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Writer's pictureClaude Machiha

The Business Success of the 2023 Barbie Movie

The billion dollar business triumph behind the new Barbie movie was founded on a strategic journey with Margot Robbie and Greta Gerwig. The new Barbie movie, despite its seemingly whimsical theme, underwent a lengthy production process that spanned several years. The strategy behind its implementation was no less complex, intertwining the creative genius of renowned personalities of Margot and Greta, coupled with the resourceful mechanisms of Warner Brothers studios.

Barbie dolls of different skin colour and complexion.
Barbie dolls

The inception of this iconic project can be traced back to 2018 when Margot Robbie first embarked on a mission that would later become her passion-fueled odyssey.


Her interest in the Barbie movie wasn't merely a fleeting notion; it was a genuine desire to bring the iconic doll to life in a way that resonated with generations old and new. With unwavering determination, Robbie approached Mattel, the manufacturer of Barbie, pitching her vision for a Barbie movie that would break the mold of conventional storytelling.


But the path from idea to reality was paved with challenges. Years of negotiations, discussions, and evolving concepts culminated in a collaboration between Margot Robbie and Warner Brothers studios.


The intricate web of relationships and negotiations was a testament to Robbie's dedication and vision, as well as her ability to rally the support needed to breathe life into a project that was as audacious as it was innovative.




THE FEMINIST TWIST AND AUDIENCE ENGAGEMENT

Central to the intrigue of the new Barbie movie is its feminist twist—a strategic decision that goes beyond mere storytelling.


In a world where Generation Z women (ages 13-26) seek narratives that resonate with their evolving values, the movie's progressive and empowering female angle offers a fresh perspective on an age-old toy.


The decision to infuse the plot with a feminist ethos was not just a narrative choice; it was a calculated move to captivate an underserved audience.


The intertwining of feminism and the Barbie narrative might appear unexpected at first glance, but it is a masterstroke that resonates deeply with the sensibilities of the modern era. By embracing this approach, the movie harnesses the power of inclusivity and diversity, inviting Generation Z feminist audiences world over to connect with the characters and their journey on a personal level.



THE MARGOT & GERWIG WINNING COMBINATION


The magic of the new Barbie movie was not solely the result of Margot Robbie's determination; it was a collaborative symphony of creative minds. Greta Gerwig's unique filmmaking style, characterized by nuanced storytelling and compelling characters, has played an integral role in the success of the new Barbie movie.


Robbie's synergy with Greta Gerwig, the director with an uncanny ability to breathe life into stories, played a pivotal role in shaping the movie's trajectory. Their shared vision, combined with their distinct strengths, fostered an environment where innovative ideas flourished and narrative boundaries were pushed.


The creative camaraderie between Robbie and Gerwig extended far beyond the director's chair. Every decision, from casting to costume design, was a product of their collective artistic sensibilities. This dynamic partnership gave rise to a movie that not only resonated with audiences but also left an indelible mark on cinematic history.



COMMERCIAL SUCCESS


As the new Barbie movie's visionary director, Greta Gerwig adds a layer of brilliance that amplifies the movie's impact. Gerwig, celebrated for her previous directorial achievements in titles such as Lady Bird and Little Women, possesses a rare talent for infusing depth and authenticity into her narratives.


Her journey to becoming the first female director to reach USD$1 billion in box office sales is a testament to her creative prowess and her ability to connect with audiences on a profound level. The Barbie movie title took only 17 days and one female director (Greta Gerwig) to clock USD$1 billion as iterated in the YouTube feature above, whereas Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows took 19 days and a whole director team.


Sheer ingenuity, coupled with the strategic marketing gave The Barbie Movie the monopoly on social media-based (Instagram, Facebook, & YouTube) audience engagement.


Moreover, marketing excellence via exclusive interviews, captivating set photos, language specific trailers such as the German Barbie trailer, and interactive sneak peeks strategically heighten anticipation, made the Barbie movie an international cultural sensation even before its release.



CONCLUSION

From a business perspective, Barbie was a success. Barbie clocked more revenue than Black Adam, Shazam, and both Justic League movies on individual comparison bases.


From its inception to its triumphant release, the journey of this iconic Barbie project showcases the potential of blending creativity with strategic ingenuity, along with really paying attention to an audience's entertainment needs.


This year's box office range of films hasn't been as impressive or attention grabbing as most of the cinema-going fanatics would have hoped. With quite a few disappointing titles and not so captivating storylines, box office sales actually haven't been as buoyant as Barbie's billion dollar run since before the Pandemic.


As the barriers of convention continue to shatter, the new Barbie movie will no with doubt be replicated in feminist theme, in order to capture more of the underserved and quite frankly, starving, large Gen Z feminist contigent.



FAQs



Is the new Barbie movie a reimagining of the classic Barbie storyline?

Yes, the new Barbie movie takes a fresh and feminist twist on the classic Barbie narrative, offering a modern perspective.



How did Margot Robbie convince Mattel to collaborate on the project?

Margot Robbie's persistence, creative vision, and strategic negotiations with Mattel eventually led to the collaboration.



What is the significance of the feminist twist in the movie's plot?

The feminist twist serves as a strategic move to engage and resonate with the underserved Generation Z feminist audience.



What role did Greta Gerwig play in the movie's success?

Greta Gerwig's directorial prowess and creative contributions were instrumental in shaping the movie's impact and success.





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