Greta Gerwig’s ‘Barbie’: My Way Too Early 2024 Oscar Prediction For Best Director

Courtesy Warner Bros. Pictures

Okay, everyone, can you lend me your ears, or in this case, your eyes, for just a few minutes of your time perhaps? Thank you. We all have our own favorite filmmakers, yeah? Do you remember seeing that movie from your favorite director that hit you in the gut—that film you constantly bring up in conversation and recommend to everyone? I have a lot of directors I admire, but one in recent years is Greta Gerwig. When I watched Lady Bird for the first time, it captivated me with tenderness. At that moment, which was her directorial debut, Greta Gerwig captured my heart. It is no news that I’ve been an admirer of her work. Yes, you say I’m a stan, and I’m quite okay with saying this. Anyhow, let’s get on with it, shall we?

I know it’s way too early to start making predictions for the 2024 Oscar race, but that’s not going to stop me. Even with all the great films to come, I will say it again: I believe Barbie is a real contender and has the ability to grab any Oscar it wants. Now, I know what you’re probably thinking: we haven’t seen much about it, not even a full trailer, just a teaser, but from the looks of the teaser along and what little we know, this is going to be something special, I believe. Now, I know some of you might be skeptical, but let me ask you this: have you seen Gerwig’s previous work, Lady Bird and Little Women? Those films were like a warm hug from your grandmother on a cold winter day—heartwarming, comforting, and just a plain delight. I tell you, if Gerwig can make me get over Saoirse Ronan’s love life, then she can certainly make me feel something for Barbie. The movie is set to be a modern-day adaptation of the classic doll, with the story exploring themes of female empowerment and body positivity; in the current social and political climate, these themes are more relevant than ever. 

The issues surrounding women’s reproductive rights and bodily autonomy are at the forefront of public discourse. As women continue to fight for their rights to make decisions about their own bodies, the landmark Supreme Court case of Roe v. Wade remains a crucial touchstone for the feminist movement. Women’s rights encompass more than just reproductive rights. The struggle for gender equality also includes promoting a positive body image, which encourages individuals to celebrate and embrace their bodies regardless of societal expectations. Unfortunately, women are constantly bombarded with messages about their appearance, which can harm their mental and emotional well-being.

However, the issue intersects with other forms of discrimination that marginalized women face, such as racism, classism, and other factors. To achieve true gender equality and give women the freedom to make decisions about their bodies and lives, we must amplify their voices, challenge societal norms that perpetuate harmful stereotypes, and work towards creating a more inclusive and equitable society. By doing so, we can create a world where every woman can embrace her body and live her life to the fullest without being held back by societal expectations.

Now with all these critical issues in mind, it’s clear that the upcoming Barbie movie from the lovely Gerwig could not be more elevating or important. Gerwig has already demonstrated her ability to bring complex and nuanced portrayals of women to the screen, as seen in Lady Bird and Little Women.

Through the lens of one of the most iconic toy figures in history, Gerwig has the opportunity to tackle these vital issues in a way that is both accessible and impactful. The character of Barbie has long been a controversial figure, with her traditionally unrealistic and often harmful beauty standards perpetuating its harmful stereotypes about femininity and body image. 

However, with Gerwig at the helm, there is hope that Barbie can be reimagined in a way that is empowering and inclusive. The film has the potential to be much more than just a fun and engaging film—it could be a powerful force for good. By embracing its themes.

With that being said, I think this film has a real chance. Not to mention that Gerwig is working with Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling, both of whom have picked up nominations for previous work; along with Gerwig, and partner and co-writer Noah Baumbach, the opportunity is there. Gerwig, who was snubbed for a nomination for Best Director for Little Women, (yes, I will never let this go) has the potential to go all the way. She’s going for it, and what a flex it would be for her to take the award for Best Director now. 

It’s no secret that female directors have been continuously snubbed at the Oscars. Only seven women ever being nominated for Best Director and only three of them have won the award. Those women include Kathryn Bigelow for The Hurt Locker, Chloé Zhao for Nomadland, and Jane Campion for The Power of the Dog. Given this history of underrepresentation and in an industry that’s been dominated by men, it would be not only wonderful but groundbreaking for Gerwig to take home the award for her work Barbie. Her not receiving the Best Director award was seen by many as emblematic of the lack of recognition given to women in the industry.

I also think the Academy may be all for this eccentric filmmaking, considering Everything, Everywhere, All At Once dominated this year’s Oscars, winning seven awards, including Best Picture. So I will close with this. I think Gerwig has a chance, and it would be a huge flex for her. Despite all the wonderful films to come, I will not stop pushing this film and Gerwig. I do think she is the one who has the chance to take down Mr. Marty and his new film, Killers of the Flower Moon. So Barbie it is, although the Oscar race is on and no one will stop me.