I dont know if anyone else felt this way, but Barbieland had an affect on me in a way I really didnt expect.
Starting the film there, its just fun and silly and camp. Yes of course all the Barbies do every job and they have political power its this crazy pink paradise hahahaha
And then when she goes to the real world, rollerblading down Venice Beach, I found myself accutely feeling the loss. That Barbieland was a world without those gazes to make you self consious. The freedom to exist in 'sexy' outfits without being sexualized. Barbieland had that! I didnt appreciate how comforting that was until Barbie lost it.
And then when the Kens take over, its comedic and Im laughing, but there was something in me that was deeply uncomfortable. I squirmed at every brainwashed Barbie's line. Their subservience made me... sad. Sad in a way I've yet to really put my finger on. But it wasnt until this scene that I realized that I was attached to Barbieland's fantasy as a safe place. I was a little taken aback by how much I wanted this toy land's status quo back.
Im struggling to find the words to express what I mean, but I hope Im not alone in this feeling I got. I think beginning the film in Barbieland before the audience has a chance to compare the real world (as presented in the film) to it was a stroke of genius. It really lets you get into Barbie's head as she experiences these jarring changes. And at least in my case, it lulled me into a false sense of security that set me up for a big emotional smack later on.
