Greta Gerwig’s film “Barbie” was 2023’s summer blockbuster. The iconic blonde doll that multiple generations grew up adoring throughout childhood was given a new spotlight and meaning due to Gerwig’s directing and Margot Robbie’s portrayal of the character. “Barbie” as a movie gave audiences of all ages a feminist message that embraced womanhood and highlighted the female experience in both an emotional and playful way.
“Barbie’s” Oscar Nods
Since its release, “Barbie” seemed to be a shoo-in for sweeping Academy Award nominations, expecting to shine in all the major categories. On Jan. 23, “Barbie” was nominated for the Oscars but not in the way many expected. The film received eight nominations but lacked in two major categories, best director and best actress in a leading role.
Greta Gerwig and Margot Robbie were not recognized by the academy for their major parts in the film’s success. Instead, Ryan Gosling earned a spot on the list, obtaining a nomination for his role as Barbie’s classic sidekick/boyfriend, Ken.
He’s Just Ken
Ken’s character in the film plays a vital part in the message that the movie portrays. Gosling’s acting deserves recognition as “Barbie” would not have been everything it is had he not been a part of the film. Although there is immense irony in him acquiring a nomination while the two leading ladies are left out. Ken was a metaphor for women’s successes and leadership being historically overlooked. Gosling being the only person out of the three being a contender for the highest honor in Hollywood is nothing short of paradoxical.
Ryan Gosling, unlike his character, felt strongly over Gerwig and Robbie’s snub. He acknowledged the importance of his nomination in a statement when he said:
“I am extremely honored to be nominated by my colleagues alongside such remarkable artists in a year of so many great films.”
Ryan Gosling on his Barbie Oscar Nomination
Although he immediately followed this appreciation with an expression of disappointment.
But 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 in 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.
Ryan Gosling on his Barbie Oscar Nomination
It’s Still a Barbie World
Barbie herself handled the lack of recognition with grace. Margot Robbie remained thankful that the film did receive eight nominations even if she was not the one to be honored.
She revealed her thoughts about the news at a SAG screening of the film after nominations were released:
“We set out to do something that would shift culture, affect culture, just make some sort of impact, and it’s already done that, and some way more than we ever dreamed it would. And that is truly the biggest reward that could come out of all of this,” Robbie was quoted as saying.
“There’s no way to feel sad when you know you’re this blessed.”
Margot Robbie on the Barbie Oscar Nominations
She also referenced Greta and her work in her statement when she said, “Obviously I think Greta should be nominated as a director, because what she did is a once-in-a-career, once-in-a-lifetime thing, what she pulled off, it really is,” Robbie said. “But it’s been an incredible year for all the films.”
Barbie is not letting the Oscars get her down. The film became a cultural phenomenon. It moved viewers from all over the world and will continue to do so as its message remains more prevalent than ever.
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