Barbie is a fantasy comedy film directed by Greta Gerwig and starring Margot Robbie as the iconic doll who embarks on a journey of self-discovery after being expelled from Barbieland for being different. Along the way, she meets Ken (Ryan Gosling), a fellow doll who feels trapped in his role, and Gloria (America Ferrera) and Sasha (Ariana Greenblatt), a mother and daughter who help her find her true purpose.
The film is a satire of the consumerist and patriarchal culture that often shapes the expectations and identities of women. It also explores the themes of beauty, freedom, happiness, and love from a feminist perspective. However, as Christians, we can also find deeper meanings and messages in the film that relate to our faith and values.
I praise you, because I am wonderfully made; wonderful are your works! My very self you know.
Psalm 139:14
What Makes Us Human
One of the main questions that the film raises is: What makes us human? Barbie, who initially lives in a perfect but superficial world, begins to experience existential doubts and emotions that make her question her existence and purpose. She realizes that there is more to life than being a doll and that she has a soul that longs for something greater. She also learns that being human means accepting imperfections, embracing diversity, and facing challenges and suffering.
As Christians, we believe that we are created in the image and likeness of God, who is the source of our dignity and worth. We also believe that we have a unique vocation and mission that God has planned for us, and that we can discover it by following his will and his commandments. We also believe that being human means being able to love and be loved, and that we are called to love God above all things and our neighbor as ourselves.
It is literally impossible to be a woman. You are so beautiful and so smart, and it kills me that you don’t think you’re good enough. Like we have to always be extraordinary. But somehow, we’re always doing it wrong.
Barbie
What True Beauty Is
Another question that the film poses is: What is true beauty? Barbie, who is often criticized and rejected for being a symbol of unrealistic and oppressive beauty standards, discovers that beauty is not only about appearance, but also about inner qualities and actions. She realizes that beauty is not something that can be measured or defined by others, but something that comes from within and reflects one’s personality and values. As Christians, we believe that beauty is not something that can be achieved or maintained by external means, but something that grows and shines through one’s relationship with God and others.
As Christians, we believe that God is the source and summit of all beauty, and that he created everything with beauty and order. We also believe that we are beautiful because we are his children and he loves us unconditionally. We also believe that beauty is not only a gift, but also a responsibility, and that we are called to use our talents and gifts to glorify God and serve others. We also believe that beauty is not only a natural attribute, but also a supernatural grace, and that we can enhance it by living a virtuous and holy life.
Barbie is a film that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds. It offers a humorous and insightful critique of modern culture and a hopeful and inspiring vision of the human condition. It also invites us to reflect on our own identity and purpose, and to appreciate the beauty and goodness that God has given us and calls us to share with others.
Reflective Questions for Spiritual Growth
- How do you relate to Barbie’s journey of self-discovery and finding her true purpose? What are some of the challenges and joys that you have experienced or expect to experience in your own journey?
- How do you define and express your beauty as a Christian? How do you resist the pressures and temptations of the world that try to distort or diminish your beauty? How do you appreciate and celebrate the beauty of others, especially those who are different from you?
- How do you love God and your neighbor in your daily life? How do you show gratitude and generosity for the gifts that God has given you? How do you seek and offer forgiveness and reconciliation when you or others make mistakes?