Greta Gerwig‘s Barbie movie, starring Margot Robbie, has been a whirlwind success. The film is arguably the most subversive blockbuster of the 21st century (as Rolling Stone calls it), but beyond the eye-catching visuals and engaging storyline, the film is packed with a treasure trove of Easter eggs and hidden references that have kept fans buzzing. Let’s dive into this vibrant world of Barbie to uncover these clever nods.
The first easter egg was explicitly talked about by Gerwig and included in the first trailer for the film: The “2001: A Space Odyssey” intro recreation. Gerwig reshot Kubrick’s iconic sci-fi opening, replacing the monkeys and bones with little girls and baby dolls.
There are also the obvious call-backs of fan-favorite dolls like Midge (Emerald Fennel) and Allan (Michael Cera). Similarly, every outfit Margot’s Barbie wears is a recreation of a real Barbie doll outfit, with hair and accessories to match.
Perhaps one of the most noticeable Easter eggs is found in the heart of Barbie Land. According to sources, when Barbie drives through Barbie Land, greeting all the dolls and admiring all the playsets they live in (which are all easter eggs themselves, being modeled after the toy houses we all had for our Barbies), the movie theater is playing ‘The Wizard of Oz’ (1939). Gerwig, an acclaimed director known for her attention to detail, has expressed her admiration for this classic film. It’s a delightful nod and shows Gerwig’s love for cinema history.
Another charming Easter egg is Barbie‘s old dog, a reference to Barbie‘s pets throughout the franchise’s histor. This subtle touch adds a layer of nostalgia for long-time Barbie fans, reminding them of the countless adventures they’ve had with Barbie and her furry friends.
In addition, Gerwig and her team sprinkled ‘Hidden Bs’ throughout the movie, a playful twist on Disney’s tradition of incorporating hidden Mickeys in their films. This fun detail not only pays homage to the iconic Disney practice but also adds an extra layer of intrigue for eagle-eyed viewers.
One Easter egg that stands out is Barbie‘s hairstyle when first visiting Weird Barbie (Kate McKinnon). Gerwig revealed that it’s a direct reference to “The Umbrellas of Cherbourg”, a French musical film from the 1960s. This elegant nod showcases Gerwig’s appreciation for global cinema, adding a touch of international flair to Barbie‘s world.
Moreover, Gerwig cited old Hollywood soundstage musicals as a significant inspiration for the Barbie movie. This influence is evident in the film’s grand sets, dynamic dance sequences (especially Ryan Gosling‘s epic number, “I’m Just Ken”), and the overall cinematic feel, creating a feast for the eyes and ears.
One debatable easter egg is the casting of America Ferrera. Gerwig’s debut film “Lady Bird” has been discussed as very similar to a film America Ferrera starred in in 2002: “Real Women Have Curves.” Casting the star of the film that Gerwig has been accused of plagiarizing turns the situation into a bit of a crossover event, to say the least.
It’s clear that Gerwig’s Barbie movie is more than just a children’s film or a Mattel commercial. It’s a love letter to cinema, filled with carefully curated details that pay homage to film history. These Easter eggs add depth and richness to the movie, making it a treat for both casual viewers and avid film buffs.
Whether you’re a longtime Barbie fan or new to the franchise, the Easter eggs in Gerwig’s Barbie movie offer a delightful scavenger hunt. So, why not give it another watch? You never know what hidden treasures you might discover next!