The 2010 film, A Barbie Fashion Fairytale, stands out as a beloved entry in the Barbie movie universe. Written by Elise Allen, known for her work on Barbie: Princess Charm School, Barbie: Fairytopia, and Barbie as The Island Princess, and with Rob Hudnut as executive producer, the film boasts a strong creative team.
The movie opens with a visually stunning sequence showcasing original fashion sketches, setting a high bar for the stylish journey ahead.
Barbie, initially portrayed as the princess from The Princess and the Pea, surprises viewers with a new voice actress, Diana Kaarina, replacing the long-time voice of Barbie, Kelly Sheridan. This change sparked controversy among fans, ultimately leading to Sheridan’s return in later films.
The story begins with Barbie experiencing a series of unfortunate events, including losing her acting job and breaking up with Ken. Seeking solace, she travels to Paris to visit her Aunt Millicent, a fashion designer facing her own challenges.
Discouraged and considering quitting acting, Barbie finds herself on a plane to Paris, where the uplifting song “Another Me” plays. The lyrics resonate with Barbie’s situation, capturing the feeling of public scrutiny and the impact of her career setbacks. The film’s soundtrack also features other memorable songs like “Get Your Sparkle On” and “Life is a Fairytale,” performed by talented vocalists Rachel Bearer and Tiffany Giardena, respectively.
Aunt Millicent, struggling to keep her fashion house afloat, plans to move to the countryside. Barbie and Millicent’s shy assistant, Marie-Alice, discover “The Glitterizer,” a magical wardrobe that can enhance any worthy outfit. With the help of three magical creatures called “flairies,” they embark on a mission to revitalize Millicent’s fashion line.
A Barbie Fashion Fairytale uniquely incorporates references to other Barbie films, blurring the lines between Barbie as an actress and the characters she portrays. It also notably includes early references to social media platforms like Twitter, reflecting the cultural landscape of its release year. The film introduces a shift in Teresa’s character, evolving from a shy bookworm to a more comedic and quirky personality.
The animation style features expressive characters with large eyes, and the fashion designs throughout the film are captivating. The storyline is engaging, with humorous moments and a deeper exploration of Barbie’s emotions and personal struggles, making her relatable to the audience.
The film culminates in a satisfying conclusion, with Barbie and Ken reuniting, Millicent’s fashion house saved, and Barbie offered a new acting role. A Barbie Fashion Fairytale remains a worthwhile and enjoyable watch for fans of Barbie and those seeking a lighthearted and inspiring story.
