July 29, 2023 • 2 min read
Greta Gerwig's Barbie movie made a historic debut, grossing $356 million worldwide during its opening weekend. The film, celebrated for its empowering message, has been rebranded to connect with a new generation, earning an 86% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
However, a viral TikTok video reveals that not everyone is embracing the movie's empowering message. Three women, who attended the theater to watch Barbie, were insulted by a passerby while taking photos in front of the Barbie poster.
Vanna, known as 'vannachauu' on TikTok, and her two friends dressed in pink to celebrate the iconic doll's live-action debut. They left the cinema feeling "emotional and empowered" and decided to take photos together. Their joyful moment was abruptly interrupted by a man driving by who shouted, "Ya'll are ugly as f***."
Vanna shared the incident on TikTok, expressing the excitement of dressing up and watching Barbie with friends, and the contrasting experience of being insulted. She poignantly added, "This is what it's like being a woman."
Many have resonated with the experience, supporting the girls and relating to their ordeal. One commenter wrote, "The encapsulation of being a woman, we can never exist in peace. You all look absolutely adorable."
Despite the negative incident, the movie has also inspired positive stories. A TikTok user, 'yourdailybitterness,' shared her experience watching Barbie with her boyfriend, highlighting understanding and empathy.
Director Gerwig's intended message aligns with these sentiments. She told the New York Times, "My hope for the movie is that it's an invitation for everybody to be part of the party and let go of the things that aren't necessarily serving us as either women or men."