Time’s Honest Reaction to ‘Barbie’; Sequel Already in the Works

Is it bad that Time Magazine’s Eliana Dockterman was granted access to interview Greta Gerwig at her Chelsea office and still managed to write this about “Barbie”:

I can share that it’s a fun yet self-aware romp with shades of Clueless and Legally Blonde.It’s also stuffed full of ideas, and occasionally overwhelmed by them.

This isn’t a fluff reaction. It’s honest. The occasion is for the film’s surprising appearance on this week’s Time cover. Yes, the marketing machine is in full blast and we’ll probably be getting more reactions in the coming weeks. This is the first official one.

Meanwhile, Gerwig and company are so confident about what they have here that have already been talks for a sequel …

Margot Robbie says there have been conversations about a sequel, but nothing is set for now. “It could go a million different directions. But I think you fall into a bit of a trap if you try and set up a first movie whilst also planning for sequels.”

A commenter wrote about the Final Cut of “Barbie,” which was screened for an “influencer”-filled audience on Friday evening:

I have seen the final cut of the film; it will be profitable for WB. If you love/hate the trailer, then the film won’t change your mind. If you are like me, and have no interest in Barbie but are curious how much intellect Gerwig and Baumbach can inject into a commercial blockbuster, you will be entertained. The first 25 minutes feel like fan service, and then the real film begins. Most people in the audience are just looking for a fun movie to see with their friends, and this one will satisfy them. If you are a film student or like to type long reviews on Letterboxd, there is plenty to discuss (fascism, gender power dynamics, corporate greed, existentialism, patriarchy, self-worth, genitals, psychological manipulation within a relationship, inclusion/exclusion). That being said, the film only scratches the surface of these topics—it’s not a deep dive. I don’t expect any major awards, but Ryan Gosling gives a great performance and gave me the biggest laugh of the film.

“Barbie” is currently projected to open with $45-55 million in its first weekend. Whether that actually materializes is a whole other story. It could either be lower or higher, all depending on the reviews.

About those reviews, based on what I’ve heard, the actual first official “Barbie” screening for press will be on July 18. The film gets released in theaters nationwide on July 21.