Lecture Notes: Barbie Movie Analysis

Overview

• In July last year, a live-action Barbie movie was released by Warner Brothers, starring Margot Robbie and others.
• The focus of this analysis is to understand the lore of the Barbie Cinematic Universe (BCU) by watching every Barbie movie ever made.
• There are 42 Barbie movies divided into three eras:
  • Classic Era (2001-2009): Includes movies like Barbie and the Nutcracker.
  • Fashion Era (2010-2015): Transition to fashion-themed stories.
  • Modern Era (2016-present): Current storytelling style.

Analysis Methodology

• Rating each movie based on four criteria:
  1. Barbie's Character: Reasonable choices and character development.
  2. Story: Coherence, interest, and character growth.
  3. Moral: Quality and applicability of the lesson taught.
  4. Animal Sidekicks: Presence and role in the film.

Detailed Analysis

Key Movies Discussed

• Barbie and the Nutcracker (2001): Introduction to BCU; 17/20.
• Barbie as Rapunzel: Standard retelling; 15/20.
• Barbie Diaries: Unique animation style and storyline; 5/20.
• Barbie Diaries (Fashion Era): Focus on Barbie’s life and high school drama; 5/20.
• Barbie in The Princess and the Pop Star: Notable for rich character dynamics; 8/20.
• Barbie in A Christmas Carol: Retelling of classic tale; explores Barbie in a negative light; 12/20.

Modern Era Movies

• Barbie Video Game Hero: Video game world adventure; 6/20.
• Barbie Dolphin Magic: Introduces mermaids as canon; 12/20.
• Barbie Princess Adventure: Introduces Barbie’s parents; 9/20.
• Barbie and the Secret Door: Exploration of new worlds; 12/20.

Barbie Lore and Hypothesis

• Barbie's Proficiencies: Barbie is depicted as proficient in numerous skills including acting, fashion design, and even space travel.
• Family Dynamics: Explored the history and roles of Barbie's family, including sisters and aunts.
• Hypothesis: Barbie is a genetically modified clone operating within a hive mind for greater goals such as Enlightenment.

Conclusion

• The analysis of the Barbie movies led to a hypothesis about Barbie’s role and existence in her universe as a clone achieving enlightenment.
• Despite extensive research, the live-action film did not corroborate the hypothesis developed.

Reflective Notes

• The analysis covered all 42 movies comprehensively, resulting in unique insights and theories about Barbie’s universe and character.
• Despite the effort, the live-action movie presented themes not aligned with the extensive hypotheses from the film analysis.