Movies - TV
Breaking Down America Ferrera’s Show-Stopping Barbie Monologue
By BJ COLANGELO
Spoiler Warning!
This story contains spoilers for “Barbie.”
During the climax of “Barbie,” Gloria (America Ferrera) delivers an unforgettable monologue, breaking down the countless ways women are “required” to perform gender and identity.
Ferrera’s speech helps Barbie (Margot Robbie) understand that the game is always rigged against women, such as women having to be strong but not so strong they intimidate men.
Women must love their children but not make them their entire identity. They must smile, nod, and apologize when they’ve done nothing wrong so as to not upset the applecart.
Women are supposed to be grateful for table scraps they’re tossed and accept them with a smile. Ferrera’s speech epitomizes how “Barbie” isn’t beholden to girlboss feminism.
The monologue is a highlight in the film’s love letter to all women trying their hardest to make it in a world where some people will hate them no matter what they do.
Ferrera throws every ounce of energy she has into the monologue, and her defiant, empathetic voice delivers the perfect tone as she reminds all women not to give up.