Despite the original film’s unprecedented success, Robbie, who co-wrote and starred in the production, hints that the creators never envisioned it as the kickoff to a trilogy. Her recent comments during an AP Entertainment interview throw into question the likelihood of a sequel and raise doubts about the direction a continuation might take.
Awards Season Success and the Looming Question of Barbie 2
As the initial Barbie movie awaits its fate in the awards season, Margot Robbie delivers a disappointing update on the prospects of a sequel. The film, based on the iconic Mattel doll, has achieved remarkable success in 2023, breaking box office records and earning its place as Warner Bros.‘ highest-grossing solo female-directed movie. Despite this accomplishment, the looming question of Barbie 2 hangs in the balance.
Robbie’s Apprehension: Not Built for a Trilogy
In the AP Entertainment interview, Robbie openly expresses her reservations about the possibility of a Barbie 2. She notes that neither she nor co-writer/director Greta Gerwig constructed the original movie with a trilogy in mind. The actor’s uncertainty about the creative direction a sequel could take becomes apparent as she discusses the challenges of continuing a story that wasn’t initially conceived as part of a larger narrative.
Barbie 2: A Creative Conundrum for the Team
Robbie’s recent comments echo sentiments she expressed before the first movie’s release, where she displayed hesitancy about venturing into sequel territory. The fear of falling into a creative trap by setting up multiple follow-ups seemed to be a key concern for both Robbie and Gerwig. The latter, despite acknowledging the appeal of fans’ dreams, expressed a reluctance to constrain her creativity within a sequel format.
Diverging Views: Mattel’s Optimism and Creative Team’s Hesitation
While Robbie and Gerwig cast doubts on the sequel, Mattel, the corporate force behind Barbie, maintains a more optimistic stance. CEO Ynon Kreiz, in a July 2023 earnings call, expressed cautious optimism about a sequel’s potential, citing the need for time to evaluate the success of the first installment. However, the stark difference in views between the creative team and the corporate entity raises questions about the collaborative vision for Barbie 2.
Spinoffs and Alternate Paths: Barbieland’s Potential
Despite the uncertainty surrounding a direct sequel, the unique state in which Barbieland was left at the end of the original movie opens avenues for potential spinoffs. Characters like Ken, grappling with questions about purpose and identity, could serve as compelling focal points for entertaining follow-ups. The creative possibilities, though, may be contingent on the involvement of key creators like Gerwig and Robbie.As discussions about Barbie 2 persist, fans and industry observers remain hopeful that any potential follow-up maintains the integrity and creative direction set by the original team.
FAQs
Who are Barbie’s parents?
The details of Barbie’s background emerged in a Random House book series during the 1960s. This series unveiled the names of her parents, George and Margaret, although dolls representing them have never been released.
Who is Barbie’s husband?
Ken, born under the sign of Pisces, was designed as the male counterpart and companion to Barbie by Ruth Handler, the visionary creator of the iconic and mononymous fashion doll.
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