The 'Hips Don't Lie' hitmaker gets honest about her sons' aversion to the Margot Robbie-fronted movie about the iconic Mattel dolls and she insists the film did send a wrong message about feminism.
- Apr 1, 2024
AceShowbiz - Shakira has revealed that her two sons, Milan and Sasha, strongly disliked last year's "Barbie" movie, describing it as "emasculating." The singer-songwriter generally agrees with their assessment.
Speaking to Allure, Shakira expressed her view that pop culture should empower women without diminishing men's "possibility to be men, to also protect and provide." She believes men and women have distinct roles in society that complement each other.
Shakira's sons found the portrayal of men in the film, particularly the "Kens," to be unappealing. In "Barbieland," men are shown as subordinate to women, lacking power and purpose. This depiction, according to some critics, perpetuates stereotypes and undermines male empowerment.
"Just because a woman can do it all doesn't mean she should? Why not share the load with people who deserve to carry it, who have a duty to carry it as well?" Shakira said.
Despite its feminist overtones, "Barbie" was criticized by some for its portrayal of men. Fox News and Ben Shapiro, among others, labeled the film "anti-men."
While acknowledging the film's potential for empowering women, Shakira emphasized the importance of not neglecting the role of men in society. She believes that both men and women have valuable contributions to make, without losing their respective strengths.
Despite the film's financial success and Oscar nominations, Shakira's sons' reaction highlights the ongoing debate about gender roles in popular culture. The movie's depiction of men as weakened or superfluous sparked controversy, leading some to question its message and its impact on young viewers.
Ultimately, the film's impact on society will be determined by how audiences interpret and respond to its themes. However, the discussion surrounding "Barbie" has shed light on the complex relationship between gender, empowerment, and representation in entertainment.
