In an impressive cinematic triumph, the Barbie film has surged beyond the billion-dollar threshold a mere 17 days following its initial release, as confirmed by distributor Warner Bros.
The movie’s box office earnings are projected to reach an impressive $1.03 billion (£808 million) as the weekend concludes, a feat underscored by an official statement issued on Sunday.
This notable achievement bears an additional distinction as Greta Gerwig ascends to the position of the first woman to attain this remarkable milestone as a sole director.
Warner Bros. characterizes this accomplishment as a “watershed moment,” signifying a significant breakthrough in the realm of cinematic achievements.
Jeff Goldstein, President of Domestic Distribution in the United States, lauded Gerwig’s exceptional prowess, stating, “No-one but Greta Gerwig could have brought this cross-generational icon and her world to life in such a funny, emotional and entertaining story… literally turning the entire world pink.”
The success of the Barbie film is not solely confined to box office figures; it is emblematic of a resurgence in the cinematic experience. The sight of long queues outside theaters and the prevalence of repeat viewings signal a revitalization of the movie industry, which had faced challenges during the pandemic due to lockdowns and the rise of streaming platforms.
While other female directors have previously contributed to films that have surpassed the illustrious $1 billion benchmark, those instances typically involved collaboration. The Frozen franchise, a resounding animated sensation, and its subsequent installment garnered over $1.4 billion at the box office, boasting the co-direction of Jennifer Lee and Chris Buck. Similarly, Captain Marvel, featuring Brie Larson, achieved substantial success with over $1.1 billion in earnings, co-directed by Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck.
Beyond its financial accomplishments, the Barbie film has resonated with critics, earning plaudits for its creative merit. Notably, the film has prompted a wave of playful selfies taken beside doll boxes installed in theaters throughout the United Kingdom.
The casting of Margot Robbie as Barbie and Ryan Gosling as Ken has undeniably contributed to the film’s resounding triumph, with earnings of $459 million recorded within the United States and an impressive $572 million internationally.
