Written by Ally Abruscato. Graphic by Charlotte Beck.
Since the 2024 Academy Award nominations were announced, there has been a lot of discourse surrounding Greta Gerwig’s “Barbie.” The film with the biggest opening of 2023 was nominated for eight awards, including Actor in a Supporting Role, but omitting Actress in a Leading Role and Directing. The acknowledgment of a man in a movie made by and about women has been disheartening to many “Barbie” fans. However, some argue that the movie was still accurately praised, considering it was nominated for other awards, even Best Picture. The entire “Barbie” conversation seems to be a page ripped out of its own script.
For those who haven’t seen “Barbie,” it is, of course, a movie about the iconic Mattel doll that has been an essential toy for decades. The film focuses on Stereotypical Barbie, played by Margot Robbie. Although every day in Barbie Land is perfect because Barbies have eliminated the patriarchy, Stereotypical Barbie starts to feel off. This leads her to a journey into the real world as she questions her purpose. Barbie Land is depicted as a utopian society where women hold positions of power and speak freely without judgment. In contrast, the real world echoes American culture today. Women are constantly sexualized, and men rule the world. The film encourages the viewer to wonder why the utopia of Barbie Land feels so far-fetched and unattainable.
Gerwig and Noah Baumbach wrote the script for “Barbie,” while Robbie produced it alongside Tom Ackerley, Robbie Brener, and David Heyman. Then, of course, Gerwig went on to direct the film that Robbie starred in. In the summer of 2023, in the midst of Barbenheimer, “Barbie” had the biggest opening ever by a female director. And yet, Gerwig is not even in the running for the Academy Award. Excluding Gerwig and other female directors reinforces the idea that women must fight harder to be recognized for something a man would be instantly praised for.
It is important to note that Gerwig was not the only directorial snub of the 2024 Academy Awards. Hers might be the most prominent because she broke records, but plenty of other women also deserved recognition. Among these include Celine Song of “Past Lives,” Justine Triet of “Anatomy of a Fall,” and Kelly Fremond Craig of “Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret.” Still, women mustn’t be pitted against each other. There should be more than one opportunity for a successful female director. One woman’s triumph should not make another woman’s accomplishment any less important.
Some argue that “Barbie” has received enough acclaim, but I believe that doesn’t mean they don’t deserve more appreciation. Similarly, I’ve seen arguments that say that the “Barbie” debate is insignificant, considering there are many other women’s rights issues to focus on. While I agree that other issues need attention, I don’t believe those make this one less important. Social issues should not have to fight each other for attention. This year, Lily Gladstone of “Killers of the Flower Moon” became the first Native American nominated for Actress in a Leading Role. This is an extremely exciting milestone that should be noticed and celebrated. Women of color especially have been continuously ignored by Hollywood and many other people in power. If “Barbie” taught us anything, it is the importance of female camaraderie.
I think the issues surrounding “Barbie” reflect a greater issue. It is not just about Gerwig and Robbie but about women everywhere who are underappreciated for their efforts. I recognize that other crucial concerns in the world deserve consideration. Art is a reflection of life, and if we choose to ignore its lessons, then we are preventing change from happening.
As Editor-in-Chief, Ally Abruscato leads and supports a talented group of staff and contributors in pursuing their creative endeavors. At SCAD, Ally majors in Photography and minors in Advertising & Branding. She regularly offers pop culture insights through movie reviews, articles and her weekly column, “I’m Booked.” When she’s not writing or taking photos, Ally’s probably outside, reading or running.
