Main content

Barbie on screen

Ellen E Jones and Mark Kermode devote the final episode of the series to the world’s most famous doll, ahead of the release of director Greta Gerwig’s eagerly-awaited Barbie movie.

Ellen E Jones and Mark Kermode devote the final episode of the current series of Screenshot to the world’s most famous doll, ahead of the release of director Greta Gerwig’s Barbie movie. 

Ellen is joined by critic Christina Newland for a look at how movies like Legally Blonde, Clueless and The House Bunny brought 'Barbiecore' to the screen, decades before the new live action film about the Mattel doll.

And Mark speaks to comic and culture critic Ashley Ray about some of the most fascinating uses of the Barbie figure in film and TV, from Toy Story to The Simpsons to Superstar: The Karen Carpenter Story - director Todd Haynes' biopic of the Carpenters' singer, told using Barbie dolls.

Mark also talks to Film Threat magazine founder Chris Gore about his memories of Todd Haynes' Superstar, which became a cult, underground classic when it was refused a commercial release.

This week's Viewing Note comes from actor and comedian Harry Trevaldwyn, who has a role in Greta Gerwig's Barbie film.

Producer: Jane Long
A Prospect Street production for Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ Radio 4

Available now

42 minutes

Last on

Sat 3 Jun 2023 22:15

Broadcasts

  • Fri 2 Jun 2023 19:15
  • Sat 3 Jun 2023 22:15

Which films and TV inspired Netflix hits Bridgerton and Squid Game?

Which films and TV inspired Netflix hits Bridgerton and Squid Game?

Screenshot explores the connections between today’s streaming hits.

Why did the erotic thriller run out of steam?

Why did the erotic thriller run out of steam?

Ellen E Jones and Mark Kermode explore cinema's steamiest genre.

How did method acting become so extreme?

How did method acting become so extreme?

A historical timeline of the sometimes bizarre technique.

Why going to the cinema is good for you

Why going to the cinema is good for you

Going to the movies isn’t just for fun – it benefits your mind, body and soul. Here’s why

Podcast