Barbie continues to shine brightly well beyond its billion-dollar box-office triumph. The Warner Bros. blockbuster has found a new wave of popularity on Netflix following its recent addition to the streaming platform.
Since its Netflix debut on December 18, Barbie has quickly climbed the ranks, currently holding the sixth spot on the platform’s popular titles. This marks the film’s latest streaming chapter after a year-long exclusivity on HBO Max, where it remains available. The movie has also been accessible on digital platforms and home video since its theatrical release.
Starring Oscar-nominated actor Margot Robbie in the titular role, Barbie brings Mattel’s iconic fashion doll to life. Robbie, who also served as a producer, stars alongside Ryan Gosling as Ken, Barbie’s beach-loving counterpart.
The story follows Barbie as she grapples with the challenges of maintaining perfection in Barbieland, leading her to venture into the complexities of the real world. Alongside Ken, she discovers the joys and struggles of life beyond their plastic paradise. The star-studded cast also includes John Cena, Kingsley Ben-Adir, Dua Lipa, Issa Rae, and Simu Liu, each portraying various Barbies and Kens.
Barbie’s Phenomenal Success
Barbie made history during its theatrical run, joining the record-breaking summer box office alongside Oppenheimer. Together, the two films helped Hollywood surpass $4 billion in summer revenue for the first time since the pandemic. The movie went on to become Warner Bros.’ highest-grossing film ever, earning an impressive $1.446 billion globally.
The film received critical acclaim and secured Academy Award nominations for Ryan Gosling and America Ferrera. However, controversy arose when Margot Robbie was notably excluded from the Best Actress category, and director Greta Gerwig did not receive a nod for Best Director. These omissions sparked backlash from fans, industry peers, and even Academy members.
Sequel Buzz and Potential Expansions
With such resounding success, discussions of a sequel were inevitable. Mattel CEO Ynon Kreiz hinted at possibilities for a second film and even spinoffs. There’s also talk of an animated follow-up and additional live-action projects. However, reports suggest that both Greta Gerwig and Margot Robbie are hesitant to revisit the franchise in any form. While rumors circulated that Barbie 2 was in development at Warner Bros., the studio has denied these claims.
What’s Next for Robbie and Gerwig
As speculation around a sequel continues, Margot Robbie has several exciting projects lined up. She’s set to star opposite Colin Farrell in the romantic fantasy A Big Bold Beautiful Journey, premiering May 9, 2025. Robbie will also reunite with Ryan Gosling in Oceans, an Ocean’s Eleven prequel where they’re rumored to play Danny Ocean’s parents. Meanwhile, Gosling recently starred alongside Emily Blunt in The Fall Guy.
Greta Gerwig, on the other hand, is focused on adapting The Chronicles of Narnia for Netflix. The director is reportedly planning multiple films for the franchise, with some even eyeing an IMAX release.
For now, fans can enjoy Barbie’s renewed energy on Netflix while eagerly awaiting news about her cinematic future.
