Ending of Barbie Explained
What Happens at the End
Barbie’s Choice
The film concludes with Barbie making a profound decision.
She chooses to become human, leaving Barbieland behind.
This follows a conversation with Ruth Handler, Barbie’s creator.
Ken’s Journey
Ken also finds a new sense of self, independent of Barbie.
He grapples with his identity after the Kendom takeover.
His final scene shows him embracing his own name, just Ken.
The Real World
Barbie arrives in the real world, ready for her new life.
Her final line is a humorous, yet poignant, declaration at a gynaecologist’s office.
This signifies her full embrace of human experience.
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Symbolic Meaning of the Ending
Embracing Humanity
Barbie’s transformation symbolises the acceptance of imperfection.
She trades an idyllic, controlled existence for real life.
This choice represents growth and self-actualisation.
Feminist Undertones
The ending reinforces themes of female agency and self-discovery.
Barbie’s journey is not about finding a partner.
It is about defining herself outside societal expectations.
Ken’s Independence
Ken’s resolution symbolises the breaking of patriarchal norms.
He learns that his worth is not tied to Barbie.
His journey mirrors a modern re-evaluation of male identity.
Resolution of Central Conflicts
Barbie’s Existential Crisis
Barbie’s initial conflict stemmed from her existential dread.
Her journey resolves this by embracing the full spectrum of human emotion.
She finds meaning in authenticity, not perfection.
Gender Roles in Barbieland
The conflict of rigid gender roles in Barbieland is partially resolved.
The Kens gain some recognition and a voice.
However, the Barbies retain their dominant position, albeit with more awareness.
The Patriarchal Threat
The patriarchal takeover of Barbieland is overturned.
This restores the matriarchal structure, with new understanding.
The ending suggests a more balanced, though still female-centric, future.
Contribution to General Vision and Viewpoint
Optimistic but Realistic
The general vision and viewpoint of the ending is cautiously optimistic.
It acknowledges the complexities and messiness of the real world.
However, it champions personal growth and self-acceptance.
Empowerment and Choice
The film’s ending strongly advocates for individual empowerment.
It suggests that true happiness comes from making authentic choices.
This applies to both female and male characters.
Subverting Expectations
The ending subverts traditional fairy tale narratives.
Barbie does not find a prince or a perfect ending.
Instead, she chooses a path of self-discovery, which is more profound.
Ambiguities and Interpretive Questions
The Future of Barbieland
The film leaves the future power dynamics of Barbieland open.
Will the Kens truly achieve equality, or remain secondary?
This ambiguity prompts further discussion on systemic change.
Barbie’s Human Experience
The ending does not show Barbie’s life as a human.
Her final visit to the gynaecologist offers a glimpse.
It implies a challenging yet fulfilling journey ahead.
Connecting to Overarching Themes
Identity and Selfhood
The ending directly addresses the theme of identity.
Both Barbie and Ken achieve self-definition, independent of others.
This is a core message throughout the film.
Feminism and Patriarchy
The resolution speaks to the ongoing dialogue surrounding feminism.
It critiques patriarchal structures while empowering female agency.
The film offers a nuanced perspective on these societal forces.
The Real World vs. Idealism
The ending highlights the tension between idealism and reality.
Barbie chooses the imperfect real world over a fabricated utopia.
This underscores the film’s message about authenticity.
How to Write About This Ending in the Exam
Focus on Character Development
Discuss Barbie’s transformation from doll to human.
Analyse Ken’s journey to self-acceptance.
Link these developments to the film’s overarching messages.
Analyse Symbolic Actions
Explain the significance of Barbie’s choice to become human.
Discuss the symbolism of the ‘real world’ and Barbieland.
Relate these symbols to the general vision and viewpoint.
Evaluate Thematic Resolution
Consider how the ending resolves, or leaves open, key themes.
Address feminism, identity, and societal expectations.
Use specific textual references to support your points.
Discuss the General Vision
Articulate the film’s final message about humanity and choice.
Is it hopeful, cautionary, or both?
Provide evidence from the ending scenes to justify your interpretation.
Related Pages
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