The Cast of the New Barbie Movie: A Star-Studded Ensemble Bringing the Iconic Doll to Life

showcased a remarkable ensemble cast that added depth and charm to this modern take on the beloved Mattel doll. Directed by Greta Gerwig, the film has been praised for its witty, satirical, and empowering storyline, and the cast has been widely recognized for bringing these complex characters to life. From the iconic Barbie herself to her supporting characters, the cast of the new Barbie movie has a blend of veteran actors and emerging talent, making it a star-studded event in Hollywood.

Greta Gerwig: A Visionary Director

Before diving into the individual cast members, it’s important to acknowledge the person behind the film: Greta Gerwig. Gerwig, known for her acclaimed work on Lady Bird and Little Women, brought her unique vision and storytelling style to the Barbie movie, turning it into something far more than just a toy commercial. Gerwig infused the film with social commentary, humor, and heart, making it appealing to both children and adults.

In interviews, Gerwig has expressed her lifelong connection to Barbie, both as a child who played with the dolls and as a director who sees the potential for a larger narrative around the character. Her vision for the film was not only to bring the doll to life but to also explore themes of identity, femininity, and societal expectations, all while maintaining a playful and fun tone. The cast that Gerwig assembled reflects this ambition, with each actor contributing their talent to elevate the story.

Margot Robbie as Barbie

The lead role of Barbie is played by none other than Margot Robbie, one of Hollywood’s most versatile and celebrated actresses. Robbie, known for her roles in The Wolf of Wall Street, I, Tonya, and Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, brings a perfect blend of charm, wit, and depth to the iconic character. While Barbie has often been viewed as a symbol of beauty and perfection, Gerwig’s version of the character is layered and introspective. Robbie’s performance allows Barbie to reflect on her existence in the “Barbieland” and challenge the stereotypical expectations placed upon her.

Robbie’s portrayal of Barbie balances both lighthearted moments and moments of self-discovery, showing that the doll is more than just a pretty face or a toy. Robbie’s ability to portray Barbie’s vulnerability, humor, and eventual growth is key to the film’s success, making her the perfect actress to take on this role.

Ryan Gosling as Ken

Playing opposite Robbie’s Barbie is Ryan Gosling as Ken, Barbie’s longtime on-again, off-again boyfriend. Gosling, known for his roles in La La Land, Drive, and The Notebook, delivers an unforgettable performance that’s both hilarious and heartwarming. Ken in this movie is not just Barbie’s accessory; he’s a character in his own right, struggling with his own identity and feelings of inadequacy compared to Barbie. Gosling’s comedic timing and ability to embody the sometimes-dull but lovable Ken made him a fan favorite.

Ken’s role in the film is as much about self-discovery as Barbie’s, and Gosling portrays Ken’s journey with great depth and humor. The film takes a satirical approach to the Ken doll’s classic image of the “perfect man,” with Gosling bringing a unique blend of humor and pathos to the character.

America Ferrera as Gloria

One of the standout performances in the movie comes from America Ferrera, who plays Gloria, a pivotal character in the film. Gloria works for Mattel, the company behind the Barbie doll, and her storyline becomes intertwined with Barbie’s journey of self-discovery. Ferrera, known for her roles in Ugly Betty and The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, brings warmth and intelligence to her character, making Gloria an important part of the movie’s emotional core.

Gloria is a more grounded character in comparison to the extravagant Barbieland, and Ferrera’s portrayal of her provides a sense of realism and relatability. Through Gloria, the film explores themes of womanhood, societal expectations, and the complex relationship between mothers and daughters, adding another layer to the narrative.

Kate McKinnon as Weird Barbie

Kate McKinnon, known for her work on Saturday Night Live and Ghostbusters, plays one of the most eccentric characters in the film: Weird Barbie. Weird Barbie is a version of the doll that has been “played with too hard” and is a quirky, offbeat character who doesn’t fit into the idealized world of Barbieland. McKinnon’s portrayal of Weird Barbie brings a delightful level of eccentricity and humor to the film, providing comic relief while also offering deeper reflections on conformity and the pressure to be “perfect.”

McKinnon’s performance is a standout due to her ability to balance the absurdity of her character with moments of genuine emotional resonance. Weird Barbie may be a “misfit,” but she proves to be one of the most interesting and important characters in the film.

Issa Rae as President Barbie

Issa Rae, the creator and star of Insecure, plays President Barbie in the film. Rae’s portrayal of the President Barbie is a refreshing take on the character, positioning her as an authoritative figure in Barbieland. Rae brings her signature charisma and confidence to the role, making President Barbie both empowering and hilarious.

Rae’s character stands as a symbol of female leadership, and her interactions with other characters in the film provide some of the movie’s most thought-provoking moments. Her performance as the President Barbie challenges traditional notions of leadership and offers a modern and progressive take on the doll’s potential.

Simu Liu as Ken

Simu Liu, known for his breakout role in Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, plays another version of Ken. Liu’s portrayal adds another layer to the film’s exploration of the male character’s identity in relation to Barbie. Like Ryan Gosling’s Ken, Liu’s character is navigating his own sense of self-worth and masculinity in Barbieland.

Liu’s performance is both playful and introspective, capturing the film’s satirical take on traditional gender roles. His presence alongside Gosling’s Ken character allows the movie to explore different aspects of masculinity in a humorous and relatable way.

Will Ferrell as the CEO of Mattel

Will Ferrell, known for his comedic roles in Anchorman, Step Brothers, and Elf, plays the CEO of Mattel, the company behind Barbie. Ferrell’s character is often the source of much of the film’s satire, as he represents the corporate, corporate-driven nature of the Barbie brand. His portrayal adds a comedic yet critical edge to the film’s exploration of consumerism and the commercialization of toys.

Ferrell’s character is the perfect foil to the whimsical, colorful world of Barbieland, providing a humorous contrast that highlights the tension between creativity and business. His performance adds a layer of absurdity to the movie, making the CEO character a memorable part of the ensemble.

Supporting Cast and Cameos

In addition to the main cast, the Barbie movie features a number of other notable actors in supporting roles. From high-profile actors to surprise cameos, these performances add further richness to the story.

• Helen Mirren voices the narrator, providing a sense of gravitas and wisdom to the film. Mirren’s iconic voice offers a perfect balance to the absurdity of the Barbie universe, giving the story a sense of depth and universality.
• Emma Mackey, best known for Sex Education, plays a Barbie in Barbieland, adding a fresh energy to the film. Mackey’s performance provides an interesting dynamic with the other Barbie characters, showcasing the diversity of the Barbie universe.
• John Cena makes a brief appearance as another Ken, adding to the movie’s fun and over-the-top nature. Cena’s role is lighthearted and comedic, showcasing the film’s ability to attract big-name stars for even small roles.

The Film’s Impact and Legacy

The cast of the new Barbie movie is not only an impressive group of actors but also a reflection of the film’s larger themes. Through the diverse range of characters and performances, the film challenges traditional gender roles and stereotypes, creating a dialogue about identity, self-acceptance, and societal expectations. Barbie is no longer just a doll; she’s a symbol of empowerment, exploration, and complexity.

The movie’s cast has received widespread acclaim for their performances, and many of the actors have praised the film for its subversive take on the Barbie brand. Critics have pointed out how the film manages to balance humor with deep emotional beats, thanks to the exceptional performances of the cast. The movie’s ability to resonate with a wide range of audiences is a testament to the strength of its ensemble cast.

As the Barbie movie continues to make waves in pop culture, it’s clear that the cast played a crucial role in bringing Gerwig’s vision to life. The performances of Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling, and the supporting actors helped turn the film into an unforgettable cinematic experience, one that goes beyond the toy aisle and into the realms of cultural conversation.

Conclusion

The cast of the new Barbie movie is an essential part of what makes the film so successful. With performances that are equal parts hilarious, thought-provoking, and heartfelt, the actors breathe life into the characters and elevate the story beyond its toy origins. Led by the incomparable Margot Robbie and the always entertaining Ryan Gosling, the film’s ensemble is a showcase of talent and creativity, making the Barbie movie one of the most talked-about films of 2023. Whether through humor, satire, or emotional depth, the cast brings a fresh perspective to the world of Barbie, ensuring that this movie will be remembered for years to come