Barbie (film). Overview and main events
Overview and main events
The 2023 fantasy comedy film 'Barbie,' directed by Greta Gerwig and co-written with Noah Baumbach, marks a significant milestone in the cinematic adaptation of the iconic Barbie doll. This film is the first live-action iteration of the beloved character, bringing to life the vibrant world of Barbieland and the real world in a unique blend of humor, self-discovery, and social commentary.
2018
Mattel's Commitment to a Barbie Film
Mattel CEO Ynon Kreiz took over the company and decided it was time to commit to a Barbie movie, aiming to create the first entry in a cinematic universe based on the company’s toys. This marked the beginning of serious efforts to bring Barbie to the big screen.
October 2018
Transfer of Film Rights
Sony's option on the Barbie project expired, and the film rights were transferred to Warner Bros. Pictures. This change led to the departure of several initial team members, including Amy Hathaway, Jones, Macdonald, Parkes, and Pascal.
2019
Margot Robbie's Involvement
Margot Robbie entered early talks for the role of Barbie and was later confirmed in July 2019. Robbie also came aboard as a co-producer, partnering with her production company, LuckyChap Entertainment. This marked a crucial step in securing the film's lead and creative direction.
2019
Greta Gerwig and Noah Baumbach Join the Project
Greta Gerwig and Noah Baumbach were hired to write the script for the film. Gerwig was announced as the director in 2021, bringing her unique vision and collaborative style to the project.
2021
Gerwig Announced as Director
Greta Gerwig was officially announced as the director of the film, solidifying her role in bringing the Barbie story to life. This decision was pivotal in shaping the film's narrative and tone.
July 9, 2023
Premiere at the Shrine Auditorium
The film premiered at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles, marking the first public screening of the highly anticipated movie.
July 21, 2023
Global Release
The film was released in the United States and globally, introducing the live-action Barbie to audiences worldwide. This release was accompanied by significant marketing and media attention.
July 2023
Box Office Success and Historical Milestone
Barbie achieved remarkable box office success, surpassing the billion-dollar mark just 17 days after its release. This made Greta Gerwig the first solo female director to helm a billion-dollar movie, setting a new record in Warner Bros.' 100-year history.
August 2023
Cultural Impact and Continued Success
The film continued to dominate the box office, remaining number one for multiple weekends despite competition from other major releases. Its success was attributed to its star-studded cast, witty and socially conscious script, and a best-in-class marketing campaign.
