Shakira recently graced the cover of Allure magazine and shared her thoughts on the blockbuster movie “Barbie,” directed by Greta Gerwig. The music icon revealed that her two sons strongly disliked the film and felt that it was emasculating. Shakira somewhat agreed with their sentiments, stating that she believes in empowering women without robbing men of their ability to be powerful and protect and provide. She emphasized the importance of complementing each other in society and not losing the roles and duties of both genders.
The interview with Shakira is not the first time public figures have perceived “Barbie” as emasculating. During its release, conservative figures such as podcaster Matt Walsh and Bill Maher criticized the movie as being feminist propaganda and man-hating. Gerwig, who co-wrote the script with Noah Baumbach, expressed surprise at the backlash, stating that she hoped the film would invite everyone to join the conversation and let go of harmful stereotypes. She hoped that the movie would provide relief and positivity for viewers, regardless of their gender.
The backlash against “Barbie” led to other celebrities speaking out in support of the film, including Marc Maron, who criticized certain men for being unable to handle the themes presented in the movie. Maron labeled their reactions as right-wing and insecure, urging them to reflect on their masculinity and ability to handle challenging topics. The response from some men to the movie highlighted the ongoing debate around gender roles and stereotypes in popular culture and the importance of promoting equality and empowerment for all.
Shakira’s comments on “Barbie” reflect her views on gender roles and empowerment, emphasizing the need for women to have all the tools and opportunities to succeed while also respecting the roles and duties of men. She believes in a balanced society where both genders complement each other and contribute in their unique ways. The discussion surrounding the movie has sparked conversations about masculinity, feminism, and the representation of gender in media, highlighting the need for inclusivity and understanding.
Despite the controversy, “Barbie” has been successful at the box office and received critical acclaim, earning multiple Oscar nominations, including best picture. The movie’s impact extends beyond entertainment, as it has sparked important conversations about gender equality and the representation of men and women in popular culture. The differing reactions to the film reflect the ongoing debate around gender roles and the need for diverse and inclusive narratives that reflect the complexity and diversity of human experiences. In the end, Shakira and other public figures hope that movies like “Barbie” can inspire positive change and promote understanding and acceptance among all audiences.
