Mattel Films has attached Greta Gerwig ("Lady Bird") to direct Margot Robbie in a live-action version of the iconic "Barbie" doll, for a 2023 release:
"This project is a great start...", said Toby Emmerich, chairman of Warner Bros. Pictures Group.
"And Margot is the ideal producer and actress to bring 'Barbie' to life, on screen, in a fresh and relevant way for today’s audiences."
Robbie will co-produce under her LuckyChap Entertainment company ("I, Tonya") , with Tom Ackerley and Josey McNamara.
"Playing with Barbie promotes confidence, curiosity and communication throughout a child’s journey to self-discovery," said Robbie. "Over the brand’s almost 60 years, Barbie has empowered kids to imagine themselves in aspirational roles from a princess to president.
"I’m so honored to take on this role and produce a film that I believe will have a tremendously positive impact on children and audiences worldwide..."
Launched March 1959, Ruth Handler is credited with the creation of 'Barbie', inspired by the German doll 'Bild Lilli'.
Mattel has sold over a billion Barbie dolls, making it the company’s largest and most profitable line, "...making an impact on social values by conveying characteristics of female independence...
"...and with a multitude of accessories, projecting an idealized upscale life-style that can be shared with affluent friends".
