Barbie is a highly anticipated live-action comedy film inspired by the popular fashion doll created by Mattel. Directed by Greta Gerwig, who co-wrote the screenplay alongside Noah Baumbach, the film features an impressive ensemble cast. Margot Robbie takes on the lead role of Barbie, while Ryan Gosling portrays Ken. The supporting cast includes talented actors and actresses such as America Ferrera, Simu Liu, Kate McKinnon, Alexandra Shipp, Emma Mackey, Kingsley Ben-Adir, Issa Rae, Hari Nef, Michael Cera, and Will Ferrell.
However, Vietnam’s state-run Tuoi Tre newspaper has reported that the release of Barbie, starring Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling, has been prohibited. The head of the Department of Cinema, the government organization responsible for licensing and censoring foreign films, has stated the reason behind this decision.
Why Is Barbie Getting Banned In Vietnam?
A map illustration becomes a focal point during a specific scene in the film, featuring Margot Robbie and Kate McKinnon. The drawing, adorned with dolphins and a floating hashtag, has raised concerns with Vietnam’s cinema authorities, causing discontent. The map includes what is known as the nine-dash line, a disputed representation associated with China’s territorial claims in the South China Sea.
However, a spokesperson from the studio clarified the situation, asserting that this interpretation is inaccurate. In a statement provided to Variety, the representative addressed the controversy and provided further context.
“The map in Barbie Land is a child-like crayon drawing. The doodles depict Barbie’s make-believe journey from Barbie Land to the ‘real world.’ It was not intended to make any type of statement.”
Vi Kien Thanh, the director general of the Vietnam Cinema Department, announced that Vietnam has declined to issue a license for its release, citing the inclusion of the “offending image” as the reason behind this decision.
Will The Ban Affect Barbie’s Box Office Numbers?
The impact of Vietnam’s ban on the box office success of Barbie remains uncertain. Surprisingly, a lighthearted film based on a beloved children’s doll has sparked geopolitical tensions. However, it is important to acknowledge that the Margot Robbie-led film has attracted attention in other regions as well. In particular, a French poster for the movie has gained notoriety due to its suggestive double meaning.
The cast of Barbie is on a worldwide promotional tour, making appearances in Australia and Seoul. While Vietnamese audiences may not have the chance to experience the film in theaters, fans can still anticipate the colorful and lively adventures of their beloved neon-pastel-wearing characters.
The entire crew is excited to bring their dance-filled extravaganza to theaters in the United States on July 21. The anticipation continues to build as audiences eagerly await the film’s release.
Source: Cinemablend
