CHALLENGING THE GENDER ROLES STEREOTYPE’S IN BARBIE THE MOVIE 2023

Abstract

This study analyzes Barbie the Movie 2023 using Betty Friedan’s liberal feminism theory from The
Feminine Mystique. It focuses on the representation and challenges to gender role stereotypes, as
well as forms of resistance against societal expectations in the film. Using a descriptive qualitative
method, the study identifies two main aspects: (1) the representation of gender stereotypes, including
the characters Barbie and Ken, and (2) forms of resistance against gender norms, reflected in Barbie’s
existential crisis and Ken’s character transformation. The findings indicate that the film not only
critiques traditional gender roles but also emphasizes individual freedom and gender equality.
Through a liberal feminist approach, this study highlights the role of media in challenging social
constructions of gender in the modern era.