With a $1.4 billion debut and a pop culture status that painted the world pink, it comes as no shock that Barbie is on the verge of a sequel with Greta Gerwig and Noah Baumbach expected to return.
- Dec 14, 2024
AceShowbiz - As "Barbie" dominated the cinematic landscape in 2023, accumulating an astounding $1.4 billion at the box office, questions about a sequel were inevitable. Both Warner Bros. and Mattel quickly expressed interest, but fans and critics knew the ultimate decision rested in the capable hands of Greta Gerwig and husband Noah Baumbach, the creative duo behind the first film's success.
The process of conceiving a sequel, however, was not about mere commercial expectations. Gerwig emphasized her commitment to crafting a story with depth. "My North Star is, what do I deeply love? What do I really care about? What's the story underneath this story?" she articulated during Time's Women of the Year honors in March 2024.
Despite initial denials from representatives, sources reveal that Gerwig and Baumbach have found their "undertow," a compelling narrative for the second installment. The project is reportedly in its "early stages," with negotiations on the horizon.
Should a deal be finalized, the focus will turn to scripting and synchronizing schedules. Currently, Baumbach is immersed in post-production for an untitled, star-studded coming-of-age film for Netflix, while Gerwig is gearing up for her "Chronicles of Narnia" adaptation, described intriguingly as "rock and roll."
In crafting the sequel, Gerwig and Baumbach plan to replicate their unique collaborative process: writing separately and sharing drafts. "Then we listen to hear if the other person's laughing," Gerwig shared during a WGA West Q&A, moderated by Judd Apatow.
Details about the sequel's plot remain undisclosed, with Gerwig preferring to keep ideas under wraps to prevent any premature dilution of the narrative's impact. "I don't like to talk about things too early because it feels like it's gonna somehow wreck what the movie is," she explained.
Margot Robbie, who played a pivotal role in launching the "Barbie" project as both star and producer, is expected to reprise her role. Reflecting on Gerwig's directorial finesse, Robbie highlighted her unique vision, saying, "She cracked the code on this film, as only she could. It is such a singular vision, and Greta brought so much humanity, creativity, inspiration, magic, and joy to Barbie."
The original Barbie film, an audacious blend of whimsy and incisive storytelling, resonated deeply, as seen in its eight Oscar nominations and critical acclaim. With such a formidable team at the helm, the sequel undoubtedly promises to re-enchant audiences, bringing them back to the vibrant world of Barbie Land.
