Barbie (2023)

Comedy Adventure Directed by Greta Gerwig
← Inspired by 9 films

Barbie and Ken are having the time of their lives in the colorful and seemingly perfect world of Barbie Land. However, when they get a chance to go to the real world, they soon discover the joys and perils of living among humans.

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Films that influenced Barbie

← Inspired By (9)

Sources

Influenced By

  1. The Wizard of Oz (1939)
    "Gerwig emulated the film's use of soundstages and painted backdrops to create an "authentically artificial" aesthetic in "Barbie."" Far Out Magazine source
  2. 2001: A Space Odyssey (1968)
    "The opening scene of "Barbie" parodies the iconic "Dawn of Man" sequence from Kubrick's film, highlighting the evolution of humanity." 10 Classic Movies that Inspired Greta Gerwig’s Barbie Austin Estrada ScreenRant
  3. Singin' in the Rain (1952)
    "The dream ballet sequence in this musical inspired the choreography for the "I'm Just Ken" dance number in "Barbie."" 10 Classic Movies that Inspired Greta Gerwig’s Barbie Austin Estrada ScreenRant
  4. The Truman Show (1998)
    "Gerwig consulted director Peter Weir about the film's production design, influencing the controlled, picturesque aesthetic of "Barbie."" Far Out Magazine source
  5. The Young Girls of Rochefort (1967)
    "Jacques Demy's musical influenced "Barbie's" vibrant color palette and whimsical tone." 10 Classic Movies that Inspired Greta Gerwig’s Barbie Austin Estrada ScreenRant
  6. Life-Size (2000)
    "This Disney television film features Lindsay Lohan as a young girl who accidentally brings her fashion doll, Eve (played by Tyra Banks), to life. The film explores themes of identity and self-discovery, paralleling the transformative journey often associated with Barbie." Life-Size Wikipedia
  7. Superstar: The Karen Carpenter Story (1987)
    "Directed by Todd Haynes, this short film uses Barbie dolls to depict the life of singer Karen Carpenter, highlighting issues of body image and societal expectations—topics often linked to discussions about Barbie's influence." Playing with Barbie: The Best of Us and Barbie On Screen Paste Magazine
  8. The Lego Movie (2014)
    "While centered on LEGO toys, this animated film shares thematic similarities with Barbie by exploring identity, creativity, and self-worth within a toy-based universe." 10 Movies To Watch if You Loved Barbie Ashley Land CBR
  9. The Stepford Wives (2004)
    "This remake portrays a community where women are transformed into idealized, submissive versions of themselves, drawing parallels to critiques of Barbie as a symbol of unattainable perfection." Thegamer source

Barbie (2023), directed by Greta Gerwig, was inspired by 9 earlier films — including The Wizard of Oz, 2001: A Space Odyssey, and Singin' in the Rain. Check out the citations below.