Shakira and Her Sons Absolutely Hated the Barbie Movie

When you think of Barbie, you likely envision a symbol of femininity and empowerment. Not only that, but the movie has paved the way for a different approach to feminism in the Hollywood industry. Because of that, many found the movie as a stepping stone for women in the industry. However, singer Shakira has recently expressed her disapproval of the new Barbie movie, labeling it as “emasculating.” But, why is Shakira so critical of the Barbie movie?

Shakira and Her Sons Are Not a Fan of the Barbie Movie

Shakira, in an Allure profile, expressed criticism of Greta Gerwig’s successful film “Barbie.” She mentioned that her sons didn’t enjoy it, feeling it was emasculating, a sentiment she partly agrees with. This comment came during a discussion about her new album, which focuses on finding empowerment after heartbreak.

She mentioned: “I’m raising two boys. I want ’em to feel powerful too [while] respecting women. I like pop culture when it attempts to empower women without robbing men of their possibility to be men, to also protect and provide.”

Why Is Shakria So Critical of the Barbie Movie?

Shakira clarified her comment about “Barbie,” stating her belief in empowering women without compromising their femininity. She emphasized the importance of women having all the tools and trust to achieve their goals while acknowledging the complementary roles of men and women in society.

During the interview, interviewer Patricia Alfonso Tortolani seemed surprised by the artist’s views. She asked, “Just because a woman can do it all doesn’t mean she should?” The singer responded by suggesting the load should be shared with those who have a duty to carry it. She mentioned in the interview:

“I believe in giving women all the tools and the trust that we can do it all without losing our essence, without losing our femininity. I think that men have a purpose in society and women have another purpose as well. We complement each other, and that complement should not be lost.”

Does This Mean Shakira Doesn’t Agree With Feminism?

Simply put, not necessarily. Alfonso Tortolani observed that Shakira’s opinion of “Barbie” reflects what she called the “Shakira Paradox.” She believes women deserve full power, agency, and expression of their sexuality, yet it doesn’t contradict her feminism to expect men to fulfill their roles.

Despite Shakira’s disapproval of “Barbie,” the film achieved remarkable success. It became the first movie directed solely by a woman to gross over $1 billion and garnered eight Oscar nominations, ultimately winning for Best Original Song.

Do you agree with Shakira’s critical opinion of the Barbie movie?

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