The new Barbie movie hit theaters on July 21, 2023, and there has been a lot of discourse surrounding the film. Numerous men and women have shared their “Barbie breakup” stories on social media and experts have even weighed in on the psychology behind this “relationship-ending” trend.
How in the world is a nostalgic film becoming the grim reaper of relationships? According to some women, it is their significant others’ reactions to the film that is the deal breaker. People are going as far as to say that a person’s reaction to the movie should be the new green flag test when dating. Women are not the only ones using the Barbie movie as a litmus test; some men have posted saying that they would not date a woman who actually liked the movie.
Although both men and women are rethinking their romantic decisions after watching the movie, it seems that more women are being vocal about it. A lot of women have shared online how the movie has empowered them to end relationships that were not benefiting them anymore. There has also been a lot of conversation surrounding how women can identify with Barbie and how apologetic she feels when reconsidering her relationship with Ken. Some women have chimed in saying that Barbie was very validating because they too have been through breakups or divorces where they felt guilty for leaving even when they knew it was in their best interest.
The passion behind the ideals on both sides partially stems from the character tropes within the film. Barbie as a character can do anything, much like the dolls, but Ken is just Ken. Ken’s whole life revolves around Barbie, and although that may sound sweet at first, it is certainly not healthy. After watching the film, some men are admitting that they have become too dependent on their significant others and need to work on themselves. There are numerous other troublesome aspects of Barbie and Ken’s relationship conveyed in the movie, but check it out at a venue near you. I would not want to spoil your experience with this very unique film!
Some psychology experts have imputed their opinions about these post-Barbie breakups and have even provided some advice for couples who have differing takes. Nicholas Balaisis is a Canadian psychotherapist who posits that the Barbie movie should not necessarily be a “make or break” issue on its own. However, Balaisis did say in an interview that it is a great conversation starter. It’s a good opportunity to discuss discomforts and what about the movie may have made someone upset. Balaisis warns that an outright refusal to open this conversation could potentially indicate a lack of emotional maturity (see Theresa’s recent blog) and that the person may not be ready to be in a serious relationship. I personally feel like this is a great way to give your partner some space to be vulnerable, and the conversation could even lead to a really eye-opening discourse between both parties.
At the end of the day, I think the Barbie movie has potential to start some very honest and maybe even difficult conversations for couples. I would posit that the “difficulty” expressed by many people online is more about how individuals communicate and listen… and less about Barbie and the movie. “Breakup Barbie” still has a great ring to it though.
If you or someone you know is going through a Barbie Breakup, our Modern Legal Team is here to help.
Written by: Theresa E. Viera
