt.</p>

<p>Both unions are renegotiating their collective contracts with studios to demand better pay, guarantees to limit the use of artificial intelligence and other working conditions.</p>

<p>While on strike, union rules prohibit actors from promoting their films, imperilling the marketing events for upcoming releases as talks show no end in sight.</p>

<p>Third place this weekend went to Paramount's animated <em>Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem</em>,&nbsp;up one spot from the week before with $15.8 million.</p>

<p>In its debut weekend, Universal's vampire film<em> The Last Voyage of the Demeter</em>&nbsp;took a frighteningly distant fifth place, at just $6.5 million.</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/critically-speaking-margot-robbies-barbie-is-funny-and-clever-618237/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Based on Bram Stoker's classic <em>Dracula,</em>&nbsp;the period film takes place on a doomed ship transporting the blood-sucker from his Eastern Europe home to England.</p>

<p>"This is a weak opening for a horror film based on a chapter of the legendary Dracula story," said analyst David A. Gross.</p>

<p>With poor reviews and an estimated budget of $45 million, the film is a "difficult sell under any conditions," he added.</p>

<p>Rounding out the top 10 were:</p>

<p><em>Haunted Mansion </em>($5.6 million)</p>

<p><em>Talk to Me</em>&nbsp;($5.1 million)</p>

<p><em>Sound of Freedom</em>&nbsp;($4.8 million)</p>

<p><em>Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part One</em>&nbsp;($4.7 million)</p>

<p><em>Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny&nbsp;</em>($900,000)</p>

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Warner Bros.' hit Barbie dominated North American box offices for a fourth consecutive week, industry estimates showed Sunday, as director Greta Gerwig continues to bust industry records.

Warner Bros.' hit Barbie dominated North American box offices for a fourth consecutive week, industry estimates showed Sunday, as director Greta Gerwig continues to bust industry records. Gerwig, who with Barbie had already become the first solo woman director to rake in more than $1 billion at the global box office, this week became the highest-grossing woman director of all time in the domestic market, according to The Hollywood Reporter. Also read: Outlander showrunner responds to criticism over Jamie and Claire having less screen time in new season Industry watcher Exhibitor Relations estimated this weekend's haul for Barbie at $33.7 million, bringing its domestic total to $526 million. Gerwig is currently vying against Jennifer Lee, who co-directed the animated sequel to Disney's Frozen with Chris Buck, to be the highest-grossing woman director of all time at the global box office. Barbie review: Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling's film is smart, funny and very woke Starring Margot Robbie as the iconic doll and Ryan Gosling as boyfriend Ken, "Barbie" has earned a whopping $1.2 billion worldwide. Also read: Lionel Richie slammed for cancelling concert one hour after its scheduled time Universal's Oppenheimer, a historical drama about the development of the atomic bomb, regained its second-place position, with the other half of the Barbenheimer phenomenon taking in an estimated $18.8 million over the weekend. Last week Oppenheimer had been beaten by the Warner Bros. monster flick Meg 2: The Trench, which fell to fourth this week with an estimated $12.7 million. The success of Barbie and Oppenheimer has come amid a backdrop of turmoil in Hollywood, as a historic double strike by writers and actors has brought productions to a halt. Both unions are renegotiating their collective contracts with studios to demand better pay, guarantees to limit the use of artificial intelligence and other working conditions. While on strike, union rules prohibit actors from promoting their films, imperilling the marketing events for upcoming releases as talks show no end in sight. Third place this weekend went to Paramount's animated Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem, up one spot from the week before with $15.8 million. In its debut weekend, Universal's vampire film The Last Voyage of the Demeter took a frighteningly distant fifth place, at just $6.5 million. Based on Bram Stoker's classic Dracula, the period film takes place on a doomed ship transporting the blood-sucker from his Eastern Europe home to England. "This is a weak opening for a horror film based on a chapter of the legendary Dracula story," said analyst David A. Gross. With poor reviews and an estimated budget of $45 million, the film is a "difficult sell under any conditions," he added. Rounding out the top 10 were: Haunted Mansion ($5.6 million) Talk to Me ($5.1 million) Sound of Freedom ($4.8 million) Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part One ($4.7 million) Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny ($900,000) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Barbie retains top spot at North American box office for fourth week

Hollywood blockbuster "Barbie" opened in theaters on Friday in Japan, but not before "Barbenheimer" memes equating the movie about dolls with the atomic bomb generated a commotion and prompted distributor Warner Bros to issue an apology.

Greta Gerwig's billionaire 'Barbie' opens in Japan

<p>Greta Gerwig's <em>Barbie </em>continues to break box office records and set new ones even in its fourth week in theatres. Now, thanks to the movie, Gerwig has solidified her place as the highest-grossing female director of all time at the domestic (North American) box office, surpassing the previous record set by Jennifer Lee and Chris Buck, the directors of <em>Frozen II</em>. <em>Frozen II</em>, released by Walt Disney Animation Studios in 2019, had amassed a domestic box office gross of $477.4 million. However, Gerwig's <em>Barbie </em>has surged ahead, reaching a domestic box office total of $478.1 million by Tuesday and soaring to an impressive $492.6 million by Thursday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As of Friday, it has joined the exclusive club of films that have exceeded $500 million in domestic earnings. Earlier, the film became the first female-directed film to cross the $1 billion mark. It has grossed $1.06 billion until now.</p>

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<h2><strong>What is <em>Barbie </em>all about?</strong></h2>

<p>The focal point of <em>Barbie </em>is the main character, the eponymous doll Barbie (or more precisely, the Stereotypical Barbie), who sets out on a journey of self-discovery in the actual world. This choice arises once she recognises slight imperfections in her once impeccable body and life. With her partner Ken by her side, they traverse through reality, encountering obstacles linked to traditional beauty standards and societal expectations. Alongside Barbie, Ken, and their owner, Sasha, tackle their uncertainties and the pressures imposed by society. This journey prompts a significant shift in the social framework of Barbieland.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong><em>Barbie </em>review</strong></h2>

<p>Also Read: <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-barbie-review-margot-robbie-ryan-goslings-film-smart-funny-and-very-woke-618109">Barbie review: Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling's film smart, funny and very woke</a></strong></p>

<p>WION's Shomini Sen wrote in her review of <em>Barbie</em>, "I would still say that the film very smartly shows how society is and humanises the iconic doll. For decades Barbie<em> </em>has been one of the most popular toys for young girls, setting unrealistic standards of beauty. Sure, Mattel has reinvented the doll and made every girl believe that they can be whatever they want to be - just like their favourite doll, but the narrative of everything being overtly perfect has also done damage to several. Greta, in that sense, spins the narrative and adds a layer of cynicism to Barbieland to show how things are in real. Flawed, depressed, and definitely not perfect- even though the plastic remains constant."<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Greta Gerwig's Barbie continues to break box office records and set new ones even in its fourth week in theatres. Now, thanks to the movie, Gerwig has solidified her place as the highest-grossing female director of all time at the domestic (North American) box office, surpassing the previous record set by Jennifer Lee and Chris Buck, the directors of Frozen II.

Greta Gerwig's Barbie continues to break box office records and set new ones even in its fourth week in theatres. Now, thanks to the movie, Gerwig has solidified her place as the highest-grossing female director of all time at the domestic (North American) box office, surpassing the previous record set by Jennifer Lee and Chris Buck, the directors of Frozen II. Frozen II, released by Walt Disney Animation Studios in 2019, had amassed a domestic box office gross of $477.4 million. However, Gerwig's Barbie has surged ahead, reaching a domestic box office total of $478.1 million by Tuesday and soaring to an impressive $492.6 million by Thursday. As of Friday, it has joined the exclusive club of films that have exceeded $500 million in domestic earnings. Earlier, the film became the first female-directed film to cross the $1 billion mark. It has grossed $1.06 billion until now. What is Barbie all about? The focal point of Barbie is the main character, the eponymous doll Barbie (or more precisely, the Stereotypical Barbie), who sets out on a journey of self-discovery in the actual world. This choice arises once she recognises slight imperfections in her once impeccable body and life. With her partner Ken by her side, they traverse through reality, encountering obstacles linked to traditional beauty standards and societal expectations. Alongside Barbie, Ken, and their owner, Sasha, tackle their uncertainties and the pressures imposed by society. This journey prompts a significant shift in the social framework of Barbieland. Barbie review Also Read: Barbie review: Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling's film smart, funny and very woke WION's Shomini Sen wrote in her review of Barbie, "I would still say that the film very smartly shows how society is and humanises the iconic doll. For decades Barbie has been one of the most popular toys for young girls, setting unrealistic standards of beauty. Sure, Mattel has reinvented the doll and made every girl believe that they can be whatever they want to be - just like their favourite doll, but the narrative of everything being overtly perfect has also done damage to several. Greta, in that sense, spins the narrative and adds a layer of cynicism to Barbieland to show how things are in real. Flawed, depressed, and definitely not perfect- even though the plastic remains constant." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Barbie breaks box office record, is now highest-grossing female-directed film in US

Yesterday, Kuwait banned the Australian blockbuster "Talk to me". Today it has shunned Greta Gerwig's billion-dollar hit Barbie. Lebanon is planning to follow suit. Why is West Asia doing this? Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas: Kuwait bans 'Barbie' after 'Talk To Me'

<p>Bill Maher, political commentator and the host of HBO's Real Time, has come down hard on Greta Gerwig's <em>Barbie </em>movie, which stars Margot Robbie in the lead. Writing on X (earlier known as Twitter), he penned a lengthy critique of the movie, which recently exceeded the $1 billion mark in global box office earnings. He said that he had hoped the film would not be "preachy" or "man-hating". He added that the movie also propagates what he called a "#ZombieLie", explaining, “What is a Zombie Lie? Something that never was true, but certain people refuse to stop saying it (tax cuts for the rich increase revenues, e.g.); OR something that USED to be true but no longer is, but certain people pretend it’s still true."</p>

<p>Also Read:&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-opinion--is-barbie-really-an-anti-male-movie-622580">Opinion | Is Barbie really an anti-male movie?</a></strong></p>

<p>"<em>Barbie </em>is this kind of #ZombieLie. Spoiler alert, <em>Barbie </em>fights the Patriarchy. Right up to the Mattel board who created her, consisting of 12 white men! The Patriarchy! Except there’s a Mattel board in real life, and it’s 7 men and 5 women. OK, not perfect even-steven, but not the way the board IN THE MOVIE – which takes place in 2023 – is portrayed. And not really any longer deserving of the word ‘patriarchy.’ Yes, there was one, and remnants of it remain – but this movie is so 2000-LATE," said Maher.</p>

<p>He added, "At one point the <em>Barbies </em>have to win over the Kens, and they are told to do it by pretending to act helpless and not know how to do stuff. Helen Gurley Brown called, she wants her premise back. Yes, that WAS a thing. I saw <em>Barbie </em>with a woman in her 30s who said, ‘I don’t know a single woman of any age who would act like that today.'”</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">OK, "Barbie": I was hoping it wouldn't be preachy, man-hating, and a <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ZombieLie?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ZombieLie</a> - alas, it was all three. What is a Zombie Lie? Something that never was true, but certain people refuse to stop saying it (tax cuts for the rich increase revenues, e.g.); OR something that USED to be…</p>
— Bill Maher (@billmaher) <a href="https://twitter.com/billmaher/status/1688648703660404736?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Addressing the potential criticism of a man discussing the concept of the Patriarchy, Maher countered that he is aware of the prevailing world around him and uses available data to form his opinions. He pointed out that the actual Mattel board is reflective of a balanced representation of genders, closely mirroring the composition of corporate boards in the country. To Maher, his perspective aligns with current realities, and he dismissed those who disagree as clinging to outdated ideas.</p>

<p>“I know, I know, ‘How could I know about the patriarchy, I AM a man! That argument is so old and so silly. Of course, none of us can know exactly what others go through life, but I can see the world around me, and I can read data. The real Mattel board is a pretty close mirror of the country, where 45% of the 449 board seats filled last year in Fortune 500 companies were women. Truth is, I’m not the one who’s out of step – I’m living in the year we’re living in. <em>Barbie </em>is fun, I enjoyed it – but it IS a #ZombieLie. And people who don’t go along with zombie lies did not take some red pill – just staying true to CURRENT reality. Let’s live in the year we’re living in!" he said.</p>

<p>Also Read:&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-explained--how-margot-robbies-barbie-rewrote-the-box-office-rulebook-623450">Explained | Barbie crossed $1bn. Why it's not just another box office number</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Response to Bill Maher's review of <em>Barbie</em></strong></h2>

<p>Maher's critique garnered significant attention and sparked a lively online debate. Supporters of his viewpoint applauded his candid analysis. They highlighted that his call for aligning storytelling with the present reality resonated with their own frustrations about the misrepresentation of gender dynamics in media.</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/critically-speaking-margot-robbies-barbie-is-funny-and-clever-618237/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>However, the movie's proponents argued that his interpretation might miss the point of creative storytelling. They contended that movies often exaggerate elements for dramatic effect, and while the Mattel board's portrayal might be an artistic choice, the broader themes of challenging stereotypes and promoting empowerment should be the primary focus. After all, <em>Barbie </em>is a fantasy movie and marketed as such. Movies can make broader points about certain social issues without actually being dead accurate about them.</p>

<p>They noted that debates over accuracy in fictional works often involve a balance between creative expression and representing contemporary social issues.</p>

<p>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-barbie-review-margot-robbie-ryan-goslings-film-smart-funny-and-very-woke-618109">Barbie review: Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling's film is smart, funny and very woke</a></p>

<h2><strong>What is <em>Barbie </em>all about?</strong></h2>

<p>The focal point of <em>Barbie </em>is the main character, the eponymous doll Barbie (or more precisely, the Stereotypical Barbie), who sets out on a journey of self-discovery in the actual world. This choice arises once she recognises slight imperfections in her once impeccable body and life. With her partner Ken by her side, they traverse through reality, encountering obstacles linked to traditional beauty standards and societal expectations. Alongside Barbie, Ken, and their owner, Sasha, tackle their uncertainties and the pressures imposed by society. This journey prompts a significant shift in the social framework of Barbieland.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Bill Maher, political commentator and the host of HBO's Real Time, has come down hard on Greta Gerwig's Barbie movie, which stars Margot Robbie in the lead. Writing on X (earlier known as Twitter), he penned a lengthy critique of the movie, which recently exceeded the $1 billion mark in global box office earnings.

Bill Maher, political commentator and the host of HBO's Real Time, has come down hard on Greta Gerwig's Barbie movie, which stars Margot Robbie in the lead. Writing on X (earlier known as Twitter), he penned a lengthy critique of the movie, which recently exceeded the $1 billion mark in global box office earnings. He said that he had hoped the film would not be "preachy" or "man-hating". He added that the movie also propagates what he called a "#ZombieLie", explaining, “What is a Zombie Lie? Something that never was true, but certain people refuse to stop saying it (tax cuts for the rich increase revenues, e.g.); OR something that USED to be true but no longer is, but certain people pretend it’s still true." Also Read: Opinion | Is Barbie really an anti-male movie? "Barbie is this kind of #ZombieLie. Spoiler alert, Barbie fights the Patriarchy. Right up to the Mattel board who created her, consisting of 12 white men! The Patriarchy! Except there’s a Mattel board in real life, and it’s 7 men and 5 women. OK, not perfect even-steven, but not the way the board IN THE MOVIE – which takes place in 2023 – is portrayed. And not really any longer deserving of the word ‘patriarchy.’ Yes, there was one, and remnants of it remain – but this movie is so 2000-LATE," said Maher. He added, "At one point the Barbies have to win over the Kens, and they are told to do it by pretending to act helpless and not know how to do stuff. Helen Gurley Brown called, she wants her premise back. Yes, that WAS a thing. I saw Barbie with a woman in her 30s who said, ‘I don’t know a single woman of any age who would act like that today.'” OK, "Barbie": I was hoping it wouldn't be preachy, man-hating, and a #ZombieLie - alas, it was all three. What is a Zombie Lie? Something that never was true, but certain people refuse to stop saying it (tax cuts for the rich increase revenues, e.g.); OR something that USED to be… — Bill Maher (@billmaher) August 7, 2023 × Addressing the potential criticism of a man discussing the concept of the Patriarchy, Maher countered that he is aware of the prevailing world around him and uses available data to form his opinions. He pointed out that the actual Mattel board is reflective of a balanced representation of genders, closely mirroring the composition of corporate boards in the country. To Maher, his perspective aligns with current realities, and he dismissed those who disagree as clinging to outdated ideas. “I know, I know, ‘How could I know about the patriarchy, I AM a man! That argument is so old and so silly. Of course, none of us can know exactly what others go through life, but I can see the world around me, and I can read data. The real Mattel board is a pretty close mirror of the country, where 45% of the 449 board seats filled last year in Fortune 500 companies were women. Truth is, I’m not the one who’s out of step – I’m living in the year we’re living in. Barbie is fun, I enjoyed it – but it IS a #ZombieLie. And people who don’t go along with zombie lies did not take some red pill – just staying true to CURRENT reality. Let’s live in the year we’re living in!" he said. Also Read: Explained | Barbie crossed $1bn. Why it's not just another box office number Response to Bill Maher's review of Barbie Maher's critique garnered significant attention and sparked a lively online debate. Supporters of his viewpoint applauded his candid analysis. They highlighted that his call for aligning storytelling with the present reality resonated with their own frustrations about the misrepresentation of gender dynamics in media. However, the movie's proponents argued that his interpretation might miss the point of creative storytelling. They contended that movies often exaggerate elements for dramatic effect, and while the Mattel board's portrayal might be an artistic choice, the broader themes of challenging stereotypes and promoting empowerment should be the primary focus. After all, Barbie is a fantasy movie and marketed as such. Movies can make broader points about certain social issues without actually being dead accurate about them. They noted that debates over accuracy in fictional works often involve a balance between creative expression and representing contemporary social issues. Also Read: Barbie review: Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling's film is smart, funny and very woke What is Barbie all about? The focal point of Barbie is the main character, the eponymous doll Barbie (or more precisely, the Stereotypical Barbie), who sets out on a journey of self-discovery in the actual world. This choice arises once she recognises slight imperfections in her once impeccable body and life. With her partner Ken by her side, they traverse through reality, encountering obstacles linked to traditional beauty standards and societal expectations. Alongside Barbie, Ken, and their owner, Sasha, tackle their uncertainties and the pressures imposed by society. This journey prompts a significant shift in the social framework of Barbieland. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Bill Maher slams 'preachy' and 'man-hating' Barbie movie: This movie is so 2000-LATE

<p>In a step that it said is aimed at upholding its commitment to preserving public ethics and cultural traditions, Kuwait has taken the decision to prohibit the screening of the films <em>Barbie </em>and <em>Talk to Me.</em> The news was reported by the country's official news agency Kuna. This decision, by the Kuwaiti Ministry of Information's committee, was motivated by the "protection of public ethics and social traditions". Lafy Al-Subeie, the Undersecretary of the Ministry for Press and Publication and also the head of the committee, explained that the committee observed that both of these films propagate ideas and beliefs that are foreign to Kuwaiti society and contradict established public order.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read:&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-explained--how-margot-robbies-barbie-rewrote-the-box-office-rulebook-623450">Explained | Barbie crossed $1bn. Why it's not just another box office number</a></strong></p>

<p>AI-Subeie further&nbsp;highlighted the committee's customary practice of scrutinising foreign movies for scenes that might contradict prevailing ethical norms. "While deciding on any foreign movie, the committee usually orders censoring of the scenes that run counter to public ethics. But a film carries alien concepts, message or unacceptable behaviour, the committee decides to bar the stuff in question as a whole (sic)," he said.</p>

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<h2><strong>Kuwait's action follows Lebanon's ban on <em>Barbie</em></strong></h2>

<p>While Kuwait's decision to ban <em>Barbie </em>and <em>Talk to Me</em> didn't explicitly divulge the specific reasons behind the prohibition, a glance at Lebanon's concurrent move might offer some insight into the underlying factors. Lebanon's Culture Minister, Mohammad Mortada, took a stance by prohibiting the film Barbie from being shown in cinemas, citing that the film "promotes homosexuality" and is in contradiction with the nation's religious values.</p>

<p>Also Read:&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-bill-maher-slams-preachy-and-man-hating-barbie-movie-this-movie-is-so-2000-late-623698">Bill Maher slams 'preachy' and 'man-hating' Barbie movie: This movie is so 2000-LATE</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>What is <em>Barbie </em>all about?</strong></h2>

<p>Also Read:&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-barbie-review-margot-robbie-ryan-goslings-film-smart-funny-and-very-woke-618109">Barbie review: Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling's film is smart, funny and very woke</a></strong></p>

<p><em>Barbie </em>centres around its eponymous protagonist, the Stereotypical Barbie, as she embarks on a transformative journey of self-discovery in the real world. This pivotal decision stems from her newfound realisation of imperfections in what was once her flawlessly-perceived body and existence. With the companionship of Ken, her devoted partner, they navigate the complexities of reality, confronting various trials that challenge conventional notions of beauty and societal expectations.</p>

<p>Together with Barbie, Ken, and Sasha, their owner, grapple with uncertainties and the weight of societal pressures. This collective odyssey prompts a profound reshaping of the societal landscape within Barbieland, as they collectively strive to redefine their perceptions of self-worth and identity in the face of prevailing norms.</p>

<h2><strong>What is <em>Talk to Me</em> all about?</strong></h2>

<p>Also Read:&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-talk-to-me-review-a-psychological-horror-film-that-will-chill-you-to-the-bone-622402">Talk to Me review: A psychological horror film that will chill you to the bone</a></strong></p>

<p><em>Talk to Me</em> delves into the story of Mia (portrayed by Sophie Wilde), an anguished teenager grappling with the aftermath of her mother's tragic suicide. Alongside her group of friends, Mia embarks on a daring venture involving malevolent spirits, facilitated by an enigmatic embalmed severed hand. Intriguingly, despite their full awareness of conjuring spirits from the Great Beyond, they choose to proceed with this supernatural summoning. By grasping the hand and uttering the film's titular phrase, "Talk to me," they beckon forth these spectral entities. However, to become possessed by these spirits, one must deliberately declare, "I let you in."</p>

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In a step that it said is aimed at upholding its commitment to preserving public ethics and cultural traditions, Kuwait has taken the decision to prohibit the screening of the films Barbie and Talk to Me.

In a step that it said is aimed at upholding its commitment to preserving public ethics and cultural traditions, Kuwait has taken the decision to prohibit the screening of the films Barbie and Talk to Me. The news was reported by the country's official news agency Kuna. This decision, by the Kuwaiti Ministry of Information's committee, was motivated by the "protection of public ethics and social traditions". Lafy Al-Subeie, the Undersecretary of the Ministry for Press and Publication and also the head of the committee, explained that the committee observed that both of these films propagate ideas and beliefs that are foreign to Kuwaiti society and contradict established public order. Also Read: Explained | Barbie crossed $1bn. Why it's not just another box office number AI-Subeie further highlighted the committee's customary practice of scrutinising foreign movies for scenes that might contradict prevailing ethical norms. "While deciding on any foreign movie, the committee usually orders censoring of the scenes that run counter to public ethics. But a film carries alien concepts, message or unacceptable behaviour, the committee decides to bar the stuff in question as a whole (sic)," he said. Kuwait's action follows Lebanon's ban on Barbie While Kuwait's decision to ban Barbie and Talk to Me didn't explicitly divulge the specific reasons behind the prohibition, a glance at Lebanon's concurrent move might offer some insight into the underlying factors. Lebanon's Culture Minister, Mohammad Mortada, took a stance by prohibiting the film Barbie from being shown in cinemas, citing that the film "promotes homosexuality" and is in contradiction with the nation's religious values. Also Read: Bill Maher slams 'preachy' and 'man-hating' Barbie movie: This movie is so 2000-LATE What is Barbie all about? Also Read: Barbie review: Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling's film is smart, funny and very woke Barbie centres around its eponymous protagonist, the Stereotypical Barbie, as she embarks on a transformative journey of self-discovery in the real world. This pivotal decision stems from her newfound realisation of imperfections in what was once her flawlessly-perceived body and existence. With the companionship of Ken, her devoted partner, they navigate the complexities of reality, confronting various trials that challenge conventional notions of beauty and societal expectations. Together with Barbie, Ken, and Sasha, their owner, grapple with uncertainties and the weight of societal pressures. This collective odyssey prompts a profound reshaping of the societal landscape within Barbieland, as they collectively strive to redefine their perceptions of self-worth and identity in the face of prevailing norms. What is Talk to Me all about? Also Read: Talk to Me review: A psychological horror film that will chill you to the bone Talk to Me delves into the story of Mia (portrayed by Sophie Wilde), an anguished teenager grappling with the aftermath of her mother's tragic suicide. Alongside her group of friends, Mia embarks on a daring venture involving malevolent spirits, facilitated by an enigmatic embalmed severed hand. Intriguingly, despite their full awareness of conjuring spirits from the Great Beyond, they choose to proceed with this supernatural summoning. By grasping the hand and uttering the film's titular phrase, "Talk to me," they beckon forth these spectral entities. However, to become possessed by these spirits, one must deliberately declare, "I let you in." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Kuwait bans Barbie and Talk to Me citing threat to public ethics and cultural traditions

<p>This Barbie is loved by all! Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling starrer<em> Barbie </em>has crossed USD 1 billion globally within the third week of its release. The film has been directed by Greta Gerwig and takes a spin on the age-old image of the iconic doll.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Taking to Instagram, the makers announced the news with a special post which they captioned, “Here’s to our incredible Barbies and Kens from all around the world for making our Barbie dreams come true. We’re excited to share that #BarbieTheMovie has hit $1 Billion at the Global Box Office.”</p>

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<p><em>Barbie'</em>s stupendous earnings also makes director Greta Gerwig the first-ever solo female filmmaker with a billion-dollar film. Three other billion-dollar blockbusters were co-directed by women, including <em>Frozen </em>(USD 1.3 billion) and <em>Frozen 2</em> (USD 1.45 billion) both co-directed by Jennifer Lee and Chris Buck, as well as <em>Captain Marvel </em>(USD 1.1 billion), co-directed by Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck.</p>

<p>Barbie hit the milestone just after 17 days of its release, becoming the fastest Warner Bros. release to join the USD 1 billion club. Earlier the fantasy drama film<em> Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2</em> held that record at 19 days.</p>

<p>It’s only the second blockbuster this year and the sixth of the pandemic era to cross USD 1 billion, following <em>Spider-Man: No Way Home</em>, <em>Top Gun: Maverick</em>, <em>Jurassic World Dominion </em>and <em>Avatar: The Way of Water.</em><br />
<br />
The <em>Barbie</em> movie stars Margot Robbie as the famous doll and Ryan Gosling as her boyfriend Ken. It was released in theatres on July 21.</p>

<p>According to reports, Greta's directorial <em>Barbie </em>raked in USD 155 million in its opening weekend, marking the biggest debut ever for a film directed by a woman. <em>Barbie</em> cost USD 145 million, not including a marketing campaign that propelled the movie into the mainstream long before it landed in theatres.</p>

<p>Gerwig, the Oscar-nominated director of Lady Bird and Little Women, co-wrote the film’s screenplay with Noah Baumbach.<br />
<br />
<em>Barbie </em>was released on the same day as Christopher Nolan's <em>Oppenheimer. </em>Both films received critical praise worldwide.&nbsp;</p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


This Barbie is loved by all! Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling starrer Barbie has crossed USD 1 billion globally within the third week of its release. The film has been directed by Greta Gerwig and takes a spin on the age-old image of the iconic doll.

This Barbie is loved by all! Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling starrer Barbie has crossed USD 1 billion globally within the third week of its release. The film has been directed by Greta Gerwig and takes a spin on the age-old image of the iconic doll. Taking to Instagram, the makers announced the news with a special post which they captioned, “Here’s to our incredible Barbies and Kens from all around the world for making our Barbie dreams come true. We’re excited to share that #BarbieTheMovie has hit $1 Billion at the Global Box Office.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by BARBIE (@barbiethemovie) × Barbie's stupendous earnings also makes director Greta Gerwig the first-ever solo female filmmaker with a billion-dollar film. Three other billion-dollar blockbusters were co-directed by women, including Frozen (USD 1.3 billion) and Frozen 2 (USD 1.45 billion) both co-directed by Jennifer Lee and Chris Buck, as well as Captain Marvel (USD 1.1 billion), co-directed by Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck. Barbie hit the milestone just after 17 days of its release, becoming the fastest Warner Bros. release to join the USD 1 billion club. Earlier the fantasy drama film Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2 held that record at 19 days. It’s only the second blockbuster this year and the sixth of the pandemic era to cross USD 1 billion, following Spider-Man: No Way Home, Top Gun: Maverick, Jurassic World Dominion and Avatar: The Way of Water. The Barbie movie stars Margot Robbie as the famous doll and Ryan Gosling as her boyfriend Ken. It was released in theatres on July 21. According to reports, Greta's directorial Barbie raked in USD 155 million in its opening weekend, marking the biggest debut ever for a film directed by a woman. Barbie cost USD 145 million, not including a marketing campaign that propelled the movie into the mainstream long before it landed in theatres. Gerwig, the Oscar-nominated director of Lady Bird and Little Women, co-wrote the film’s screenplay with Noah Baumbach. Barbie was released on the same day as Christopher Nolan's Oppenheimer. Both films received critical praise worldwide.

Barbie earns over USD 1 billion worldwide, a first for female director to cross such milestone

<p>In a cinematic landscape often dominated by tried-and-true formulas and established franchises, Greta Gerwig's <em>Barbie </em>has emerged as an unexpected and groundbreaking success story, crossing the elusive $1 billion mark at the box office. Notably, this achievement marks a historic milestone, as it becomes the first female-directed film to attain such a monumental feat. The film's journey to this pinnacle of success is a confluence of several factors, ranging from a resonant storyline to a stellar cast and impeccable direction that together redefined traditional narrative norms. The film has not only been an unprecedented success at the global box office but also shattered long-standing beliefs about the potential of female-directed films to become colossal commercial successes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read:&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-barbie-review-margot-robbie-ryan-goslings-film-smart-funny-and-very-woke-618109"><em>Barbie </em>review: Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling's film is smart, funny and very woke</a></strong></p>

<h2>What was <em>Barbie </em>all about?</h2>

<p><em>Barbie </em>revolves around the central character, the titular doll Barbie (or more accurately, the Stereotypical Barbie), embarking on a voyage of self-exploration into the real world. This decision comes after she becomes aware of minor flaws in her previously-flawless body and existence. Accompanied by Ken, her companion, they navigate through the real world, coming face to face with challenges related to conventional beauty norms and societal anticipations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Alongside Barbie, Ken, and their owner, Sasha, tackle their uncertainties and the pressures imposed by society. This journey prompts a significant shift in the social framework of Barbieland.&nbsp;</p>

<p>How did Barbie become a box office behemoth? Here are the major factors behind it.</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/barbenheimer-dissecting-the-hype-around-barbie-and-oppenheimer-wion-podcast-619360/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<h2>1. Nostalgia but with a touch of contemporary cultural nuance</h2>

<p>At the heart of the film's triumph lies the reimagining of a beloved cultural icon—the Barbie doll. For decades, Barbie has been more than just a toy; she has symbolised dreams, aspirations, and societal expectations. The film successfully tapped into this nostalgia but with a fresh and empowering perspective. By introducing imperfections into Barbie's life, the film dismantled the notion of an unattainable, picture-perfect existence, resonating with audiences young and old. In a time when conversations around self-acceptance, body positivity, and personal growth are more relevant than ever, the film's narrative struck a chord with viewers around the globe.</p>

<h2><strong>2. A timely and relevant story</strong></h2>

<p><em>Barbie </em>ventured beyond the confines of a mere toy-inspired tale and delved into profound social and psychological themes. The central journey of Barbie and Ken into the real world acted as a metaphor for self-discovery and challenged&nbsp;societal norms. The exploration of beauty standards, societal expectations, and the internal struggles faced by the characters made the story thought-provoking.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/critically-speaking-margot-robbies-barbie-is-funny-and-clever-618237/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<h2><strong>3. A stellar ensemble cast</strong></h2>

<p>The star-studded cast, headlined by Robbie, contributed significantly to the film's appeal. With actors like Ryan Gosling, America Ferrera, Kate McKinnon, Issa Rae, Rhea Perlman, and Will Ferrell, the film boasted a diverse range of talent. The script, penned by Gerwig and her partner Noah Baumbach, allowed every actor to bring something interesting to the story. Barbie released before the SAG-AFTRA strike and thus Gerwig and the actors were able to relentlessly promote the movie through interviews.</p>

<h2><strong>4. A strong directorial vision and authenticity</strong></h2>

<p>Gerwig's unique directorial voice breathed life into the film's characters and themes. Known for her exceptional work in films like Lady Bird and Little Women, she brought her signature blend of emotional depth, wit, and authenticity to Barbie. Her understanding of complex human emotions and her ability to draw multi-dimensional characters added layers of meaning to the story.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>5. Ingenious global marketing and outreach</strong></h2>

<p>The success of <em>Barbie </em>was also a testament to a well-executed marketing strategy by Warner Bros that catered to a global audience. At one point it appeared the film had appropriated the colour pink, and everything that was even of a similar shade was said to be promoting the movie.</p>

<p>With the onset of spring in 2023, a flood of <em>Barbie </em>character posters inundated the scene, accompanied by the unveiling of a website named Barbie Selfie Generator. This platform allowed individuals to seamlessly incorporate their own selfies or chosen images into the format of the iconic Barbie character posters. &nbsp;The appearance of a large Barbie-themed box at theatres showcasing the movie presented an opportunity for visitors to participate in photo opportunities, showcasing their unique poses, social circles, and individual elements, all while promoting the blockbuster.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/decoding-the-barbie-mania-wion-e-club-620595/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>In such ways, the studio ingeniously incorporated the general public into the film's marketing campaign without even their awareness. It was brilliant and proved to be effective.</p>

<p>The film's message of empowerment and self-acceptance transcended cultural boundaries, making it relatable to audiences from different backgrounds. The marketing team capitalised on this universality by tailoring promotional materials to resonate with diverse sensibilities. Moreover, the involvement of the star-studded cast in promotional activities, along with engaging social media campaigns, helped generate buzz and anticipation before the film's release.</p>

<p>We do not have figures at the moment, but <em>Barbie</em>'s association with Christopher Nolan's <em>Oppenheimer </em>and the 'Barbenheimer' memes that flooded the internet likely helped both movies. The idea of viewing both movies as a double feature proved to be strangely appealing to moviegoers across the world, despite the fact that the films are vastly different in terms of tone.</p>

<p>Also Read:&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-oppenheimer-review-nolans-visually-stunning-epic-fuses-genius-and-guilt-618110"><em>Oppenheimer </em>review: Nolan's visually stunning epic fuses genius and guilt</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>6. Positive critical reception</strong></h2>

<p>And obviously, the film was received very well by critics. Acclaim certainly played a pivotal role in propelling <em>Barbie </em>to its billion-dollar success. Critics praised the film's bold narrative choices, compelling performances, and timely themes. The positive reviews not only attracted a discerning adult audience but also added an air of legitimacy to the film's message and artistic merit.&nbsp;</p>

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In a cinematic landscape often dominated by tried-and-true formulas and established franchises, Greta Gerwig's Barbie has emerged as an unexpected and groundbreaking success story, crossing the elusive $1 billion mark at the box office.

In a cinematic landscape often dominated by tried-and-true formulas and established franchises, Greta Gerwig's Barbie has emerged as an unexpected and groundbreaking success story, crossing the elusive $1 billion mark at the box office. Notably, this achievement marks a historic milestone, as it becomes the first female-directed film to attain such a monumental feat. The film's journey to this pinnacle of success is a confluence of several factors, ranging from a resonant storyline to a stellar cast and impeccable direction that together redefined traditional narrative norms. The film has not only been an unprecedented success at the global box office but also shattered long-standing beliefs about the potential of female-directed films to become colossal commercial successes. Also Read: Barbie review: Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling's film is smart, funny and very woke What was Barbie all about? Barbie revolves around the central character, the titular doll Barbie (or more accurately, the Stereotypical Barbie), embarking on a voyage of self-exploration into the real world. This decision comes after she becomes aware of minor flaws in her previously-flawless body and existence. Accompanied by Ken, her companion, they navigate through the real world, coming face to face with challenges related to conventional beauty norms and societal anticipations. Alongside Barbie, Ken, and their owner, Sasha, tackle their uncertainties and the pressures imposed by society. This journey prompts a significant shift in the social framework of Barbieland. How did Barbie become a box office behemoth? Here are the major factors behind it. 1. Nostalgia but with a touch of contemporary cultural nuance At the heart of the film's triumph lies the reimagining of a beloved cultural icon—the Barbie doll. For decades, Barbie has been more than just a toy; she has symbolised dreams, aspirations, and societal expectations. The film successfully tapped into this nostalgia but with a fresh and empowering perspective. By introducing imperfections into Barbie's life, the film dismantled the notion of an unattainable, picture-perfect existence, resonating with audiences young and old. In a time when conversations around self-acceptance, body positivity, and personal growth are more relevant than ever, the film's narrative struck a chord with viewers around the globe. 2. A timely and relevant story Barbie ventured beyond the confines of a mere toy-inspired tale and delved into profound social and psychological themes. The central journey of Barbie and Ken into the real world acted as a metaphor for self-discovery and challenged societal norms. The exploration of beauty standards, societal expectations, and the internal struggles faced by the characters made the story thought-provoking. 3. A stellar ensemble cast The star-studded cast, headlined by Robbie, contributed significantly to the film's appeal. With actors like Ryan Gosling, America Ferrera, Kate McKinnon, Issa Rae, Rhea Perlman, and Will Ferrell, the film boasted a diverse range of talent. The script, penned by Gerwig and her partner Noah Baumbach, allowed every actor to bring something interesting to the story. Barbie released before the SAG-AFTRA strike and thus Gerwig and the actors were able to relentlessly promote the movie through interviews. 4. A strong directorial vision and authenticity Gerwig's unique directorial voice breathed life into the film's characters and themes. Known for her exceptional work in films like Lady Bird and Little Women, she brought her signature blend of emotional depth, wit, and authenticity to Barbie. Her understanding of complex human emotions and her ability to draw multi-dimensional characters added layers of meaning to the story. 5. Ingenious global marketing and outreach The success of Barbie was also a testament to a well-executed marketing strategy by Warner Bros that catered to a global audience. At one point it appeared the film had appropriated the colour pink, and everything that was even of a similar shade was said to be promoting the movie. With the onset of spring in 2023, a flood of Barbie character posters inundated the scene, accompanied by the unveiling of a website named Barbie Selfie Generator. This platform allowed individuals to seamlessly incorporate their own selfies or chosen images into the format of the iconic Barbie character posters. The appearance of a large Barbie-themed box at theatres showcasing the movie presented an opportunity for visitors to participate in photo opportunities, showcasing their unique poses, social circles, and individual elements, all while promoting the blockbuster. In such ways, the studio ingeniously incorporated the general public into the film's marketing campaign without even their awareness. It was brilliant and proved to be effective. The film's message of empowerment and self-acceptance transcended cultural boundaries, making it relatable to audiences from different backgrounds. The marketing team capitalised on this universality by tailoring promotional materials to resonate with diverse sensibilities. Moreover, the involvement of the star-studded cast in promotional activities, along with engaging social media campaigns, helped generate buzz and anticipation before the film's release. We do not have figures at the moment, but Barbie's association with Christopher Nolan's Oppenheimer and the 'Barbenheimer' memes that flooded the internet likely helped both movies. The idea of viewing both movies as a double feature proved to be strangely appealing to moviegoers across the world, despite the fact that the films are vastly different in terms of tone. Also Read: Oppenheimer review: Nolan's visually stunning epic fuses genius and guilt 6. Positive critical reception And obviously, the film was received very well by critics. Acclaim certainly played a pivotal role in propelling Barbie to its billion-dollar success. Critics praised the film's bold narrative choices, compelling performances, and timely themes. The positive reviews not only attracted a discerning adult audience but also added an air of legitimacy to the film's message and artistic merit. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained | Barbie crossed $1bn. Why it's not just another box office number

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