Created by Ruth Handler and first released by Mattel in 1959, Barbie is a cultural phenomenon who has defined play for countless generations of children across the globe. More than a simple fashion doll, Barbie’s popularity has seen her move beyond the toy store to inspire a monolith of merchandise for over 60 years. From cosmetics to cartoons, sleeping bags to slippers and even a breakfast cereal, Barbie’s marketable likeness knows no bounds. And, in just a few short days, the Princess Of Pink will jump to the big screen as the star of her first-ever live-action movie!
Directed by Greta Gerwig and featuring Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling, Will Ferrell, Emma Mackey, Simu Liu, Kate McKinnon, and Michael Cera, Barbie arrives in theatres on Friday, July 21st. Warner Bros. anticipates it will bring summertime success at the box office.
To coincide with the film’s release, a massive marketing campaign has swept the world and brands from Pinkberry to Swoon are is involved with products ranging from Barbie-brand pink lemonade to Barbie Land Berry Pink FroYo. Leading this blitz is Mattel, Barbie’s parent company that will bring plenty of new products to stores in celebration of its flagship doll’s big-screen debut.
Here are just a few of the Barbie toys and games that captured our attention:
UNO Barbie the Movie Card Game
The card game you know and love, this special edition of UNO features graphics inspired by the upcoming Barbie movie. Featuring classic rules, players continue to try to match colours and numbers in an effort to be the first to get rid of all their cards. There is even a special “Played With Too Much” rule that will have players both drawing and discarding cards. Players must still shout “UNO!” when they’re down to their last card.
Designed for 2 to 10 players ages 7 years and up, UNO Barbie the Movie Card Game makes a great gift for fans and is available for purchase through numerous retailers right now for around $6.49 USD.
Little People Barbie the Movie Special Edition Set
A special-edition release from Mattel and Fisher-Price, this collector set features four characters from the movie, brought down to Little People size and style. Each figure comes dressed in a memorable outfit and includes Barbie in a gingham dress, President Barbie in a pink and gold dress, Ken in beachy attire (complete with swoon-worthy abs) and business-meeting-ready friend, Gloria. Each figure stands 2.5-inches tall and the whole thing arrives in display-worthy, specialty-designed packaging.
Suitable for fans ages 13 years and up, the Little People Barbie the Movie Special Edition Set is available for purchase through retailers like Amazon and Mattel Creations for around $24.99 USD.
MEGA Barbie the Movie Replica Dreamhouse
As seen in Barbie: The Movie, this buildable replica comes loaded with details including a spiral staircase and pool with a slide. The three-story model comes complete with fashion, food, and pool accessories; is compatible with other name brands; and features a kitchen, bar, bedroom, spa, and more!
Made of 1,795 individual pieces, the Dreamhouse also comes complete with buildable micro-dolls of Barbie, Ken, and two fashion mannequins. A perfect gift for fans and collectors alike, the Barbie: Movie Replica Dreamhouse is now available for purchase through retailers like Amazon and Mattel Creations for around $149.99 USD.
With an unmatched legacy, Barbie has left an imprint on popular culture like no other toy. Posh, positive, and packed in plastic, she continues to inspire generations with a smile and a can-do attitude that dares to promise you really can be anything you set your mind to. Whether walking on the moon or flying her own plane, few have left a footprint quite like Barbie. And that’s an impressive feat, especially in four-inch heels!
