The global sensation, blockbuster film “Barbie,” has soared to unprecedented heights, amassing a staggering US$1 billion (S$1.34 billion) in box-office ticket sales worldwide since its debut on July 21, as confirmed by Warner Bros Pictures, a subsidiary of Warner Bros Discovery, in an announcement made on Sunday.
Warner Bros revealed that the enchanting fantasy-comedy has amassed an impressive US$459 million from its screenings in domestic theatres encompassing the United States and Canada. Additionally, the film garnered an impressive US$572.1 million from international markets, culminating in an astounding total of US$1.03 billion in ticket sales. These figures have been officially verified by media analytics firm Comscore.
Notably, the remarkable achievement extends beyond the film’s commercial success, as it heralds a groundbreaking accomplishment for its writer and director, Greta Gerwig, who has earned an Oscar nomination. Gerwig becomes the pioneering female director to surpass the monumental US$1 billion benchmark solely through her directorial efforts, furthering the cinematic landscape’s evolution. This feat has been acknowledged and acknowledged by Warner Bros.
This past weekend marked the third consecutive weekend that “Barbie” has graced theatres, continuing its resounding impact on audiences.
Jeff Goldstein, President of Domestic Distribution for Warner Bros Pictures, and Andrew Cripps, President of International Distribution, shared their astonishment, stating, “As distribution chiefs, we’re not often rendered speechless by a film’s performance, but ‘Barbillion’ has blown even our most optimistic predictions out of the water.”
Starring Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling in the iconic roles of Barbie and Ken, the film orchestrates an imaginative narrative that transports Mattel Inc’s iconic doll into the realm of reality, setting the stage for adventure.
According to Reuters, “Barbie” ticket sales have secured a commendable second place ranking in 2023, trailing only “The Super Mario Bros Movie,” released in April, which has garnered a formidable US$1.36 billion at the global box office.
Meanwhile, Ryan Gosling, the talented 42-year-old actor, commemorated director Greta Gerwig’s 40th birthday with a heartwarming gesture. He organized a Barbie- and Ken-themed flash mob, which was shared on the official Instagram page of the Barbie film. The captivating video showcased the unexpected surprise as the performers serenaded Gerwig with Gosling’s melodious ballad “I’m Just Ken,” followed by Dua Lipa’s “Dance The Night,” both originating from the film’s soundtrack. In the footage, Gerwig’s laughter resonated joyfully, and she expressed her heartfelt appreciation for the touching gesture.
“Barbie” stands as an emblem of accomplishment, not only in its monumental box-office success but also in the trailblazing achievement of Greta Gerwig, leaving an indelible mark on the world of cinema.
