10 Memorable Quotes from the Barbie Movie

Release Date: July 21, 2023 | Director: Greta Gerwig | Cast: Margot Robbie, Simu Liu, Ryan Gosling, Helen Mirren, Ariana Greenblatt | Rating: PG-13 | Runtime: 114 minutes

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Greta Gerwig’s Barbie, a live-action movie based on the iconic doll, has taken the world by storm. Not only did it make a smashing entry into the billion-dollar club at the global box office, but it also made history by making Greta Gerwig the first solo female director to achieve this feat. Beyond its commercial success, Barbie offers a fresh take on feminism, toxic masculinity, and more. The movie is filled with memorable quotes that not only tickle our funny bones but also provide insights into some profound aspects of life. In this article, we’ll delve into the ten best ‘Barbie’ quotes that left an impact on the audience, unraveling the depth and significance behind each one.

1. “When I found out the patriarchy wasn’t about horses, I lost interest anyway.”

Ken (Ryan Gosling)

Barbie embarks on a journey to discover who is playing with her, and she’s joined by Ken, who stows away with rollerblades in tow. In the Real World, they witness the stark differences between their world and Barbie Land. When confronted about the changes he initiated in Barbie Land, Ken, with his charming innocence, admits, “I just really liked horses.” This quote is a testament to Ryan Gosling’s comedic talent, adding a touch of humor to the movie.

2. “Ask your mother.”

The Narrator (Helen Mirren)

The film begins with a scene of young girls playing with baby dolls in a setting reminiscent of ‘2001: A Space Odyssey.’ The Narrator suggests that motherhood can be fun “for a while, anyway” and concludes with a cheeky “Ask your mother.” This quote not only humorously alludes to the challenges of motherhood but also introduces the theme of motherhood, which later becomes a significant element in the story.

3. “Do you guys ever think about dying?”

Stereotypical Barbie (Margot Robbie)

In Barbie Land, everything seems perfect, with Stereotypical Barbie beginning each day with a smile and ending it with a grand dance party. However, during a lively dance number, she abruptly asks, “Do you guys ever think about dying?” This moment, juxtaposed against the upbeat atmosphere, sets the tone for the movie, blending humor with profound questions about life.

4. “Thanks to Barbie, all problems of feminism have been solved.”

The Narrator (Helen Mirren)

In Barbie Land, the iconic dolls hold positions as successful writers, doctors, and politicians. The Narrator boldly proclaims, “all problems of feminism have been solved.” However, as the story unfolds, we realize that this declaration is overly simplistic and that the Real World presents a different reality, challenging the notion that feminism’s battles have been entirely won.

5. “You’ve been making women feel bad about themselves since you were invented.”

Sasha (Ariana Greenblatt)

Stereotypical Barbie seeks out the girl who’s playing with her, initially assumed to be Sasha. However, when Barbie finds Sasha, she is met with harsh criticism. Sasha’s reaction reflects real-world criticisms of the Barbie doll, highlighting the diverse and often contradictory perceptions of the iconic toy. While Barbie Land portrays a world where girls run the show, to many, like Sasha, the doll represents an outdated stereotype that can harm women rather than empower them.

6. “That’s life. It’s all change.”

Gloria (America Ferrera)

After an emotional encounter with Sasha, Barbie discovers that it’s Sasha’s mother, Gloria, who has been playing with her. Gloria imparts valuable wisdom to Barbie, emphasizing the inevitability of change in life. She references the significant changes people undergo as they transition from childhood to adulthood and highlights the smaller daily transformations we all experience.

7. “It is literally impossible to be a woman.”

Gloria (America Ferrera)

As the Barbies confront the consequences of Ken’s actions in their world, Gloria delivers a passionate speech about the challenges of being a woman. She articulates the impossibility and contradictions of the standards imposed on women, from physical appearance to personality traits. Her powerful words play a crucial role in undoing the brainwashing the Kens have inflicted on the Barbies, igniting a plan to regain control of Barbie Land.

8. “We mothers stand still so our daughters can look back and see how far they have come.”

Ruth Handler (Rhea Perlman)

While running through the Mattel offices, Barbie encounters an older woman, later revealed to be Ruth Handler, the creator of Barbie. Their conversation touches upon the theme of motherhood, as Ruth shares her wisdom with Barbie. Ruth, who based Barbie on her own daughter, Barbara, explains that mothers make sacrifices to improve the world for their daughters. This quote reflects the intergenerational bond and the enduring efforts of mothers to empower their children.

9. “Humans only have one ending. Ideas live forever.”

Ruth Handler (Rhea Perlman)

In a poignant conversation towards the end of the movie, Barbie confides in Ruth, expressing her uncertainty about her identity. Ruth imparts the wisdom that “Humans only have one ending. Ideas live forever.” This quote beautifully encapsulates the idea that while our time on Earth is finite, the impact of our ideas and creations can transcend generations. Ruth, as the creator of Barbie, is a living testament to this notion.

10. “You’re beautiful.” “I know.”

Stereotypical Barbie & The Woman on the Bench (Ann Roth)

Barbie’s journey in the Real World begins with a moment of self-reflection on a bench. She encounters an elderly woman who, unlike anything she has ever seen in Barbie Land, has wrinkles. Barbie compliments her, stating, “You’re beautiful,” to which the woman calmly responds, “I know.” This interaction challenges beauty standards and emphasizes the importance of self-love and acceptance.

Greta Gerwig’s ‘Barbie’ is not just a visually stunning and commercially successful movie but a thought-provoking exploration of societal norms, feminism, and self-identity. Through these memorable quotes, the film encourages us to reflect on our own lives and the messages we send to the world. In doing so, it redefines our understanding of the iconic doll and her impact on our society.

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