Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi are slated to star in Emerald Fennell’s upcoming film Wuthering Heights, according to The Hollywood Reporter. The film is an adaptation of Emily Brontë’s book of the same name. The film is currently in pre-production and set to start shooting in the United Kingdom next year. Robbie will play Catherine Earnshaw, the main female protagonist of the novel. Elordi will portray Heathcliff, the Earnshaws’ foster son.

MRC and LuckyChap Entertainment are producing the film along with Fennell, who will also be writing. Margot Robbie, Tom Ackerley, and Josey McNamara founded the production company LuckyChap Entertainment. Among the films LuckyChap has produced are I, Tonya and Barbie, both of which have won an Academy Award and star Margot Robbie.

Fennell announced her intention to make a Wuthering Heights adaptation in July through a social media graphic. The Wuthering Heights adaptation will be Fennell’s third film with LuckyChap Entertainment. Fennell has previously directed LuckyChap Entertainment-produced films, Promising Young Woman and last year’s Saltburn. Fennell’s social media sensation Saltburn saw Elordi as one of the main actors. Elordi gained recognition for starring as Nate Jacobs in the teen drama Euphoria and as Elvis Presley in Sofia Coppola’s Priscilla. Elordi will appear in Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein, which is filming now.

Robbie is an actress and producer most known for her titular roles in last summer’s box office hit Barbie. Barbie was the highest-grossing film of 2023. Additionally, Robbie earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress for I, Tonya. Robbie will be appearing in Kogonada’s A Big Bold Beautiful Journey, releasing May 2025.

Filmmakers have adapted Emily Brontë’s Wuthering Heights into film multiple times in various languages. Famously, the Academy nominated the 1939’s Wuthering Heights for Best Picture. Most recently, in 2011, the book was adapted into a film starring Kaya Scodelario.

The post Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi Cast in Upcoming WUTHERING HEIGHTS Adaptation appeared first on Nerdist.

This year marks the 85th anniversary of Batman and the entire world of characters he introduced to DC Comics. A big part of his world is his incredible Gotham City rogues’ gallery. Up near the top of that iconic grouping of villains are Poison Ivy and her lovely girlfriend Harley Quinn. Now, these two deadly ladies (who are occasionally good guys) are getting their own collector’s edition Batman Barbie dolls. Each doll costs $55.00 and you can order both of them from the Mattel Shop. Check out the first images of the Harley Quinn and Poison Ivy Gotham City Siren Barbie dolls, and read their official descriptions, down below:

Poison Ivy Batman Barbie Doll

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Meet the Queen of Green from Gotham City, Poison Ivy. Part woman, part plant, her hybrid DNA shows in every detail of our doll, from her vibrant chlorophyll-colored skin to her verdant eyes. But don’t be fooled by her natural beauty—with a wrist-mounted crossbow and ferocious Venus flytrap, she’s ready to defend the environment at all times. Poison Ivy’s organically inspired touches contrast with her flowing red hair and ruby lips. Toxic venom is not included. A leaf-like crown and earrings complete the plant-themed look, while her crossbow hand stays poised and ready. We need this Batman Barbie, stat!

Harley Quinn Batman Barbie Doll

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Knock knock! It’s the Clown Princess of Crime, Harley Quinn, in Batman Barbie form. The punchline is, she’s got her mallet with her and she’s ready to bust in wherever she pleases. With bouncy pigtails, a black-and-red outfit, and a mischievous grin, this Harley Quinn doll brings together the modern and classic looks of the beloved baddie. Could you ask for anything more, puddin’? Mismatched black and red elbow and knee pads give Harley a rough-and-tumble look that matches her superhuman acrobatic abilities. A choker, earrings, and studded belt bring a bit of flair, because it’s nice to look good while you’re doing bad.

Will we get more Batman Barbies soon? We’re hoping for Batgirl, Huntress, and Catwoman in the near future. Gotham has no shortage of badass ladies who would make for truly amazing Barbie dolls.

The post Poison Ivy and Harley Quinn Signature BATMAN Barbies Are on the Way appeared first on Nerdist.

Barbie might have been the “It Girl” of summer 2023, thanks to a billion dollar blockbuster movie. But her power is not limited to just one pop culture moment. Barbie has been slaying the house down since 1959, and she’s not stopping anytime soon, nor are her many branded products. And while you may never own Barbie’s hot pink car, or her stylish Dream House, you now can own a real-life flip phone in authentic Barbie pink. Via The Verge, we’ve learned that the HMD Barbie phone will officially go on sale for $129 this October. You can check out the first images below:

Click To View Gallery

The Barbie phone is as old school as it gets. It has no apps, just a tiny, 2.8-inch inner screen. It only has enough connectivity for calls and texts. So not only can you pretend to be Barbie, you can pretend to be Barbie in 2002. (Or maybe Elle Woods from Legally Blonde?) HMD says that with this Barbie flip phone, users can “take a vacation from your smartphone.” Now, I’m not sure that’s something people are eager to do, but if they are, might as well do it Mattel style. The phone has a 5-megapixel camera with a built-in flash, so you can make your pics look like your summer vacation from the early 2000s.

The new Barbie Phone comes with extremely two extra Barbie-esque battery covers, and an external display with a mirror. It also comes with a beaded lanyard with cute attachable charms, stickers, and stick-on gems for customization. The old-school Snake game even gets Barbie-ized. It also comes in a hot-pink jewelry box. The HMD Barbie Phone works on all three major US wireless networks, and becomes available for preorder on September 23. It will ship on October 1st. Just don’t tell Ken, he’ll find some way to make it all about him. You know how he is.

The post New HMD Barbie Flip-Phone Has All the Early 2000s Vibes appeared first on Nerdist.

Now that the 96th annual Academy Awards have come and gone, what will people remember about years later? Will it be the Oppenheimer sweep of most of the major categories? Will it be Emma Stone receiving her second Oscar for Poor Things? Maybe. We’re going to bet the thing folks will remember most about the 2024 Oscars, however, is Ryan Gosling’s perfect and hilarious rendition of his nominated song from Barbie, “I’m Just Ken.” That showstopper is what everyone was talking about that night, and the following day. Now, YouTuber LegoME_theOG has recreated the iconic moment, entirely in LEGO. You can watch it in full right here:

So just what made this moment so perfect? Was it Gosling’s commitment to maintaining the “Kenergy?” Was it the involvement of the other major Kens from Barbie? Was it the perfect homage to Marilyn Monroe’s “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend” from Gentlemen Prefer Blondes? Well, we think it was a little bit of all of those things combined. Although Ryan Gosling was nominated for his role as Ken, he lost to Robert Downey Jr.’s in Oppenheimer, and somehow still managed to become the most talked about aspect of said event. Ryan Gosling might not have won in his category, but he won the whole night. Isn’t that better?

While we’re sure the now-iconic Oscar moment has got the suits clamoring for more cinematic Ken, we kind of hope this is the victory lap for Gosling as the character. You never want to overdo a good thing. If you enjoyed that LEGO-ized “I’m Just Ken” Oscars moment, the LegoME_theOG YouTube channel has other similarly hilarious recreations. Among them are the recent Deadpool & Wolverine trailer, Stranger Things 4, and even the cliffhanger finale of Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse. As cool as all of those are though, nothing will ever replace Ken in our hearts.

The post Ryan Gosling’s Oscar Performance of BARBIE’s ‘I’m Just Ken’ Gets a LEGO Upgrade appeared first on Nerdist.

We all knew that we’d love Ryan Gosling’s live Oscars performance of his hit ballad “I’m Just Ken” from the Barbie movie. But we totally underestimated how much. The “I’m Just Ken” performance was easily our favorite part of the evening. From Ryan Gosling’s homage to Marilyn Monroe to his hot pink bedazzled outfit to singing with his fellow Kens on stage, there was no end to the delight the performance brought us. You can watch Ryan Gosling’s “I’m Just Ken” Oscars performance below and experience the Kenergy for yourself.

“I’m just Ken, and I’m enough. And I’m great at doing stuff.” Well, Ryan Gosling certainly is Kenough, and he’s certainly great at doing stuff, like bringing down the house. This “I’m Just Ken” Oscars performance told a slightly different story than the cinematic version from the Barbie movie. As mentioned, it actually homages Marilyn Monroe’s performance of “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend” in Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, with Ken, of course, the blonde in question. And, it turns out, it was actually Gosling’s idea to turn this performance into a wink to Monroe. We love this reference on multiple levels. Reach for the stars, Ken! May you and your gentleman have a great time.

We also love that Gosling wasn’t a lone Ken during the “I’m Just Ken” performance at the Oscars. Fellow cinematic Kens from Barbie: Ncuti Gatwa, Simu Liu, Scott Evans, and Kingsley Ben-Adir appeared on stage as well. These appearances were extra exciting for us at Nerdist (and for nerds everywhere) because Gatwa is, of course, the new star of Doctor Who, and Liu and Ben-Adir both gave performances we loved in the MCU. Nerdy Kens for the win! Guns N’ Roses’ Slash also joined Ryan Gosling and the rest on stage. And he brought yet another Kenergy to the table.

Variety reveals that involved in the performance were “a 40-piece orchestra, 62 dancing Kens, over 24 gigantic Barbie heads, and four “cameo Kens.” And that despite playing coy, Gosling had worked on the performance for months with a clear overall structure in his head. Choreographer Mandy Moore and Greta Gerwig also played a big role in the final vision of the piece. Gosling and co. planned everything down to a T, from the inclusion of Gerwig, and Barbie co-stars Margot Robbie and America Ferrara to the line Gosling shared with Emma Stone. Gosling even asked permission before kissing the cameraman’s hand. Moore notes, “[Gosling] was very sweet he goes, ‘Can we just make sure that Sean the steady is OK if I kiss his hand?”

Gosling’s “I’m Just Ken” performance at the Oscars feels like the perfect culmination of Ken’s Barbie journey. Even though the Barbie-focused song “What Was I Made For” ultimately took home the Oscars prize, Ken had his day in the sun too.

If you’re still looking for more “I’m Just Ken” in your life, you can now check out the performance in LEGO form. Hopefully, we’ll see a Barbie: The Album concert tour next. Can you imagine the pink in the crowd? Till then, we’ll replay this “I’m Just Ken” Oscars performance over and over.

Originally published on March 11, 2024.

The post Watch Ryan Gosling Perform ‘I’m Just Ken’ at the Oscars appeared first on Nerdist.

From confirmation that Ryan Gosling will perform his hit Barbie song at the Oscars to a new set of Shrek Universal Orlando attractions, here are some of our favorite pop-culture news odds & ends lately.

• Ryan Gosling Will Perform Barbie Ballad “I’m Just Ken” at the Oscars
• LEGO X Fortnite Introduce Two New LEGO Islands
• A24 Releases Gorgeous Screenplay Book Honoring Robert Eggers’ The Lighthouse
• Shrek’s Swamp Among New Attractions Coming to Universal’s Orlando Resort
• Netflix Teases Wild-Looking Parasite Movie, Parasyte: The Grey
• The Last of Us Season Two Star Is Teasing Queer Chemistry to Come
• Starlight Children’s Foundation Partners with Nintendo for Mario Day
• AMC Launches Three New Nicole Kidman Ads

Ryan Gosling Will Perform Barbie Ballad “I’m Just Ken” at the Oscars

Good news, Barbies. Ryan Gosling is officially confirmed to perform “I’m Just Ken” live at the Oscars. We can’t wait to see how this Barbie movie looks and sounds on stage.

“I’m Just Ken” is one banger of a ballad:

LEGO X Fortnite Introduce Two New LEGO Islands

Get ready LEGO lovers and Fortnite fans, two new LEGO Islands just opened up in the game. ‘LEGO Raft Survival’ and ‘LEGO Obby Fun’ have now arrived and they’ll give you pirate and obstacle-course themed adventures to explore.

Here’s more about LEGO’s big collaboration with Fortnite:

A24 Releases Gorgeous Screenplay Book Honoring Robert Eggers’ The Lighthouse

In celebration of Robert Eggers’ celebrated movie, The Lighthouse, A24 has released a gorgeous Screenplay Book honoring the film. Among other things, the book includes Robert and Max Eggers’ original script, an introduction by Willem Dafoe, full-page stills of Jarin Blaschke’s Oscar-nominated cinematography, select pages pulled from a lighthouse keeper’s guide published in 1881, and more. This The Lighthouse Screenplay Book truly highlights the beauty and atmosphere of its chosen movie. It also marks the 11th edition of A24’s incredible Screenplay Books series. The exquisite tome is the perfect gift for lovers of the movie.

Shrek’s Swamp Among New Attractions Coming to Universal’s Orlando Resort

A few new attractions are heading to Universal Orlando Resort, and among them are some new Shrek adventures. A release shares:

Like ogres and onions, guests can peel back layers of fun in Shrek’s oasis to discover “ogre-the-top” adventures at every turn.

Shrek’s Swamp Meet: Guests can visit Shrek’s Swamp Meet to interact with beloved characters Shrek, Princess Fiona and Donkey, the noble steed eager to joke around and converse with guests, just outside of Shrek’s cottage.

Shrek’s Swamp for Little Ogres: This ogre-sized play area features four fun slides, wet play areas and a playground where guests can climb, bounce and splash around as well as venture into Shrek’s outhouse.

Mama Luna Feline Fiesta: The blockbuster film, Puss in Boots 2: The Last Wish, comes to life with this new interactive experience that takes place in Mama Luna’s retirement home for cats. Here, guests get to play with Mama Luna’s many cats on vivid interactive screens activated by buttons, bells, maracas and levers. They might even spot the one and only Puss in Boots himself. 

King Harold’s Swamp Symphony: Guests can create their own melodious masterpiece as they trigger a choir of ever-changing frog ribbits by continually stomping on an array of interactive lily pads. 

Swamp Snacks: Families can feast like an ogre at this new kiosk, which will serve scrumptious snacks inspired by Shrek, including Shrekzel, Far Far A Waffle, Frozen Ogre and more.

Other new attractions include experiences for Kung Fu Panda and Trolls.

Universal is also creating a whole new theme park:

Netflix Teases Wild-Looking Parasite Movie, Parasyte: The Grey

Get ready for one intensely creepy-looking movie. Netflix is teasing Parasyte: The Grey, a manga-based monster movie. Its synopsis shares, “When unidentified parasites violently take over human hosts and gain power, humanity must rise to combat the growing threat.” Here we go!

The Last of Us Season Two Star Is Teasing Queer Chemistry to Come

Speaking to ET, in an interview which we saw via GameSpot, Isabela Merced, who plays Dina on The Last of Us season two shares, “I already did one day of shooting–it was technically day zero–but the chemistry that Bella and I have is so palpable. It’s really nice to be able to work with someone like that.” Dina and Ellie, of course, share a close and sometimes romantic relationship in The Last of Us Part II, so we’re happy to hear it.

Here’s what we know so far about The Last of Us season two:

Starlight Children’s Foundation Partners with Nintendo for Mario Day

Starlight Children’s Foundation is “dedicated to delivering happiness to hospitalized children nationwide through the healing power of play.” And they’re partnering with Nintendo for an initiative called Power of Play. A release shares:

The Power of Play campaign aims to raise funds and awareness of the healing power of therapeutic play for kids in hospitals and their families. The month-long campaign seeks to raise $225,000 through different activations. As part of the Power of Play celebrations, our annual Stream ForStarlight (S4S) Spring Stream kicks off with an exclusive Mario Day weekend event. Starlight will start the 50 hours of streaming on Friday, March 8th at 4:00pm ET, featuring our 2023 Battle for Charity winners, Team PB, and we’ll round out the kickoff celebrations with a 48-hour raid train until 8pm ET on Sunday, March 10th. Our mission? To raise a whopping $50K by Mar10 Day! Play isn’t just fun – it’s how kids cope and learn through challenges, and how adults continue to strengthen their spirit. So this March, when you play, kids win! 

To get involved, check out the official page here.

AMC Launches Three New Nicole Kidman Ads

We come here to… see if AMC can have lightning strike more than once. The theater chain will introduce three new Nicole Kidman ads to its movies.

One will debut on March 1, while the other will arrive in the coming months. And we’ll have to catch them all like Pokémon. Only time will tell if they capture the magic of the original.

Check out the Nicole Kidman AMC backpack:

The post Ryan Gosling to Perform BARBIE’s ‘I’m Just Ken’ at the Oscars and Other News Odds & Ends appeared first on Nerdist.

Have you seen every film nominated for a major Academy Award this year? Whether you (somehow) did or not, we want to help you impress everyone you talk to about the Oscars, which will air on March 10. And we can do that because we really did watch every film nominated for either best picture, director, or acting. So if you want to sound smart discussing the nominees, snubs, surprises, favorites, and more of the six most prestigious categories, this in-depth guide to the 96th Academy Awards will let you do just that.

Jump To (Best Picture and Best Director): Best Picture Nominees // What to Say About Best Picture Films // Best Picture Hot Take // Who Will Win Best Picture // Who Should Win Best Picture // Best Director Nominees // What to Say About Best Directors // Best Director Hot Take // Who Will Win Best Director // Who Should Win Best Director

Jump To (Best Actor and Actress Awards): Best Actress in Leading Role Nominees // What to Say About Best Actress in Leading Role // Best Actress Hot Take // Who Will Win Best Actress in Leading Role // Who Should Win Best Actress in Leading Role // Best Actor in a Leading Role Nominees // What to Say About Best Actor in a Leading Role // Best Actor Hot Take // Who Will Win Best Actor in a Leading Role // Who Should Win Best Actor in a Leading Role // Best Actress in Supporting Role Nominees // What to Say About Best Actress in Supporting Role // Best Supporting Actress Hot Take // Who Will Win Best Supporting Actress // Who Should Win Best Supporting Actress // Best Actor in Supporting Role Nominees // What to Say About Best Actor in Supporting Role // Best Supporting Actor Hot Take // Who Will Win Best Supporting Actor // Who Should Win Best Supporting Actor

BEST PICTURE

Nominees

What You Need to Know About the Oscar Nominees for Best Picture

Oppenheimer is the overwhelming favorite, and with a leading 13-nominations it’ll likely already have a lot of statues before the night’s biggest trophy is handed out. What makes the seeming inevitability of its victory even more impressive is that this is a loaded category. The Holdovers, Killers of the Flower Moon, Past Lives, Poor Things, and The Zone of Interest would all be worthy winners. And American Fiction, Barbie, and Anatomy of a Fall are excellent movies worthy of their nominations.

If Maestro wins we’re looking at the biggest bribery scandal in human history.

How To Sound Smart Talking About Every Nominee

American Fiction: Considering our current reality, it’s hard to create good satire anymore. Yet somehow American Fiction’s Cord Jefferson created great satire in his directorial debut with his incredible adaptation of Percival Everett’s Erasure. The story of Thelonious “Monk” Ellison—a respected but struggling Black author whose anonymous joke novel parodying how white people think of Black Americans becomes a massive hit—is funny, moving, and incredibly insightful. It’s one of 2023’s most re-watchable films, too.

Anatomy of A Fall: Did Sandra Voyter murder her husband or did he leap to his death? It’s a great question that makes for a compelling mystery, but that’s not what makes Anatomy of a Fall great. It’s the way the film uses our own conceptions and biases against us, leading us to think Sandra is definitely innocent one moment and definitely guilty the next. It’s also a human story that offers meaningful reflection on the nature of truth, relationships, self, and culpability. This is a movie that stays with you. Unfortunately that freaking song stays with you, too.

Barbie: Somehow Greta Gerwig made a movie about an iconic toy under the watchful eye of the toy’s owner, and it not only didn’t suck, it was both a record-setting box office smash and critical darling. How?! How was Barbie this good, this funny, this moving, and this poignant when it probably should have been nothing more than an expensive commercial? It’s basically a movie miracle.

The Holdovers: This might be the best acted movie of the year, as it’s three leads are all operating at the highest level. But not enough people have talked about how The Holdovers is also one of the best movies ever made about class in America. Maybe that’s because its a character study that does so many things well it’s easy to overlook that important element. Alexander Payne’s laugh-out-loud period film meticulously peels away its many layers, revealing unexpected depths. You can’t fully appreciate what it’s about until it’s over, in what stands as a masterclass of storytelling in every way.

Killers of The Flower Moon: Maybe the greatest American director ever created a masterpiece about the banality of evil, in a true story of an attempted genocide, and somehow no one thinks Killers of the Flower Moon is going to win Best Picture. We’re spoiled. Time will help us realize just how good this movie really is, especially its innovative final scene which reminds us we’re to all responsible for how peoples’ painful pasts are bastardized for profit and entertainment.

Maestro: One thing you have to give Maestro credit for is that it made every single viewer under 40 who go online to find out why Leonard Bernstein was such an important artist. By not even attempting to answer that question Bradley Cooper did wonders for search engines everywhere.

Oppenheimer: What more could you want or expect from a movie? Oppenheimer tells the story of arguably the most consequential person in human history (hopefully he is not!), with a story that is equally entertaining and insightful, epic and intimate. It’s a visual marvel, yet rooted in a painfully human tale of success, ambition, and regret. It’s haunting, reflective, and hard to forget. It also has has a new famous actor show up unexpectedly every five minutes. Can’t overlook that.

Past Lives: Past Lives is proof that the most interesting thing that ever happens in life is simply living it. First-time writer-director Celine Song’s absolutely gorgeous movie about the choices we make and how we must deal with them after is mostly just two people talking. But it’s everything they aren’t saying that carries so much weight in a quiet, meditative piece on relationships and who we are. Past Lives is stunning, heartbreaking, and absolutely captivating. Even though almost nothing technically happens everything does.

Poor Things: Poor Things is the most unique nominee for Best Picture. It’s also arguably the category’s most visually engaging contender. But that only scratches the surface of why this ended up with the second most nominations this year (11). Smart, strange, and unflinching, this feminist tale turns a Frankenstein­-esque creation into a living treatise on sexuality, family, patriarchy, and female empowerment. It’s also really freaking funny.

The Zone of Interest: Classics Professor Laura Swift wrote ancient Greek dramatists thought not showing violence onstage “forced their audience to imagine the horrors for themselves,” and “the power of imagination can do far more than any stage gore.” The Zone of Interest is a haunting work of art that exemplifies how true that is. It takes place outside the walls of Auschwitz, with a story about how seemingly otherwise regular people have the capacity for unimaginable evil. The film doesn’t merely implicate our ancestors for their past failures, though. It forces us to face our responsibility for fighting back against those forces now. It’s tough to watch, but impossible to look away from.

Who Got Robbed of an Oscar Nomination for Best Picture

All of Us Strangers—which somehow got shut out entirely from the Oscars—is the most obvious snub. Less obvious but no less deserving is Godzilla Minus One. It’s a spectacle with real depth.

Something Interesting You Can Say That No One Can Disprove

“Someday people will realize Oppenheimer and Barbie should have shared this award because together they saved movie theaters for another generation.”

“The dog’s affection for her removed any ambiguity from Anatomy of a Fall.”

Hot Take to Spice Things Up

“Maestro should win Best Picture.”

Kidding. This is supposed to be a hot take to “spice things up,” not burn down your credibility forever. Here’s a real hot take you can use: “Without the ‘Barbenheimer’ phenomenon The Zone of Interest would definitely win Best Picture.”

Who Will Win Best Picture at the 2024 Oscars?

Easy: Oppenheimer.

Who Should Win Best Picture at the 2024 Oscars?

Not quite as easy considering how many amazing movies are nominated, but still Oppenheimer. It’s a remarkable film in every way. From its script, direction, themes, and subject matter to sound, visual effects, and acting, it’s a total powerhouse of a theatrical experience and deserves Hollywood’s biggest recognition. In a lot of other years Past Lives, Killers of the Flower Moon, or The Zone of Interest would easily win.

Jump To (Best Picture and Best Director): Best Picture Nominees // What to Say About Best Picture Films // Best Picture Hot Take // Who Will Win Best Picture // Who Should Win Best Picture // Best Director Nominees // What to Say About Best Directors // Best Director Hot Take // Who Will Win Best Director // Who Should Win Best Director

Jump To (Best Actor and Actress Awards): Best Actress in Leading Role Nominees // What to Say About Best Actress in Leading Role // Best Actress Hot Take // Who Will Win Best Actress in Leading Role // Who Should Win Best Actress in Leading Role // Best Actor in a Leading Role Nominees // What to Say About Best Actor in a Leading Role // Best Actor Hot Take // Who Will Win Best Actor in a Leading Role // Who Should Win Best Actor in a Leading Role // Best Actress in Supporting Role Nominees // What to Say About Best Actress in Supporting Role // Best Supporting Actress Hot Take // Who Will Win Best Supporting Actress // Who Should Win Best Supporting Actress // Best Actor in Supporting Role Nominees // What to Say About Best Actor in Supporting Role // Best Supporting Actor Hot Take // Who Will Win Best Supporting Actor // Who Should Win Best Supporting Actor

BEST DIRECTOR

Nominees

What You Need to Know About the Oscar Nominees for Best Director

Overwhelming favorite Christopher Nolan is almost certainly joining the list of Oscar-winning directors. Betting markets give the other four nominees the same general long-shot odds. If one of them had emerged as the most obvious “second” choice by now they might have a slim chance at a late upset, but hearing any name other than Nolan’s called for Best Director would be a genuinely shocking outcome.

How To Sound Smart Talking About Every Nominee

Justine Triet: Triet was a no-brainer nomination. She got amazing performances out of everyone in her cast, and with a deft hand managed to make just a couple of otherwise normal locations (a home and a courtroom) feel like dynamic places that somehow felt both enormous and stifling.

Christopher Nolan: Oppenheimer, which is equal parts grand spectacle and poignant human drama, is the culmination of Christopher Nolan’s entire career. It’s the film where he truly mastered all of his skills to create something that stands above his other movies (which is really saying something considering his past works). Oppenheimer is a world class director at his absolute apex.

Martin Scorsese: If Marty Scorsese stopped making movies when he turned 70, he might still be the greatest American director in history. Instead he went ahead and delivered one of his best, most important, most impressive works of art in his freaking 80s. And Killers of the Flower Moon’s incredible final scene, which reframed the entire film, is one of the best cappers to any movie ever.

Yorgos Lanthimos: Poor Things is a visual feast, a series of moving paintings of a fascinating world filled by fascinating characters. It’s also incredibly funny thanks in large part to Yorgos Lanthimos’s ability to mine humor with his camera. From the way he brings us inside a brothel to how long he lingers on a mad scientist burping a giant gas bubble, Lanthimos’ hands are all over this unusual movie, but in the best way. You never see him pulling the  proverbial strings, you just feel what they’re doing.

Jonathan Glazer: Considering its subject matter, The Zone of Interest might have had the highest level of difficulty of any 2023 film. Jonathan Glazer didn’t just pull it off, though, he made something outstanding. His stylistic approach, impeccable framing, and acute sense of time and place turned every scene into a living work of twisted art. He captured the inherent evil of his story entirely with his camera.

Who Got Robbed of an Oscar Nomination for Best Director

What more did Greta Gerwig need to do as a director to earn a nomination? No, we’re actually asking because we’d like to know. Same for Celine Song. Past Lives is a powerhouse of a film and her deft direction is a big reason why.

Something Interesting You Can Say That No One Can Disprove

“If Best Director is supposed to reward a director’s efforts and nothing else, than Chad Stahelski should have been nominated for John Wick: Chapter 4. He filmed four of the greatest action sequences ever in a single movie!”

Hot Take to Spice Things Up

“Nolan winning for Oppenheimer is nothing more than a make-up Oscar for Tenet.”

Who Will Win Best Director at the 2024 Oscars?

Christopher Nolan, and by extension people who inexplicably love to be really weird talking about Christopher Nolan.

Who Should Win Best Director at the 2024 Oscars?

Nolan, but we don’t fault anyone who thinks Glazer should edge him out.

ACTRESS IN A LEADING ROLE

Nominees

What You Need to Know About the Best Actress in a Leading Role Nominees

Of the six major categories this is the closest race according to the betting odds. Previous winner Emma Stone (La La Land) and Lily Gladstone, the first Native American actress ever nominated for Best Actress, are vying for the win. This is also Bening’s fifth acting nomination.

How To Sound Smart Talking About Every Nominee

Emma Stone: What made Emma Stone’s performance, which was as physically taxing as it was emotionally draining, so incredible is that she managed to make Bella feel real when the character easily could have seemed like a cartoon. Stone delivered a one-of-one performance in a nearly impossible part.

Lily Gladstone: Lily Gladstone is the heart of Killers of the Flower Moon, which asks so much of her even though the film’s plot doesn’t revolve around her. She carries the emotional weight and pain of so many people, which she does with a moving, authentic performance that stays with you long after the movie ends.

Annette Bening: What makes Bening so good in Nyad is that she never caves into the temptation to make her character seem likable. Her Diana is grating, selfish, and frequently unpleasant to be around. Not everyone would be willing to come across like that on screen, but that’s why Bening is such a standout.

Carey Mulligan: Carey Mulligan is far and away the best part of Maestro (and we don’t mean that as feint praise) as actress Felicia Montealegre, Leonard Bernstein’s wife. It’s a performance that is equally evocative during the character’s understated moments as it is in scenes where Felicia can no longer hide her emotions. Mulligan is so good she even pulls off a Mid-Atlantic accent without sounding like she’s doing a bit. Now that’s impressive!

Sandra Hüller: For much of Anatomy of a Fall Sandra Hüller is asked to be the most German German who ever German’d. She plays a reserved, nearly stoic wife and mother accused of her husband’s murder. And she’s absolutely riveting the whole time. But what turns a great performance into a special one is when her character Sandra Voyter unleashes all her pent-up emotions. It’s like seeing a volcano thought dormant completely erupt.

Who Got Robbed of an Oscar Nomination for Best Actress in a Leading Role?

Margot Robbie’s omission for Barbie is obvious as it is absurd. She gave one of the year’s best performances in an extremely difficult role she seems to have been dinged for making look easy. Past Lives’s Greta Lee was also as deserving of a Best Actress nomination as anyone.

Something Interesting You Can Say That No One Can Disprove

“I actually think Sandra Hüller was even better in The Zone of Interest than she was in Anatomy of a Fall.”

“History will judge the Academy poorly for overlooking Cailee Spaeny in Priscilla.”

Hot Take to Spice Things Up

“Natalie Portman and Julianne Moore both should have been nominated for playing such interesting sociopaths in May December.”

Who Will Win Best Actress in a Leading Role at the 2024 Oscars?

For a month the oddsmakers had Stone winning a very, very close race over Gladstone, but it now looks like a true coin flip. We’ll say it comes up Stone, who gets her second Oscar.

Who Should Win Best Actress in a Leading Role at the 2024 Oscars?

This one is really hard, but we’ll go with Emma Stone. Her Bella Baxter was a marvel when she could have been an annoying disaster in even slightly lesser hands.

ACTOR IN A LEADING ROLE

Nominees

What You Need to Know About the Best Actor in a Leading Role Nominees

This is really a battle between two of Hollywood’s best actors without an Oscar. Either Cillian Murphy or Paul Giamatti will no longer be a part of that club by night’s end. A late surge of support for Murphy has him as the favorite, but he’s not a lock. Meanwhile, Bradley Cooper was actually nominated for “Most Acting,” but when the Academy remembered that category doesn’t exist they moved him into this one.

How To Sound Smart Talking About Every Nominee

Jeffrey Wright: It’s one thing to give a great performance in a movie that can only be as good as its leading man. It’s another to give a flawless performance in such a part. That’s exactly what Jeffrey Wright provides in American Fiction. He makes an icy a**hole wholly sympathetic and likable, as his Monk is funny, frustrating, and way too smart for his own good.

Paul Giamatti: It’s impossible to have a better pairing of role and performer than Giamatti’s turn as curmudgeon Paul Hunham. He’s absolutely perfect as a strict, lonely teacher, as Giamatti is both hilarious and heartbreaking in a part that requires an incredible depth of character work. Literally no one else would have been as good playing Hunham.

Bradley Cooper: Uh…that big conducting sequence was worth all the work Bradley Cooper put into it making his performance authentic. That was cool.

Cillian Murphy: It’s easy to overrate a leading performance in a great movie. It’s also easy to confuse the “size” of a part with quality of acting. Anyone who suggests either of those things is why Murphy is the favorite to go home with this award didn’t see Oppenheimer. He had the single most challenging, most comprehensive part of the year and all he did was give a staggering performance. Without him, Oppenheimer wouldn’t be winning Best Picture.

Colman Domingo: This nomination is only shocking because Rustin seemed like the type of movie the Academy would overlook. But anyone who saw this biopic knows Domingo more than deserves this recognition. He’s outstanding as gay civil rights activist Bayard Rustin, in role that requires Domingo to be both full of joy and full of pain, as well as flashy and quietly self-reflective.

Who Got Robbed of an Oscar Nomination for Best Actor in a Leading Role?

Past Lives’ Teo Yoo. Not only does he give a moving, quiet performance, he transforms in such a way it’s almost as though another actor tales over the part when his character ages. Andrew Scott also has more than a legitimate gripe for not getting a nod.

Something Interesting You Can Say That No One Can Disprove

“Colman Domingo easily could have pulled off the Scarlett Johanneson and had two acting nominations this year. He’s that good in The Color Purple in a very different role from Rustin.”

“In a few years we’ll all realize we didn’t really appreciate Christian Friedel’s terrifying performance in The Zone of Interest enough.”

Hot Take to Spice Things Up

“Paul Giamatti gives the third best performance in The Holdovers.”

Who Will Win Best Actor in a Leading Role at the 2024 Oscars?

Cillian Murphy will be among the many on the night who take home an Oscar for Oppenheimer.

Who Should Win Best Actor in a Leading Role at the 2024 Oscars?

Oppenheimer is a masterpiece that rests entirely on the back of Murphy, who is in roughly 137% of its scenes. It’s the performance of a lifetime and he deserves to win even if Giamatti is more than worthy of finally getting a long overdue Oscar.

Jump To (Best Picture and Best Director): Best Picture Nominees // What to Say About Best Picture Films // Best Picture Hot Take // Who Will Win Best Picture // Who Should Win Best Picture // Best Director Nominees // What to Say About Best Directors // Best Director Hot Take // Who Will Win Best Director // Who Should Win Best Director

Jump To (Best Actor and Actress Awards): Best Actress in Leading Role Nominees // What to Say About Best Actress in Leading Role // Best Actress Hot Take // Who Will Win Best Actress in Leading Role // Who Should Win Best Actress in Leading Role // Best Actor in a Leading Role Nominees // What to Say About Best Actor in a Leading Role // Best Actor Hot Take // Who Will Win Best Actor in a Leading Role // Who Should Win Best Actor in a Leading Role // Best Actress in Supporting Role Nominees // What to Say About Best Actress in Supporting Role // Best Supporting Actress Hot Take // Who Will Win Best Supporting Actress // Who Should Win Best Supporting Actress // Best Actor in Supporting Role Nominees // What to Say About Best Actor in Supporting Role // Best Supporting Actor Hot Take // Who Will Win Best Supporting Actor // Who Should Win Best Supporting Actor

ACTRESS IN A SUPPORTING ROLE

Nominees

What You Need to Know the Best Actress in a Supporting Role Nominees

Da’vine Joy Randolph has won roughly a gazillion pre-Oscars awards and there’s no reason to think she won’t also nab Hollywood’s biggest trophy. If Academy voters want to find a way to honor Barbie, though, America Ferrera might pull off the upset. And you can’t entirely rule out an Oppenheimer wave carrying Emily Blunt to victory.

How To Sound Smart Talking About Every Nominee

America Ferrera: Ferrera’s nomination is about far more than just her all-time great Barbie monologue, even if that scene alone made her deserving of one. She was hilarious, compassionate, heartbreaking, and, mostly importantly, wonderfully human in a story set in a fantasy world.

Danielle Brooks: The Color Purple is a movie full of excellent performances, but no one in the film commands the screen quite like Danielle Brooks. She’s a force of nature whether she’s taking charge or facing the brutal reality of an unjust world that wants to keep her quiet.

Da’vine Joy Randolph: The hardest thing an actor can do is create a character that feels entirely real. Not many people, even the best, can give a performance so authentic you forget they’re playing a fictional person in a story. That’s what Randolph accomplishes in her honest, moving portrayal of a grieving mother. You can’t overstate how incredible she is in The Holdovers.

Jodie Foster: Foster’s role as the best friend of an overly obnoxious, self-centered, ambitious swimmer isn’t showy, but the movie only works because of Foster’s understated performance. She offers the perfect counterpoint to Bening. It’s no surprise Jodie freaking Foster is great, but it is surprising the Academy noticed that greatness in the type of part it often takes for granted.

Emily Blunt: Oppenheimer has two scenes where the movie turns on a dime. One is the Trinity Test where they set off the first-ever nuclear bomb. The other is Emily Blunt’s testimony during her husband’s clearance hearing. In a movie featuring roughly 9,000 great actors, it’s Blunt who steals an entire scene in a way no one else does.

Who Got Robbed of an Oscar Nomination for Best Actress in a Supporting Role?

Penélope Cruz for Ferrari. She gives one of the best performances of her life as a grieving mother, bitter wife, and shrewd business woman. Also, Taraji P. Henson just as easily could have grabbed a supporting spot alongside her The Color of Purple co-star.

Something Interesting You Can Say That No One Can Disprove

“The only reason Rosamund Pike didn’t get nominated is because everyone hated the big twist in Saltburn.”

Hot Take to Spice Things Up

“A long simmering anti-Tom Cruise sentiment from some Academy voters prevented Vanessa Kirby from being recognized for Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning.”

Who Will Win Best Actress in a Supporting Role at the 2024 Oscars?

Only people who don’t like money will bet against Da’Vine Joy Randolph, but of the six major categories Best Supporting Actress tends to have the most surprise winners. If that happens this year, it’ll be Ferrera holding an Oscar.

Who Should Win Best Actress in a Supporting Role?

We’d celebrate a surprise Ferrera win, but Randolph deserves this.

ACTOR IN A SUPPORTING ROLE

Nominees

What You Need to Know About the Best Actor in a Supporting Role Nominees

Robert Downey Jr. earned his first Oscar nomination in 1993 for Chaplin. He’s fully expected to get his Oscar win in 2024. His victory would included defeating his fellow Marvel Avenger, Mark Ruffalo. He’d also be besting two-time Academy winner Robert De Niro, who took home this exact statue in 1975 for The Godfather Part Two. Also, people are really upset Ken got nominated when Barbie didn’t, including Ryan Gosling himself.

How To Sound Smart Talking About Every Nominee

Sterling K. Brown: Brown’s recently out, cocaine-loving brother of Monk shows you can have a total blast playing a part while still making your character feel grounded. This surprise nomination is the good kind of Oscars surprise.

Ryan Gosling: Getting an Oscars acting nomination for a comedic role isn’t technically impossible, it’s just nearly impossible. Gosling was simply too good in Barbie for the Academy to deny him a spot. Plus he gave us “I’m Just Ken.” He should get a second nomination for that alone.

Robert De Niro: It’s easy to take another amazing performance from a living legend for granted, but what Robert De Niro did in Killers of the Flower Moon should not be overlooked. He’s absolutely chilling as the personification of the film’s main theme. He conveys a depth of evil with nothing more than a slight look or a small lilt of his head. It’s not just his best performance in years, it stands among his best ever.

Robert Downey Jr.: Somehow turning an obscure comic book character into an iconic movie figure, all while anchoring the most successful movie franchise ever, made some people forget Robert Downey Jr. is a tremendous actor. Oppenheimer more than reminded him. He’s captivating and elusive, and only in totality can you appreciate what he achieves in his role as the disgraced Lewis Strauss.

Mark Ruffalo: Is Mark Ruffalo over-the-top as a cocky and debased rogue in Poor Things? Yes. Is he so ridiculous he’s essentially playing a cartoon character? Also yes. That’s exactly why he’s nominated. He gives the exact kind of memorable performance the film needed from him.

Who Got Robbed of an Oscar Nomination for Best Actor in a Supporting Role?

May December‘s Charles Melton should call the Oscars police. (They’re based inside an abandoned movie theater in the Valley.) He wasn’t just robbed of a nomination, he might have been robbed of the win. Same goes for The Holdovers‘ Dominic Sessa, who is just as good as his two fellow nominated co-stars.

Something Interesting You Can Say That No One Can Disprove

“If Warner Bros. put Gosling up for Lead Actor where he actually belongs Michael Cera would have rightfully earned a supporting nom for Barbie. Classic Allan, really.”

Hot Take to Spice Things Up

“Mark Ruffalo got the Poor Thing slot that should have went to his co-star Willem Dafoe, but the Academy was afraid of showing the mad scientist’s face in the montage video.”

Who Will Win Best Actor in a Supporting Role at the 2024 Oscars?

Downey is genuinely great on those merits alone he’d likely win. But it doesn’t hurt he’s also Hollywood royalty, both because of his family and the billions he’s helped the industry pull in.

Who Should Win Best Actor in a Supporting Role at the 2024 Oscars?

We saved our toughest choice for last.

….Gosling. Ask us a week from now and we very well might say Downey, whose performance seems strangely underrated at this point. But what Gosling did in an equally important movie feels singular. Who else could have played that part as well? The movie had like 500 Kens and they couldn’t.

If he does win, for the rest of the night they should rename the Dolby Theater the Mojo Dojo Casa Theater. If you don’t know what that means then you will definitely want to rely on this piece when trying to sound smart at your Oscars party. Cleary you’re still far behind on what happened in theaters last year.

Jump To (Best Picture and Best Director): Best Picture Nominees // What to Say About Best Picture Films // Best Picture Hot Take // Who Will Win Best Picture // Who Should Win Best Picture // Best Director Nominees // What to Say About Best Directors // Best Director Hot Take // Who Will Win Best Director // Who Should Win Best Director

Jump To (Best Actor and Actress Awards): Best Actress in Leading Role Nominees // What to Say About Best Actress in Leading Role // Best Actress Hot Take // Who Will Win Best Actress in Leading Role // Who Should Win Best Actress in Leading Role // Best Actor in a Leading Role Nominees // What to Say About Best Actor in a Leading Role // Best Actor Hot Take // Who Will Win Best Actor in a Leading Role // Who Should Win Best Actor in a Leading Role // Best Actress in Supporting Role Nominees // What to Say About Best Actress in Supporting Role // Best Supporting Actress Hot Take // Who Will Win Best Supporting Actress // Who Should Win Best Supporting Actress // Best Actor in Supporting Role Nominees // What to Say About Best Actor in Supporting Role // Best Supporting Actor Hot Take // Who Will Win Best Supporting Actor // Who Should Win Best Supporting Actor

Mikey Walsh is a staff writer at Nerdist. You can follow him on Twitter and Bluesky at @burgermike. And also anywhere someone is ranking the Targaryen kings.

The post How to Sound Smart Talking About the 2024 Oscars (Even if You Didn’t Watch Everything) appeared first on Nerdist.

The Oscars are coming, and, as always, that’s made some people upset. But not me! I love Hollywood’s big night, and I especially love 2023’s slate of films. Last year was a truly great one for cinema. Some of the most critically-acclaimed movies were also huge hits with audiences, all of which makes it even more fun they’re now up for some of the Academy’s biggest awards. That includes Best Picture nominee and worldwide phenomenon Barbie, which is competing in eight categories. How many will it win? We don’t know, but we’re ready to give it a golden statue for providing a perfect first promo for the show. The stars of Barbie stopped by Jimmy Kimmel Live to help Kimmel make his way to Oscarsland in a sketch that is more than Kenough to make us laugh.

Kate McKinnon’s Weird Barbie is here to help the lost, overmatched dummy host of this year’s Oscars make his way to the show as Barbie narrator Helen Mirren tells the story of their journey. The trip from Barbieland to Hollywood takes them through some other Best Picture nominees. That path lets them oke about the different films up for the night’s most important award. It also offers a perfect opportunity for Kimmel to continue his long-running “feud” with Oppenheimer‘s Matt Damon.

But the real fun begins once they make it to the real world. That’s when America Ferrera jumps out of the Weird Wagon’s backseat to riff on her amazing Barbie monologue. She explains why hosting the Oscars is impossible. She’s right. She’s also right that hosting is definitely not harder than being an actual woman.

If that was the end of this promo it would be great, but it’s not Kenough until an In-N-Out eating Ryan Gosling pops up to get in on the fun. He doesn’t understand he’s actually supposed to grab a Double-Double after the Oscars, but he does recognize he’s probably not winning for Best Supporting Actor. That doesn’t bother him, though, because he just knows Greta Gerwig is a shoo-in for Best Director.

His reaction to finding out about her snub is the perfect end for this perfect promo. And it’s why even if Barbie doesn’t win Best Picture it clearly deserves a statue for best Oscars ad.

The post BARBIE’s Kate McKinnon, America Ferrera, and Ryan Gosling Help Jimmy Kimmel Go to Oscarsland appeared first on Nerdist.

Don’t even let anyone tell you that Godzilla is not a giant atomic lizard with his finger (claw?) on the pulse of what’s trendy. Because no sooner did Barbie become a cinematic sensation, than we soon saw the trailer for Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire. And in that peek at the latest Monsterverse movie, Godzilla was wielding the power of some very pink atomic fire. We suspect that Godzilla knew Barbie was “the moment,” and wanted in on that hot pink style. And when we say “hot” pink, we’re being quite literal. You can now buy a Funko Pop! figure of this “Barbiezilla,” a name that we are unofficially coining right now. Pre-orders are already available for this Amazon exclusive.

You can check out the first images of the new Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire Funko Pop! vinyl figure figure above. You can also read the official description for the new Monsterverse toy below:

Clear the way for a colossal adventure! Bring along this exclusive Pop! Godzilla (Sleeping) to take on the latest threat raging in the Monsterverse. Godzilla and King Kong, two Titans, will face a challenge that looms larger than ever before. Capture your favorite movie moments from Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire and build your Pop! Movies set. This new vinyl figure is approximately 2.2-inches tall.

Click To View Gallery

Godzilla was originally born out of Japanese cultural anxiety over nuclear power after the bombings of Nagasaki and Hiroshima during WWII. So we think that Godzilla was the original “Barbenheimer” anyway. So is Kong the Ken of the Monsterverse? Does he only have meaning if Godzilla is looking at him with those beady, judgmental eyes? Also, does that mean Kong is going to have a song called “Just Kong” in the spirit of Ken? We sure hope so. Because we kind of want to hear it.

The Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire Funko Pop! releases on March 11, and the film hits theaters on March 29.

Editor’s Note: Nerdist is a subsidiary of Legendary Digital Networks.

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Margot Robbie and her stylist Andrew Mukamal set red carpets buzzing with their real-life, life-size Barbie looks for the actress’ appearances related to the Barbie movie. Borrowing notes from the iconic doll herself, Robbie took center stage in high-fashion versions of Barbie’s clothes. But sadly, because of the studios’ refusal to pay and respect their actors, many looks that Robbie had planned for the Barbie world tour never got to see the light of day. But luckily for us, Mattel and Rizzoli New York are coming together to publish Barbie: The World Tour which will reveal new Barbie looks we haven’t seen and offer a glimpse of rare fashions from Mattel’s Barbie archives. Get excited, Barbie fans; it’s all happening.

More actors should dress to evoke their roles on press tours and red-carpet appearances. That is the kind of glamor and imagination that we deserve. And we can’t wait to see all the tricks that Robbie, Mukumal, and Barbie had up their pink sleeves.

The release for Barbie: The World Tour shares more, noting:

For the press tour following the record-breaking release of Greta Gerwig’s award-winning, acclaimed Barbie movie, producer and star Margot Robbie and her stylist Andrew Mukamal immersed themselves in some of Barbie’s most iconic outfits and curated vintage pieces, then approached designers, from Giorgio Armani to Donatella Versace, to create looks inspired by the doll-size originals. Many of these looks were not seen as the official Barbie press tour was cut short—so Margot and Andrew worked with renowned fashion photographer Craig McDean to shoot her in the looks exactly as they were curated: Schiaparelli in Los Angeles, Vivienne Westwood in London, vintage Chanel with matching Streamline luggage at the airport, and beyond.

And additionally:

Accompanying McDean’s sumptuous photography are images of original Barbie dolls from the period, a treasure trove of rare materials from Mattel’s Barbie fashion archives, and the designers’ sketches and Polaroids from fittings, layered into evocative collage by art director Fabien Baron. With text by Margot Robbie and Andrew Mukamal, as well as handwritten contributions from the designers behind the looks (from Olivier Rousteing and Michelle Ochs to Manolo Blahnik and Jeremy Scott), this unique book blends the serious chic of high fashion with the serious fun of Barbie’s world—the dolls, the history, and the style that have captured imaginations for 65 years.

What an incredible tribute to Barbie and the Barbie movie. After all, the movie’s true magic lay in the way it leaked out into the world, leaving behind the box and spreading into pink-drenched theaters and streets. Although we weren’t wearing couture, we, all of us, for a minute, into the best plastic versions of ourselves and now, through Barbie: The World Tour, Robbie and co. will share their more elaborate version of that same experience with us.

Barbie: The World Tour releases on March 19, 2024. It is now available for pre-order.

The post BARBIE: THE WORLD TOUR Book Will Reveal More of Margot Robbie’s Life-Size Barbie Looks appeared first on Nerdist.

The 2024 Academy Award nominations are here and as expected Oppenheimer led the way with 13. What wasn’t expected, though, was its “Barbenheimer” counterpart not getting recognized in some very big categories. Barbie earned eight nods, including one for Best Picture, but shockingly both Greta Gerwig and Margot Robbie missed out in their individual categories. Not that they were this year’s only notable snubs. Every year, the Oscars snubs a few worthy candidates out in Hollywood’s cold. Here are some of the Academy’s biggest surprise omissions from the movies, performers, and filmmakers who easily could have had garnered recognition for their work in 2023.

Most Shocking Oscar Snubs – Barbie‘s Greta Gerwig for Director and Margot Robbie for Best Actress

Barbie was/is a cinematic phenomenon. It was good enough to earn eight nominations, including one for Best Picture. But somehow widespread critical and fan acclaim alike, along with a theater-rejuvenating box office bonanza, wasn’t enough to earn individual nominations for the two main women behind it. Director Greta Gerwig missed out on a Best Director nomination. Maybe even more shocking was that Margot Robbie was also left out of the Best Actress race, even though her co-stars America Ferrara and Ryan Gosling both got supporting noms. (Yes, Ken got nominated but Barbie didn’t. The jokes write themselves.)

Some thought Gerwig might miss the cut, but few predicted the same fate for Robbie. Despite their snubs in those categories, though, each could still take gold home at the 2024 Academy Awards. Gerwig and her husband Noah Baumbach are nominated for Best Adapted Screenplay. Meanwhile Robbie is up for Best Picture as a producer on the film.

Gosling released a statement about his nomination and mentioned the snub. He said:

There is no Ken without Barbie, and there is no Barbie movie without Greta Gerwig and Margot Robbie, the two people most responsible for this history-making, globally-celebrated film. No recognition would be possible for anyone on the film without their talent, grit and genius. To say that I’m disappointed that they are not nominated in their respective categories would be an understatement.

Most Disappointing Snubs – Past Lives‘ Greta Lee and Teo Yoo for Acting and Celine Song for Director

One of 2023’s most beautiful and moving movies rightfully earned a spot in the Best Picture race. Unfortunately Past Lives missed out in three other major categories. The film’s outstanding stars Greta Lee and Teo Yoo both got left out in the acting categories. Just as disappointing is that Celine Song also missed out for Best Director.

Song did at least garner a second nomination for the film with a spot in the competition for Best Original Screenplay.

Most Overlooked Performances – May December‘s Charles Melton for Ferrari‘s Penélope Cruz

Based on predictive models and betting markets it would have technically been a surprise if May December stars Natalie Portman and Julianne Moore jumped into their respective acting categories. But it’s stunning co-star Charles Melton didn’t make the cut. He gave one of the year’s best performances as Joe Yoo, a married man who first started dating his wife when he was just a kid. The same is true of Penélope Cruz, who was incredible as a grieving mother and estranged wife/business partner in Michael Mann‘s Ferrari. The film features one of Cruz’s best career performances.

Instead of recognizing Melton’s work, the Academy bestowed a single nomination on May December for Best Original Screenplay. That was better than Ferrari did. It came up empty, even in the technical categories where it easily could have earned multiple nominations.

Most Surprising Oscar Omission – Killers of the Flower Moon for Adapted Screenplay

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences obviously liked Killers of the Flower Moon as much as we did. The film took home ten nominations, the third most. That included recognition in major categories like Best Picture, Best Director, Best Lead Actress, Best Supporting Actor, and Cinematography. Yet, despite all the recognition, somehow Martin Scorsese’s film—based on David Grann’s award-winning nonfiction book of the same name—missed out in the Best Adapted Screenplay category.

If Killers of the Flower Moon had a disappointing nominating morning this omission wouldn’t seem as weird. But with all the nods it did get this one really stands as a surprising snub.

Biggest Animated Snubs – Suzume and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem

The Best Animated Feature Film category features some films we fully expected to see nominated, including The Boy and the Heron, Spider-Man: Across The Spider-Verse, and Elemental. We just also expected/hoped two of our favorite animated movies from last year, Suzume and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem, would be joining them.

Instead the final two spots went to Nimona and Robot Dreams, both worthy nominees themselves that serve as a reminder that with only five nominations available in most categories really good movies miss out for no other reason than other good movies beat them out.

Best Movie Completely Snubbed – All of Us Strangers

Director Andrew Haigh’s All of Us Strangers stands as one of 2023’s most well-received films. Both critics and moviegoers alike fell in love with the story about grief and love starring Andrew Scott and Paul Mescal. That wasn’t enough to get it a single Oscar nomination, not even for Best Adapted Screenplay despite the film being based on Taichi Yamada’s 1987 novel Strangers.

All of us Strangers will be a stranger at the 96th Academy Awards. But the film and those who love it shouldn’t take it personally. The list of biggest 2024 Oscar snubs is an impressive list itself.

The post The 2024 Oscar Nominations’ Biggest Surprises and Snubs appeared first on Nerdist.

“Barbenheimer” might have been the biggest movie story of 2023, but they aren’t the only films looking to have a big night during Hollywood’s most prestigious event in 2024. The 96th Oscar nominations are here, and while Oppenheimer and Barbie are up for many Academy Awards each, other critical darlings are too. Poor Things, American Fiction, The Holdovers, Killers of the Flower Moon, and The Zone of Interest will also be looking to take home lots of gold statues. Here is a breakdown of 2024’s Oscar nominations, with a full list of award hopefuls below.

Zazie Beetz and Jack Quaid got up bright and early to names this year’s Academy Award nominees from the Samuel Goldwyn Theater in Beverly Hills. The 2024 Oscar nominee announcements included many surprises (both good and bad), but it was no surprise when Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer led the way with 13 nods. His atomic bomb epic was followed closely by another film, just not its de facto release partner Barbie. Greta Gerwig’s film got a less-than-expected eight, including snubs for both the Barbie director and the film’s star, Margot Robbie. Instead, it was Yorgos Lanthimos’ Poor Things that garnered the second most nominations with 11.

Martin Scorsese’s Killers of The Flower Moon was next with ten. Each of those movies is also up for 2024’s Best Picture Oscar, along with The Holdovers, American Fiction, Maestro, Anatomy of a Fall, Past Lives, and The Zone of Interest. As expected the Best Actor category looks like a battle between Cillian Murphy for Oppenheimer and Paul Giamatti for The Holdovers. Killers of the Flower Moon‘s Lily Gladstone and Poor Things‘ Emma Stone are considered the favorites for Best Actress.

Genre fans had reason to celebrate, as well. Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 is up for 2024’s Best Visual Effects Oscar alongside Godzilla Minus One, The Creator, and Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One. (Napolean rounds out the group.) Two Avengers will compete in Best Supporting Actor, as Robert Downey Jr. and Mark Ruffalo both will be up for the award. And Best Score will see two Star Wars composers vying against one another. The legendary John Williams earned yet another Academy Award nomination, this time for his work on Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny. As did The Mandalorian theme song composer Ludwig Göransson, who was recognized for Oppenheimer.

Those are just some of the battles we’ll be keeping an eye on when the 96th Academy Awards are given out on March 10. In the meantime, you can find the full list of 2024 Oscar nominees in all 23 categories below.

The Full List of 2024 Oscar Nominations

BEST PICTURE

AMERICAN FICTION
ANATOMY OF A FALL
BARBIE
THE HOLDOVERS
KILLERS OF THE FLOWER MOON
MAESTRO
OPPENHEIMER
PAST LIVES
POOR THINGS
THE ZONE OF INTEREST

BEST DIRECTOR

JUSTINE TRIET – Anatomy of a Fall
MARTIN SCORSESE – Killers of the Flower Moon
CHRISTOPHER NOLAN – Oppenheimer
YORGOS LANTHIMOS – Poor Things 
JONATHAN GLAZER – The Zone of Interest 

ACTOR IN A LEADING ROLE

BRADLEY COOPER – Maestro
COLMAN DOMINGO – Rustin
PAUL GIAMATTI – The Holdovers
CILLIAN MURPHY – Oppenheimer
JEFFREY WRIGHT – American Fiction

ACTRESS IN A LEADING ROLE

Annette Bening — Nyad
Carey Mulligan — Maestro
Emma Stone — Poor Things
Lily Gladstone — Killers of the Flower Moon
Sandra Hüller — Anatomy of a Fall

ACTOR IN A SUPPORTING ROLE

STERLING K. BROWN – American Fiction
ROBERT DE NIRO – Killers of the Flower Moon
ROBERT DOWNEY JR. – Oppenheimer
RYAN GOSLING – Barbie
MARK RUFFALO – Poor Things

ACTRESS IN A SUPPORTING ROLE

EMILY BLUNT – Oppenheimer
DANIELLE BROOKS – The Color Purple
AMERICA FERRERA – Barbie
JODIE FOSTER – Nyad
DA’VINE JOY RANDOLPH – The Holdovers

ANIMATED FEATURE FILM

THE BOY AND THE HERON – Hayao Miyazaki and Toshio Suzuki
ELEMENTAL – Peter Sohn and Denise Ream
NIMONA – Nick Bruno, Troy Quane, Karen Ryan and Julie Zackary
ROBOT DREAMS – Pablo Berger, Ibon Cormenzana, Ignasi Estapé and Sandra Tapia Díaz
SPIDER-MAN: ACROSS THE SPIDER-VERSE – Kemp Powers, Justin K. Thompson, Phil Lord, Christopher Miller and Amy Pascal

CINEMATOGRAPHY

EL CONDE – Edward Lachman
KILLERS OF THE FLOWER MOON – Rodrigo Prieto
MAESTRO – Matthew Libatique
OPPENHEIMER – Hoyte van Hoytema
POOR THINGS – Robbie Ryan

COSTUME DESIGN

BARBIE – Jacqueline Durran
KILLERS OF THE FLOWER MOON – Jacqueline West
NAPOLEON -Janty Yates and Dave Crossman
OPPENHEIMER – Ellen Mirojnick
POOR THINGS – Holly Waddington

DOCUMENTARY FEATURE FILM

BOBI WINE: THE PEOPLE’S PRESIDENT – Moses Bwayo, Christopher Sharp and John Battsek
THE ETERNAL MEMORY
FOUR DAUGHTERS – Kaouther Ben Hania and Nadim Cheikhrouha
TO KILL A TIGER – Nisha Pahuja, Cornelia Principe and David Oppenheim
20 DAYS IN MARIUPOL – Mstyslav Chernov, Michelle Mizner and Raney Aronson-Rath

DOCUMENTARY SHORT FILM

THE ABCS OF BOOK BANNING – Sheila Nevins and Trish Adlesic
THE BARBER OF LITTLE ROCK – John Hoffman and Christine Turner
ISLAND IN BETWEEN – S. Leo Chiang and Jean Tsien
THE LAST REPAIR SHOP – Ben Proudfoot and Kris Bowers
NǍI NAI & WÀI PÓ – Sean Wang and Sam Davis

FILM EDITING

ANATOMY OF A FALL – Laurent Sénéchal
THE HOLDOVERS – Kevin Tent
KILLERS OF THE FLOWER MOON – Thelma Schoonmaker
OPPENHEIMER – Jennifer Lame
POOR THINGS – Yorgos Mavropsaridis

INTERNATIONAL FEATURE FILM

IO CAPITANO – Italy
PERFECT DAYS – Japan
SOCIETY OF THE SNOW – Spain
THE TEACHERS’ LOUNGE – Germany
THE ZONE OF INTEREST – United Kingdom

MAKEUP AND HAIRSTYLING

GOLDA – Karen Hartley Thomas, Suzi Battersby and Ashra Kelly-Blue
MAESTRO – Kazu Hiro, Kay Georgiou and Lori McCoy-Bell
OPPENHEIMER – Luisa Abel
POOR THINGS – Nadia Stacey, Mark Coulier and Josh Weston
SOCIETY OF THE SNOW – Ana López-Puigcerver, David Martí and Montse Ribé

MUSIC (ORIGINAL SCORE)

AMERICAN FICTION – Laura Karpman
INDIANA JONES AND THE DIAL OF DESTINY – John Williams
KILLERS OF THE FLOWER MOON – Robbie Robertson
OPPENHEIMER – Ludwig Göransson
POOR THINGS – Jerskin Fendrix

MUSIC (ORIGINAL SONG)

“THE FIRE INSIDE” from Flamin’ Hot; Music and Lyric by Diane Warren
“I’M JUST KEN” from Barbie; Music and Lyric by Mark Ronson and Andrew Wyatt
“IT NEVER WENT AWAY” from American Symphony; Music and Lyric by Jon Batiste and Dan Wilson
“WAHZHAZHE (A SONG FOR MY PEOPLE)” from Killers of the Flower Moon; Music and Lyric by Scott George
“WHAT WAS I MADE FOR?” from Barbie; Music and Lyric by Billie Eilish and Finneas O’Connell

PRODUCTION DESIGN

BARBIE – Production Design: Sarah Greenwood; Set Decoration: Katie Spencer
KILLERS OF THE FLOWER MOON – Production Design: Jack Fisk; Set Decoration: Adam Willis
NAPOLEON – Production Design: Arthur Max; Set Decoration: Elli Griff
OPPENHEIMER – Production Design: Ruth De Jong; Set Decoration: Claire Kaufman
POOR THINGS – Production Design: James Price and Shona Heath; Set Decoration: Zsuzsa Mihalek

ANIMATED SHORT FILM

LETTER TO A PIG – Tal Kantor and Amit R. Gicelter
NINETY-FIVE SENSES – Jerusha Hess and Jared Hess
OUR UNIFORM – Yegane Moghaddam
PACHYDERME – Stéphanie Clément and Marc Rius
WAR IS OVER! INSPIRED BY THE MUSIC OF JOHN & YOKO – Dave Mullins and Brad Booker

LIVE ACTION SHORT FILM

THE AFTER – Misan Harriman and Nicky Bentham
INVINCIBLE – Vincent René-Lortie and Samuel Caron
KNIGHT OF FORTUNE – Lasse Lyskjær Noer and Christian Norlyk
RED, WHITE AND BLUE – Nazrin Choudhury and Sara McFarlane
THE WONDERFUL STORY OF HENRY SUGAR – Wes Anderson and Steven Rales

SOUND

THE CREATOR – Ian Voigt, Erik Aadahl, Ethan Van der Ryn, Tom Ozanich and Dean Zupancic
MAESTRO – Steven A. Morrow, Richard King, Jason Ruder, Tom Ozanich and Dean Zupancic
MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE – DEAD RECKONING PART ONE – Chris Munro, James H. Mather, Chris Burdon and Mark Taylor
OPPENHEIMER – Willie Burton, Richard King, Gary A. Rizzo and Kevin O’Connell
THE ZONE OF INTEREST – Tarn Willers and Johnnie Burn

VISUAL EFFECTS

THE CREATOR – Jay Cooper, Ian Comley, Andrew Roberts and Neil Corbould
GODZILLA MINUS ONE – Takashi Yamazaki, Kiyoko Shibuya, Masaki Takahashi and Tatsuji Nojima
GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY VOL. 3 – Stephane Ceretti, Alexis Wajsbrot, Guy Williams and Theo Bialek
MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE – DEAD RECKONING PART ONE – Alex Wuttke, Simone Coco, Jeff Sutherland and Neil Corbould
NAPOLEON – Charley Henley, Luc-Ewen Martin-Fenouillet, Simone Coco and Neil Corbould

WRITING (ADAPTED SCREENPLAY)

AMERICAN FICTION – Written for the screen by Cord Jefferson
BARBIE – Written by Greta Gerwig & Noah Baumbach
OPPENHEIMER – Written for the screen by Christopher Nolan
POOR THINGS – Screenplay by Tony McNamara
THE ZONE OF INTEREST – Written by Jonathan Glazer

WRITING (ORIGINAL SCREENPLAY)

ANATOMY OF A FALL – Screenplay – Justine Triet and Arthur Harari
THE HOLDOVERS – Written by David Hemingson
MAESTRO – Written by Bradley Cooper & Josh Singer
MAY DECEMBER – Screenplay by Samy Burch; Story by Samy Burch & Alex Mechanik
PAST LIVES – Written by Celine Song

The post OPPENHEIMER Leads 2024 Oscar Nominees with 13 Nominations, Full List Revealed appeared first on Nerdist.

Greta Gerwig’s Barbie movie turned the iconic toy into a record-setting box office hit. Now the movie has inspired a new collection of the iconic toys. In the best spirit of Barbieland, Mattel is celebrating the professionals who bring cinema to life with a new film collection of dolls. Check out the latest line of Barbie dolls which celebrate “Women in Film.”

Mattel’s newest “Barbie Career Of the Year” set (which we first heard about at Variety) celebrates four different jobs in the film industry. The Women in Film Barbie collection includes figures for a Studio Executive, Director, Cinematographer, and Movie Star. Each toy also comes with a distinct ensemble and appropriate accessories. The Studio Executive Barbie comes with gold sunglasses and a cellphone. Director Barbie carries a film script and wears a viewfinder and headset. Meanwhile, her cinematographer holds a camera and clapboard. And the glamorous, award-winning Movie Star Barbie sports a pearl necklace and holds a golden statue.

We’re not saying Margot Robbie absolutely must show up to the Oscars in that exact same Movie Star Barbie outfit. We’re just saying it will be pretty amazing if she does.

Mattel says this collection is for kids three and up. Obviously a whole lot of adults will the Women in Flim Barbie collection, too. At MattelCreations.com It is available only to Barbie Signature members until January 11 at 5:59am PT, and only while supplies last.  The rest of us can find the collection online at Target and Walmart. The Women in Film Barbies should also arrive on Amazon at some point. The set retails for around $50 and will likely sell out very quickly, so if you hope to bring these dolls home you will want to act fast.

The collection is the latest in the toy company’s “Career of the Year” franchise. Since 2010 it has honored more than 250 professions. Mattel also has an entire line of (mostly sold out) Barbie movie Barbie dolls, as well.

That’s a whole lot of dolls inspired by a movie inspired by those very same dolls. Forget Barbenheimer and Christopher Nolan’s latest movie. This Barbie set is working hard to make Barbception a reality.

The post Mattel’s New BARBIE Doll Set Celebrates ‘Women in Film’ appeared first on Nerdist.

I’m on record—and the right side of history—in saying Ryan Gosling’s “I’m Just Ken” power ballad in Barbie is one of the greatest moments in movie history. It’s the gift that keeps on giving and always will. Now it has, somehow, given us even more. Gosling and song composers Mark Ronson and Andrew Wyatt just gifted us a surprise present ahead of the holidays. They’ve released Ken the EP, a special album with multiple versions of “I’m Just Ken.” And the EP’s “Merry Kristmas Barbie” also has its own amazing music video.

“I’m Just Ken” is no longer Kenough to round out your favorite playlist. Ken the EP (which we first heard about at The Hollywood Reporter) features four tracks from Gosling and Ronson. It has the original version of the song from the film and a new “Merry Kristmas Barbie” recording. It also has an “In My Feelings” acoustic rendition of the Kenergy-filled ballad. And the last song is a “Purple Disco Machine Remix” of Gosling’s “I’m Just Ken.” Each offers a very different way to enjoy the song, which sounds fantastic in any style.

We didn’t need proof of that, but we’re obviously very glad we have it.

Ken the EP is available to stream everywhere. Atlantic Records also shared the “I’m Just Ken (In My Feelings)” version on YouTube. That’s also where you’ll find another amazing gift.

The official video for “I’m Just Ken (Merry Kristmas Barbie)” is not everything you’d want from Gosling giving an over-the-top performance of a holiday rendition of the song in a studio with a full band. It’s even hammy-ier than that.

That music video exists in the same universe as La La Land, and you can’t convince me otherwise. That means Seb is now officially a Ken.

More importantly, I now have a new Christmas song to listen to 10,000 times every December. It will replace the 10,000 times I would have listened to the regular version of “I’m Just Ken” during the month.

The post Ryan Gosling’s New ‘I’m Just Ken’ EP Includes ‘Merry Kristmas Barbie’ Track and Music Video appeared first on Nerdist.

From Nosferatu‘s first images to tantalizing The Last of Us season two teases to incredibly orange Cheez-It nail polishes, here are some of our favorite pop-culture news odds & ends from recent history.

• Robert Eggers’ Nosferatu Reveals First-Look Images and Release Date
• The Last of Us Season 2 Will Release in 2025, Set to Feature Content From Lost Game Levels
• Iman Vellani Reveals Kamala Khan Will Be “Frodo” of Marvel Zombies, Returns to Voice Character and Pen New Comic
• Chris Pine Feels Confident a Dungeons & Dragons 2 Movie Will Happen
• Cheez-It Nail Polish Is coming!
• Hazbin Hotel Sets Release Date
• Twilight Director Would Cast Jenna Ortega and Jacob Elordi as Leads in Movie Today
• Margot Robbie Reveals No Barbie Sequel Is Heading Our Way
• You Can Now Watch the Halo Live-Action Series Free on YouTube

Robert Eggers’ Nosferatu Reveals First-Look Images and Release Date

Robert Eggers’ Nosferatu has been brewing for a while. But we finally have our first looks at the movie and a release date. Nosferatu will officially release on December 25, 2024. That’s one delicious Christmas gift for goths. The vampiric tale stars Bill Skarsgård, Nicholas Hoult, Lily-Rose Depp, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Emma Corrin, Ralph Ineson, Simon McBurney, and Willem Dafoe.

Learn more about the influence of the original Nosferatu with our article, here.

The Last of Us Season 2 Will Release in 2025, Set to Feature Content From “Lost Levels“

In a recent sizzle reel teasing their upcoming properties, HBO confirmed that The Last of Us season two would arrive on Max in 2025. This release window for more of The Last of Us has been highly hinted at in previous discussions, but now it is finally confirmed. The network did not release any further details on the season.

However, if you’re looking for hints about The Last of Us season two than look no further than the remastered “Lost Levels.” These Lost Levels are playable sequences that were cut from The Last of Us Part II. But they’ll be back in the remastered version of the game that is releasing on January 19, 2024. And Neil Druckmann is teasing that they hold some insights for the HBO series. He notes to Entertainment Weekly, “As a tease, I will say there is at least one element from a cut level that is planned [for] the show… I say that with the caveat that we haven’t started filming the show yet, and all things are subject to change based on what we ultimately feel will be best for the show.”

The Last of Us Part II Remastered and its mysterious Lost Levels will be available to pre-order on December 5.

The Last of Us season two is already off to an ominous start.

Iman Vellani Reveals Kamala Khan Will Be “Frodo” of Marvel Zombies, Returns to Voice Character and Pen New Comic

Iman Vellani has emerged as one of the MCU’s truest heroes. So we couldn’t be more thrilled that she’ll soon be back to voice Ms. Marvel in the Disney+ series Marvel Zombies. In an interview with The Direct Vellani reveals, “We’ve done the whole thing. It was amazing. It was so much fun. And I love—there are a lot of cool characters in the ‘Marvel Zombies‘ show. And Kamala is kind of the center of the show. They described it to me, it’s like, ‘She’s basically the Frodo of the story.’ And I was like, ‘That’s amazing.'” It’s what Ms. Marvel deserves.

Vellani will also be back to pen another Ms. Marvel comic. She and co-writer Sabir Pirzada will write the Ms. Marvel: Mutant Menace series, a follow-up to Ms. Marvel: The New Mutant. According to GamesRadar, the pair will be joined by artist Scott Godlewski. The series is set to release in March.

Chris Pine Feels Confident a Dungeons & Dragons 2 Movie Will Happen

Although it was bad news for Star Trek 4, Chris Pine recently gave a positive update about the future of the Dungeons & Dragons movie franchise. He shared the following with GamesRadar about a potential Dungeons & Dragons 2, “I’ve heard some rumors about it… But I don’t know anything yet. But I feel pretty confident that it may happen.” He also added that he’d be “absolutely” happy to return to the universe. And we too would be absolutely happy to see it happen. Roll for Dungeons & Dragons 2.

Unfortunately, Chris Pine wasn’t so optimistic about Star Trek 4.

Cheez-It Nail Polish Is coming!

Enough said, no? Cheez-It and Nails Inc. Polish are collaborating on two cheesy colors, “Orange You Feelin’ the Cheeziest” and “Flexin’ in the Red Zone.” And who doesn’t want their nails to look like a little cheesy? This polish, perfect for mani/cheddiz, will be available for pre-order on Dec. 29 at CheezIt.com.

Hazbin Hotel Sets Release Date

Who doesn’t want an animated musical series about the princess of Hell trying to rehabilitate demons? Hazbin Hotel is created by Vivienne Medrano and is based on “her popular animated pilot released on YouTube in 2019.” Additionally a release shares, “The series blends adult humor, unforgettable characters, and catchy musical numbers creating a wholly original and unique world.” It certainly looks good in its preview. And now it has a release date. Hazbin Hotel will release on January 19, 2024. The series stars Erika Henningsen, Stephanie Beatriz, Alex Brightman, Keith David, Kimiko Glenn, Blake Roman, Amir Talai, Christian Borle, and Joel Perez. And it will feature exciting guest stars such as Darren Criss (Saint Peter), Jeremy Jordan (Lucifer Morningstar), Daphne Rubin-Vega (Carmilla Carmine), Patina Miller (Sera), and Jessica Vosk (Lute).

We can’t wait to check in to this hotel.

Twilight Director Would Cast Jenna Ortega and Jacob Elordi as Leads in Movie Today

Twilight just wouldn’t be Twilight without the incredible performances of Robert Pattinson and Kristen Stewart. But who doesn’t love a fan-cast for today’s day and age? Speaking to the Watch-a-long podcast, Twilight‘s director Catherine Hardwicke shared her picks for Bella and Edward, should a reboot of the series happen. Her selections? Jenna Ortega and Jacob Elordi. We accept these choices. Ortega could definitely help give Twilight a more horror-focused lean and Elordi really does give off strong vampire vibes.

There is a Twilight series brewing, after all…

Margot Robbie Reveals No Barbie Sequel Is Heading Our Way

Alas, it’s unlikely we’ll say “Hi, Barbie 2.” But that’s most likely for the best. Not everything needs a sequel. Of course, this could all change in a moment, especially since Barbie was so immensely popular. But for now, Margot Robbie shares, “I think we put everything into this one. We didn’t build it to be a trilogy or something… Greta put everything into this movie, so I can’t imagine what would be next.”

We bet Warner Bros. could… But we’ll cross our fingers Barbie gets to stand on her own.

Barbie is now available to stream at home.

You Can Now Watch the Halo Live-Action Series Free on YouTube

In case you’ve been waiting for a sign to watch the live-action adaptation of Halo, here it is. The Halo series is now available on YouTube in its entirety via Paramount+’s official channel. And it’s totally free. So now nothing is stopping you from watching Pablo Schreiber’s hunky Master Chief in all his sci-fi/action glory. We know we’re pressing play.

You can find the Halo playlist here.

We’re also getting a live-action series adaptation of Fallout.

Originally published on December 1, 2023.

The post NOSFERATU Shares Release Date and First Look Images, Plus Other News Odds & Ends appeared first on Nerdist.

I believe movie fans will come to remember 2023 as a truly great year for cinema. I have zero doubt which two films will come to define these past 12 months of movies. Barbie and Oppenheimer both arrived in theaters on the same day. Despite being about as different as two films can be, they’re forever connected. The two global blockbusters combined to give us “Barbenheimer,” an unofficial double feature created organically by fans. If, like so many others, you’re one of them, you can now appreciate both movies in a whole new way. Their respective stars, Margot Robbie and Cillian Murphy, sat down to interview each other in the latest episode of Variety‘s “Actors on Actors” web-series.

Their delightful conversation provided tons of great tidbits and insights into the making of each film. It’s a conversation so good it should be an extra on both Barbie‘s and Oppenheimer‘s Blu-rays.

This fun, informative, entertaining chat between two of 2023’s most notable stars has too many amazing moments to mention all of them. Robbie and Murphy touched on a wide range of subjects covering almost every aspect of their movies, from pre-production through the overwhelming success of both. They also discussed everything and anything about their directors, Greta Gerwig and Christopher Nolan, from their approach to filmmaking to each directors’ wardrobe choices on set. The two also talked about developing their characters, how they research their roles, finding the right accent, and what it was like to carry such a heavy burden as their films’ stars. If you love learning how the Hollywood sausage is made, this is a must-watch.

That’s also true if you also like listening to two talented, charming people enjoying each other’s work. That’s how you’ll learn which one ends up talking to themself in a basement before filming starts. Or which one loves wearing masks to see their own films while the other can’t stand to see themself on-screen. And it’s how you’ll learn they both love writing letters to people they hope to work with someday, how much they know about memes, and what they’re okay with people screaming at them on the street.

Peaky Binders fans will also be thrilled to know Robbie got to ask Murphy about the show. Meanwhile, he asked her about a possible Barbie sequel. And you definitely won’t expect which one of them used David Bowie as a reference in developing their character. (Seriously. It wasn’t Robbie. Seriously!)

Barbenheimer already made 2023 a great year for movie lovers. Turns out that phenomenon had even more to give us.

The post OPPENHEIMER’s Cillian Murphy and BARBIE’s Margot Robbie Talk Barbenheimer appeared first on Nerdist.

Despite some of the bigger franchises in Hollywood having less-than-stellar years, 2023 has been outstanding for films. From arthouse hits to horror triumphs, you don’t need DC, Marvel, or Star Wars to have some fun at the movies. Below is a list of Nerdist‘s top 10 movies of the year, as decided upon by our great staff. This doesn’t represent anyone’s individual list, nor does it represent every good movie that came out this year. But it does have two movies based on Marvel properties. It’s still a geek website after all. Let’s start the countdown!

10. Evil Dead Rise

I have to admit, when I first saw Evil Dead Rise, I wasn’t entirely sure what to make of it. It was a completely new take on the material, moving the action from a cabin in the woods to a dilapidated apartment building. Instead of hot teens out for some action, the curse of the Book of the Dead befalls a family just trying to get by. But at its heart, this new installment keeps much of the blood-soaked hallmarks of the original Sam Raimi movies, especially the hallowed Evil Dead 2. I’ve watched it several times since and I think it kinda rips.

9. Asteroid City

Another one that slow-burned its way onto this list. For a filmmaker already obsessed with artifice, Wes Anderson really outdid himself in Asteroid City. A story within a story within a story, layers and layers of separation between reality and fiction, and yet it’s entirely compelling from start to finish. The cast is outstanding, as per, and it might have the best use of Bryan Cranston since Breaking Bad. Anderson hides the real story under layers and layers of artifice and distance to give us a treatise on the American Theatre, UFO culture, and mid-century emotional stunting. It’s also super goofy and plays like a greatest hits of previous Anderson films. It’s a bafflement, but I can’t not applaud it for that.

8. Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part 1

What a world we live in. Any other year, this latest installment in the unbelievably good Mission: Impossible series should have made a billion dollars, easy. But in 2023, it underperformed. That is by no means a reflection of quality. While it didn’t work quite as well for me as either Rogue Nation or Fallout, it’s still a tremendously enjoyable, exciting action adventure. The car chase through Rome with Tom Cruise and Hayley Atwell handcuffed together would be enough to make it a good movie. Then we get to the end where they have to climb through a train that is simultaneously falling off a cliff. Just an incredible action sequence. These movies rule.

7. Talk to Me

2023 was actually a pretty amazing year for horror movies. The aforementioned Evil Dead Rise is but one. Possibly the best of the bunch is the indie Talk to Me, written and directed by Australian YouTubers-turned-filmmakers Danny and Michael Philippou. A take on teenage drug use as a form of coping, replacing demonic possession for narcotics, the main character’s slow descent feels like you’re watching a movie about addiction more than a horror movie. And that’s what makes it all the scarier. I said it before, but it’s like Euphoria but with seances, in the best way.

6. Poor Things

A dark horse addition to the list, Yorgos Lanthimos’ latest is a dark fairytale-esque look at women’s sexuality through the guise of a Frankenstein story. Emma Stone plays a newly revived experiment who quickly learns the wonders of life and lust only for “proper Victorian values” (which feel oddly accurate to today) try to keep her down. Mark Ruffalo gives a tremendously funny performance as the dandyish would-be lothario. It’s a very weird movie, as you’d expect from Lanthimos, but thoroughly engaging from start to finish.

5. Barbie

Surely you’ve heard of this one. It was only the biggest thing in the world this summer. It’s delightful, it’s gorgeous, it’s funny and touching. No one expected a movie based on a doll would be the year’s biggest success story, but here we are. The suits will takeaway that the public wants more Mattel movies, or more toy movies. The real lesson is give Greta Gerwig a budget and people will flock to the cinema in record numbers.

4. Oppenheimer

The other half of the one-two punch of the summer, Christopher Nolan’s surprisingly taut exploration of the man behind the atomic bomb is maybe the most engaging and resonant biopic we’ve seen in forever. A cast the size of the universe, and filmmaking prowess for miles, Oppenheimer proved Nolan’s more than gimmickry and tricksy narratives. If Cillian Murphy doesn’t win an Oscar, there’s a problem with the Academy. (Spoiler: there already is one.)

3. Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3

Look, we’re not going to mince words. Most of the recent Marvel Studios offerings have been lacking a bit of lustre. We were really hoping James Gunn would bring his trilogy of Guardians of the Galaxy movies home in a satisfying way, especially since he’s moving on to run DC. We needn’t have worried. The third installment is maybe not as raucous or expansive as the previous two, but it focuses on the characters and gives everyone a satisfying conclusion. Plus it has a good villain in the High Evolutionary. Plus plus, that corridor fight sequence in faux-one take is truly masterful.

2. John Wick: Chapter 4

While I appreciated the action prowess of the second and third John Wick movies, neither held a candle to the first in terms of compelling narrative. That all changed with Chapter 4, which goes full spaghetti western-meets-samurai-showdown. Donnie Yen’s blind swordsman, Shamier Anderson’s nameless gunfighter, and Skarsgård’s repugnant aristocrat make for some superb additions to the saga’s underworld. But at the heart, it’s John Wick trying to survive an onslaught of millions and that makes it work. No hyperbole, it’s one of the best action movies ever made. The entire third act in Paris—a riff on Walter Hill’s The Warriors—is perfect. If John never appears again, he got a fitting (and bloody) send-off.

1. Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse

Look. I also didn’t think they’d ever match the glory of Into the Spider-Verse. How do you improve on perfection? You can’t. But you can do something different also perfectly. Expanding the roster of Spider-People by about 90 million and putting Gwen Stacy in the protagonist role changed things up in just the right way. Miles gets to be the catalyst for everything, and prove why uniqueness is good, while Miguel O’Hara shines as the de-facto antagonist. We cannot wait to see how the story concludes, but there’s enough in this entry to make it outstanding and rewatchable on its own forever. Also Spider-Punk is our new deity.

Kyle Anderson is the Senior Editor for Nerdist. He hosts the weekly pop culture deep-dive podcast Laser Focus. You can find his film and TV reviews here. Follow him on Instagram and Letterboxd.

The post Nerdist’s Best Movies of 2023 appeared first on Nerdist.

Barbie didn’t just make a lot of money for Warner Bros. Greta Gerwig’s blockbuster is the Warner Bros. highest grossing film in its 100 year history. Now, after a record-setting box office run, the movie is getting a new mojo dojo casa house. It’s coming to Max this month. And when Barbie hits Max for streaming on December 15 it will feature a more inclusive way for fans to watch thanks to an ASL version.

If you’re scheduled to beach on that release day, you might want to call in sick. Barbie will rollerblade its way to Max at 3AM ET for your streaming pleasure. Barbie‘s themes of inclusivity will truly shine with its ASL version, too. In a press release Warner Bros. and Max explained how it went about creating this new way to watch:

Grounded in research and feedback from the Deaf community, as well as counsel from community leaders, Barbie with ASL was produced for Max featuring ASL performer Leila Hanaumi (Deaf Austin Theatre’s “The Laramie Project,” ASL cover for Tove Lo in “True Romance” music video). Barbie with ASL will be displayed as a unique title in-app and can be identified by its key art with the sign language symbol

Star Margot Robbie also joined Hanaumi for a conversation at a “special community screening” of Barbie with ASL. The event was held in conjunction with Deaf West Theatre in Los Angeles on December 14.

“Max is the premiere destination for storytelling, so being able to share the biggest movie of the year in ASL, the first language for many, will make this story resonate in a more meaningful way,” said Casey Bloys Chairman and CEO, HBO and Max Content, in a statement. “By offering sign language interpretation, we will build upon the film’s empowering message of inclusiveness and offer a unique viewing experience for the Deaf community to enjoy with family and friends.”

Safe to say Barbie would approve of this version. Every Barbie.

The post BARBIE Coming to Max on December 15, ASL Version Will Be Available appeared first on Nerdist.

Considering it made roughly 40 gazillion dollars at the box office, earned rave reviews from critics and viewers alike, and might very well garner multiple Oscar nominations next year, it’s hard to imagine Barbie could have been any better. But there’s at least one way to make it awesome in a different way: add a cat. That always improves any film or show. And if you doubt that, the latest video from the YouTube channel OwlKitty shows why. It edits a black cat into Barbie to serve as the true object of Ken’s affection.

Sorry Stereotypical Barbie, you had your chance. You are no longer Kenough for Barbieland’s lovesick blonde beacher. Not after OwlKitty finally gave Ken what he wanted in life and reciprocated his love.

Well, at least this cat (real name Lizzy) is willing to do that some of the time. Every furry feline owner knows you can never get your cat to appreciate you 100% of the time. Sometimes they just want to be left alone to nap. But this cat’s love is still a huge improvement over the lack of attention Ken got from Barbie in the film. Honestly, it’s a great solution for everyone.

This video is the latest piece of fantastic internet silliness from a channel that has also re-imagined Top Gun: Maverick, Titanic, and Jurassic Park with a cat as the main star. And despite this new entry being so short, it touches on some of the best parts of the movie. From replacing Margot Robbie in the opening sequence to editing the cat into some of Ken’s best moments, this Barbie mashup is among the YouTube channel’s best. Especially since it seamlessly adds OwlKitty into one of 2023’s best movie moments, Ken’s big musical number “I’m Just Ken.”

I’m already on record as having an out-of-body experience the first time I saw that sequence. It is perfect in every way. Now it’s perfect in a second way, the only way anyone possibly could have improved Barbie. It now has a cat.

The post Ken Gets a Cat Who Thinks He’s Kenough in Fun BARBIE Movie Edit appeared first on Nerdist.

He is Kenough! And, honestly, even though Barbie is everything and he’s just Ken, the new “I am Kenough” Ken Doll is also kind of everything. We’re sure even Barbie would agree. We’re just surprised it took this long for him to arrive. But, yes, is the answer to the question you’ve all been asking since the Barbie movie was released. There is an “I am Kenough” Ken doll you can buy, complete with hoodie, Ryan Gosling’s face, and swoopy blonde hair. This new Ken doll has discovered himself, self-actualized, and is now available for pre-order. You’ll have to wait a while longer for him to actually reach you, but he’s worth it.

The Kenough Ken doll is truly inspired. Of course, it was a given that the Barbie movie would have a very meta-arc of being motivated by the story of a doll and then creating more of the doll that created it. But we can’t even be mad at this circle of capitalism when this new Ken doll has a perfectly designed miniature replica of Ken’s Kenough sweater. We have to take our joy where we can get it.

A release from Mattel shares more about this “I am Kenough” Ken Doll. It notes of the Barbie movie figure:

He was complete and worthy just as he was. He was perfectly molded, deserving of both admiration and success. He was more than enough in Barbie Land – he was, in fact, “Kenough.” Thanks to Ryan Gosling’s performance of Ken’s self-discovery in Barbie The Movie, this moment inspired millions around the world and became immediately iconic. Our Ken doll is sculpted in Ryan Gosling’s likeness, and wears the hoodie that is also the must-have, real-life apparel item of the year.

Click To View Gallery

You can take a look at all facets of the “I am Kenough” Ken doll above. While, of course, the hoodie makes the man, there’s a lot more happening for this Ken than that. Firstly, it has a face sculpted in Ryan Gosling’s likeness. And who can resist that? Secondly, we love that this Ken is fully poseable, so he can do his famous end-of-movie wave and sheepishly tuck his hands into his pockets. The embroidery that lives not only on the Kenough sweater but also on this doll’s sweatpants is also pretty cool. We have to hand it to this Ken; he looks pretty good. It’s definitely Kenough for us.

So how do you buy the “I am Kenough” Ken doll? Well, the figure is available to pre-order via Mattel Creations right now. He will be a made-to-order product. “I am Kenough” Ken will ship out sometime in 2024, but the doll will definitely head to you on or before October 31, 2024. This Ken costs $50.00. But being Kenough, that’s truly priceless. Don’t forget, you can also match your doll with a hoodie of your own.

The post ‘I am Kenough’ Ryan Gosling Ken Doll Is Officially Available to Buy appeared first on Nerdist.

Coach Lasso told his players to “be a duck,” but now him and a couple of friends are going to be a different four-letter “d” word instead. Mattel Creations is bringing Barbie to the pitch with an original collection of dolls inspired by Apple TV+’s award-winning series. Ted Lasso, A.F.C. Richmond owner Rebecca Walton, and PR guru Keeley Jones are heading to shelves as the iconic toy line’s newest figures.

Ted Lasso Barbie dolls reunite our favorite Greyhounds in style. Each Gold label collectible comes from designer Suim Noh. They all feature original face sculpts, articulated bodies, and stands to help them remain upright. More importantly each wears a signature look from the series and comes packaged in a unique show-inspired box. Here’s the official description for all three from Mattel Creations:

• Ted Lasso: Our Ted doll is wearing a sporty blue tracksuit with sneakers. He also has removable aviator shades, a whistle, and trusty soccer ball. Commemorative packaging features the AFC Richmond locker room complete with “BELIEVE” sign and Nate’s homemade suggestion box.
  
• Rebecca Welton: Our Rebecca doll is dressed for her morning “Biscuits With the Boss” in a chic champagne blouse with black tailored pants and classic black pumps. Statement golden earrings and a handbag complete her sophisticated look.

• Keeley Jones: Our Keeley doll is dressed for a night on the town or a chic day in the office wearing a satiny pink midi dress, chic golden heels, and black faux fur cape. Her fabulous style is complete with her trademark high ponytail, signature golden hoops, and darling pink clutch.

All three figures ($50 each) are available to order from Mattel. Ted’s is already on sale. Meanwhile the Rebecca doll ships on November 10 and Keeley’s follows on December 8. Customers can only buy two versions of any one figure in an order, a sign the company expects them to sell out.

We do, too. So if you want these don’t be a duck and forget to buy them before Ted moves back to Kansas for good.

The post Barbie Takes the Pitch in New TED LASSO Doll Collection appeared first on Nerdist.

There’s a lot happening in the entertainment world. The first season of Ahsoka came to a close, the second season of Loki is just beginning, and all kinds of cool creations have made their way into the world. But amidst all of that, there are some other fun (and some not-so-fun) things you should probably know about.

Here are some of our favorite pop-culture news odds & ends from this week.

This Week’s Odds & Ends in News:

• Animal Crossing and LEGO Announce Collaboration
• James Gunn Confirms Peacemaker Season Two Is in His DCU, Currently Writing Season
• Hayao Miyazaki Is Already Working on his Next “Final Movie”
• The Barbie Movie Releases on 4K UHD, Blu-ray, and DVD on October 17
• Discovery+ Announces First Price Hike, Raises Cost of Ad-Free Tier
• $400 Pokémon Trading Card Game Classic Collection Comes with Foil Original Starters
• The Boys‘ Spinoff Gen V Creates Its Own In-World Social Network, “V”
• One Piece‘s Monkey D. Luffy Will Become a Float in Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
• Dunkin’ Donuts Releases Inflatable Spider Donut Decoration

Animal Crossing and LEGO Announce Collaboration

Get ready to tend to your LEGO garden! Nintendo has officially teased a collaboration between Animal Crossing and LEGO. Both playing Animal Crossing and building LEGO masterpieces are two extremely calming activities, so we can only imagine how much fun they’ll be when they combine. Rumors of a collaboration have been floating for some time, and we can’t wait to see which official sets we’ll receive.

For more soothing LEGO builds, check out the latest LEGO Ideas set.

James Gunn Confirms Peacemaker Season Two Is in His DCU, Currently Writing Season

Rejoice, Peacemaker fans, Peacemaker season two is not only in James Gunn and Peter Safran’s new DC Universe, but it is actively being written. A little while ago, Gunn noted Peacemaker season two would be his next project after Superman: Legacy. This news, of course, heavily implied that Peacemaker season two would be in the new DC Universe, but it’s always nice to hear some confirmation. In response to a fan question on Threads that read, “Will season 2 of Peacemaker take place in the new DCU/ new continuity?” Gunn replied, “Yes and Yes.” We saw this news via IGN.

Additionally, James Gunn revealed he is currently writing season two of Peacemaker and he’s “having so much fun.” We can’t wait to hear more about the future of the series.

To see what else is in store for James Gunn and Peter Safran’s new DC Universe, check out our article, here:

Hayao Miyazaki Is Already Working on his Next Movie Despite “Final Movie” Buzz

Soon, Hayao Miyazaki’s latest “final movie,” The Boy and the Heron, will release in the United States. This movie was greatly touted as the last work by the animation genius. However, Hayao Miyazaki has announced many “final movies” before. So we were not very surprised to read that The Boy and the Heron would most likely not hold the title of the last Miyazaki movie.

French publication Libération recently spoke to Studio Ghibli President Toshio Suzuki. And Suzuki said, “He’s constantly thinking about his next project. I can’t stop him, in fact, I’ve given up. Suzuki adds, “He started talking about a new project, so I’m not stopping him. As long as he’s working, I won’t be able to retire.”

This fits in with news that came from the Toronto International Film Festival. Studio Ghibli executive Junichi Nishioka noted to the CBC, “Other people say that this might be his last film, but he doesn’t feel that way at all… He is currently working on ideas for a new film. He comes into his office every day and does that. This time, he’s not going to announce his retirement at all. He’s continuing working just as he has always done.”

To this, we say, bring on the next Miyazaki movie.

You can watch the trailer for Studio Ghibli’s latest movie, The Boy and the Heron, here:

The Barbie Movie Releases on 4K UHD, Blu-ray, and DVD on October 17

It is time to say “Hi, Barbie!” once again. After an incredible theatrical run this summer, Barbie headed over to streaming to continue her reign of excellence. But now, she’s driving on back to the physical world. Life in plastic is fantastic! And also life in Blue-ray and DVD. The Barbie movie will release for purchase on 4K UHD, Blu-ray and DVD on October 17. Alongside the movie, purchases of Barbie on physical media will see some special features, six featurettes to be exact. Plus, the 4K UHD, Blu-ray case is so pink and sparkly; how could anyone resist?

To learn more about we thought of the Barbie movie, check out our review, here:

Discovery+ Announces First Price Hike and Raises Cost of Ad-Free Tier, Netflix Rumored to Also See Price Increase

No streaming service is safe right now. From price hikes to ad-tiers to password-sharing crackdowns, streaming is becoming more costly and less welcoming than it used to be. The latest to throw their hat into the fray is Discovery+. Discovery+ recently announced its first price increase ever, focusing on its ad-free tier. In a change that became immediately effective, Discovery+ announced that in the United States, “the price of a new Discovery+ ad-free monthly subscription in the U.S. will increase from $6.99 to $8.99 plus applicable taxes. The ad-lite subscription will not change and remains $4.99/month.” Meanwhile, “Existing subscribers will see their monthly rate increase on their next billing cycle on or after November 2.” As always, the streamer frames the price increase as necessary for continued quality programming.

Elsewhere, The Wall Street Journal reports Netflix is also considering a price hike for its ad-free tier. Seems like basically every streamer wants to push subscribers to ads… Or have them pay the price. Good luck to all subscribers out there.

For more on the latest streamer shenanigans, check out what Disney+ is doing.

$400 Pokemon Trading Card Game Classic Collection Comes with Foil Original Starters

Pokémon Trainers of a certain age will soon be able to get a second chance at owning certain cards they coveted as a child. A brand new Pokémon set titled the Pokémon Trading Card Game Classic collection is on sale, and for $400, it will bring all your Pokémon dreams to life. This collector’s item, which we first saw on GameSpot, includes three 60-card Pokémon decks, comes in snazzy packaging, and promises the three original Pokémon starter cards in foil form. You may not get all the hours you spent hunting for a shiny Charizard back, but you will get the satisfaction of finally having the creature in hand. The Pokémon Trading Card Game Classic collection also features a two-player game board, toolbox case with randomizer, and more.

For even more Pokémon adventures, learn more about the upcoming Pokémon live-action series:

The Boys‘ Spinoff Gen V Creates Its Own In-World Social Network, “V”

Can’t get enough of The Boys‘ spinoff, Gen V? Well, you’re in luck because Gen V and Prime Video have teamed up with gaming browser Opera GX to create a Gen V in-universe social network called V. Obviously, this is a bit of a play on Twitter’s new name—and that’s The Boys‘ universe for you.

A release shares:

Super-powered by Opera GX, V is the new social media arm of the fictional Vought International. V allows users to get to know the supes featured in Gen V, and interact with in-world profiles of their favorite members of The Seven, including characters from The Boys such as Homelander, A-Train, and dozens of other official characters from Gen V and The Boys.

V users can also explore the official in-world  Godolkin University, and catch up with some of its most popular students. Users will be able to keep up with Godolkin University’s latest student rankings as students battle for the top position and the opportunity to join The Seven, as well as access an array of exclusive Gen V content.

V will be continuously updated with new content throughout the season, echoing the hum of a real-world social network.

Sounds like a super fun way to get the most of your Gen V viewing experience. You can learn how to log-on to V, here.

Gen V is now available to watch. Check out our guide to all the new Supes and their powers, here:

One Piece‘s Monkey D. Luffy Will Become a Float in Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade

You know him, you love him, and now you’ll see him float in a parade. One Piece‘s Monkey D. Luffy is the latest nerdy character to become a balloon in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. On November 23, Luffy will set sail on his latest, biggest adventure yet, down the streets of New York City. The One Piece Monkey D. Luffy balloon will be 43-feet long, 39-feet wide and 50-feet tall. We bet this balloon Luffy eats A LOT. And while he won’t have his typical crew with him, we’re told “he will be led the entire way by his own pirate crew of skilled marchers—all honorary Straw Hats for the day.” We bet they’ll wear straw hats, too, and that’s honestly delightful. It’s truly what Luffy deserves.

It’s been a big year for One Piece as the series made the leap into live-action. Check out why we thought the series was truly successful.

Dunkin’ Donuts Releases Inflatable Spider Donut Decoration

 It’s October, the best month. There are many ways to decorate for the season, but Dunkin’ Donuts wants you to consider a new unique piece of Halloween fun. The coffee chain recently released an inflatable version of their iconic spider donut. No, you can’t eat it, but if this is your favorite Halloween treat, why not take it home?

As the description for the Dunkin’ inflatable spider donut aptly shares, “For everyone that’s ever said “Man, my yard could really use a 6-foot-tall, lit up Inflatable Spider Donut to turn my Halloween decor game up a notch,” this is for you*. 

*It’s also for everyone that’s never said that, too.”

Cheers to that! This fun inflatable is available at the Dunkin’ Shop for $99. Happy pumpkin spice season!

Dunkin’ recently released a line of hard iced coffees and teas. Check out what we know about Dunkin’ Spiked, here.

The post ANIMAL CROSSING Comes to LEGO, Streaming Price Hikes, and More News Odds & Ends appeared first on Nerdist.

A little over two weeks since its release, Barbie hit a major milestone by crossing the one billion dollar mark at the box office. (Thanks to CNN for putting this news on our radar.) The Greta Gerwig film, starring Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling, was one of the most anticipated films of 2023. First, there was the obvious curiosity about bringing a pop culture icon to the big screen. Then, Barbie’s incredible marketing push sealed the deal for many moviegoers as they donned pink and swarmed theaters. But Barbie showed no signs of slowing after that, the movie is still breaking records and taking titles previously held by top movies like The Dark Knight and The Super Mario Bros. Movie.

Barbie Has Hit One Billion Dollars

Barbie made history by joining a small club of films to hit one billion dollars, with Greta Gerwig making history as the first woman director to hit this mark. The power of Barbie and good Kenergy are powerful, indeed. It joins The Super Mario Bros. Movie as the second film this year to accomplish this great feat.

With its huge success, it seems almost inevitable that Barbie will get a sequel. The ending of the film does feel pretty final, but we all know that Hollywood will find a way to make more cash. In fact, Mattel is apparently forming its own cinematic universe with 14 confirmed projects on the way. Barney, Hot Wheels, Polly Pocket, and even the great historian Wishbone will get their time to shine on the screen. We don’t know if they will make a billion dollars like Barbie. But we are still very curious to see if Mattel will continue to have a foothold in the entertainment business.

Barbie Is Breaking Records (And Beating Batman, Mario, and More)

In addition to its billion-dollar-plus intake, Barbie is also breaking other records. Recently, it became the highest-grossing domestic/North American release ever for Warner Bros. That record was previously held by Christopher Nolan’s Batman movie The Dark Knight. But in the Barbie vs. Batman battle, Barbie has come out on top. The Dark Knight brought in $536 million, while Barbie just recently passed $537.5. Barbie also became the highest-grossing Warner Bros. movie worldwide. It surpassed the $1.342 billion made by Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows—Part 2.

Additionally, Barbie has also officially become the highest-grossing 2023 movie in North America and in the world. Both these titles were recently held by The Super Mario Bros. Movie which $574 million domestically and $1.35 billion globally. Barbie has now crossed the latter number, recently clocking in at $1.36 billion, and is still on the rise. This officially makes Barbie the top-earning 2023 movie, at least unless some other film swoops in all of a sudden. The Super Mario Bros. Movie was a lot of fun, but there’s no beating the Queen, President, Supreme Court Justice, Doctor, Astronaut.

Barbie has even taken on another super-team. Domestically, Barbie has officially made more money than The Avengers. And it is now #11 as far as highest-grossing domestic releases go. It has a long way to go to get to the top, but beating the Avengers is pretty cool.

Other Barbie Victories

Barbie already landed the year’s biggest opening and the biggest opening ever for a movie directed by a woman. Barbie will likely shatter more records as it continues its world domination.

For now, Barbie continues to rake in cash at theaters. The film is set to come to streaming via Max sometime this fall; however, the date isn’t confirmed yet. Barbie will also arrive on digital channels on September 12. We will see just how high those box office numbers will soar for one of the most entertaining and heartfelt films this year.

Originally published on August 7, 2023.

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Barbie has conquered Barbieland, she’s conquered Ken’s Mojo Dojo Casa House, and she’s even conquered box office records. But now the Barbie movie is ready to take over its next great frontier, digital. Folks out there may think about dying, but they also may think about how they’re dying to watch Barbie again. But soon, they won’t have to leave the comfort of their homes to see the hit movie for the hundredth time. (Although we advise that you still wear pink no matter where you’re watching Barbie.) And now, Barbie has officially set its digital release date. But when exactly will Barbie be available to stream online? Barbie will release across digital platforms on September 12, 2023.

Barbie‘s Digital Release Date, Cost, and More

Barbie was previously available for pre-order on Amazon for $19.99, though no official release date was listed. Now we know that Barbie will arrive on digital on September 12… But the price of buying Barbie has since gone up. We’re guessing breaking all those records had something to do with it.

Now, a release shares that “On September 12, Barbie will be available for early Premium Digital Ownership at home for $29.99 and 48-hour rental via PVOD for $24.99 on participating digital platforms where you purchase movies, including Amazon Prime Video, AppleTV, Google Play, Vudu, and more.” That’s pretty expensive, but Barbie is everything.

Barbie‘s Bonus Features

Barbie‘s digital release will also come with some special features, six different featurettes. We wonder if it will also reveal the new post-credits scene promised by Barbie‘s IMAX release.

The Barbie bonus featurettes are titled:

• Welcome to Barbie Land – featurette (11:41)
• Becoming Barbie – featurette (6:24)
• Playing Dress-Up – featurette (7:38)
• Musical Make Believe – featurette (6:22)
• All-Star Barbie Party – featurette (5:14)
• It’s A Weird World – featurette (5:02)

When Will Barbie Be Available on Streaming Channels?

For now, we don’t know if the availability of Barbie for digital purchase means it will also soon arrive on streaming channels. Recently, we learned that Barbie would stream on Max sometime this fall. And September 12 is spiritually part of the fall. However, given the steep price tag on Barbie‘s digital incarnation, we imagine the movie will land on the streaming channel a little bit later on in the year. We’ll have to wait and see. We hope Barbie will get a physical release as well as a digital one. Ideas are forever, but they become a bit more tangible when we can hold them in our hands.

Happily, while we wait for a digital version to emerge, Barbie is still very much in theaters. So you can head back into the Barbie Land sooner rather than later and proudly say, “Hi Barbie!”

Originally published on August 16, 2023.

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Barbie and Oppenheimer heated up the box office this summer. But it was Oppenheimer that took over IMAX theaters during their theatrical dance off. That was all well and good since the movie was designed especially to be seen in that format. But now, it’s Barbie‘s turn to grace us with her truest self. Beginning September 22, Barbie will release on IMAX screens and spend a week on the biggest screens at the movie theater. But that’s not all the good news. Before Barbie released, many wondered whether Barbie would have a post-credits scene to give the audience one last treat. But in normal movie theaters, Barbie did not have a scene after the credits. Now though, IMAX audiences will get brand new post-credits footage to give us even more scenes of Barbie and Ken fun.

Greta Gerwig, Barbie‘s director, shares a bit more about the IMAX run and new post-credits scenes, “We made ‘Barbie’ for the big screen, so it’s a thrill to be able to bring it to Imax, the biggest screen of all… As a special thanks to ‘Barbie’ fans, we’re excited to share a little bit more of our cast and crew’s incredible work by adding special new footage we hope audiences will enjoy.”

Who doesn’t need more Barbie in their lives? After its release rumors circulated that Barbie cut a post-credits scene from its plans titled “Midge in Labor.” It seemed like the scene would feature the discontinued and pregnant doll Midge, as well as an appearance by Barbie‘s narrator Helen Mirren. Could this be the new Barbie post-credits scene we’ll see in IMAX? Only time will tell.

Those hoping to snag tickets for Barbie‘s IMAX run should keep a vigilant eye out. We recommend checking the websites for your local big screens or IMAX’s website. There’s no doubt Barbie IMAX tickets will sell out quickly. Hopefully everyone will show up to these new screenings in pink!

The post BARBIE to Release in IMAX with New Post-Credits Scenes appeared first on Nerdist.

He’s just Ken. Anywhere else, he’d be a 10. But he ended up in the Barbie movie, so it was tough times for Ken’s Kenergy. But it turns out Ken is a 10; at least, his incredible power ballad definitely earns a perfect score. “I’m Just Ken,” Ken’s introspective and angst-ridden ode to himself has captured the hearts of Barbie movie fans everywhere. In fact, “I’m Just Ken” landed on the Billboard Top 100 and has earned millions of Spotify streams. Not bad for the man behind the tan. But, in case streaming Barbie‘s “I’m Just Ken” or watching its incredible music video (see below), isn’t enough for you… There’s more. You can now go behind the scenes of “I’m Just Ken” and see what went into the creation of the incredible sequence in the Barbie movie.

This behind-the-scenes look at the Barbie movie makes the “I’m Just Ken” musical number even more impressive. We can now see how every part of it went down. And it was no feat of Barbie magic, but a lot of work from many different people. Honestly, seeing Ryan Gosling’s rehearsals for “I’m Just Ken,” really adds a layer of perspective. The scenes remind you it’s not just Ken. It’s a real actor totally crushing some choreography while belting out the Kenergy tune. High fives to Kens everywhere. Of course, it’s a joy to see all the other Kens from Barbie, from Ncuti Gatwa to Scott Evans to Simu Liu belting out lyrics and putting their all into the Ken fight and dance-off. And we love Greta Gerwig cracking up at the mayhem she’s orchestrated.

Additionally, getting a behind-the-scenes look at Slash from Guns N’ Roses rocking out to “I’m Just Ken” is something the Barbie movie should consider introducing into the movie proper. That is the Barbie movie’s mood. Is Slash not also a Ken in his heart?

Somehow, watching the making of “I’m Just Ken” was a strangely emotional journey. And that’s not just us lamenting that the Barbie song will be now stuck in our heads for the foreseeable future.

If that version of “I’m Just Ken” has you in the mood like it has us, you can check out the official music video above. The Barbie movie is still currently playing in theaters in all its Barbie and Ken glory, but will also arrive on digital this fall.

Featured Image: Atlantic Records

The post ‘I’m Just Ken’ Behind-the-Scenes Video Reveals Making of Hit BARBIE Movie Song appeared first on Nerdist.

Barbie left me with a lot to think about, but one question hadn’t crossed my mind since leaving the theater. That’s the question of where Barbieland is located in the real world. There’s a very good reason I never wondered about that: it doesn’t exist in the real world! Barbieland/Kendom is a magical fantasy dimension that sits entirely outside of our own. That’s why travel between the two worlds requires an absurd journey through multiple planes of hyper reality. I thought all of that was fairly obvious. It should have been, right? Right? Well someone should tell that to Neil deGrasse Tyson, because he took a break from pointing out scientific inaccuracies in movies to determine where on Earth Barbieland exists.

All snark aside, I like when everyone’s favorite mustachioed astrophysicist points out scientific issues in sci-fi movies. Hearing about them doesn’t ruin the film for me, but I usually learn something cool. However, there’s something absurd about deGrasse Tyson’s latest cinematic check (which we learned about at CBR). He used deductive reasoning based on the Sun, Moon, and climate to identify where he believes Barbieland is located in the real world.

He determined that if Barbieland is found in the US (not unreasonable considering Barbie creator Ruth Mandel was from Colorado and Mattel originated in Los Angeles) it exists in the Florida Keys.

Except, it obviously does not. At all. And not because Will Ferrell’s Mattel CEO says Barbieland is like a town in Switzerland. It obviously is not in the Florida Keys because you don’t have to travel through literal outer space to go from Florida to California. That was a requirement for people to travel between Barbieland and Los Angeles in the film.

You’d think an astrophysicist would know this. Space is, like, their whole thing. Well, except for Neil deGrasse Tyson. His whole thing is space and getting way too in the weeds of movies. What’s really funny in this case, though, is that him telling us needless information about Barbieland is a total Ken move.

The post Neil deGrasse Tyson Says Where BARBIE’s Magical Fantasy Barbieland Exists in Real World appeared first on Nerdist.

Game of Thrones might have ended in 2019, but its influence will live on for a lot longer. We don’t just mean in the world of pop culture, either. We mean it will literally live on thanks to all the children named after people from Westeros. That includes babies whose parents dubbed them either “Daenerys” or “Khaleesi” before the final season, when their namesake turned out to be a murderous war criminal. That’s probably a great lesson on why you shouldn’t name your child after a fictional character before their story ends. But what about an iconic (and problematic) toy that’s been around for more than 60 years and just got a wildly popular big screen apologia? Some expecting parents are clearly considering doing just that. Online baby name searches for both “Barbie” and “Ken” have gone way up thanks to Greta Gerwig’s smash blockbuster.

According to People, the baby name site Nameberry has reported a whopping 603% increases in searches for “Barbie” since the film arrived in theaters on July 21. During that time searches for “Ken” have also shot up by 293%.

That doesn’t mean 600% more “Barbies” will be joining the workforce in 20 years, though. Just because an expecting parent looks up a name doesn’t mean they’ll choose it. And it’s easy to have a big percentage spike if normal searches are relatively low to begin with. But it does mean we’ll probably be seeing at least a few more Barbies and Kens in the future than we would have without the film.

For now “Barbie” barely cracks the top 1,900 baby girl names. In a role reversal from Barbieland, however, “Kenneth” is a lot more common. It sits just outside the top 100 names for boys.

In the meantime Nameberry Editor-in-Chief Sophie Kihm tells People Barbie remains a predominantly Amish name, a fact that we’ll be thinking about on our death bed. (We will not be worried about Ken while taking our final breath. At all.)

Something tells us “Khaleesi” from the hit HBO series probably wasn’t very popular with the Amish. And not just because they waited to see what happened to Daenerys in the end.

The post ‘Barbie’ and ‘Ken’ Baby Name Searches Are Way Up Thanks to BARBIE appeared first on Nerdist.

The Barbie movie has unforgettable fashion. Costume designer Jacqueline Durran drew inspiration from Mattel’s history with Barbie and Ken, but she also created new and memorable looks for all the characters. Ken in particular gets some truly excellent ensembles. Ryan Gosling’s Ken shines in pink, denim, fringe—you name it. Every fabric in every hue is his friend. But all the Kens have a standout outfit moment. Mattel is highlighting some of the best looks with Barbie movie Ken dolls. The toy company has had most of these Ken dolls listed already, but they recently added Ken’s fringed cowboy look.

This outfit, complete with a hat and boots, sets Ken on the path to patriarchy. Incidentally, said patriarchy does not include horses. When Ken picks out and steals this outfit in the real world with Barbie, he definitely didn’t realize it was going to change his life and help him figure out his purpose.

In case you missed some of the other Ken dolls, there’s Simu Liu’s Ken in the white and gold tracksuit. It’s made for comfort and big dance numbers.

Don’t forget Ken’s denim-on-denim outfit. Pairing denim with more denim works best if the top is actually an open vest. That breaks things up nicely. Please note the detail of the briefs, just like the outfit in the movie.

Last, but certainly not least, we have Ken’s Mojo Dojo Casa House style. It’s big and bold. It’s a choice. Between the fur coat and the large, sparkling horse medallion, we’re not sure how Barbie resisted. Is he really just Ken? (He is).

When it comes to dressing like Ken IRL, don’t forget you can preorder a “I am Kenough” hoodie.

These Ken dolls are currently out of stock, but keep an eye on Mattel’s store to see if they come back. The dolls start at $50.

The post Ken’s Best Looks in BARBIE Get Dolls from Mattel appeared first on Nerdist.

I loved Barbie, but it’s not above reproach. There are honest, good-faith debates to be had about a Mattel film that ultimately defends the company’s iconic toy that some consider problematic. Predictably, though, a lot of criticism has been anything but fair. The movie has led to a deluge of angry essays and videos by people determined to trash it no matter what they saw on screen. It’s an inevitable response that always happens in our hyper partisan modern world with every big budget feminist film. And yet, despite skewering those very same bad-faith critics, Barbie itself is overwhelmingly kind to the people most inclined to hate it. The film not only explores why patriarchy hurts men and women alike, it shows why men don’t need to look for self-worth in a relationship.

The status of Kens in Barbieland is not exactly a subtle analogy. They are second class citizens in the matriarchy. That inversion of gender roles is Greta Gerwig’s way of commenting on our own society. (In case anyone somehow missed that she has a character in our world literally say, “I’m a man with no power. Does that make me a woman?”) But the film flips those roles back to their traditional standing when Ryan Gosling’s character returns to Barbieland. His awareness of how things work in the real world brings the patriarchy to the newly christened Kendom. That instantly relegates women to a subservient position in society.

The patriarchy initially seems to give Ken everything he wants. No one ignores him or patronizes him anymore because he’s in charge. Yet power, control, respect, and (the appearance of) adulation does nothing to bring him real happiness. In fact, it brings him strife. Just as Barbie predicted, “Kenland contains the seeds of its own destruction,” because the patriarchy is not simply built on the premise men must subjugate women. It’s built on the idea men must also subjugate other men. (That’s why they call it a “patriarchy” and not a “brotherhood.”) And since a Mojo Dojo Casa House divided cannot stand, the Kens brief reign quickly collapses on itself.

If that had been the only sympathetic message the film had for men it would be a powerful one. Barbie might be a feminist film, but its ideas and compassion are not only reserved for women. This movie shows why the patriarchy hurts everyone. It makes life a zero-sum game of winners and losers. No matter what you have someone else will likely have more. And even if you are on top others will always try to take your place. Greed and jealousy are self-destructive foundations for society. They lead to paranoia and a never-ending need for more. Only in a world built on equality and mutual respect for everyone can we find real joy. (Horses help, too.) That’s not an anti-men idea, no matter what some partisan hacks would have you believe. It’s a pro-men/pro-women/pro-human/pro-civilized society idea.

The film partially undercuts that message by having Barbieland return to a full matriarchy rather than a more equitable world. (Like I said, there are fair criticisms of this movie.) But it does not equivocate in its empathy for some of its most vocal critics: men who believe they don’t have value if they don’t have a woman’s love.

Ken’s entire reason for existing is defined by Barbie noticing him. He only has a good day if she merely looks at him. That remains true even after he creates the patriarchy. Everything he does while in charge, from acting aloof and being a jerk, is done to impress her. He doesn’t want to be President or sit on the Supreme Court. He simply wants her validation and approval so he can feel good about himself. That’s a goal society told him he must achieve to feel good about himself. He must make a woman fall in love with him to matter. His entire sense of manhood depends on that. Without it he’s nothing. It’s why he sings a power ballad about what it will take for her to recognize his value.

There’s an entire generation of men who feel the same way, and not without reason. Our patriarchal society has raised them to believe they must find a woman to love them. Not only that, it has led them to feel entitled to a relationship. The impact of not getting what they feel they both need and deserve is having a dangerous and tangible effect on everyone. That danger is only getting worse as bad-faith actors, looking to profit off the disillusionment of these men, further feed their resentment. Those opportunistic, shortsighted ghouls tell vulnerable people that feminism causes women to not want them. They say movies like Barbie—despite also being incredibly pro-family and pro-motherhood—cause women to ignore them and stay single.

It’s all part of the absurd and amoral weaponization of what is ultimately an issue of loneliness. And the more bad-faith analysts, misogynists, unethical politicians, and greedy opportunists feed off that very human sadness and disillusionment, the more it turns people bitter. Who doesn’t want to hear they aren’t the problem everyone else is?

But no matter how much those very people are inclined/told to hate Barbie, the film doesn’t hate them. Barbie doesn’t want them to feel worthless. The movie is kind and understanding to those men in a way their biggest “advocates” never will be. When Ken tells Barbie that he’s nothing without her because it’s “Barbie and Ken,” she tells him that’s not true.

“Maybe it’s Barbie. And it’s Ken,” she says, because she knows he shouldn’t only find self-worth in how she feels about him. Just as she shouldn’t find her worth in how others feel about her. Instead he should “discover who Ken is” because he has value unto himself and that’s enough. Or rather, it’s Kenough.

Ken doesn’t get a happy ending because he finally earns Barbie’s love. He gets a happy ending because he finally realizes he doesn’t have to. In doing so he seems more poised to actually find true love than he ever was before. In having value unto himself he has more to offer another person. It’s yet another message that comes from a place of real compassion, understanding, and love for the very people who want to hate Barbie most, even if they don’t see it.

Mikey Walsh is a staff writer at Nerdist. You can follow him on Twitter at  @burgermike. And also anywhere someone is ranking the Targaryen kings.

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In the middle of Barbie‘s “I’m Just Ken” sequence I felt as though I was levitating out of my chair like Bugs Bunny smelling food. The feeling of pure joy that song/beach battle/dream dance gave me is something I’d only experienced once before. Not because plenty of other great films don’t also feature transcendent scenes that transport me spiritually. (Barbie alone had countless moments I adored.) And it’s not because other movies don’t have perfect moments. (I think Oppenheimer is nothing but perfection.) It’s that there’s a unique euphoria you can only get from watching an adorable idiot who can’t express his feelings in words somehow bare his soul with a big, dumb, amazing power ballad. And that’s why “I’m Just Ken” now holds the same special place in my heart as Frozen II‘s “Lost in the Woods.”

What’s a man supposed to do when he can’t find the right way to tell a woman how he feels? He could write her a nice letter or maybe a poem. One guy tried standing outside a window holding a boom box while hoping she was really into Phil Collins. Or he can, you know, muster the courage to actually speak to her. If none of that works, he could even sing to her. All of those options are clearly more likely to help than belting out a grandiose tune she isn’t even around to hear. Fortunately for all of us that’s the option both Ryan Gosling’s Ken and Jonathan Groff’s Kristoff chose, giving us two all-time great musical movie moments.

It’s no accident Barbie and Frozen II accomplished such distinctive greatness with the same type of song. Each character elected to convey their emotions in the funniest way possible – a power ballad. You could not possibly pick a better musical composition for that kind of scene. Power ballads are as inherently funny as they are great. They’re some of the best, most loved, most memorable songs ever recorded, same as these two beautifully written tracks.

Each is harmonious, compelling, and catchy. They build to moving crescendos that help make them stay with you long after they end. It’s why you find yourself randomly singing them. They both exemplify the best of the power ballad style even while essentially making fun of it. You can (and should) laugh at them while also genuinely enjoying the greatness of their compositions and performances.

What elevates them from such great songs to iconic movie scenes is how they also fit perfectly in their films. Each is accompanied by de facto music videos that are just as good as the songs themselves. What you see on screen as they play are grand sequences full of flourish and life.

“I’m Just Ken” and “Lost in the Woods” also land because both ring true to the characters who sing them and the movies they are in. They capture each character’s conflict and advance their film’s plot. It’s why even though they’re intentionally silly they’re still so earnest and heartfelt. (Normal power ballads are good for the same reason.) Both numbers feel like natural parts of their movie’s story and the story of the people in it. They convey genuine, honest emotion that is a meaningful part of film’s heart, themes, plot, and ethos. They just happen to do all of that while also being really funny. (Having tremendous, uber talented performers sing them certainly helps, too.)

That dichotomy of being knowingly funny and campy while also being totally sincere is essential in making each a standout. It’s why they can exist in a vacuum unto themselves while also seamlessly fitting into their movies. They use music, writing, plot, and filmmaking to create something magical, the kind of scene that makes going to the movies unlike anything else. These are the kinds of sequences, using every tool of filmmaking, big screens exist to show.

I really do love both of these songs. They provided two of my favorite moments I’ve ever had in a movie theater ever. There’s simply nothing better than a power ballad sung by a lovesick goofball working out his feelings on his own for all of us.

Mikey Walsh is a staff writer at Nerdist. You can follow him on Twitter at  @burgermike. And also anywhere someone is ranking the Targaryen kings.

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One of the biggest weekends in Hollywood history delivered everything audiences hoped for and more. Barbie and Oppenheimer are both critical and box office hits. More importantly their combined force has reignited the public’s love affair with going to the movies.

But we know it’s not enough to simply enjoy each film for what it is. Only a fool would let themselves appreciate two distinct works of art on their own merits. I mean, they had the audacity to come out on the same day! That kind of confrontational release schedule, which was pretty common not that long ago, is basically begging very smart people to declare one a winner instead of celebrating that each is elevating the other while also lifting the entire medium and industry. And since we’re not idiots we’re pitting each film head-to-head in a scientific, totally objective, totally serious Barbenheimer showdown. And we’re doing that with categories that apply equally to both films.

Best Explosion

In a matchup this tough it’s always nice to start with a layup. Obviously this goes to the movie which features an explosion of neon-pink. Advantage: Barbie

Best Use of Color

This is another easy category to hand out. Only one is partially shot in black-and-white, making all of its scenes in color really stand out in comparison. A classic case of “less is more.” Advantage: Oppenheimer

Best Costumes

Barbie has great costumes, absolutely. But they’re mostly based on toys lots of people have purchased. That pre-existing template likely made it super easy to recreate countless extravagant, stunning, memorable looks. Meanwhile, Oppenheimer needed clothes covering a span of nearly 40 years, from 1924 to 1963. During that time men went from wearing dark suits and hats to slightly different dark suits and hats. And it’s not clear they even have cameras back then. Talk about a tough assignment! Advantage: Oppenheimer

Most Times Saying the Movie’s Title

People say “Barbie” a lot in Barbie, but they also say “Oppenheimer” a lot in Oppenheimer. We tried to count each instance but lost track of both after roughly 20 minutes, so this analysis is maybe a little less objective than we’d like. Considering people sometimes chant or call him “Oppy,” whereas no one ever calls her “Barb,” we feel good about which one is probably correct. Advantage: Barbie

Best Musical Number

Tough break for Oppenheimer. Despite being three hours long, director Christopher Nolan inexplicably didn’t find room for a single musical number. Will that cost the movie at the Oscars? It definitely won’t help. Meanwhile “I’m Just Ken” will likely take home three or four Academy Awards on its own. Advantage: Barbie

Best Use of a Line From the Sacred Hindu Text the Bhagavad Gita

We swear this is true: nothing said in Barbie comes directly from the Bhagavad Gita. No, not even anything Weird Barbie says We can’t believe it either! Advantage: Oppenheimer

Second Best Use of a Line From the Sacred Hindu Text the Bhagavad Gita

More like “Now I am become repetitive, the repeater of words,” amirite? But a technical win is still a win, so… Advantage: Oppenheimer

Smartest Lead Character

Who adds a random “J” to the start of their name for no reason? Oppenheimer was literally no Einstein. Meanwhile, Stereotypical Barbie was busy saving her world with a genius plan while the “brilliant” scientist was busy blowing up his. Advantage: Barbie

Biggest Crybaby (In a Good Way)

Some of Barbie‘s best, most emotional, most important scenes feature its lead character crying. Advantage: Barbie

Biggest Crybaby (In a Bad Way)

How many people in history have had the sitting U.S. President call them a “crybaby” in the Oval Office? Gotta be a small list. Advantage: Oppenheimer

THE ULTIMATE BARBENHEIMER WINNER

Uh oh. Our thorough, all-encompassing categories—meticulously designed to fairly compare a heartfelt, lively comedy about an iconic toy that explores what it means to be a woman and a grand, somber biopic about one of the most consequential and complicated scientists in history—resulted in a final score of 5-5-1. You don’t need to be an astrophysicist to know that equals a tie. We haven’t been this disappointed since we found out the patriarchy isn’t just about horses. Better add one more category to break it.

Best Existential Crisis By a Main Character About How Their Life Hurt So Many People

Advantage: Push

Dang. Looks like there’s no clear “winner” in our big Barbenheimer showdown.

THE ULTIMATE BARBENHEIMER TIE

…Is it possible no one “won?” In fact, is it actually childish to evaluate art in a binary way that diminishes movies into arbitrary winners and losers? Should we instead focus on each film’s deep themes that get to the very nature of what it means to exist and how we help shape the world we live in? In fact, aren’t the real winners everyone who loves movies, because we got two excellent, star-studded original films by talented directors on the same day?

Yeah, maybe. But we’re going to go see both movies a few more times just to be sure.

Mikey Walsh is a staff writer at Nerdist. You can follow him on Twitter at @burgermike. And also anywhere someone is ranking the Targaryen kings.

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Barbie, one half of the unprecedented “Barbenheimer” phenomenon, is an international sensation. The film blew past all expectations, earning $155 million in its first three days in theaters. But even Barbie stands on the shoulders of giants. She owes a debt of gratitude (sort of) to a humble Disney Channel original movie called Teen Beach 2. The effervescent musical sequel to Teen Beach Movie, Teen Beach 2 features feminist themes and bubby stylistic qualities that make it an unexpectedly perfect companion piece to Barbie. 

First, let’s get into some background information. Teen Beach Movie is a zany mid-2010s flick starring Ross Lynch and Maia Mitchell. They portray two teenagers, Brady and Mack, who unexpectedly get sucked into a 1960s surf movie musical called Wet Side Story. The pair are caught in the middle of a feud between two rival gangs—the bikers and the surfers—who are ready to rumble when biker Butchy’s little sister Lela starts dating Tanner, the leader of the surfers. Or, at least that’s what normally happens. But when Brady and Mack invade the film, they attract the attention of Tanner and Lela instead, Back to the Future-style. If they ever want to get home, they have to set the film back to normal, which they do. Good for them! 

But Teen Beach 2 is where all the Barbie-isms come into play. In the sequel, Lela and Tanner turn up in the Real World. It’s only with help of Brady and Mack that they can prevent the film (and all of their friends back home) from disappearing. In both Teen Beach 2 and Barbie, the characters exist in artificial world of perfection. Nothing ever changes in Wet Side Story. Their hair is never messy or wet. And they can’t help but follow the carefully scripted plot to a tee.

Just like Barbie, things start to get all weird in Teen Beach 2 when the female lead becomes disillusioned with her life. The plot of Wet Side Story diverges when Tanner is about to disarm an evil weather machine (you know, as one does). Rather than stay behind with the other girls, Lela suggests that she come along with him to help. She snaps out of it after a moment, but it creates a momentary ripple nonetheless.  

Then she flubs her meet cute, falling off the stage while performing a song. Tanner catches her, but she says, “I can’t do this,” and demands for him to put her down. Just like the bewildered Barbies, none of the other characters know how to cope with her behavior. So Lela pulls a Stereotypical Barbie, journeying to the Real World. Except she does it with the aid of a magical necklace instead of a bunch of transportation modes.

And of course, Tanner—who is essentially the proto-Beach Ken and ultimate himbo—tags along. As they arrive in the Real World and track down Brady and Mack, their personalities are summed up perfectly. Lela explains, “I carried the necklace out into the water, questioning my whole existence.” To which Tanner proudly adds, “And I didn’t question anything!” 

At first, the Real World is a delight to them. But the longer they’re there, the more they lose their movie magic—much like Barbie’s flat feet and ability to cry. At first, no matter what clothes Lela puts on, they transform into swinging ‘60s outfits. But after spending a day with Mack, the magical connection between her and Wet Side Story is severed, at least as far as sartorial choices go. She can borrow Mack’s clothes and actually look modern.

Similarly, Tanner loses the sparkle that appears on his front tooth when he smiles. And, to his utter distress, his hair can now get wet. Just like Ken and Barbie, the two are changed by their experiences in the Real World. Tanner feels worried for the first time in his life. (Although, to his credit, he doesn’t address his growing feelings of inadequacy by bringing incel culture to Wet Side Story.) Meanwhile, Lela begins to realize that there’s so much more she wants to do with her life. 

Lela’s transformation is at the heart of Teen Beach 2, and mirrors what we see from Barbie. She becomes dissatisfied with the predictable perfection of Wet Side Story, and enamored with the challenges and endless possibilities that await her in the Real World. As Barbie learns that she doesn’t have to be perfect, Lela also realizes that she has the power to take control over her own life. When she returns to the world of Wet Side Story, she changes the film. It reflects how she wants her life to play out. Wet Side Story becomes Lela, Queen of the Beach, where she’s the main character with power and agency rather than just the love interest or an object for her male counterparts to fight over. 

Teen Beach 2 bears more than a few aesthetic similarities to Barbie as well. The world of Wet Side Story has a bright, bubbly, vintage-style aesthetic, leaning into its own artificiality. The characters are chipper and doll-like, and they engage in more than a few dance numbers that give a nod to classic Hollywood musicals. (One in particular features an aerial shot of characters in the shape of a frown contorting into a smile, which has just a touch of the Busby Berkeley.) Sure, it might not match the heights of “I’m Just Ken,” which draws inspiration from Gene Kelly’s extended dance sequence in Singin’ in the Rain, but still, it’s Kenough. 

Did Greta Gerwig draw inspiration from a made-for-TV Disney movie that came out when she was 32 years old? Probably not. Does Teen Beach 2 have the creative ambition of a film that opens with a sly 2001: A Space Odyssey riff, which not only deconstructs little girls’ relationships with their dolls, but serves as a clarion call for young female filmmakers not to hold sacred the male-dominated relics of the past? No, it does not. But would it make for a killer, sun-kissed double feature with Barbie? Undoubtedly. 

The post TEEN BEACH 2 and BARBIE Make a Perfect Double Feature appeared first on Nerdist.

That’s kind of in the spirit of the thing, isn’t it? The Barbie movie gave viewers a healthy dose of nostalgia and many Easter eggs and references to look out for. But in the most meta of ways, the Barbie movie itself adds a new chapter to the story it seeks to tell. Yes, we loved seeing our favorite Barbies come to life and some classic outfits reimagined on-screen. But the Barbie movie is also about to influence the myth of its stars (Barbie and Ken) in a whole new way. By which we mean, we expect to see an “I am Kenough” Ken doll on shelves any day now. But happily, we don’t have to wait that long to don some Kenergy-filled fashion ourselves. One of the Barbie movie’s most iconic looks, Ken’s “I am Kenough” hoodie is now available for you to buy. Even plastic needs to feel cozy and self-assured.

Ken’s “I am Kenough” Hoodie Steals the Show in Barbie

Even though it’s Barbie Land and Barbie’s Dreamhouse, “Just Ken” got to have his day in the sun in the Barbie movie… Or at least he learned some valuable lessons about loving himself, just the way he is. In the end, Ryan Gosling’s Ken understands that he just wants to Beach and enjoy horses. And, the Barbie movie wants Ken and everyone to know, that’s okay. In fact, it’s Kenough.

It’s a long road to self-actualization for all of us, but an affirming word and a fluffy fabric can make the journey easier. So it’s no suprise Ken’s final Barbie movie look is going to join the pantheon of iconic Barbie fashions. And it’s no suprise that so many audience members, who no doubt share Ken’s continous struggle, left the theater wanting to buy their own “I am Kenough” hoodie.

Here’s Where You Can Buy the “I am Kenough” Hoodies, Shirts, and More

Of course, Barbie and Ken are dolls and dolls have creators. And creators, as the Barbie movie reminds us, like to make money. Only a few days after the film’s initial release, fans can buy official “I am Kenough” hoodies, shirts, mugs, and more from Mattel. Some products are available right now, while others, like Ken’s hoodie can be pre-ordered and will ship on or before September 29, 2023.

Click To View Gallery

The “I am Kenough” hoodie, of course, is the most reminiscent of what Ryan Gosling donned as Ken. (And it feels the coziest.) But, a Sherpa hoodie may not be right if you’re Malibu Barbie. You can also purchase “Kenergy” merch instead… And, of course, many, many Barbie things.

Featured Image: Warner Bros./Mattel

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Barbie is already the kind of smash hit studio executives dream of when approving a big budget film with an internationally renowned IP. Greta Gerwig’s critically-acclaimed movie now owns the record for biggest debut weekend by a female director. It nearly doubled its expected opening box office in mere days. More impressive is that it already exceeded its $145 million production costs in domestic sales alone. And yet, reviews and tickets sold don’t paint the complete picture of the movie’s accomplishments. Because despite its outsized budget, critical acclaim, packed theaters, all-out-marketing, and branded subject matter, a movie about an iconic toy is also primed to become a modern day The Rocky Horror Picture Show-style cult classic.

There’s no universally agreed upon definition of what qualifies a movie as a “cult classic.” Some have tried, but it’s a distinction with enough exceptions to render a uniform designation almost meaningless. Certain parameters tend to apply to most of them, though. They often have either been box office flops, critically panned, or simply downright ignored when they arrived in theaters. Before you can become a cult movie you typically have to possess almost no cultural cache. Only by being outside the mainstream can a small, extremely devoted audience then elevate your standing. It’s why big successful movies like Star Wars or Star Trek aren’t usually considered cult classics despite swaths of cult-like fans.

None of which applies to an historic, pricey, instantly successful box office blockbuster like Barbie. Especially not one featuring some of the biggest stars in the world and made by Mattel, an international conglomerate. And definitely not when the film, though undeniably subversive and original, is still ultimately a love letter to the iconic toy. There is nothing niche or overlooked about Barbie. It’s a movie that serves as a defense of a problematic toy and has a marketing budget that dwarfs most films. It could not possibly be more in the mainstream.

And yet, anyone who has been to a theater (in good faith) to see it already knows the energy around the movie is entirely different from most blockbuster films. It’s not merely that people are showing up to see it in costumes. People do that for MCU films, too. Women also did it for Sex in the City and Magic Mike. It’s that long lines of pink-clad moviegoers, spanning generations and greeting one another with enthusiastic “Hi, Barbies!,” feels reminiscent of the communities that form around cult classics. Spiritually Barbie isn’t a successor to other event releases, like a Batman movie. The way it’s connecting with women is akin to the kind of connection fans have with The Rocky Horror Picture Show.

No one could have predicted that. I thought Barbie would be a big success even before I saw it. But I knew something was different when I went to my early screening. The audience consisted of press and public alike, and it was very easy to identify my colleagues in the crowd. Most of the non-press arrivals wore pink dresses, pink shorts, pink shoes, pink shirts, pink headbands, pink skirts, and any other article of pink clothing they could find. This was even more true the next night when I returned for my Oppenheimer screening. A second early Barbie showing taking place in the next theater saw so many women show up in pink it felt like it was a mandatory dress code to get in.

Even better was the pure excitement they arrived with. They weren’t there simply to see a movie in costume or even just to enjoy themselves for a couple hours. They were there in celebration. Whether it was to celebrate a toy they love, feminism, femininity, or one another, Barbie is offering something that was clearly desperately needed and wanted. It’s not just a film, it’s a communal event . And the fact it’s really good and giving its audience everything it hoped for is only feeding the energy that surrounds it.

That energy will only grow with time because something magical is going on with this film. It’s impossible to completely capture why, but it’s undeniable. As excited Barbie enthusiasts see it again and again, the community the film has already created will inevitably branch out from costumes and shared greetings. Eventually showings will include singalongs and interaction with the screen. They’ll resemble the joyous midnight showings of The Rocky Horror Picture Show.

Eventually (sooner than later) people will get up perform “I’m Just Ken” in aisles like they do with “Time Warp.” They’ll dance during Barbie’s big disco sequence and yell “Hi, Barbie” every single time a character does. Others will stand and recite America Ferrera’s great monologue when Gloria lets loose. And we’re all going to end up scream-singing the Indigo Girls’ “Closer to Fine” each time it plays. Same with Rob Thomas’ “Push.” Eventually we’ll all end up liking that song so much we’ll become part of the joke. We’ll even cheer guys who bring guitars into the theater because they’ll obviously be in on the fun, too.

Something incredible is going on with this film. It’s engendering a feeling and connection no one can intentionally plan for or make happen because no one can consciously make a cult classic. Does that mean we have to completely reconsider what a cult classic is and can be? And does a Mattel-approved film becoming one ruin the very concept? Who cares! I promise you no one who loves Barbie does. Instead they’re already picking out their next pink outfit, Barbie or Ken costume, or striped Allan shirt for their next viewing. They only care about seeing it again with enjoying it alongside others who feel the same way.

That’s the best thing about loving a cult classic, a concept that transcends genres and can’t be fully defined because it’s more of an idea than something tangible. You don’t have to care what others think. The mainstream opinion—good, bad, or indifferent—doesn’t matter. All that matters is the feeling it evokes. All that matters is the experience of being a part of a movie that means something special to you and a community you’ve become a part of, the way The Rocky Horror Picture Show means so much to so many. So enjoy Barbie now as much as you can at sold-out screenings any time of day. That will make it even more fun someday when we’re watching it at midnight in a packed theater of people in pink.

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Barbie isn’t just a love letter to the famous doll, it’s also a love letter to movies themselves. Director Greta Gerwig’s film is filled with cinematic references, homages, and tributes. That wasn’t a total surprise. She has discussed the many, many films that influenced Barbie. But the neon pink-filled film had even more callbacks than we expected. While we’re sure we’ll be finding even more of them when we see the Barbie movie again, these famous Hollywood movie references stand (and sometimes dance) as our favorites.

2001: A Space Odyssey

Stanley Kubrick’s legendary sci-fi classic loomed large over Barbie‘s opening scene. Literally. A giant version of Margot Robbie’s toy changed the world forever.

Her arrival lifted children out of the stone age and into a new modern era, same as Kubrick’s infamous black monolith did with apes, in a parody that was as meaningful as it was funny.

The Seven Year Itch

Stereotypical Barbie’s unplanned skirt lift while floating off her house was an obvious homage to Marilyn Monroe’s iconic subway vent scene in 1955’s The Seven Year Itch. This moment was brief but considering the film’s themes it was also touching.

Singing in the Rain

The Kens civil beach war transformed into a musical number that reunited the men of Barbieland, in a memorable sequence that hearkened back to Hollywood’s golden age. While it felt like a tribute to the musicals of that era, its dreamlike quality felt especially inspired by Singing in the Rain‘s “Broadway Melody” number. (And according to Gerwig that’s just one of many ways Gene Kelly’s filmography influenced the film.)

Saturday Night Fever

The film’s other big dance number also paid tribute to a different blockbuster. Barbie’s small/gigantic fully-choreographed, clap-heavy dance party was the neon pink answer to the John Travolta-led disco classic.

Elf

Will Ferrell’s role as Mattel’s CEO certainly felt like a callback to a similar movie about toys who live in their own imaginary fantasy world, The LEGO Movie. But another one of his film’s that clearly inspired Barbie got a more direct tribute. Stereotypical Barbie got a Buddy-style sendoff like Ferrell’s did in Elf. She got a snow globe goodbye from a Mermaid like the one Buddy got from the narwhal.

The Wizard of Oz

Not only was the classic promoted on Barbieland’s theater marquee, Barbie traveled down a pink brick road to the real world in a reversal of Dorothy’s journey down a yellow brick one to Oz.

Pleasantville

The arrival of the patriarchy in Barbieland/Kendom was exactly what happened in Pleasantville. The real world infected the utopian realm with all of the angst, problems, and issues of humanity. Just like the 1998 movie, that ultimately made Barbieland a better, more fulfilling place to live.

The Shining

Okay, seriously, did Gloria and Stereotypical Barbie shine together a la Danny Torrance and Dick Halloran in The Shining? It sort of seemed like they did! Second question: was Barbie secretly just an ode to Stanley Kubrick?

Jurassic Park

Every filmmaker who shows a rearview mirror with a warning about objects being closer than they appearing during a high speed chase knows exactly what they are doing: they’re referencing Jurassic Park. It makes sense Barbie did, too. It shares (dino) DNA with Steven Spielberg’s thriller masterpiece. Both feature the real world clashing with a fantasy world. Only instead of prehistoric monsters Barbieland features neon pink homes without running water and the patriarchy.

Top Gun

How do you convey a land previously run by women has now been turned into a world dominated by men who think they’re powerful and want to show off to one another while celebrating their masculinity? By recreating Top Gun‘s infamous beach volleyball scene, a sequence so rife for a parody it has always felt like one itself.

Zack Snyder’s Justice League

We’re not going out on much of a limb to say Zack Snyder’s biggest fans probably didn’t appreciate Barbie‘s joke about his Justice League movie having a strange hold over a certain segment of its fandom. But it’s not exactly brave to say those who don’t like the director’s DCEU movies and his most vocal fans probably liked it very much.

Monty Python and the Holy Grail

Just because a movie is an unquestioned beloved classic doesn’t mean it can’t still get skewered for being a big part of proverbial guy culture. Monty Python and the Holy Grail definitely fits that bill. That’s why it was so perfect seeing the newly reunited Kens pretending to ride back to Barbie’s DreamHouse on imaginary horses just like the knights in the legendary sketch group’s 1975 comedy.

The Godfather

Everything we said about Holy Grail also applies to The Godfather. Men can (and do) use even the greatest films of all-time for evil/annoying women. You’ll know which ones do just that. They’ll be the ones who get upset about this specific reference.

The post BARBIE’s Best Movie and Pop Culture References appeared first on Nerdist.

She’s been a doctor, an astronaut, a flight attendant, and now she’s the star of her first live-action movie. It’s been virtually impossible to exist online without catching wind of the hype surrounding Barbie, Greta Gerwig’s hotly anticipated film starring Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling as everyone’s favorite plastic pair, Barbie and Ken. Between the sharp script, playful production design, and a pair of contrasting but pitch-perfect performances, Barbie is an ambitious, unexpected, and heartfelt ode to the doll who epitomizes the modern idea of feminism. 

Co-written by Gerwig and Noah Baumbach, Barbie follows the eponymous doll (Robbie) as she’s forced to leave the perfect pink haven of Barbieland. She heads to the real world after she begins to sprout distinctly un-Barbie like imperfections. Rudely awakened by the patriarchal structures of present-day Los Angeles, Barbie grapples with her mortality, identity, and sense of self as she races to find the human girl who plays with her.

On paper, Gerwig may seem like an unorthodox pick for what might otherwise seem like a standard studio-generated, IP-based box office megahit. Her previous film, Little Women, certainly caught mainstream buzz. However, the majority of her work (including Lady Bird and Frances Ha) is of a distinctly offbeat, indie flavor. Her films are modern indie classics, yes, but hardly the kind of thing that would set execs at ease about handing over the keys to one of the most beloved, iconic, and carefully cultivated brand identities of all time.

But, as it turns out, Gerwig was just the woman for the job. Instead of attempting to circumvent the conventional expectations and pressure put on any movie associated with the Barbie name, Gerwig puts them under a microscope. It’s a delightfully unanticipated angle, but as one that also feels simultaneously perfect for a character who’s become so massive she can at times feel like a parody of herself.

Make no mistake, though, this isn’t a parody. It is full of guffaw-inducing one-liners (often from Gosling); however, Barbie isn’t interested in making fun of or being condescending towards its titular heroine. Yes, she starts out as the stiff-armed caricature most associate with her name. But it quickly becomes clear that Barbie wants to talk about her place in pop culture, and the contrasting facets of her “girl power” identity, as opposed to just playing it for laughs.

Barbie (as the film points out) herself is a character riddled by parody. She’s a powerful career woman who teaches girls about the power of independence. But she’s also the epitome of conventional Western beauty, and has destroyed the body image of many a young woman. Gerwig understands this, and treats Barbie with the grace and depth she deserves. This is a complex, interesting character whose multitudes are not just explored but celebrated as she journeys through the real world. 

Though she may have initially been over the moon at the idea of visiting the real world, harsh reality suddenly sets in. She realized that this is a cruel, patriarchal system built by men to keep women down. While it’s a rude awakening for the increasingly-emotional and existentially confused Barbie, a male-dominated society is the perfect playground for Ryan Gosling’s Ken. He takes to the real world like a Barbie foot to a stiletto. 

In addition to its complex, thoughtful characterization of its leading lady, Barbie’s approach to bringing Ken to life is just as fascinating. The film fully embraces Ken’s strange status as a veritable human accessory to Barbie. Constantly yearning and always overlooked by the seemingly-clueless Barbie, Ken finally arrives in a society where men are the ones in power. He even makes it his mission to bring the good news of the patriarchy to Barbieland. 

It makes for plenty of glorious comedy, including the culmination of Ken’s ruin to Barbieland with a battlefield fight sequence/musical dance number. But it also gives Barbie a distinct poignancy and potency in its critique of gender and gender roles. As much as the film acknowledges Barbie’s flawed persona, it’s also willing to say the quiet part out loud. She was created because a world without the patriarchy is one that could only exist in fantasy.

She’s a woman built to embody the strength of femininity, but she’s a woman created in a patriarchal society. So when she’s suddenly forced to exit the feminist paradise she’s always known, she gets to experience the harsh realities human women face every day. In defiance of this bleakness, Barbie creates the ultimate female catharsis in allowing the audience to see themselves in the down-to earth Gloria (America Ferrera), who meets Barbie face-to-face and journeys to Barbieland. 

Gloria is accompanied by her tween daughter Sasha (Ariana Greenblatt). While preteen Sasha is critical of Barbie’s damaging impact on beauty norms, Gloria represents the nostalgic, joyful, comforting memories of girlhood that Barbie conjures. Where Barbie has so often served as an escape and an inspiration for girls, it’s the human Gloria who ends up reminding Barbie of who she really is, and why she’s always been that way. 

Barbie strikes with surprising emotional fortitude, especially for anyone who grew up playing with and finding joy in dolls. This is a simultaneous homage to that joy as well as an affirmation that growing up is hard—though Barbie’s life may be perfect, ours isn’t.  Between these moments of intense existential and introspective reflection, Barbie still, of course, finds time to indulge in the fun of the ridiculous, highly-saturated world of Barbie and her friends.

The ensemble cast is chock full of scene stealers, including Kate McKinnon as Weird Barbie, Issa Rae as President Barbie, and Ncuti Gatwa and Kingsley Ben-Adir as two of the many Kens. Their high-energy, high-camp performances are heightened by costume design from Jacqueline Durran and production design from Sarah Greenwood. 

Capped off by near-constant nods to the extensive history of the Barbie brand (including its many bizarre, discontinued characters, toys, and fashion choices) Barbie finds the miraculous middle ground between colorful camp humor and introspective soul searching—a masterstroke and the ultimate tribute to a one-of-a-kind woman.

Barbie ⭐ (4.5 of 5)

Barbie hits theaters on July 21.

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Barbie dolls are meant to be playthings for kids. But is this the case for director Greta Gerwig’s new movie? Is her Barbie movie about the iconic toy appropriate for kids, and what is its rating? It’s hard to tell from the film’s trailers. The vibrant promos feature extravagant, colorful costumes, settings, and Malibu Beach DreamHouses. The Barbie movie looks like a child’s dream come to life. But the movie’s promos are also full of existential angst and talk about death. Is that something small children can handle or even understand? What about pre-teens? If you’re unsure if the Barbie movie is okay for your youngsters, here’s our guide to help you make the right decision for your family.

Editor’s Note: This post contains very mild spoilers for Barbie to help parents, guardians, and caregivers decide if the film is age appropriate for their children.

Are Any Aspects of the Barbie Movie Appropriate for Kids?

Barbie‘s costumes and sets are delightful for everyone at any age, including kids. They’re bright and beautiful, so even the youngest children will enjoy seeing them on screen. (Especially those with a fondness for neon pink.)

The Barbie movie also features many cheerful sequences that are appropriate for kids. They will appeal to children even if they don’t fully understand the meaning behind them. There are also touching scenes between family members and friends in the Barbie movie that any child who can appreciate a show like Bluey will find meaning in. The same goes for any kids who can comprehend positive themes about identity, feminism, relationships, and believing in yourself.

Mature Language and Adult Topics in the Barbie Movie

Despite living in a world built by imagination and not knowing what sex is, Ken and Barbie know they don’t have human genitalia. A Barbie character makes direct reference to each of their missing private parts. However, it’s done in a humorous, matter-of-fact way rather than in a vulgar or explicit manner. There’s also a funny term used to describe the dolls’ missing lower extremities. Young children will definitely not understand the phrase used in the Barbie movie. Some will certainly ask to have it explained to them, though. However, there’s nothing resembling nudity, though.

There is one bleeped-out swear word, however. The swear word used in Barbie will be blatantly obvious to even pre-teens, who will likely know what was actually said, but not little kids.

The Barbie Movie’s Existential Dread and Adult Themes May Not Be Appropriate for Kids

Despite having main characters who are literal toys living in a seemingly Utopian magical fantasy land, the Barbie movie is an existential human story at its core. It’s about what it means to be a woman, what it means to be alive, and what makes us happy. The inciting event, as teased in the film’s trailers, is when Margot Robbie’s Stereotypical Barbie starts thinking about her own death. The film also explicitly deals with depression, the patriarchy, gender roles in society, and other deep, meaningful ideas directed at an older audience. These Barbie themes may not necessarily be inappropriate for kids, but they may be difficult for them to understand fully.

What Is the Barbie Movie’s Age Rating?

The Motion Picture Association of America set the Barbie movie rating at PG-13. This deems Barbie appropriate for kids aged 13 and above. “Parents are urged to be cautious” when bringing anyone younger than 13 years of age since “some material may be inappropriate for pre-teenagers.”

The MPA cites “suggestive references and brief language” as the reason for Barbie‘s PG-13 designation.

(Did you know Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom and Gremlins are largely responsible for the creation of the PG-13 rating? That designation didn’t exist before 1984.)

Age Recommendations for the Barbie Movie When It Comes to Kids

Specific, hard, and fast age recommendations are especially difficult for PG-13 movies. But if you’re looking for general guidance for the Barbie movie, it is likely appropriate for most pre-teens but not a great choice for many younger viewers.

Mature 12-year-olds will likely appreciate the film both for its story and its themes, even if they don’t understand all of it. (In fairness, some adults won’t either. The film’s script and performances are much deeper than many will expect with a film based on a toy.)

Children under the age of ten will almost certainly not understand most of what’s going on in the Barbie movie. As a result, some will feel lost and disengaged. They will also be confused about some of the language. (A helpful way to think about the more mature content is that if the child in your life has never had health class, Barbie might not be for them, even though talk of private body parts is limited to just a couple of moments.)

If you’re still unsure if your youngster is old enough to enjoy Barbie on any level, or that it deals with topics you deem inappropriate for their age, we recommend seeing it without your kids first.

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Come on, Barbie, let’s go party. Whether we want it to or not, that iconic Aqua song is pulsing through our veins as we anticipate the upcoming big-screen Barbie movie. She is no stranger to the screen, though. The iconic Mattel doll is, after all, the star of a whole animated cinematic universe. But now she’s getting the Hollywood treatment with a live-action film. Margot Robbie stars as the titular blonde girlboss, and she has a whole lot of star power with her—both in front of and behind the camera.

Of course, the universe will be full of Kens and Barbies. But one Ken we haven’t gotten a good look at yet is John Cena’s mermaid Ken or “Kenmaid” character from Barbie. Though we still don’t have a full look at Cena’s outfit, most importantly, his tale, we do like what we see so far. Flowing blonde locks, a shell necklace, and no shirt… What more could we ask for? We just hope this Ken’s tail is nice and glittery.

Here’s everything we know about Barbie, the movie.

Title

Warner Bros. and Mattel are keeping it simple with this one, calling the movie Barbie.

Barbie‘s Plot

So far, Warner Bros. and Mattel are keeping on the down low about Barbie‘s plot. But given the castings we know the ensemble film will include at least a few familiar figures from the Mattel world. In addition to the titular character, her on-again/off-again boyfriend Ken is a major figure. And there may even be more than one. Plus, this is a film from Greta Gerwig (and Noah Baumbach). So it wouldn’t be too surprising if they throw in a couple surprises. Will we see a wistful or melancholy Barbie in the movie, trying to move on from her himbo love? Or will we follow Barbie on a coming-of-age journey as she figures out what her dream job really is? With Gerwig at the helm and this stacked cast, we’re game for just about anything.

Barbie‘s first teaser offered us a lot to think about as well. You can watch below and check out our full breakdown of Barbie‘s trailer, including its 2001: A Space Odyssey references and recreations.

Barbie‘s second trailer, meanwhile, brought us something a little bit more conventional, but no less excellent. Although neither trailer included Aqua’s “Barbie Girl,” the track will be sampled in a song on the soundtrack in the Barbie movie’s soundtrack, phew!

Most recently, Barbie shared a slew of witty posters with us, teasing its full cast of Kens, Barbies, humans, and more. We definitely can’t wait to see how they come together in the movie. We have a feeling we will soon enter a fantastic world like no other.

pic.twitter.com/MFACUgHRr6

— Barbie Movie (@barbiethemovie) April 4, 2023

pic.twitter.com/qovxvooobp

— Barbie Movie (@barbiethemovie) April 4, 2023

Behind the Scenes

Greta Gerwig will write and direct the film, with real-life partner Noah Baumbach co-writing the script for the Barbie movie. Robbie and Tom Ackerley are also producing the film through their LuckyChap Entertainment production company. Mattel’s Robbie Brenner and David Heyman also produce.

Barbie‘s Cast

 As stated above, Margot Robbie, who is also producing the movie, is Barbie. Ryan Gosling is playing Ken. Joining them are Simu Liu, America Ferrera, Alexandra Shipp, Kingsley Ben-Adir, Rhea Perlman, Ncuti Gatwa, Emerald Fennell, Sharon Rooney, Scott Evans, Ana Cruz Kayne, Connor Swindells, Ritu Arya, Jamie Demetriou, Kate McKinnon, Ariana Greenblatt, Emma Mackey, Issa Rae, Michael Cera, and Hari Nef. Dua Lipa has all come aboard. It is quite a cast, to say the least!

In addition, we now know that Will Ferrell will play “the CEO of Mattel.” According to the actor, the role is “that guy who’s just insensitive but weird.” At CinemaCon 2023, we also learned that John Cena would play the role of mermaid Ken. Sounds exciting.

Barbie’s Release Date

Barbie releases on July 21, 2023.

Originally published in 2023.

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The internet is having a blast right now, speculating which upcoming high-profile summer movie is going to win its respective weekend. Will it be Christopher Nolan’s gritty WWII period piece/biopic Oppenheimer, or will it be Margot Robbie in hot pink in Barbie? The term “Barbenheimer” has already become a thing on social media. Are the studios out of their gourds releasing two such expensive movies on the same weekend? One will surely cannibalize the other’s box office, right? Well, not so fast. It wasn’t always like this.

Once upon a time, big Hollywood movies frequently opened on the same weekend. The hope was, if someone didn’t see the movie one weekend, they’d just see it the next. Or the next. Imagine that! Most listed here are from the ‘80s, if only because that was the last time Hollywood wasn’t so skittish about this practice. Now, it’s almost unheard of. For those worried that Oppenheimer and Barbie will cancel each other out, the films below proved two big movies can have the same opening weekend and go on to great success.

The Empire Strikes Back and The Shining (May 21, 23, 1980)

Of all the same weekend openers on this list, we dare say the first is maybe the most legendary. On Wednesday, May 21, 1980, The Empire Strikes Back, or “Star Wars II” as some folks called it then, was released on hundreds of screens nationwide. At the time, it was the most anticipated film ever made. Two days later, premiering on a mere ten screens in major cities, you could also catch Stanley Kubrick’s The Shining. (It would get a larger rollout weeks later). Four decades later, both movies are considered titans of their genre, and among the greatest films ever made. Who doesn’t know “I am your father” or “Come play with us, Danny. Forever and ever?” They are both part of the cultural fabric.

If one was lucky enough to be in the right city in 1980 that weekend, they simply could have had the best day at the movies ever. Interestingly, a few other fun facts tie Empire and Kubrick’s Stephen King adaptation together. Kubrick repurposed most of the fake snow used for The Shining from the Hoth set from Empire. They shot both films at Elstree Studios in the UK, and a fire on The Shining set delayed shooting on Empire for weeks. Although Empire was the clear box office winner, The Shining did respectable business for an ’80s horror movie. Today, one can make the argument that these are two of the most memed movies ever.

Poltergeist and Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan (June 4, 1982)

1982 was a banner year for nerd cinema. It’s perhaps the greatest geek movie year of all time. And here are two perfect examples as to why. On the weekend of June 4, 1982, you could go to the movies and take your pick of two stone-cold classics — Tobe Hooper’s suburban haunted house thrill ride Poltergeist, and Nicholas Meyer’s space opera Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan. Both the Star Trek sequel and the PG-rated scare-fest were big-budget, special effects extravaganzas, aimed at the same target demographic. Today, no studio would ever think of pitting them up against each other, for fear one would inevitably fail as audiences could only choose one. But both movies did incredible business, with neither one hurting the other’s box office.

Blade Runner and The Thing (June 25, 1982)

Hey, remember how we just said that 1982 was a banner year for geek cinema? And how Poltergeist and Star Trek II went on to great success financially even though they opened on the same day? Well, we can’t say the same for these two iconic films from the same month in the same year — John Carpenter’s The Thing and Ridley Scott’s Blade Runner. Both of them hit theaters on June 25, 1982. And at least at first, both landed with a giant thud.

In this case, it wasn’t one movie that killed the other at the box office. It was Steven Spielberg’s E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial, which opened two weekends before and absolutely crushed them both. Today, most consider both of these sci-fi films among the greatest of their genre, but in 1982, average moviegoers wanted cute and cuddly sci-fi, and not anything too bleak or dystopian. Something that both Blade Runner and The Thing very much were. History has been very kind to both films since, however. Box office, shmox office.

Ghostbusters and Gremlins (June 8, 1984)

If you were an ‘80s kid, and you happened to see these two films opening day, then this weekend might have formed an essential core memory for you. On June 8, 1984, Columbia Pictures released the horror-comedy Ghostbusters, while Warner Bros. released their own horror-comedy, the Steven Spielberg-produced Gremlins. Both films were absolutely massive at the box office, playing for months and months. And both movies also sold a ton of merchandise to kids (and adults) everywhere.

Ghostbusters was ultimately the bigger hit, topping the box office for six straight weeks. The comedic power of Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, Ernie Hudson, and Harold Ramis could not be slowed down in 1984. And it had a very catchy theme song on the radio playing 24/7. But on opening weekend, Gremlins was only #2 at the box office by a (Mogwai) hair, and also had an incredible run. To this day, both movies remain iconic, symbolic of their era. Ultimately, opening on the same day didn’t hurt either film one bit. To put it simply ‘twas a different time.

Batman and Honey, I Shrunk the Kids (June 23, 1989)

The lead-up and hype for 1989’s Batman was something never seen before in Hollywood. In the summer of ’89, the Bat symbol was everywhere, one of the shrewdest pieces of movie marketing of all time. Many pundits thought that any movie to go against Jack Nicholson’s Joker and Keaton’s Caped Crusader was foolish to try. But Disney decided to release their Rick Moranis family sci-fi comedy Honey, I Shrunk the Kids on the same weekend anyway, and it was a gamble that paid off.

Batman might have sucked all the air out of the room that summer, steamrolling through box office records, but Disney’s little movie (pun intended) went on to make $222 million. It later received two more sequels, a TV series, and a long-running Disney Parks attraction. Not to mention, it became a Disney Channel staple and a favorite of Millennial kids. Despite its success, for much of the next decade, two big tent pole movies rarely opened on the same day in the following decades. But, there were a handful of exceptions to that rule. But Batman and Honey, I Shrunk the Kids felt like the end of an era.

The Matrix and 10 Things I Hate About You (March 31, 1999)

Back in the spring of 1999, no one saw The Matrix coming. The last cyberpunk movie starring Keanu Reeves, Johnny Mnemonic, had tanked. Besides, the summer of ’99 was only going to be all about The Phantom Menace, right? Well, the Wachowski siblings’ innovative sci-fi action flick blew the collective minds of everyone, and it was a big hit with critics and audiences. Regardless of one’s feelings about its subsequent three sequels, the original film has stood the test of time. But few recall that another iconic movie of a different genre had the same release date.

Teen comedies were also all the rage as well in the late ‘90s, and on the very same weekend, the rom-com 10 Things I Hate About You hit theaters. Starring teen faves like Julia Stiles and Joseph Gordon-Levitt, it introduced America to Heath Ledger. Back then, Ledger was viewed as just another teen heartthrob, no one knew he’d become an acting powerhouse. Even with The Matrix being an unknown quantity, most still expected a sci-fi action movie to crush 10 Things. But the film found long-term success, especially with teen Millennials. And Neo dodging bullets in the adjacent movie screen didn’t dent Heath Ledger’s appeal to teen moviegoers at all.

The Dark Knight and Mamma Mia! (July 18, 2008)

The Oppenheimer/Barbie fight is not the first time Christopher Nolan has found himself in this position. Back in 2008, his much-hyped follow-up to Batman Begins hit theaters, and was the talk of that entire summer. Meanwhile, in a shrewd bit of old-school counter-programming, Universal opened their adaptation of the Broadway hit musical Mamma Mia!, hoping female audiences not as into men in tights punching each other would flock to hear ABBA tunes in wondrous AC comfort.

This particular strategy paid off; Mamma Mia! was an enormous crowd-pleasing hit. And it very nearly outmatched the overseas grosses for The Dark Knight, which we all know went on to be one of the biggest films ever made. This was perhaps the last time two such high-profile movies attempted to launch on the same weekend. And it’s now been 15 years. Can history repeat itself, and allow both Oppenheimer and Barbie to find box office gold? We’ll find out soon.

Barbie and Oppenheimer open on July 21.

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Barbie the movie really knows what it’s doing when it comes to marketing. It’s Barbie’s world, and we’re all just living in it—especially if our name is Ken. But now we can literally live in it because Barbie is ready to share her world with us, with a little bit of Ken sprinkled in for taste. Barbie’s Malibu Dreamhouse is now available to rent on Airbnb. It’s time to make some childhood (and adulthood) dreams come true. Let’s go… check it out.

While Barbie is away, the Kens will play. And this time, Ken is playing an Airbnb host. Is he up to the challenge? Well, he is just Ken, but thankfully Barbie has left her marks on everything. Ken has tried to get some Kenergy in, and we’re not complaining, but we’re also glad it’s only here and there. It is Barbie‘s Malibu Dreamhouse we’re trying to rent on Airbnb, after all.

Ken’s description of the Barbie Dreamhouse Airbnb listing is as follows:

Welcome to my Kendom! While Barbie is away, she has handed over the keys to her Malibu DreamHouse this summer and my room could be yours for the night. I’ve added a few touches to bring some much-needed Kenergy to the newly renovated and iconic Malibu DreamHouse. Placed perfectly above the beach with panoramic views, this life-size toy pink mansion is a dream come true!

During your stay, you will have the opportunity to live in technicolor by:
– Taking a spin through my awesome wardrobe to find your best beach fit. Look out Barbie, I’ve got quite the closet too!
– Channeling your inner cowboy and learning a line dance or two on my outdoor disco dance floor or performing a sunset serenade on my guitar
– Challenging your fellow guests to a “beach off” with plenty of sunbathing and chillaxing by the infinity pool
– Taking home a piece of my Kendom with your very own set of yellow-and-pink Impala skates and surfboard

We suppose Barbie is busy promoting her highly-anticipated movie. And we couldn’t expect Barbie to take time away to play host at an Airbnb, even if it’s for her own Dreamhouse. We suppose Ken will have to do.

More Images of This Real-Life Dreamhouse

Click To View Gallery

All kidding aside, this Barbie Dreamhouse looks amazing and we really think it should be a permanent mainstay on Airbnb. There’s a pool, an ocean view, and security cameras on the property. This is good because notably Barbie’s Dreamhouse has no doors or walls. (Although it looks like guests will happily get some curtains. Thanks, Barbie and Ken!) There’s even a life-size plastic horse waiting for you. First horses in The Sims, now horses in Barbie’s Dreamhouse? Dreams really are coming true.

How to Rent Barbie’s Dreamhouse (Ken’s Version)

Airbnb shares that booking for Barbie’s Malibu Dreamhouse, “opens at 10 a.m. PT on Monday, July 17 for two, one-night stays for up to two guests on July 21 and July 22, 2023.” The listing also stresses that this is not a contest, and guests are responsible for their own travel to Malibu. We guess Barbie couldn’t send the Glamour Jet this time.

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In the next obvious move, Mattel has released a collection of Barbie dolls and accessories from the upcoming Barbie movie starring Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling. Now all we need is a movie about the Barbie movie Barbie dolls, and we’ll have gone full Barbie-ception. Of course, the merchandise line for the Barbie movie had to happen, but we also feel there’s a funny kind of irony to the collection. We have a feeling the movie will poke some fun at Barbie as a brand and her doll-like fantasy existence. But she got us because we’ll still take her home to play with anyway. From full Kenergy, pastel-striped Ken to Barbie’s dreamhouse (no walls or doors here), check out the Barbie the movie doll collection.

Barbie the movie’s Mattel doll collection gives you everything a Barbie (who is everything) and Ken (who is just Ken) could want. There’s President Barbie, Pink Power Pantsuit Barbie, Denim Matching Set Ken, and even a couple of corvettes. There’s even a Hot Wheels Corvette you can actually drive. We have to wonder if Hot Wheels will cameo in the Barbie movie.

Click To View Gallery

What we don’t see is John Cena’s mermaid Barbie… And “wrangling with the concept of death” Barbie and “Existential Crisis” Barbie are also nowhere to be found in this movie line. And honestly, if Mattel could put out some Barbie dolls with that Kenergy, we would be first in line.

The Barbie movie releases on July 21.

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We’ve been on the edge of our seats wondering just what the highly-anticipated Barbie movie will actually be about. We’ve seen a few atmospheric teases but nothing that gives us as good a look at the movie’s plot as this latest trailer. And now that we have more of the story in front of us, it makes perfect sense. Barbie is a Barbie girl in a Barbie world in the Barbie movie. But she’s about to take on reality, whether she likes it or not. There might be some cold showers and flat feet to endure in the real world, but we have a feeling Barbie is about to learn that there’s also real beauty outside the enduring nature of plastic. However, as the Barbie movie trailer beautifully puts it, “Humans only have one ending. Ideas are forever.”

Take a look at this joyous and mildly existential-crisis-inducing trailer for the Barbie movie below.

We already love every Barbie and every Ken in this movie. Although we must admit, this Barbie trailer gives us some Life-Size vibes. Not that that’s a bad thing. The official description for the Barbie movie shares:

To live in Barbie Land is to be a perfect being in a perfect place. Unless you have a full-on existential crisis. Or you’re a Ken.

Honestly, that’s exactly what we got out of Barbie‘s trailer. We can’t wait to find out what truths Barbie will discover in her movie. And, of course, we’re sure she’ll teach some important lessons along the way. Ken, however, is probably doomed to stay exactly as he is for life. But that’s really what we need out of Ken, when it comes right down to it.

This film, written and directed by Greta Gerwig, stars Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling, among many other famous faces. The Barbie movie releases in theaters on July 21. And we have our best heels (or flats, this is the real world, after all) ready for the occasion.

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At some point, a lot of us wanted to be a Barbie girl (or a Ken guy) in a Barbie world. From what we hear, life is fantastic there, even though things are made of plastic. And now that’s what we get to do with Greta Gerwig’s Barbie, a new film starring a slate of great actors including Margot Robbie, Issa Rae, Ryan Gosling, Ncuti Gatwa, and more. We are loving all the Barbie character posters but we really love this new trailer that gives us serious “slice of life” storytelling vibes. 

All the different Barbies, the Kens who are competing with each other, the clever joke about Barbie/Ken’s sexless relationship, and the general ridiculous vibes are a true winner. Interestingly, this is quite different from the first Barbie trailer we got a while back. What does this mean about the film’s tone? Who knows. What do we know about Barbie’s plot? Well, here’s a small synopsis: 

To live in Barbie Land is to be a perfect being in a perfect place.  Unless you have a full-on existential crisis.  Or you’re a Ken.

Will Barbie discover that our world is absolute garbage? Maybe. Basically, just toss on some fab shades, wear bright colors, and go along for the wacky ride. Barbie hits theaters on July 21.

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We’ve seen glimpses of what Barbie has in store for us already. And we knew we were in for some kind of journey through the absurd and entertaining. Of course, with Greta Gerwig at the helm, a straightforward movie about a cheery doll was not in the cards. But we could not have expected the deep meditation on the meaning of Barbie that Barbie‘s trailer offered. Nor could we have expected the homage to the opening scene from Stanley Kubrick’s 2001: A Space Odyssey. Barbie meets sci-fi? Hand it over.

Take a look at the first teaser trailer for Barbie, below:

Given that Barbie‘s trailer emulates Kubrick, it brings us many layers of meaning. In the opening of 2001: A Space Odyssey, early man was greeted by a mysterious monolith that they began to worship. Though this encounter freed them from the mercurial whims of nature, it made them servants of something else. The monolith awakened insatiable aggression and greed in man. In the Barbie trailer, Barbie herself takes the place of the monolith. And she awakens something furious in the young girls quietly playing with their baby dolls.

We suppose this teaser trailer offers a meditation on how the figure of Barbie gives some kind of power to those she touches with her perfect, plastic presence and also brings something ugly out in them all at once… In 2001, the monolith also appears as a very masculine presence, whereas, in Barbie, Gerwig has evolved the concept for the feminine. And that feels like an interesting thematic start. Based on this trailer, we smell a coming-of-age in a cruel world narrative just around the corner for Barbie and co.

But we suppose we’ll have to see the movie. In addition to its 2001: A Space Odyssey portion, the teaser trailer for Barbie does offer us a quick montage of some of the more fun aspects of the movie. We get to Barbie waving at her city of Barbie Dreamhouses. Ryan Gosling as Ken appears with, potentially, other Kens in absurd ’80s aerobics wear. And the Barbie trailer also features lots of dancing, sequins, and pink. We already know this movie will also likely go in and out of Barbie‘s world, with Will Ferrell playing the CEO of Mattel. So we expect nothing but shenanigans.

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In all, our brains our spinning. But one thing feels certain. If the teaser trailer for Barbie can bewilder and delight us in this way, we can’t wait to get the entire movie. Barbie releases in theaters on July 21, 2023.

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Hype about the Barbie movie is heating up, and it’s just gotten hotter because we now have our first look at Ryan Gosling as Ken. He looks plastic. And it’s fantastic.

This image comes on the heels of the first look at Margot Robbie as Barbie that we got at Cinema Con. Warner Bros. introduced a number of exciting things during its panel, including the below image of the actress absolutely embodying the beloved, pink-clad doll. We don’t know much about what will happen in the Barbie movie yet, but Reynolds recently told Entertainment Tonight that “Ken’s got no money, he’s got no job, he’s got no car, he’s got no house. He’s going through some stuff.” Rough stuff.

We also now know that the movie will release in theaters July 21, 2023. Mark your calendars now and get ready to go party. This couple certainly seems like they know how to have fun.

The upcoming Barbie movie continues to fill out its cast. In addition to Robbie, Ryan Gosling is on tap to play her Ken. (He was the sole choice for the Warner Bros, LuckyChap & Mattel film, according to Deadline.) But as the world of Barbie is more than just the iconic on-again/off-again couple, the cast continues to grow. Simu Liu, America Ferrera, and Alexandra Shipp have stepped into the dream house. And now, Will Ferrell has joined the Barbie movie as well. Their roles in the Barbie movie are all currently under wraps.

In addition to the aforementioned cast, Deadline reports that Kingsley Ben-Adir, Rhea Perlman, Ncuti Gatwa, Emerald Fennell, Sharon Rooney, Scott Evans, Ana Cruz Kayne, Connor Swindells, Ritu Arya, Jamie Demetriou, Kate McKinnon, Ariana Greenblatt, Emma Mackey, Issa Rae, Michael Cera,  Marisa Abela, and Hari Nef will also star in the movie.

We don’t know too much about the movie, but we do know that Greta Gerwig has signed on as its director. Gerwig also co-wrote the movie’s script with Noah Baumbach. We guess Gosling makes for a fine choice to play Ken. Honestly, we don’t know too much about Ken as a person. Other than he, too, holds a lot of jobs, has a great head of hair, and loves the beach. As for what to expect from Liu, Ferrera, and Shipp’s roles, I’d be shocked if Liu wasn’t playing Ken’s fellow surfer bro. Or at least some sort of pal. The energy is just there.

We have to remind you though that the top-notch Barbie movie already exists. And it stars Tyra Banks and Lindsay Lohan. If you haven’t seen Life-Size, you are truly missing out. The upcoming film might be a more mature take on the doll, for some (?) reason. But Life-Size offers almost exactly everything you’d want out of your Barbie movie. So that’s the real big shoes to fill.

Casting Ryan Gosling as Ken and Margot Robbie as Barbie does have its charm, however, this also feels like the right time to say a Barbie movie would be a great time to bring more representation into the brand’s spotty history. Though Barbie has made a lot of changes in the last little while, bringing those evolutions to the big screen would have clinched its efforts.

We guess we will have to stay tuned to see what other details emerge. With a cast starring Liu, Ferrera, Ferrell, and more, this Barbie movie could end up exceeding our expectations. In the meantime, we plan to blast Aqua until it’s stuck in everyone’s head. How’s that for viral marketing?

Originally published on October 22, 2021.

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For over sixty years now, Barbie’s life can best be described as “extra.” She’s been a doctor, a lawyer, a teacher, an astronaut, and a superhero. Our girl has done it all, and she’s done it with lots of glitter and hot pink. And nothing is more extra than Barbie’s vehicle of choice. Now, via Roadshow, we’ve learned that at the L.A. Auto Show, Mattel was the belle of the ball, unveiling a full-sized EV version of the Barbie “Extra Car” based on the Fiat 500e. You can see it in full detail in the video below.

The Mattel representative described the car’s style as “more is more.” And we’d have to concur. This real electric car is a spot-on replica of Barbie’s toy version. Mattel used CAD files to mimic the body of the toy car exactly. Some of Extra Car’s details include sparkly silver paint and wing-shaped doors. There are also 20- and 22-inch (front/rear) pink and rainbow-hued wheels, which were apparently 3D-printed and then hand-painted. And the car’s headlights are gold and star-shaped, which is very Barbie-esque.

If you’re wondering why the car has the label “extra,” that’s because Extra is the name of the latest Barbie toy line. The Barbie Extra dolls all come with multiple accessories, layers of clothes, and even pets. They’re throwing in the whole hot pink kitchen sink for this line. So everything is “extra,” as the kids say these days. And Barbie’s new car is no different.

So far, this car is one-of-a-kind. But Mattel has plenty of toy versions of it hitting the shelves soon. We actually think if they mass-produced these cars, they would totally sell. Drag superstar (and Barbie fanatic) Trixie Mattel would certainly drive one. So would Hollywood legend (and wannabe Barbie herself) Angelyne. We’re not sure where Paris Hilton is at these days with the whole Barbie obsession, but early 2000s Paris would have been all over the Barbie Extra Car. All we’re saying is, we really need to see these on the road someday, blasting Aqua’s “Barbie Girl” out of the speakers.

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#ThankYouHeroes honors individuals who have led the fight against COVID-19. In addition, the brand expanded the line to include real everyday heroes who, according to the brand’s press release, “have kept communities up and running.” Six special dolls were made in the likeness of real women heroes fighting the pandemic for a special honor. Though the Barbie dolls will not be for purchase, each represents and memorializes their work in their communities.

The Barbie dolls represent responders from across the globe, including the United States, Brazil, the UK, Australia, and Canada.

Mattel

According to the press release, each featured hero is an “expert in their field who has shown unprecedented courage during a challenging time.” The inspiring Barbie dolls include:

• Amy O’Sullivan, RN (USA) – An ER nurse who treated the first COVID-19 patient at the Wyckoff Heights Medical Center. Unfortunately, she soon became ill and was intubated. After recovering a few weeks later, she quickly went back to work and continues caring for others.
• Dr. Audrey Sue Cruz (USA) – Dr. Cruz joined forces with other Asian American physicians to fight racial bias and discrimination.
• Dr. Chika Stacy Oriuwa (Canada) – A psychiatry resident who has advocated against systemic racism in healthcare.
• Professor Sarah Gilbert (United Kingdom) – A professor of vaccinology, she led the University of Oxford vaccine development in the UK.
• Dr. Jaqueline Goes de Jesus (Brazil) – A biomedical researcher, she sequenced the genome of a COVID-19 variant in Brazil.
• Dr. Kirby White (Australia) – A General Practitioner in Australia who co-founded the Gowns for Doctors initiative by developing a PPE gown that could be laundered and re-used.

Although these exact dolls can’t be purchased, Mattel donates $5 for each eligible Barbie doctor, nurse, and paramedic doll sold at Target to the First Responders Children’s Foundation (FRCF). For additional details and eligible products for promotion, visit the Barbie website.

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Mattel has long ranked as one of the world’s premier toy companies, having launched Barbie, Matchbox, American Girl, and others. After many decades in business, the corporation recently set new energy toward more ecological manufacturing practices. Last year, Mattel promised it would shift to producing toys made entirely from recyclable materials by 2030. Its latest effort, announced this week: Mattel PlayBack, which invites customers to return old playthings to the company for recycling.

The program, which appears to have kicked off operation already, at this point only welcomes items under certain Mattel-brand toy umbrellas. Namely: Barbie, Matchbox, and MEGA. In order to participate, customers can print a label from the program’s website and mail any of said toys back to Mattel. As of yet, the program will operate in the United States and Canada, eventually reaching additional nations in Europe through third-party partners.

From Mattel’s President and Chief Operating Officer Richard Dickson:

“Mattel toys are made to last and be passed on from generation to generation. A key part of our product design process is a relentless focus on innovation, and finding sustainable solutions is one significant way we are innovating. Our Mattel PlayBack program is a great example of this, enabling us to turn materials from toys that have lived their useful life into recycled materials for new products.”

Mattel

And from Mattel’s Global Head of Sustainability Pamela Gill-Alabaster:

“At Mattel, we are committed to managing the environmental impact of our products. The Mattel PlayBack program helps parents and caregivers ensure that materials stay in play, and out of landfills, with the aim to repurpose these materials as recycled content in new toys. It is one important step we’re taking to address the growing global waste challenge.”

Though it’s often sad to say goodbye to an old toy, it’s infinitely better to have it recycled than tossed.

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Like most Star Wars fans, we don’t think it’s possible to have too much Baby Yoda in our lives. Disney has tried to test that theory though. The company has released enough Grogu merchandise to fill a Death Star. That includes an animatronic version of the Child that follows you around as though you’re carrying a plate of fish egg-flavored cookies. However, you don’t want him running around during battle with stormtroopers. But it’s tough to carry him while dueling Moff Gideon. That’s why The Mandalorian‘s Din Djarin keeps Grogu in a protective floating pram. And soon you can too, with maybe the coolest Baby Yoda merch yet. A levitating Grogu is going up for auction. All for a very good cause.

Mattel

Mattel is auctioning off a one-of-a-kind version of Grogu, a plush doll that comes in a replica pram that really floats and spins 2.5-inches above its base. It will not be available at any retailers though. Fans will have just one week to bid on this unique item at eBay. This is a one-and-done deal, but for a good reason.

All 100% of the proceeds are going to ProjectArt. It’s an out-of-school and residency program for “artists and underserved K-12 students that provides innovative, creative, and effective approaches to teaching and learning through the visual arts in partnership with public libraries from coast to coast.” It’s such a great cause this is one of the rare times we hope we can’t afford to buy a piece of Baby Yoda merch. We want this fantastic floating Grogu to go for a whole lot of beskar steel.

Mattel

“The fan-favorite character ‘the Child,’ introduced in The Mandalorian, served as the perfect inspiration for Mattel Creations to design this ultimate levitating pram for a whole new generation of fans,” said Richard Dickson, President and COO of Mattel, in a statement. “Mattel Creations is also dedicated to giving back to the next generation of creators, which is why ProjectArt is the perfect partner to support through this collaboration, not only by donating an item for their auction, but also through Mattel funding ProjectArt’s Los Angeles chapter for 2021 and connecting Mattel designers with students to cultivate creativity.”

The auction will run for one week. It starts Friday, February 26 at 9:00 a.m. PT, until Friday, March 5 at 9:00 a.m. PT.

Don’t worry if you can’t afford a Grogu that actually floats though. You can still take home a stationary version of this new doll. Mattel also announced it is releasing its new The Child Collector Edition Plush with Hover Pram for a limited time. It features a control knob and replica Chowder Squid for Grogu to nosh on. The pram’s motorized doors also open and close so you can keep Baby Yoda safe. And the adjustable stand lets you find the best fit in your home for him.

Mattel

Mattel Creations will also be offering a “very limited quantity set” of Star Wars-inspired Barbie Dolls. They feature three Barbies clothed in attired based on Rey, C-3PO, and a stormtrooper. The set will come in collector packaging that is autographed by famed Barbie designer Robert Best.

Both the Child in Hover Pram Plush and the Barbie set will only be available at Mattel Creations for a week. You can order both starting on Friday, March 5 at 9:00 a.m. PT. The special sale of both ends Friday, March 12 at 9:00 a.m PT.

Mattel

Our only issue with any of this is that the Barbie set doesn’t also feature a figure inspired by Grogu. Even if we won’t end up with the levitating version of The Child, we still need all the Baby Yoda we can get.

Featured Image: Mattel

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