Barbie Review: 8 Ups & 2 Downs
4. Gloria Is The Movie's Secret Weapon
As hilarious as it is to watch the Kens and Barbies acting like, well, Kens and Barbies, the film wouldn't function without an emotional core. To tap into something thought-provoking and visceral, the narrative needs a real human character. Because dolls serve as avatars to the children who play with them, it was wise for Barbie to team up with a person who lives in The Real World, Gloria (America Ferrera).
Despite being a Barbie movie, it often feels like it's about Gloria's life. Watching her trying to keep it together while dealing with real-life problems grounds the story in reality.
Although viewers may struggle to empathise with Ken's inability to "beach," anyone can feel what Gloria is going through. Because Gloria can convey emotion in a way dolls can't, the most hard-hitting moments stem from her.
Even though Gloria gives numerous speeches that are on the verge of preachy, they never fail to incite a sentimental response. In fact, her monologues are among the best parts of the movie, purely because of America Ferrera's career-best performance.
Fans will flock to the theatres to see Barbie and Ken, but it's Gloria who leaves the biggest emotional impact.