Yesterday, I decided to take a break from my usual routine and indulge in a bit of nostalgia. I found myself drawn to a movie that had been a significant part of my childhood – Barbie.
As I sat there, watching the familiar scenes unfold, I was transported back to my younger days, when life was simpler, and Barbie was the epitome of everything I aspired to be.
After the movie ended, I found myself yearning for more. I wanted to relive the magic, the charm, and the sheer joy that Barbie brought into my life. So, I embarked on a quest to find movies that captured the same essence as Barbie.
And guess what? I found some gems that I believe every Barbie fan would absolutely love!
So, without further ado, let’s dive into the list of 14 movies that are a must watch if you loved Barbie!
1. Toy Story (1995)
Just like Barbie, Toy Story is about toys coming to life.
This movie brings the pure connection of a child with a toy in a heartwarming and thoroughly entertaining journey. Toy Story, since the first one, spawned 3 sequels and is now a timeless classic.
The movies are full of action, friendship, loyalty, with the fear of being replaced, something that feels so relatable. Toy Story’s got many iconic characters like Woody and Buzz Lightyear (Barbie shows up in one of the films too!)
So, trust me and watch Toy Story after watching movies like Barbie.
2. Legally Blonde (2001)
Elle Woods has become something of an icon for millennials. Legally Blonde is more than just a pretty movie.
Elle is a blonde girl with a fashion major who decides to enroll in Harvard Law School to win back her ex-boyfriend.
She might have begun her journey for a man but soon she proves just how intelligent and determined she can be in the world of Law.
Legally Blonde is the perfect choice for movies like Barbie for the very reason of how the movies prove that a girl can be more than what society assumes them to be.
If you like to see movies that show you the strong female leads pursuing their dreams in a hilarious journey, this is a must-watch.
3. Barbie As The Princess and The Pauper (2004)
Are you enjoying the world of Barbie? There are a few great films about it and one of them is Barbie As The Princess and The Pauper.
This animated movie tells the story of 2 Barbie girls who look identical but come from different backgrounds. Known for its catchy songs, the movie gives an inspiring message about following one’s dreams.
As a musical film, Barbie As The Princess and The Pauper is no short of great songs for you to dance away!
Similar to films like Barbie, there’s much to learn from this on friendship, self-discovery, and staying true to yourself. So what are you waiting for?
Grab your bowl of popcorn and see this amazing journey of 2 Barbies.
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4. Mean Girls (2004)
This movie is like no other high school teen chick flick movie.
Mean Girls is a cult phenomenon that explores the social hierarchy of high school and the dangers of cliques. When a girl named Cady arrives at her new high school, she discovers there’s a group led by Regina, who is referred to as the plastics, and though she is warned about them, she finds herself becoming more like them as time goes by.
There are so many iconic dialogues and moments from this film that it’s hard not to go without watching the movie at least once! Though it’s a teen flick, it’s the king of all teen flicks!
There may not necessarily be a ton in common between this and movies like Barbie, but there are honestly no reasons why I won’t recommend you to watch it.
5. Lady Bird (2017)
Greta Gerwig is a talented director who has given the world of cinema some great movies in the recent decade, Lady Bird is one such movie perfect for Barbie fans to watch.
A coming-of-age story of a young girl who calls herself ‘Lady Bird’ and is in her high school senior year and dreams of leaving her hometown of Sacramento.
The movie is known for its authentic portrayal of teenage life and beautiful heartfelt performances by Saoirse Ronan and Laurie Metcalf. Lady Bird captures Greta Gerwig’s talent similar to movies like Barbie.
6. La La Land (2016)
Barbie is filled with wonder, celebration, and music! If you enjoy movies that fall into the musical side, then La La Land is another great pick!
La La Land tells the story of 2 struggling artists who fall in love in Los Angeles. Mia is an actress, played by Emma Stone, and Seb is a jazz musician, played by Barbie’s Ryan Gosling. Ryan Gosling has done his fair share of thrillers, but this one truly proves why he’s such a brilliant choice for films like Barbie.
La La Land is no short of stunning cinematography, and memorable songs. La La Land is a celebration of passion, romance, drama, and nostalgia.
7. The Princess Diaries (2001)
The Princess Diaries is a fairytale-like story of Mia Thermopolis, an unlikely high school student who discovers she is the heir to the throne of a European country.
Mia (Anne Hathway) is a shy, awkward and invisible girl in her school, when she meets her grandmother (Julie Andrews), her world changes completely. This comedic drama is similar to films like Barbie in ways that it takes you into the world of royalty and charm.
Just like Barbie, she goes through her journey of personal growth (For Mia, it is us who become more glamorous, while it may seem the other way around for Barbie!).
The Princess Diaries is an underrated gem you should watch on the weekend.
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8. Frances Ha (2012)
Frances Ha is a special project by Greta because she is not only a writer alongside Noah Baumbach, but she also acts in the movie.
Frances (Greta) is a 27-year-old aspiring dancer who struggles to find her place in the world. In the movie we discover the importance friends and our family hold for us, even in our most loneliest times.
The movie is shot in black-and-white and though the tonality of this movie differs a lot from films like Barbie, it’s really just a deeply emotional and honest presentation of Greta’s talent.
As a discovery of finding one’s place in the harsh realities of the world and the pursuit of dreams, there are few movies who make you feel something the way this one will!
9. Marriage Story (2019)
Marriage Story is a drama movie that explores the complexities of the process of divorce between a couple, played by Adam Driver and Scarlett Johansson.
Written by Greta’s husband Noah Baumbach, this movie is known for its raw and emotional performances, its honest portrayal of relationships, and its powerful storytelling.
Marriage Story explores how people deal with love and loss, how challenging it is to face a crumbling marriage and the emotional toll it takes on a couple.
Watching Marriage Story before Barbie will provide you with a contrasting perspective on relationships.
10. The Wizard Of Oz (1939)
The magical world of Barbie is so much like the world of The Wizard of Oz.
The movie is about a young girl named Dorothy who gets swept away by a tornado to the magical land of Oz. She embarks on a journey to meet the Wizard who can help her return home. Along the way, she meets a Scarecrow, a Tin Man, and a Cowardly Lion who join her on her journey.
The Wizard of Oz is a classic movie that has been loved by generations and is a must-watch for fans of Barbie.
11. The Devil Wears Prada (2006)
The Devil Wears Prada is a movie about the fashion industry and the struggles of a young woman named Andy Sachs, played by Anne Hathaway, who lands a job as an assistant to the demanding editor-in-chief of a high fashion magazine.
The movie is known for its portrayal of the fashion industry, its comedic and dramatic moments, and its strong performances, especially by Meryl Streep.
The Devil Wears Prada is a movie that Barbie fans will enjoy for its fashion, its strong female characters, and its story of personal growth.
12. The Parent Trap (1998)
The Parent Trap is a movie about two identical twins who are separated at birth when their parents divorce. They meet at a summer camp and decide to switch places in order to reunite their parents.
The movie is known for its heartwarming story, its comedic moments, and its strong performances, especially by Lindsay Lohan who plays both twins.
The Parent Trap is a movie that Barbie fans will enjoy for its story of family, its comedic moments, and its heartwarming ending.
13. The Little Mermaid (1989)
The Little Mermaid is a Disney animated movie about a young mermaid named Ariel who dreams of becoming human. She makes a deal with a sea witch to become human in exchange for her voice.
The movie is known for its beautiful animation, its memorable songs, and its heartwarming story.
The Little Mermaid is a movie that Barbie fans will enjoy for its magical world, its strong female character, and its story of personal growth.
14. Cinderella (1950)
Cinderella is a Disney animated movie about a young woman who is mistreated by her stepmother and stepsisters. She is given the chance to attend the royal ball with the help of her fairy godmother.
The movie is known for its beautiful animation, its memorable songs, and its heartwarming story.
Cinderella is a movie that Barbie fans will enjoy for its magical world, its strong female character, and its story of personal growth.
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Conclusion
So, there you have it! These are the 14 movies that I believe every Barbie fan would absolutely love. Each of these movies captures the essence of Barbie in their own unique way.
They are about strong female characters, personal growth, and magical worlds.
So, if you’re a Barbie fan, I highly recommend you check out these movies. You won’t be disappointed!
FAQs
Are these movies suitable for children?
Most of these movies are suitable for children. However, some movies like ‘Marriage Story’ and ‘Frances Ha’ deal with more mature themes and may not be suitable for younger viewers. It’s always a good idea to check the movie’s rating and reviews before watching it with children.
Where can I watch these movies?
Most of these movies are available on popular streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Disney+. You can also rent or buy them on platforms like iTunes and Google Play.
Are there any other movies like Barbie that you would recommend?
Yes, there are many other movies that capture the essence of Barbie. Some other recommendations include ‘Enchanted’, ‘Tangled’, ‘Beauty and the Beast’, and ‘Sleeping Beauty’.
