This article was originally published on TVBee
Ken's Grease-Inspired Dance Montage
Ryan Gosling's Ken dives into the wild world of being a traditional man in a nod to the movie Grease. During his trip to the real world, he gets a fast lesson in manliness. And guess what? There's a lively scene, just like the "Greased Lightnin'" moment, where Ken soaks up all things macho. Men come together around a cool car, singing in perfect harmony, and are even dressed in similar clothes to the cast from Grease.
It's an entertaining montage we could watch 100 times. Who wouldn't want to watch a singing Ryan Gosling?
Barbies Airport Is Named After LAX
If you look closely, you'll notice something special in this photo. Blending reality and fantasy, the airport in Barbie Land playfully goes by "BAX," a nod to the renowned LAX airport in Los Angeles. This charming easter egg seamlessly bridges Barbie's world with ours, adding a dash of authenticity to her fantasy land. It showcases the creators' knack for fusing the real with the imaginative. Next time you watch the movie, look for the BAX sign in the background.
There is so much attention to detail in this film that you could spend hours just picking apart different things in the background that were intentionally placed there!
He's a Husband On-Screen and off
Get this – Gloria, played by America Ferrera, had a husband learning Spanish in the film. And that was actually her real-life husband, Ryan Piers Williams! It wasn't just her on-screen husband for Barbie, but they've been a real couple for years. Such a sweet and special experience and a fun way to incorporate real life into the film. But of course, unless you are a hardcore America Ferrera fan, how would you have known?
Mixing their real-life vibes with the movie's magic makes everything feel even more genuine, and seeing their love story play out in Barbie's world makes us feel all warm and fuzzy!
Ken's Chic Fur Coat Is a Reference to Sylvester Stallone
Gosling's Ken stylishly tips his hat to Rocky by donning a luxurious fur coat in the real world. This wardrobe shift, influenced by Sylvester Stallone's iconic '80s attire, highlights the patriarchal impact that Ken experienced after visiting the real world. It's an interesting nod to modern masculinity and how once Ken is exposed to what's popular for men in "the real world," he immediately embraces it and adopts the same style.
But the hidden references and easter eggs don't stop here. Keep scrolling to explore so many more throughout the entire Barbie movie.
Video Girl Barbie Investigated by the FBI
The 2023 Barbie film is diving into the past with a daring move! They've brought back the 'Video Girl Barbie' – that's right, the doll with an actual camera built-in, straight from 2010. Can you believe this doll was real? This doll made waves, recording up to 30 minutes of footage and even drawing attention from the FBI! This wasn't just another funky character but a real-life Barbie that once existed.
But here's the twist: in the movie, Video Girl Barbie is just one of the gang in Weird Barbie's crib, hanging around other forgotten dolls.
Barbie's Matrix-Like Crossroads
Margot Robbie's Barbie starts feeling something strange and turns to Kate McKinnon's quirky Barbie for help. This part is like the famous moment in The Matrix movie where Morpheus gives Neo a choice when he has a dilemma. One thing, a simple Birkenstock sandal, means facing reality. The other, a fancy pink high heel, is about staying in Barbie Land. It's a clear nod to Neo choosing the red or blue pill in The Matrix.
Though Barbie wants to choose the fancy pink high heel, she must face reality; this foreshadows the long journey she's about to go on.
Barbie's Opening Scene Is an Homage to 2001: A Space Odyssey
At the start of the 2023 Barbie movie, there's a special nod to the iconic film called 2001: A Space Odyssey by Stanley Kubrick. This part is named 'The Dawn of Man.' Instead of the old-timey monkeys, we see young girls gathering around a giant Barbie statue, played by no other than Margot Robbie. Both scenes have a similar idea: a new era begins, signifying a revolution where everything is about to change.
Just as Kubrick's classic movie features an alien monolith's arrival, Barbie's first scene pays homage to it as Barbie enters a desolate place.
Barbie's Wizard of Oz Twist With a Pink Brick Road
An imaginative twist on The Wizard of Oz unfolds as Barbie Land's escape route appears in the form of a pink brick road. Unlike Dorothy's yellow brick road leading back to Kansas, Barbie's adventure starts with her following this rose-hued path, guiding her away from the familiar to the vibrant Los Angeles cityscape. The vibrant rainbow hovering over Barbie Land also likely pays tribute to "Over the Rainbow," the famous song Judy Garland sings.
It's a simple reference that happens so quickly that it's easy to miss, but that's why we're here to point out all the best-hidden details!
Pregnant Midge's Comeback
Emerald Fennell rocks the role of Midge in the Barbie flick. Picture this: fiery red hair, a glam purple dress, and a noticeable baby bump. Yes, indeed, it's the infamous 'Pregnant Midge' doll brought to life! Remember that doll with the detachable baby bump and tiny enclosed baby? Well, it was a total whirlwind, causing a stir, and even getting pulled from Walmart in 2003 became of so many complaints.
This isn't just any funny character – it's a genuine Barbie star that was once real and then discontinued; what a blast from the past.
Ken's Musical Tribute to Singin' in the Rain
Right when the Kens are going head-to-head, something incredible happens – Ken belts out, "I'm Just Ken." And guess what? A mind-blowing dance number follows, with flashy outfits and a set that only screams one thing. The dream sequence vibes is an ode to Singin' in the Rain. This cool Easter egg pays respect to the golden era of Hollywood musicals and shows how much Barbie loves to take inspiration from the classics.
It even adds a vintage touch that classic movie buffs will recognize and appreciate and expose younger audiences to some great styles from older movies.
Barbie's Admiration for Their Costume Designer
Barbie's world gains depth with a hidden gem – her compliment to an older lady's beauty. This woman is the renowned Ann Roth, who was acclaimed for five Academy Awards nominations and won two Oscars for her costume design. This heartfelt cameo honors Roth's work, showing how costumes shape characters. It's not just a quick appearance; it's a sweet gesture, especially since the movie's buzz has focused on how amazing the costumes are in the film.
It's a sweet gesture and a way to say thank you and pay respect to her hard work!
One Line Reveals the Truth About Why Ruth Had to Leave Barbie
In the movie, Ruth Handler casually mentions money troubles. It's a sly nod to her real story. In 1978, after her stint as Mattel president, Ruth faced charges of tax fraud and false reporting, reflecting her own legal battles. The film ingeniously weaves this historical backdrop into the story, offering a nuanced blend of fact and fiction. While Barbie navigates her colorful world, Handler's comment acts as a hidden bridge between fantasy and the complex reality of Barbie.
So, when you hear Ruth's comment, remember it's a wink to the real challenges she faced, adding a neat layer to the Barbie tale.
The Movie Theatre in Barbie Land Is Playing a Special Movie
When cruising all around Barbie Land, we can see Barbie pass a movie theater that has a pretty fun hidden message in the background. The Wizard of Oz can be seen plastered all over posters outside of the movie theatre! Director Greta Gerwig spills the beans that this iconic flick is just one of Barbie's many backstage musical inspirations so it's no surprise that they wanted to incorporate it into the set.
But The Wizard of Oz was actually hidden throughout the film in many other ways, and these movie posters were just one!
Barbie's Car Odometer Is the Same Number as a Special Date
Peek inside Barbie's ride, and there's a hidden treasure waiting! Take a close gander at the odometer, and it reads "030959." This just so happens to be a secret code that teleports you back to March 9, 1959, the enchanted day when the very first Barbie strutted onto the toy stage. It's like Barbie's car is a time machine with a side of style! This is another example of how much detail was put into this film.
So next time you're cruising through Barbie Land, keep your eyes peeled for this snazzy date.
Giving Sugar Daddy Ken a Whole New Meaning
We find a discontinued Ken doll among the discarded Barbies, a part of Weird Barbie's posse. The name alone sparked curiosity as 'Sugar Daddy Ken' was introduced. Though he has nothing to do with wealth or romance in the film, he is simply a caring companion or daddy, if you will to his little white dog, Sugar. This unexpected portrayal gives a fresh and amusing angle to the 2009 release controversy of Sugar Daddy Ken.
It's an amusing addition that adds depth to the film's quirky world of forgotten dolls. But just wait; there are even more details to uncover.
The Mysterious Pink Ribbon in Barbie's Hair
In the midst of Barbie Land's tribulations, Barbie adorns a pink ribbon in her hair, unlocking an easter egg. This seemingly small yet profound touch pays homage to Catherine Deneuve's hairstyle in The Umbrellas of Cherbourg, a film that influenced director Greta Gerwig during the creation of Barbie. This clever reference beautifully connects Barbie's world to the rich fabric of cinema history, offering a glimpse into how Gerwig's creative influences crafted her distinct reimagination of Barbie's universe.
This reference seems subtle and easy to miss, but if you're a cinema buff and know your movies, then you'd catch this one fast! There's no denying Barbie's hair is exactly like Catherine's!
A Reference to a Famous Department Store Hidden in the Background
In the Kens' serenade with "Push" by Matchbox Twenty, a savvy easter egg emerges. Observant watchers might spot "Barbiedales," a store in the backdrop, playfully echoing Bloomingdale's, the iconic department store. And, of course, Barbie would enjoy luxury shopping, so it's no surprise there's a department store like that in her universe. If you spotted this the first time watching the film, that's incredibly impressive. It's well-hidden, but we could've easily missed it.
The set design had just as much detail as the costumes and dialogue. This entire film is jam-packed with fun hidden meanings, and we're about to unpack some more.
A Gift From Margot to Ryan Was Used as a Prop
In a Ken-centric Barbie Land, a heartwarming detail emerges, bridging the gap between the cast and the characters. Ken's fascination with a horse book takes on special meaning – it's a real-life gift from Margot Robbie to Ryan Gosling. This gesture ties into the plot with Ken's newfound horse obsession after returning from the real world, but many remain unaware of the backstory. The inclusion of this real gift as a prop is adorable!
It shows how the people on set became friends, making the characters feel more real with their undeniable on-screen chemistry, which of course, just made the movie even better.
Growing Up Skipper, Another Controversial Doll Brought to Life
The Barbie movie decided to bring back another cult classic Barbie doll that was also discontinued in real life. They've dusted off 'Growing Up Skipper' – yes, the doll from 1975. The actual doll that, with a simple arm twist, Skipper 'grew' an inch and developed a chest, sparking quite the controversy. Though it didn't quite hit the jackpot back then, the movie brings Growing Up Skipper back to life.
Guess where you'll find her? Among the eclectic crew at Weird Barbie's place. It's a history lesson and a movie treat rolled into one.
Stereotypical Barbie Only Wears Chanel
Talk about amazing attention to detail and costumes! This movie has another cool reference, but this time it's about fashion. Margot Robbie has a special connection to Chanel and has been a brand ambassador for years. So naturally Chanel had to enter Barbie's universe. This blends her real style with her character's. Stereotypical Barbie flaunts Chanel gear the entire film and has a closet full of fun and eclectic pieces!
We even see her wearing a custom Chanel necklace from 1995 at the end of the movie. Truly a dream wardrobe to own.
Barbie's Iconic Roots in Film's Opening Scene
In the film's opening, Margot Robbie's Barbie appears wearing a black and white striped swimsuit, and this isn't a coincidence! This is an exact replica swimsuit of the 1959 debut of the original Barbie doll who wears the same thing. This gesture rekindles a warm sense of nostalgia and strengthens the link to Barbie's foundational origins. Not to mention, the costume department for this film nailed each look to a tea.
So whenever you see Margot on-screen in a fabulous outfit, it's just random clothes but can always be traced to actual Barbie doll outfits.
A Playful Connection to Zack Snyder's Justice League
Imagine this: in a crucial scene, Alexandra Shipp's Barbie, who's been under a trance, suddenly wakes up thanks to America Ferrara's rousing speech about the challenges women face. But here's the twist – she humorously compares her situation to someone who's completely engrossed in Zack Snyder's Justice League. This clever moment serves as a wink to the Snyder Cut, a version of the movie that came out because fans pushed for it.
It's a funny comment that adds some extra spice to Barbie's escape and almost completely flies under the radar.
Secret Bratz Dolls Reference
When Barbie meets Sasha at school, it's like a sneaky nod to her competition. Sasha's not flying solo; she's hanging out with three other unnamed girls. If you're sharp-eyed, you'll spot the connection to the Bratz dolls – four girls, including Sasha, who give Barbie a run for her money in the toy world. It's like the movie makers are giving a secret high-five to the dolls' history of rivalry.
With all these hidden surprises in Barbie's world, it's like being a detective on a cool case. Who knew Barbie would have so many cool references to make you think?
The Mysterious Discontinuation of Allan's Because of His Connection to Ken
Amidst Ryan Gosling, Kingsley Ben-Adir, Simu Liu, and Ncuti Gatwa's Ken transformations, Michael Cera takes the cake as Allan. But wait, he's not just your regular Ken clone; he's a whole different character! This character is based on a real doll. Allan first appeared in 1964, disappeared in 1966, and then surprisingly resurfaced in the '90s with a name change to Alan. This doll caused quite a controversy for years.
Some actually believed that Allan was a controversial doll because he was promoted as "Ken's buddy," and people didn't like two men being advertised as close!
Barbie's Witty Jab at Masculinity by Referencing the Godfather
In a twist during the movie's climax, Barbie delivers a brilliant idea. As Ken seizes power over Barbieland, morphing it into his personal sanctuary, breaking the patriarchal spell binding the other Barbies means diverting the Kens' attention. President Barbie proposes watching The Godfather with one of them. The Kens' reaction to someone not having seen the movie becomes a distraction, allowing the other Barbies to rescue Ken's mesmerized partner for a reality check.
This moment comically challenges conventional masculinity and is a clever way to comment on traditional gender norms while tying it into the storyline.
Barbie's Encounter With Ruth Handler Mimics Michelangelo's "The Creation of Adam"
At the heart of the film lies a scene of profound connection. Barbie, symbolizing an iconic legacy, engages in a tea-time encounter at Mattel HQ with Ruth Handler, the brilliant mind behind Mattel. As their hands gently meet across the tabletop, an intentional mirroring of Michelangelo's "The Creation of Adam" takes place. This subtle homage goes beyond the surface, revealing the intricate interplay between creation, inspiration, and human connection.
Margot Robbie even admitted this is her favorite easter egg of the entire movie and that it adds a meaningful touch to the film, connecting art, history, and emotions.
The Visionary Mind Behind Barbie
The movie brings forth Ruth Handler, the original president of Mattel and Barbie's creator, portrayed by Rhea Perlman. Barbie, played by Robbie, interacts with Handler's 'ghost' within the walls of Mattel HQ, immersing audiences in the doll's inception. It's not just a random lady in the film giving Robbie's character advice! She is actually based on the real Barbie creator, which is a super cool way to tie her into the plot.
The film briefly delves into Ruth's role as the leader of Mattel, particularly her departure from the company and her pivotal role in the creation of Barbie dolls.
Unveiling the Secret Within the 'i' of Barbie Land on the Map
It's as if you step into another world, where Barbie's dreamy style takes center stage once you enter Barbie Land. The water transforms into a bold artificial blue, and nature is colorful. Everything is covered in pink, and magic happens everywhere. Yet, there's more than initially meets the eye. The real intrigue lies in Barbie's cul-de-sac, a quaint pastel-hued residential haven. Look closer – the cul-de-sac dots the 'i' on Barbie Land's map.
This playful detail nods to Barbie's central role in this heart-shaped haven. Not just the star; she's literally at its core. This clever touch highlights her impact on the world's look and feel.
A Beachside Tribute to Barbie and the Magic of Pegasus
If you hang out on the Barbie Land beach or pay close attention to the beach scenes, you might catch sight of a pegasus statue. Now this might be a wink to the 2005 animated flick Barbie and the Magic of Pegasus. It's like a little inside joke for those who remember the movie! It also perfectly ties in with Ken's, Ryan Gosling's character, obsession with horses! It's a subtlety that we cannot ignore.
The filmmakers of Barbie really made sure each scene had a hidden meaning or easter egg alluding to something else that makes this film a masterpiece.
Barbie's Yellow Outfit Pays Tribute to a Half-Decade Fashion Trend
Barbie can be seen wearing a yellow dress near the end of the movie, very different from her bright pink wardrobe. But given that this film likes to pay attention to detail, it has a special meaning. It has been revealed that yellow has ruled the Barbie fashion scene for half a decade. The yellow Barbie costume has been the most popular, according to those who work at Mattel and fashion maestro Jacqueline Durran.
Stereotypical Barbie's yellow dress is very different from her iconic over-the-top looks, so it's a way to represent her transformation and allude to the most sold Barbie costumes.
Earring Magic Ken, a Real Doll Wrongly Recalled for His Flamboyant Look
Meet 'Earring Magic Ken,' who joins Sugar Daddy Ken at Weird Barbie's House. This doll from the 90s was designed to be 'cool' with a mesh shirt, faux leather vest, and an earring. Despite its discontinuation due to protests of it being associated with the gay community, the film brings Earring Magic Ken back to life. It's a great way to rewrite the doll as a beloved character portrayed by Tom Stourton.
The film warmly embraces this background, reshaping Earring Magic Ken into an endearing character, leaving behind the doll's past controversies.
Barbie's Bike Ride Is A Playful Nod to The Wizard of Oz Poppy Fields
The movie sneaks in another reference to The Wizard of Oz, as Barbie and other characters travel between her fantasy world and the real world. There's a part of the travel journey where she and others must ride a tandem bike through a field of flowers. It mimics The Wizard of Oz scenes where Dorothy and her friends walk through a poppy field. The bike ride also becomes a time-traveling link, connecting Barbie's world and the magic of Dorothy's adventure.
It's a neat way Greta Gerwig pays tribute to classic cinema in Barbie's story, clearly showing they took a lot of inspiration from The Wizard of Oz.
Hidden Treasures Related to America Ferrara's Acting Journey
There's a playful moment during the movie's finale as Gloria, played by America Ferrera, Sasha, and Gloria's husband accompany Barbie to her gynecologist appointment. Gloria's husband says, "Si se puede," prompting Gloria to reply and label it as a political statement. This phrase directly takes us back to the 2002 Disney Channel flick Gotta Kick it Up! where America starred, and "Si se puede" was the iconic line of the movie.
Earlier in the film, Gloria also drops the word "sisterhood" in her monologue. Let's be honest; it's a sly nod to America's significant role in the Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants movies.
Allan's Wardrobe in Barbie Is the Same as the Doll
The outfit sported by Allan throughout most of the film is a nostalgic throwback to the very ensemble worn by the original Allan doll upon his 1964 debut. As the film unveils, Allan cheerfully shares, 'I was Ken's best friend from the start, and sharing clothes? It's what we do best!' That's what the Allan doll was known for! The costume choice and that specific line he says brings the vintage doll to life.
Allan rocks his classic attire, which is a fun way to stay true to the doll's original design.
Barbie Embraces Birkenstocks in the 'Real World' Ending
As the credits roll, Barbie strolls through reality donning Birkenstocks, a playful nod to her earlier choice between heels and sandals, reminiscent of a Matrix-style decision. The film's clever thematic thread comes full circle in this scene, where Barbie's choice of comfortable footwear symbolizes her embrace of authenticity and the real world. It's not just about the shoes; it's about her journey to self-discovery and a life that is less scripted.
So, as the credits roll, Barbie confidently steps into the real world in her Birkenstocks, reminding us that, sometimes, comfort and authenticity are the ultimate style statements.
Barbieland's Evolution After Overthrowing Kendom
After overthrowing the oppressive rule of Kendom, Barbieland returns to a sense of normalcy. The experiences have brought about lasting transformations – Barbies and Kens have evolved, fostering a deeper mutual understanding. Notably, the utopian realm embraces diversity and individuality, evident through the inclusion of Weird Barbie within the community. Kens now participate in the court, symbolizing a shift in power dynamics too! But what does it actually mean for Barbie herself?
It insinuates that this shift holds the potential for a more self-aware, confident, and harmonious society that celebrates each individual's distinct qualities.
'Depression Barbie' and Pride and Prejudice
In a later part of the Barbie movie, after returning to her realm from the real world, Barbie faces a patriarchal regime established by Ken and his crew and has a breakdown. Among signs of her sadness, like sweatpants and isolation, an ad comes on for 'Depressed Barbie' lost in doom-scrolling on Instagram for hours. Then suddenly, the film reveals she finds solace in binge-watching the 1995 BBC adaptation of Pride and Prejudice with Colin Firth.
As Depression Barbie emerges amidst Kens' patriarchal takeover, the miniseries reference might hint at seeking refuge in an imagined simpler time.
Proust Barbie Represents a Common Meaning in the Film
In the quirky realm of Weird Barbie's residence, we stumble upon Proust Barbie, a unique addition among the castoffs. Though not an actual vintage doll, she brings an intellectual flair to the film. Named after French author Marcel Proust, this doll cleverly ties into the movie's core theme – a search for truth and meaning – echoing Proust's masterwork, In Search of Lost Time. This witty nod adds a touch of classy humor to the film.
Greta Gerwig was clever with adding so many references, and this is definitely another one that we wouldn't get at first glance.
The Office Cubicles at Mattel Resemble PlayTime's Workspace
Hold on tight – when Barbie steps into the real world, the FBI gets involved, where Aaron Dinkin, played by Connor Swindells, comes in as a Mattel employee. Here's the fun part: the movie playfully brings to life the dull office vibe from Jacques Tati's cool French comedy, PlayTime from 1967. But that's not all – as Barbie makes a daring escape, get ready for a hilarious chase scene among those same office cubicles.
The film cleverly weaves a nod to PlayTime by recreating the workplace ambiance where Aaron Dinkins and interns operate at Mattel, mimicking the office from Tati's film.
Barbie and Ken's Venice Beach Cowboy Outfits Pay Tribute to Midnight Cowboy
When Barbie and Ken arrive in the real world, they find themselves at Venice Beach and realize they must change their clothes to blend in more. While they still don't blend in, they put on cowgirl and cowboy outfits, and the scene seems directly influenced by Midnight Cowboy. Film fans might have caught this, but fear not if it breezed past you – we're here to shine a light on this clever wink to cinema history.
The duo's wardrobe change mirrors the iconic scene of Joe Buck's NYC arrival, evoking the same fish-out-of-water experience.